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NEW HOME: January transfer window sees major moves across Ugandan sports

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NEW HOME: January transfer window sees major moves across Ugandan sports

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer (Whatsapp 0756322265)

As the January transfer window heats up, a flurry of activity is being witnessed in both football and basketball, with players across Uganda seeking new opportunities, and clubs looking to bolster their squads for the upcoming season. The window has become a critical period for many, as players search for playing time, better wages, and opportunities to showcase their talents on bigger stages.

Football Moves Dominate the Window

In a major football move, Ugandan forwards Denis Omedi and Hakim Kiwanuka have signed with Armee Patriotique Football Club (APR FC) in Rwanda. Both players penned two-year contracts with the Kigali-based club and were unveiled after watching APR’s recent 2-1 victory over Marine FC at Umuganda Stadium.

The two had previously featured in the Uganda Premier League, with Omedi playing for Kitara FC and Kiwanuka for SC Villa. In a highly anticipated clash at Royals Park Butema, Omedi’s Kitara FC edged Kiwanuka’s SC Villa 1-0 in a thrilling match.

The move comes at an exciting time for the players, both of whom were recently called up to Uganda’s provisional 36-man squad by Uganda Cranes coach, Joseph Paul Put, in preparation for the upcoming 2024 CHAN Final tournament (African Nations Championship), which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania from February 1st to 28th. This significant tournament offers both Omedi and Kiwanuka a platform to showcase their skills on a global stage.

In other notable football news, rising star Allan Oyirwoth has signed a contract with New England Revolution in Major League Soccer (MLS). The deal, which will start when Oyirwoth turns 18 on January 25, 2025, runs until 2028 with an option for an additional year.

Oyirwoth has made quite an impression with both the Uganda Cranes squad. In his debut for the Cranes in a 2023 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Somalia, he provided an assist in a match that uganda won 1-0.

Oyirwoth’s talents were also on display during the 2023 African Games, where he scored a memorable goal against Senegal. Coach Caleb Porter of New England Revolution is optimistic about the teenager’s potential as he begins his MLS journey.

Meanwhile, in the domestic scene, Vipers SC is closing in on a deal for Amoura Munogera, who recently won the MVP award at the concluded Buganda Masaza Cup while playing for Buwekula Sazza Team. Munogera has been seen training with the Vipers squad, and contract talks are progressing. His addition to the team could provide the six time champions with the firepower they need as they aim to win the UPL title.

In further domestic football action, Eric Dhaira, son of former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Bright Dhaira, is set to  join Uganda Premier League side Express FC following his return from the Middle East.

Dhaira’s is expected to bolster Express FC’s defensive options as they aim to compete for the league title. The club is also in negotiations to sign Muhammad Senoga Kagawa, who has previously played for KCCA FC and SC Villa. Talks are still ongoing, and Express fans are eagerly awaiting news on the potential signing of this highly talented winger.

Finally, Alpha Thiery Sali and Emmanuel Alex Waiswa are expected to depart for URA FC and NEC FC, respectively, marking another shift in the domestic football landscape.

Basketball’s Offseason Movement

In basketball, there’s also plenty of excitement as Shakirah Nanvubya, one of the most decorated players in the country, has parted ways with UCU Lady Canons and joined JT Lady Jaguars.

Nanvubya, who led UCU to six titles during her time with the team, was a standout performer last season, earning recognition as the best point guard. Her signing with Lady Jaguars promises to bring fresh energy to the team as they look forward to the 2025 NBL season.

Nanvubya’s move is seen as a significant boost for the Lady Jaguars, who also signed Aziida Nabuyanga, a versatile player who can operate as a shooting guard, small forward, or power forward. Nabuyanga, who also completed her studies at UCU, played a crucial role in the Lady Canons’ 2023 title win. With her diverse skill set, she will provide coach Sudi Ulanga with more tactical options as the team prepares for the upcoming season, which begins in late February.

For Nanvubya, this transition marks a new chapter in her illustrious career, and she is determined to maintain the high standards she set at UCU. “I’m excited to take on new challenges, but I promise to keep my form and continue delivering on the court,” she said in a recent interview.

