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IMPORTANT PROPOSAL: Persons affected by dwarfism propose inaugural dwarfs sports tournament in Busoga

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IMPORTANT PROPOSAL: Persons affected by dwarfism propose inaugural dwarfs sports tournament in Busoga

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer II WhatsApp 0756322265

The Foundation of Persons Affected by Dwarfism in Uganda (FPAD) is proposing a historic initiative to host the first-ever sports tournament for persons affected by dwarfism or short stature, commonly referred to as little persons as per the Constitution of Uganda. This groundbreaking proposal aims to promote inclusivity and unity through sports in the Busoga region.

In an exclusive interview with Busoga Times sports expert Musa Kikuuno, Joel Kawanguzi, the Programs Officer of FPAD, detailed the vision for the tournament.

According to Kawanguzi, the proposed tournament would feature teams from all 11 chiefdoms of Busoga. Unlike the traditional Busoga Masaza Cup, there would be no splitting of larger chiefdoms to form additional teams.

The 11 teams would be divided into two groups, with one group comprising five teams and the other six. The top four teams from each group would advance to the quarterfinals, followed by semi-finals and a final to crown the champion.

Each team would consist of 20 participants—13 players and seven technical staff. Matches would have two halves of 15 minutes each, separated by a 15-minute halftime break. The organizers plan to align the tournament’s fixtures with the annual Busoga Masaza Cup, making it a curtain-raiser for the more established competition.

“We are excited about the possibility of playing alongside the Masaza Cup this year, 2025. This would not only provide visibility for our tournament but also strengthen our partnership with the Kingdom of Busoga,” said Kawanguzi.

He further emphasized their collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Kingdom of Busoga, Members of Parliament, FUFA President, Speaker of Parliament, and district leaders in the Busoga region, to ensure the proposal’s success.

Nakawunde Mariam, a member of FPAD, expressed her support for the proposed games. She highlighted the importance of involving women in sports and stated that they are ready to join men’s teams if necessary.

“This tournament would bring us together and help us bond as a community. It’s also an opportunity for us to engage in physical exercises, which is vital for our health, especially as many of us face challenges after childbirth due to a lack of adequate exercise,” she said.

Kawanguzi reiterated that sports provide a platform for friendship, unity, and physical fitness. He urged the Kingdom of Busoga to support their efforts wholeheartedly. When i jokingly asked about the tournament’s name, Kawanguzi revealed, “We plan to call it ‘Empaka dh’amasaza ga Busoga edh’abampi’—Busoga Masaza Cup Dwarfs Tournament, inspired by the renowned Busoga Masaza Cup.”

This proposal is not just about competition; it is a step towards inclusion and empowerment for persons with dwarfism in Uganda. The organizers hope that this tournament would foster a sense of community, celebrate diversity, and showcase the abilities of all participants. As the Busoga region evaluates this unique initiative, the anticipation is palpable.

UPGRADE TO NEW LEVEL: Education minster announces date for start of Term 1 for S1 learners after release of PLE

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UPGRADE TO NEW LEVEL: Education minster announces date for start of Term 1 for S1 learners after release of PLE

First term for Senior One (S1) students in secondary schools will commence on February 17, 2025, the Minister of Education & Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, said after the release of 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations in Kampala on Thursday, 23rd January 2025.

“The selection of S1 students will take place next week on January 30 and 31. I also announce that the first term for the new S1 cohort will commence on February 17, 2025,” the minister said.

Adding: “I want to call upon headteachers and School Management Committees to pay attention to the problem of learner dropout, especially those that have registered for PLE. We must look into this issue and understand why a learner who has registered to sit PLE, does not show up to sit the exams.”

Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) revealed that a total of 797,444 candidates from 14,883 centres (schools) registered for PLE in 2024 compared to 749,347 in 2023. Of this number, 524,025 (65.7%) from 11,451 centres were Universal Primary Education (UPE) beneficiaries, and 273,419 (34.3%) of the candidates from 3,432 centres were Non UPE.

In 2024, analysis by gender shows that 378,709 (47.5%) boys were registered compared to 418,750 (52.5%) girls, indicating that more girls than boys completed the Primary Education cycle. This has been the trend in recent years. The percentage was 52.3% for the girls in 2023 whereas for the boys was 47.7%.

“It is good to note that our Universal Education Policy, has enabled more children to attend school, as seen from the significant increase in candidature and the decrease in dropout or absenteeism, that is now at only 1.3 percent. This trend has been on a steady decline over the last five years, from a high of 1.8 percent in 2019,” she said of the free education government policy.