As the 2025 NBL season approaches, basketball fans across Uganda will be watching these offseason moves closely, eager to see how the reshaped teams perform when the league tips off.

CHANGE AGENTS: Basoga public servants push for acceleration of socio-economic development in Busoga

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CHANGE AGENTS: Basoga public servants push for acceleration of socio-economic development in Busoga

The Kyabazinga, His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, and Her Royal Highness Jovia Mutesi, hosted a luncheon for public officers from Busoga kingdom under the Busoga Public Officers Forum umbrella at Igenge Palace in Bugembe, Jinja City on January 3rd, 2025.

The public servants presented a development plan to the Kyabazinga covering four key thematic areas including poverty eradication, fighting malaria, promoting sports and youth development.

Aggrey David Kibenge, the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, also the chairperson of the Busoga Public Officers Forum, called on his peers to unreservedly support the implementation of interventions under the agreed priority thematic areas. He also urged them to be change agents in their communities.

“I implore all of you colleagues, who are privileged to be in the service of our people in various capabilities and at different levels, to join hands with all well-meaning leaders at National and sub national level to accelerate socio-economic development,” Kibenge said. 

Dr. Kibenge also urged elites from Busoga to support their families in rural areas. “One of the biggest problems is abandoning our elders in villages to suffer in poverty, yet we sleep in bungalows,” he noted.

Dr. Hamis Mugendawala, the Manager Policy Research and Innovation at the National Planning Authority, revealed that Busoga’s poverty rate stands at 30%, significantly higher than the national average of 23%.

Prof. Waiswa Kyobe, head of the Busoga Health Forum, emphasized the urgent need to combat malaria, noting that the average household treats malaria 48 times a year.

The Katukiro of Busoga, Dr. Joseph Muvawala, praised the government workers for their commitment to driving development in the kingdom. “Each of you here has a responsibility to develop your home, school, and family and to be the example we need for the development of Busoga,” he said.

The Kyabazinga called for collective action to address critical issues such as teenage pregnancies, early marriages, food insecurity, high school dropout rates, and poverty. He appreciated the public officers for their efforts and pledged to improve cooperation.

“Some of the major challenges at the moment include teenage pregnancies, early marriages, food insecurity, high school dropout rates, and poverty. I ask you to collaborate with the Kingdom to find solutions for these challenges,” the Kyabazinga stated.

END OF AN ERA: UEDCL takes over electricity distribution as Umeme era comes to an end

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END OF AN ERA: UEDCL takes over electricity distribution as Umeme era comes to an end

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, on 2nd January, 2025 handed over the licenses for the sale and distribution of electricity to the National Main Grid to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) from Umeme Ltd

This was able to be achieved after the review of the UEDCL applications by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), the sector regulator.  The minister said ERA considered, determined and approved the award and issuance of the licenses.

“As you may recall, His Excellency, the President Kaguta Museveni directed that all expiring private distribution concessions should not be renewed upon their natural expiry. Thus far, five concessions have already been returned to the government and are now being managed by UEDCL,” the minister stated.

Government commitments during the transition

Nankabirwa affirmed that the government is fully committed to the continuity of electricity services during this critical period. She revealed that theur top priorities include:

a) Affordability: The existing tariff packagesas approved by ERA —such as the lifeline tariff, declining block tariffs, and time-of-use tariff arrangements will remain operational.

b) Electricity Access: As outlined in Vision 2040 and the National Electrification Strategy, we aim to achieve universal access by 2030 by using both on-grid and off-grid solutions. To achieve this goal, the implementation of the Electricity Access Scale-Up Project (EASP) will be closely monitored.

c) Quality and Reliability: The Regulator will oversee projects that expand or rehabilitate infrastructure, including substations, transformers, lines, and poles, to mitigate service interruptions.

Umeme acknowledged   

The minister said: “I extend my appreciation to Umeme Ltd for its commendable work in loss reduction, improved revenue collection, infrastructure development, system improvement, and advancing electricity access during its tenure.

“I call upon all Ugandans to protect the electricity infrastructure, fulfil their obligations by paying for electricity services, and refrain from power theft and /or vandalizing electricity infrastructure—practices that undermine our efforts to provide reliable power supply.”

GRITTY RIDE: Kyabazinga set to launch second edition of MTN Busoga Cycling Championships  

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GRITTY RIDE: Kyabazinga set to launch second edition of MTN Busoga Cycling Championships  

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer: WhatsApp: 0756322265

The long-awaited second edition of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championships, also known as “Obugaali Bwa Amasaza Ga Busoga,” is set to be launched on Friday, January 10, 2025. The launch will be graced by His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, the Kyabazinga (King) of Busoga, at the Busoga Kingdom Headquarters in Bugembe, Jinja City, starting at 10:00 AM.

Speaking to the media on Saturday, the Minister for Sports in Busoga Kingdom, Owek. Amin Bbosa Nkono, emphasized the importance of this event in fostering unity, cultural pride, and regional sports development. He encouraged all 11 counties of Busoga – Bugabula, Kigulu, Luuka, Butembe, Bukooli, Bunha, Busiki, Bulamogi, Bukono, Bunhole-Bunanhumba, and Bugweri – to send their top cyclists to the registration event on Friday.

“The main goal of this championship is to unite the people of Busoga through the sport of cycling while showcasing our local talent. We expect each of the 11 counties to field their best cyclists for what promises to be an exciting competition,” Owek. Nkono said.

The competition, originally slated for 2024, was delayed and will now take place under the banner of the 2024 edition. The Minister noted that, during the launch event on Friday, cyclists will have the opportunity to register for the championship, and those who fail to do so will not be eligible to compete.

Same categories, new energy

The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship will feature two categories, which were part of the first edition in 2022 and remain unchanged for 2024: Maanhi Ga Kifuba (manual bicycles) and Mountain Bikes. These categories ensure that both traditional and modern cycling enthusiasts have a chance to compete.

The championship was first held in 2022 and drew 50 cyclists, each representing one of Busoga’s 11 counties. The race featured a grueling 188-kilometer route that stretched from the Kyabazinga’s headquarters in Bugembe, through various towns including Jinja, Iganga, Kaliro, Namwendwa, Kamuli, Buwenge, and back to Bugembe.

The first edition saw Tiffu Luganda of Bukooli County emerge as the overall winner in the manual bicycle category, while John Odoto from Butembe County claimed victory in the sports bike category. Luganda won a brand-new Bajaj Boxer motorcycle worth UGX 5.5 million, while Odoto took home a TVS motorcycle worth UGX 4.7 million. Cash prizes and a participatory reward of UGX 50,000 were also awarded to the top competitors.

2022 MTN Busoga Cycling Championship Winners and Prizes

Ordinary Bike Category (188 Kilometers):

Tiffu Luganda (Bukooli) – Brand New Bajaj Boxer motorcycle worth UGX 5,500,000

Younger Brian (Kigulu) – UGX 2,000,000

Majidu Kyaawa (Bukooli) – UGX 1,000,000

Julius Magumba (Bugweri) – UGX 500,000

Muzira Hakimu (Bunha) – UGX 300,000

Sports Bike Category (188 Kilometers):

John Odoto (Butembe) – Brand New TVS motorcycle worth UGX 4,700,000

Kiwanuka Silimu (Luuka) – UGX 2,000,000

Mayinja Wakiiku Hussein (Kigulu) – UGX 1,000,000

Dominic Mugooda (Butembe) – UGX 500,000

Shafiq Mumba (Bunha) – UGX 300,000

A Boost for cycling in Busoga

The championship is sponsored by telecommunications giant MTN Uganda, which has played a key role in boosting the event. The sponsorship provides significant support for prizes and logistics, ensuring that the championship is a landmark event in the Busoga region’s sporting calendar.

The 2024 championship promises to be even bigger and better, with a larger pool of competitors expected and greater prizes to be unveiled at the launch event on January 10.

Encouraging participation and spectatorship

Minister Amin Nkono encouraged cyclists from across the region to attend the registration event and take part in the championship. He noted that the event is not just about competition, but about promoting health, community spirit, and regional pride.