QUICK SEARCH: How to check for 2024 PLE results on your phone

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QUICK SEARCH: How to check for 2024 PLE results on your phone

The Minister of Education & Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, has today, 23rd January 2025, released the 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) in Kampala.

Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) revealed that a total of 797,444 candidates from 14,883 centres (schools) registered for PLE in 2024 compared to 749,347 in 2023.

Of this number, 524,025 (65.7%) from 11,451 centres were Universal Primary Education (UPE) beneficiaries, and 273,419 (34.3%) of the candidates from 3,432 centres were Non UPE.

In 2024, analysis by gender shows that 378,709 (47.5%) boys were registered compared to 418,750 (52.5%) girls, indicating that more girls than boys completed the Primary Education cycle.

This has been the trend in recent years. The percentage was 52.3% for the girls in 2023 whereas for the boys was 47.7%.

UNEB has advised parents, candidates and other interested parties to use the Short Messaging Service (SMS) on MTN and Airtel mobile networks.

Results of the candidates will be posted results of candidates on their mobile sets instantly; if the correct procedure is followed as per instructions below.

 Go to Messages on the phone menu

 Type PLE

 Leave space

 Type the full index number of the candidate

 Send to 6600 on the MTN and Airtel networks.

Network carrier charges apply.

REGRETTABLE: Preliminary Races for Bunha and Busiki chiefdoms in MTN Busoga Cycling Championship postponed

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REGRETTABLE: Preliminary Races for Bunha and Busiki chiefdoms in MTN Busoga Cycling Championship postponed

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer ll Whatsapp 0756322265

The much-anticipated preliminary races of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship for Bunha and Busiki chiefdoms, originally scheduled for Saturday, January 25, have been postponed to Friday, January 31, 2025.

This change was announced by Owek Hambaali Jojo, spokesperson for the Busoga Cycling Championships, in a press release issued on Tuesday, January 21.

The adjustment comes in light of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s visit to the Busoga region. During his visit, the President is expected to meet farmers, engage with regional leaders, and address public gatherings across various areas, making it necessary to reschedule the races.

Despite the postponement, contestants from Bunha and Busiki are encouraged to continue their rigorous training routines in preparation for the new date.

Meanwhile, the preliminary races for Bugabula and Bukono chiefdoms, scheduled for Sunday, January 26, will proceed as planned.

Last weekend, thrilling races were held in Luuka, Bulamogi, Buhnole Bunanhumba, and Bukhooli chiefdoms.

Each of these chiefdoms successfully selected their top four representatives for the championship finals.

The representatives consist of two riders using traditional bicycles, locally known as Maanhi g’ekifuba or Gaali ensoga, and two riders on mountain sports bikes.

The grand finals of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship are slated for February 15, 2025, where winners will walk away with prizes courtesy of the official sponsors, MTN Uganda.

The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship continues to unite the region while promoting cycling as a sport and celebrating Busoga’s rich cultural heritage.

BUSOGA PDM TOUR: Opposition political parties like NUP are doomed to fail for opposing good government programs – Museveni

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BUSOGA PDM TOUR: Opposition political parties like NUP are doomed to fail for opposing good government programs – Museveni

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has revealed that some opposition political parties are doomed to fail due to their negative stance against the good government programs aimed at alleviating Ugandans from poverty.

“That’s what NUP has been telling people in Buganda that don’t accept the coffee seedlings from the government,they are bad seeds meant to keep you in poverty. That’s what is going to destroy NUP, you will hear next time, NUP is finished,” Museveni said.

The President made the remarks Wednesday 22 January 2025 while visiting the home of Buwala Tolofisa, situated at Kalamira village, Northward zone, Namutumba Town Council, Namutumba District.

Tolofisa is one of the beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in the district.  The visit is part of President Museveni’s 4-day wealth creation and PDM performance assessment tour in Busoga sub-region which commenced on Wednesday.

The President disclosed that the government decided to come up with the PDM initiative in order to enable the citizens to manage the wealth creation funds themselves at parish level in order to achieve efficiency.

“The Parish committee just helps us to identify the beneficiaries, but the money goes directly to the farmers. There have been some mistakes here and there, where some people have been cutting off some money, but we are going to arrest all those. Each farmer must get Sh1 million full,” he explained.