The 2024 edition of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championships is expected to be a historic event, with a larger turnout of cyclists, spectators, and a series of exciting races. The kingdom is urging people of all ages to come out and support their local heroes on January 10 at the Busoga Kingdom Headquarters in Bugembe.

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS: 2024 – the year of unforgettable moments & triumphs

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SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS: 2024 – the year of unforgettable moments & triumphs

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer WhatsApp: 0756322265

The year 2024 will go down in history as a golden period for Uganda’s sports, filled with triumphs, milestones, and unforgettable stories across various disciplines.

CRICKET SUCCESS AND HISTORY

Uganda’s Cricket Cranes had a memorable year, building on the momentum of 2023 to earn a place in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup in the West Indies.

Competing in Group C alongside Afghanistan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the hosts, Uganda showed promise despite finishing fourth.

Frank Nsubuga, the oldest player at 43 years, made history with his inspirational presence.

Locally, Wanderers won their maiden men’s T20 league title, ending Aziz Damani’s dominance.

Soroti City triumphed in the women’s T20 league for the second consecutive year.

Raizat Ali Shah capped off the year by being named Cricketer of the Year.

ATHLETICS: CHEPTEGEI CEMENTS LEGACY

Joshua Cheptegei sealed his legendary status by winning his third consecutive Olympic gold in the 10,000m at the Paris Olympics, clocking 26:43 in his farewell race over the distance.

This victory places him among the greatest, alongside Ethiopian legend Kenenisa Bekele.

FOOTBALL: A YEAR OF REVIVAL

Uganda Cranes qualified for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco after missing the previous two editions.

Under Belgian coach Joseph Paul Put, the team finished second in their group with 13 points.

Kitara FC lifted the Uganda Cup, defeating NEC FC 1-0, while SC Villa ended a 20-year league title drought with their 17th crown.

The year also marked the return of football to Namboole and Nakivubo stadiums after years of inactivity, with both hosting historic matches.

BASKETBALL DOMINANCE CONTINUES

City Oilers extended their dominance by securing a record 14th consecutive National Basketball League title, sweeping KIU Titans in the finals.

RUGBY AND NETBALL ACHIEVEMENTS

Kenya Simbas retained the Elgon Cup with a dominant victory over Uganda at Kings Park, Bweyogerere.

The She Cranes finished third in the Fast5 series and reached the Netball Africa Cup finals but fell to South Africa.

YOUNG STARS AND FUTURE PROMISE

The Uganda U-17 Cubs secured a spot in the 2025 AFCON U-17 tournament in Morocco after winning the CECAFA championship.

The Victoria Pearls are chasing a third appearance at the Women’s Global Qualifiers, while the U-19 boys aim for a fourth World Cup berth.

OTHER NOTABLE HIGHLIGHTS

Masaza Cup: Butembe triumphed to win their second trophy, with Bukono putting up strong performances.

Match-Fixing Scandal: FUFA banned 12 individuals for their roles in match manipulation.

Tragic Losses: The sports fraternity mourned the deaths of iconic figures like Fred Kajoba, Ahmed Senyange, and Era Mugisa.

Onana Mania: Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana received a hero’s welcome at Namboole during Cameroon’s AFCON qualifiers.

LOOKING AHEAD

With 2025 promising more action, Uganda’s sports landscape is poised for even greater milestones.

From the Cricket Cranes’ African T20 campaign to the Victoria Pearls’ qualifiers and the U-19 boys’ World Cup quest, the future looks bright.

Musa Kikuuno – Dedicated to capturing Uganda’s sports stories for posterity.

SURVIVAL: Relegation battle heats up in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League

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SURVIVAL: Relegation battle heats up in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League

By Musa Kikuuno

As we celebrate Christmas, the relegation battle in the 2024/2025 StarTimes Uganda Premier League is proving to be a heated affair, with three clubs spending the holiday in the dreaded red zone.

After just 13 games, Bright Stars, Mable Heroes, and Wakiso Giants find themselves fighting for survival in Uganda’s top-flight league.

Bottom of the Table

At the bottom of the table in 16th place are Bright Stars, who have only managed 9 points from 2 wins, 3 draws, and 8 losses.