“This money is your money. It will never come back to the government. I’m just here to check and get examples. Success will spread if we are able to get more beneficiaries like Tolofisa. Others will join in after understanding that it is possible.”

President Museveni also contributed Shs30 million to Ms. Tolofisa; Shs12 million to buy two more cows, Shs6 million for a motorcycle and Shs12 million for an acre of land.

The President appealed to the people of Busoga Sub-region to ensure that they have a source of income to help them fight poverty and create wealth.

2024 PLE: Education ministry finally sets date for release of much waited results

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2024 PLE: Education ministry finally sets date for release of much waited results

The Ministry of Education and Sports reveals that the 2024 Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) results will be officially released on Thursday, 23rd January 2025, at 11:00 AM at State House, Nakasero.

This comes after a meeting between the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, and officials from Uganda National Examination Board (UNEB) on Tuesday afternoon in Kampala.

The education ministry said the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports will preside over the ceremony as usual. 

A total of 798,771 pupils sat for PLE last year—5,246,909 were in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, while 274,081 were in non-UPE schools. 3295 candidates were Special Needs Education candidates; 1677 were female, while 1618 were male.

COACH CHARLES AYIEKHO: How the experienced coach has engineered a remarkable resurgence at Busoga United football club

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COACH CHARLES AYIEKHO: How the experienced coach has engineered a remarkable resurgence at Busoga United football club

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer ll Whatsapp 0756322265

In a thrilling and closely contested match on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe, Busoga United secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over second-placed Blacks Power in the FUFA Big League.

The only goal of the match came in the 63rd minute, courtesy of midfielder Nazir Sserwadda, a former Gaddafi FC player. The win marks a significant milestone for the team, lifting them to 9th position on the league table with 17 points from 14 games, just as the season hits the midway point.

The victory is part of a remarkable run of form for Busoga United, who have been in scintillating shape since the arrival of head coach Charles Ayiekho Lukula, also known as “Mbuzi.” Under his stewardship, the team has embarked on a journey of recovery, building momentum with each passing match.

Busoga United has now won three consecutive games, having previously triumphed 2-1 over Booma FC on January 12, 2025, and also secured another 2-1 win over Arua Hills on January 5, 2025.

Remarkably, the team has not lost a single game in 2025, with their next game on Friday 24th against Rwenzori Lions at Rusese airline play ground in Kasese for the Round of 64 with aims of extending their perfect record across four matches.

The team’s performance has been a breath of fresh air for Busoga United fans, who have endured a rollercoaster ride in recent years. Kukula, a tactician with vast experience, has instilled a newfound resilience and tactical discipline in the squad, which has been evident in their recent victories.

As the league resumes in early February, 2025, with a home clash against Kataka FC, all eyes will be on Busoga United to see if they can continue their surge up the table. The club’s home form has been solid, with three wins, three draws, and one loss in seven games played at Kyabazinga Stadium. A strong finish to the first half of the season will be crucial in their bid to secure promotion to the Uganda Premier League.

A Look at the Table

With 14 matches completed and 14 still to play, the FUFA Big League table is heating up. Gaddafi FC, who currently top the standings with 30 points, are just one point ahead of Blacks Power, who are second with 29 points. Busoga United’s victory has allowed them to edge ahead of rivals like Kaaro Karungi and Booma, as they sit in 9th position, just six points behind 4th-placed Buhimba Saints United (23 points).

The top three teams at the end of the season will gain promotion to the Uganda Premier League, while the bottom four will face relegation back to their respective regional leagues. With many teams still within striking distance of promotion, the second half of the season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.

Top Scorers of the Season

The league’s top scorer so far is Lawrence Kambugu of Ntungasaze, with an impressive 8 goals. He is closely followed by Davis Kasirye of Gaddafi FC, who has scored 5 goals, sharing the spot with Dickens Kilema of Arua Hills, Jonathan Mbula of Gaddafi FC, and Lawrence Olaboro of Calvary FC, all on 5 goals.

Busoga United’s Sserwadda, who scored the decisive goal against Blacks Power, will be looking to add to his tally and further enhance his reputation as one of the league’s most promising talents. His performances have been key to Busoga’s resurgence under Lukula’s guidance.

Home & Away Performance

When it comes to home form, Busoga United has proven solid, though not invincible. With 12 points from 7 home matches, the team has shown they can hold their own at Kyabazinga Stadium, but their away form has been somewhat inconsistent. The team has collected only 5 points from their away games, winning just one, drawing two, and losing two.