With just 8 goals scored and 14 conceded, their struggles in both attack and defense have left them in dire straits.

In 15th place are Mbale Heroes, also with 9 points and a similar record to Bright Stars. However, they have the worst defensive record in the league, conceding 23 goals while scoring only 6.

Wakiso Giants sit just above the bottom two in 14th place with 12 points from 12 games. Despite playing one less match, their record of 2 wins, 3 draws, and 7 losses, alongside 8 goals scored and 21 conceded, puts them not close to but in danger.

Key Fixture: Wakiso Giants vs. Mbarara City

Wakiso Giants’ final game of the year on December 28th could be pivotal in shaping the relegation fight. They travel to Kakyeka Grounds to face Mbarara City, who sit in 13th place with 13 points. A win for either side would provide a much-needed boost to their survival hopes.

Mbarara City is tied on points with 12th-placed Lugazi FC, making the bottom half of the table extremely congested. With only four points separating 14th and 12th positions, every match could prove decisive.

Lessons from the Past

History shows that teams require at least 27 points to have a realistic chance of avoiding relegation in the Uganda Premier League.

Over the last five seasons, clubs with 27 or more points have generally survived, with the notable exception of Maroons FC, who were relegated in the 2021/2022 season despite amassing 28 points.

Last season (2023/2024), Busoga United, Gaddafi FC, and Arua Hills FC were relegated. Notably, Arua Hills FC were the first to be confirmed relegated, having failed to complete the second round of fixtures.

Gaddafi FC and Busoga United followed with 25 points each, while UPDF FC narrowly avoided relegation by finishing with 27 points.

Wakiso Giants, Mbale Heroes, and Bright Stars currently have fewer points than Busoga United had at this stage last season (12 points by Matchday 13), signaling the urgency for improvement in the second half of this campaign.

The Road Ahead

The league resumes on December 28th, with Mbarara City hosting Wakiso Giants in a crucial clash.

More fixtures follow on January 3, 2025, and the relegation fight promises to keep fans on edge. As things stand, only Vipers SC (28 points) and NEC FC (27 points) have surpassed the “safe zone” threshold, ensuring they will not drop into relegation danger.

For the remaining 14 teams, the battle is far from over, and every point will count as they aim to secure their place in next season’s top flight.

The fight for survival is on, and the coming months will test the resolve, strategy, and determination of clubs desperate to stay in Uganda’s top league.

BUSOGA UNITED FC: Rekindling Hopes for a brighter future

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BUSOGA UNITED FC: Rekindling Hopes for a brighter future

By Musa Kikuuno

Busoga United FC is embarking on a transformative journey under the patronage of the Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadumbula Gabula Nadiope IV.

The club, currently battling for survival in the FUFA Big League, has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at rejuvenating its performance and fostering greater community engagement.

Talent Trials to Build a Stronger Squad

The club has announced football trials scheduled to take place from 28th December 2024 to 10th January 2025 at the Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe.

Open to aspiring talents aged 17 to 25 years, the trials are aimed at identifying players to strengthen the team under the stewardship of head coach Charles Ayiekoh Lukula and his assistant Eric Ndifuna.

The trials are part of a broader strategy to ensure the club returns to the Uganda Premier League next season.

“We are looking for passionate and talented players who can help write a new chapter for Busoga United,” said Nabbosa Najiba, the club’s PRO, in an interview with the Busoga Times.

Upcoming Fixtures

Busoga United’s next FUFA Big League fixture is a home game against Arua Hill on 5th January 2025 at the Kyabazinga Stadium.

This will be followed by an away trip to Masindi to face Booma FC on 12th January, before hosting Blacks Power on 19th January.

These games are crucial as the club fights to escape the relegation zone, where it currently sits 14th with 8 points from 11 games.

New Branding, New Identity

On 14th December 2024, the Kyabazinga of Busoga officially rebranded the club at a colorful ceremony held at the Igenge Palace in Bugembe, Jinja District.

The event marked the unveiling of a new jersey and badge, symbolizing a fresh start for the team.The jerseys, priced at UGX 50,000, are available at the club’s office on the third floor of Busoga House along Main Street in Jinja, or online via Pesapal.

Fans who purchase the jersey automatically qualify as members of the club, a move aimed at boosting fan engagement.

Membership and Support

Busoga United has introduced a tiered membership system to encourage community support:

Citizens: Free of charge, with bragging rights.

Members: UGX 20,000, granting information and voting rights.

Supporters: UGX 30,000, which includes an ordinary season ticket.

Congress: UGX 100,000 or UGX 250,000, with benefits ranging from season tickets to replica jerseys and participation in the club congress.

Executive: UGX 1,000,000, offering VIP benefits and two replica jerseys.

President: UGX 5,000,000, a role reserved for the club president.

Performance So Far

This season, Busoga United has endured a challenging campaign, with just one win and five draws in 11 games. Recent results include a 3-0 loss to Gaddafi FC on 17th December, and a 1-0 victory over Ntugasaze FC on 8th December.

Despite the struggles, the team remains determined to turn the tide.

A Message of Hope

The Kyabazinga’s involvement and the rebranding efforts symbolize a renewed commitment to uplifting Busoga United.

“This is not just about football; it’s about restoring pride in Busoga,” said Najiba.

As the trials kick off and the team gears up for critical matches, fans are urged to rally behind their club.

Together, Busoga United aims to reclaim its place among Uganda’s football elite.

For more information or to purchase club merchandise, visit the Busoga United FC office or access the online store at Pesapal: Busoga FC Payments.

Vipers Dominate Mbale Heroes to Reclaim Top Spot as Uganda Premier League Heads into a Break

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Vipers Dominate Mbale Heroes to Reclaim Top Spot as Uganda Premier League Heads into a Break

By Musa Kikuuno

The Uganda Premier League (UPL) heads into a festive break with the six time winners Vipers SC reclaiming their position at the summit after a resounding 4-0 victory over Mbale Heroes at the Mbale Municipal Stadium on Friday.

Milton Karisa opened the scoring for the Venoms in the 10th minute before magician Allan Okello dazzled the crowd with a brilliant brace, netting in the 74th minute and extending his tally to 10 goals—placing him atop the league’s scoring charts.

Milton Karisa added a second late in the game, taking his season tally to 7 goals, placing him just behind his team mate Allan Okello, SC Villa’s Charles Lwanga and URA’s Ivan Ahimbisibwe.

This victory sees Vipers move to 28 points from 13 matches, one point clear of NEC FC, who remain second after a 1-1 draw with BUL FC earlier in the week.

Vipers also extended their unbeaten run to 12 games since their defeat to NEC FC.Mbale Heroes, however, remain in the relegation zone with just 9 points from 13 games.

In other notable matches, two of the league’s most successful teams—KCCA FC and SC Villa—played to a 1-1 stalemate at Lugogo Stadium on Friday.

Sadat Anaku gave KCCA the lead in the 63rd minute with a sublime header from an Etienne Katenga cross.

But last season’s MVP Patrick Jonah Kakande capitalized on a defensive error by Mustafa Mujjuuzo to equalize five minutes later.

The draw leaves KCCA winless at home in their last three games, sitting third on the table with 23 points, five behind the leaders.

SC Villa remains winless on the road this season, languishing in 7th place with 17 points.

Other Highlights from Matchday 13

URA FC 1-0 Lugazi FC: Ivan Ahimbisibwe’s decisive strike handed Lugazi their first loss under coach Steven Bogere. Ahimbisibwe now has 9 goals for the season.

Maroons FC 2-1 Police FC: Ivan Di Maria’s brace secured Maroons’ win over Police, marking the latter’s first home defeat this season.

Bright Stars 2-1 UPDF FC: Goals from Warren Buule and Ashiraf Mulindi lifted Bright Stars to their second win of the season.

BUL FC 1-1 NEC FC: Cromwell Rwothomio and Nicholas Mwere ensured both sides shared the spoils at Lugazi Stadium.