By contrast, other teams like Blacks Power and Gaddafi FC have been dominant on their home turf. Blacks Power, in particular, have been a fortress at home, winning all 7 of their home matches to collect a perfect 21 points.

However, the standout home performers this season have been the likes of Onduparaka, Calvary, and Kaaro Karungi, who have all enjoyed solid campaigns, making it a challenging environment for any visiting team.

Looking Ahead

As the second half of the season approaches, Busoga United will be hoping that their recent winning streak continues, and that they can maintain their upward trajectory. With games against some of the top teams, including Kataka FC, and a number of relegation-threatened sides, their fate in the coming weeks will be crucial to their promotion push.

For now, fans will be eager to see if Coach Lukula’s “winning mentality” can propel the team into the upper echelons of the FUFA Big League.

The road to the Uganda Premier League is long, but with momentum on their side, Busoga United looks poised to give their all as they chase glory in the second half of the season.

Upcoming Fixtures (February 1-2, 2025):

Buhimba Saints Utd vs Calvary FC

Arua Hills vs Blacks Power

Gaddafi FC vs Kaaro Karungi

Busoga United vs Kataka FC

MYDA FC vs Kiyinda Boys

Ntungasaze vs Kigezi Homeboyz

Paidha Black Angels vs Onduparaka FC

PARISH DEVELOPMENT MODEL: Here are the gains and misses of the poverty alleviating and wealth creation programme in Busoga sub-region

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PARISH DEVELOPMENT MODEL: Here are the gains and misses of the poverty alleviating and wealth creation programme in Busoga sub-region

By Waiswa Michael Baluye

 It requires examining both its successes and shortcomings in addressing poverty and development at the grassroots level. The PDM was launched by the Ugandan government with the aim of accelerating local economic development, improving service delivery, and addressing poverty in rural areas.

Gains of the Parish Development Model in Busoga Sub-region

Increased Access to Funding:

The PDM has made government funding more accessible to local communities. In Busoga, this has empowered parishes to access funds that can be used for community-driven development projects, such as agricultural improvements and infrastructure development.

Empowerment of Local Communities:

Local communities have gained more autonomy in decision-making processes regarding how resources are used. This local empowerment can improve the relevance and effectiveness of development initiatives tailored to specific community needs.

 Improved Infrastructure:

Some parishes in Busoga have seen improvements in basic infrastructure, such as roads, water sources, and energy, leading to better living conditions and reduced barriers to economic activities, particularly agriculture, which is the main livelihood in the region.

Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture:

The focus on agriculture in the PDM has encouraged the adoption of modern farming techniques, improved crop yields, and better access to markets for farmers in Busoga, who rely heavily on agriculture.

 Skills Development and Capacity Building:

The PDM has provided platforms for the training of local farmers, entrepreneurs, and other community members. This focus on capacity building has resulted in better knowledge of agricultural practices, business management, and local governance.

Misses of the Parish Development Model in Busoga Sub-region

Implementation Challenges:

In Busoga, like other rural areas, there have been delays in the actual roll-out of PDM projects due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, which have slowed down the pace of development. Poor planning and lack of coordination between local governments and the central government have also been issues.

Limited Participation of Vulnerable Groups:

Despite the intention to empower all members of society, marginalized groups, such as women, youth, and people with disabilities, have sometimes faced difficulties in accessing resources and participating fully in PDM activities. There have been concerns that the most vulnerable are not benefiting equitably.

Lack of Adequate Monitoring and Evaluation:

A significant shortcoming of the PDM has been the lack of effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, which has led to poor tracking of the progress and outcomes of funded projects. This makes it harder to assess the impact of the program and correct course when necessary.

Insufficient Capacity at the Parish Level:

Many parishes in Busoga lack the institutional capacity and skilled personnel to effectively implement development projects. This has resulted in poorly managed projects or underutilized resources that fail to meet their intended goals.

Inadequate Financial Management and Accountability:

There have been reports of financial mismanagement, corruption, and lack of transparency in some areas of the PDM implementation. Without effective oversight and accountability measures, the intended benefits of the program can be undermined.

Sustainability of Projects:

While the PDM has introduced development initiatives, there is concern over the sustainability of the projects once external support fades. Many initiatives may struggle to continue without ongoing investment and capacity at the local level.

Conclusion

The Parish Development Model in Busoga has shown potential in improving local economic conditions, infrastructure, and agricultural practices, but it faces significant challenges in ensuring inclusivity, effective implementation, and sustainability.