League Standings at the Break

As the league pauses for Christmas, New Year, and the CHAN qualifiers, here’s how the table stands:

Vipers SC – 28 pts

NEC FC – 27 pts

KCCA FC – 23 pts

URA FC – 21 pts

Express FC – 19 pts

Maroons FC – 19 pts

SC Villa – 17 pts

Police FC – 17 pts

UPDF FC – 17 pts

BUL FC – 16 pts

Kitara FC – 14 pts

Lugazi FC – 13 pts

Mbarara City – 13 pts

Wakiso Giants – 9 pts

Mbale Heroes – 9 pts

Bright Stars – 9 pts

Top Scorers

Allan Okello (Vipers) – 10 goals

Ivan Ahimbisibwe (URA) – 9 goals

Charles Lwanga (SC Villa) – 8 goals

Milton Karisa (Vipers) – 7 goals

Samuel Ssenyonjo (Police) – 7 goals

The UPL will resume on January 2, 2025, after the CHAN qualifiers, with Uganda Cranes set to face Burundi on December 26 and 29 at Nakivubo Stadium.

Many league players, summoned by coach Paul Put, are expected to feature prominently as CHAN is reserved for home-based talent.

Until then, league action continues this Saturday, December 21, as Kitara hosts Express at Butema Grounds in Hoima at 4 PM.

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GROWTH PATH: No new taxes proposals next financial year as finance ministry tables UGX57.441Trn National Budget Framework Paper

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GROWTH PATH: No new taxes proposals next financial year as finance ministry tables UGX57.441Trn National Budget Framework Paper

Government has reduced the 2025/26 National budget to UGX57.441Trn, a drop from the current UGX72Trn, and revealed that in the coming financial year, there will be no new taxes introduced but rather, there will be a revision of the current tax laws.

The revelation was made by the Minister of State for Finance Planning and Economic Development, Henry Musasizi, while tabling the 2025/26 National Budget Framework Paper, where he also revealed that Uganda’s economy has fully recovered from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, that battered businesses.

“Our preliminary resource envelop is UGX57.441Trn, and we shall raise this money through domestic and external sources and I wish to also inform the House that in the next Financial Year, we don’t intend to introduce new taxes. We shall only do the Bills to clean up, but there shall not be any new tax introduced next financial year,” said Musasizi.

Musasizi added, “Uganda’s economy has fully recovered and is on the right growth path driven by investments in the tenfold economic growth areas. Currently, there is high optimism business and investment optimism in Uganda, with inflation contained at 2.9%, way below the policy target of 5%.”

According to the Minister, the 2025/26 budget will continue to prioritize the flowing economic fundamentals; Peace and Security, Roads, railway and electricity, Irrigation, Reducing cost of capital, Human Capital development in health and education as well as water, international relations and disaster management.

COST CUTTING: Bold MP demands for downsizing of Parliament, blasts Attorney General for delaying to act on her petition

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COST CUTTING: Bold MP demands for downsizing of Parliament, blasts Attorney General for delaying to act on her petition

The Member of Parliament representing Rushenyi County Rushenyi County, Naome Kabasharira has called for the downsizing of Parliament saying the current numbers of MPs are too many for the country to manage.

In her submission during Thursday Parliament sitting,  Kabasharira urged fellow MPs to back her proposal saying the move won’t affect the current MPs but rather those seeking to join the other Parliaments.

She lashed out at the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, who chaired the sitting, wondering why it has taken the Attorney General, Kiwanuka Kiryowa over a year to review and offer guidance to her petition.

“Last year, I brought a motion to your office and you willingly received it, and I was given a letter from your office that it was sent to the Attorney General to guide. The motion was to downsize this Parliament.

How long does the Attorney General take to reply such a small thing and he is the only one we can rely on? And downsizing will not be you people, it will be those who are coming, you will not be affected. We need to downsize, we are too many for the country,” noted Kabasharira.

The current Parliament has 556 Members and is one of the biggest in the world. There have been voices calling for its downsizing because it is too expensive to maintain especially now that the country is debt burden and revenue sources continue to dwindle.

The composition of the Ugandan Parliament, Article 78 (1) of the Constitution, includes MPs directly elected to represent constituencies, one woman representing a district, army representatives, youth representative, workers representatives, elderly persons, persons with disabilities and other groups as Parliament may determine.

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