Addressing the gaps in capacity building, accountability, and marginalized group participation would enhance its long-term impact and effectiveness in the region. Effective monitoring and ensuring that resources are used efficiently will be key to ensuring that the gains of the PDM outweigh its misses.

Waiswa Michael Baluye is the ONC Coordinator in Buyende district.

PERFORMANCE: Education ministry hints at when UNEB will release 2024 PLE results

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PERFORMANCE: Education ministry hints at when UNEB will release 2024 PLE results

The Ministry of Education and Sports reveals that the Uganda National Examination Board (UNEB) is scheduled to meet the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, tomorrow, 21st January 2025, at State House Nakasero at 2:30 pm to brief her about the progress made managing the 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE). 

The ministry also said the date to release the PLE will be confirmed after the meeting. Primary Seven pupils from across the country wrote their PLE in November and are now waiting for the results to determine their secondary education.

A total of 798,771 pupils sat for PLE last year—5,246,909 were in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, while 274,081 were in non-UPE schools. 3295 candidates were Special Needs Education candidates; 1677 were female, while 1618 were male.

WHEELS IN MOTION: Exciting action as second edition of MTN Busoga Cycling Championship heats up – what we have witnessed so far

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WHEELS IN MOTION: Exciting action as second edition of MTN Busoga Cycling Championship heats up – what we have witnessed so far

By Musa Kikuuno – Whatsapp, 0756322265

The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship – Second Edition is well underway, as cyclists from across the region vie for top positions in this thrilling competition. The preliminary races, which are taking place at the Chiefdom level, have already witnessed some exhilarating performances and fierce competition.

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, the preliminary races in the Bukooli and Bunhole-Bunhanumba Chiefdoms showcased impressive talent, as the cyclists battled it out for coveted spots in the grand finale.

Bukooli Chiefdom Results – January 19, 2025

In the Tippa category, Luganda Tifu and Malinzi Sam stood out with impressive performances, both earning spots in the final with their first-place and second-place finishes. Igogo Jolly and Byanguwa Banuli finished outside the top two but gave solid efforts.

In the Mountain Sports Bike category, Mwondha Asumani and Bogere Tanansi claimed the top two spots, securing their places in the grand finale. Maganda Dauda finished third but fell short of qualifying.

Bunhole-Bunhanumba Results – January 19, 2025

Over in Bunhole-Bunhanumba, the competition was equally intense. Damba Bashir and Waiswa Ivan took the top spots in the Tippa category, ensuring their qualification for the grand finale. Kibanda Ronald and Kisuyi Muzamiru gave it their all but were unable to break into the top two.

In the Mountain Sports Bike category, Lukakamwa Nelson and Masaba Ben emerged victorious, earning their spots in the final. Musa Panadol and Tegika Hassan finished outside the qualifying positions but will continue to push hard in future races.

Previous Results – January 18, 2025

The competition was fierce, with Bulamogi and Luuka Chiefdoms already having their qualifying cyclists for the grand finale.

In Bulamogi, Kisambira Yazid and Naikamba Daniel topped the Tippa category, while Mukisa Amos and Baluwa Benard clinched their places in the Mountain Sports Bike category.

Over in Luuka, Musitwa Andrew and Mulondo Rashid earned their spots in the Tippa category, with Magemeso Mensuramu and Kiwanuka Musirimu securing their places in the Mountain Sports Bike category.

Both Chiefdoms showed an incredible level of skill and determination from all participants, ensuring a vibrant build-up to the grand finale.

Looking Ahead

With the grand finale set for February 15th, 2025, all eyes are now on the remaining races in Busiki and Bunha on Saturday january 25th, Bugabula and Bukono on sunday 26th january, Kigulu and Bugweri on 1st February and lastly Butembe on 2nd of February.

 Only the top two cyclists from each race in each chiefdom will qualify for the grand finale, where they will face off for not only the title of MTN Busoga Cycling Champion but also prestigious prizes.

The stakes are high, with the winners set to receive brand-new motorcycles. Other prizes include UGX 2,000,000 for second place, UGX 1,000,000 for third place, UGX 500,000 for fourth, and UGX 300,000 for fifth. Even those finishing outside the top five will be rewarded with a token of UGX 50,000 for their participation.

As the competition heats up, the excitement and anticipation for the grand finale continue to build, with cycling fans across Busoga eagerly watching to see who will emerge victorious.

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