Farmers supplying sugarcane to Kamuli Sugar Limited and Mayuge Sugar Industries Limited will now receive Shs115,000 per tonne following price adjustments announced by the two companies on Wednesday, December 11, 2025.
In a notice addressed to farmers, Kamuli Sugar Limited said it had reduced the price of sugarcane from Shs120,000 to Shs115,000 per tonne with immediate effect. The company did not provide reasons for the reduction.
On the same day, Mayuge Sugar Industries Limited also announced that it would purchase sugarcane at Shs115,000 per tonne starting December 12, 2025. The company further informed farmers that deliveries would only be accepted upon presentation of valid harvesting permits at the factory gate.
The announcements come at a time when farmers are preparing for peak harvesting, with many expressing concern over price reductions amid rising production and transport costs.
Sugarcane farming is a major source of livelihood in Busoga sub-region, and pricing decisions by millers directly affect thousands of households that depend on the crop for income.
In November last year, the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi demanded that government intervenes and regulates sugarcane prices.
“The economy is liberalised and the forces of demand and supply are at play but it does not stop government from regulating the pricing to ensure that people are not ripped off and that farmers get a fair income from their toil,” Ssenyonyi said.
Ssenyonyi wasmpresenting a statement to Parliament on Thursday, 28 November 2024 following an oversight visit he undertook with other lawmakers to Busoga region.
He added that the sugarcane pricing which is calculated based on one by-product (sugar) is unfair and should be reviewed to include at least five by-products including bagasse, molasses and ethanol among others.
Ssenyonyi also condemned the decision by millers to charge farmers 18 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on the sugarcane saying that according to the law, the tax is only charged on finished products.
The Electoral Commission has announced fresh nomination dates for the Kagulu Subcounty Chairperson race in Buyende District following the death of one of the candidates.
According to a notice issued by the Office of the Returning Officer on December 12, 2025, the fresh nominations were necessitated by the death of Bigabwenkya Moses, a candidate representing the National Unity Platform (NUP).
The Commission cited Section 44 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, Cap 177, which provides that where a candidate dies after nominations but before polling day, the Commission must fix new nomination dates to allow interested candidates reasonable time to be nominated.
Bigabwenkya Moses campaigning
The Returning Officer for Buyende District, Eliau George William, said the Commission has approved Thursday, December 18, and Friday, December 19, 2025, as the fresh nomination dates.
Nominations will take place at the Office of the Returning Officer in Buyende District between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on both days .
The notice further clarifies that candidates who were previously validly nominated will not be required to undergo the nomination process again. Nomination papers are available for collection at the Returning Officer’s office.
The Electoral Commission has called upon the Kagulu Subcounty community and interested candidates to take note of the revised timetable as the electoral process continues.
In Uganda, music has long been a powerful tool for resistance and liberation, echoing the beats of change from South Africa to Mozambique. Now, as a “new liberation” gains whispers in the land, opposition leader Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) is using political songs to rally Ugandans toward a different narrative. The National Resistance Movement/National Resistance Army (NRM/NRA) rebellion, often sold as a liberation for Uganda, has left many questioning its promises, fuelling a belief that the country’s journey remains unfinished.
Historical Context: Music in African Liberations
Music fuelled struggles in South Africa (anti-apartheid anthems like Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika), Zimbabwe (Chimurenga songs), Angola, and Mozambique, amplifying unity and defiance. In Uganda’s bush war in the Luwero Triangle (1981-1986), songs mobilised the largely Baganda rank-and-file, though the rebellion’s regional ambitions – extending influence into Rwanda and Eastern Congo – raise questions about whose liberation it truly served.
Kyagulanyi’s Political Music: A New Liberation?
It is very useful to look at Bobi Wine’s journey from ghetto stories in Ghetto to anthems like Situka (“Rise Up”). His music critiques governance and inequality and champions youth empowerment, morphing into a rallying cry for People Power/NUP. As he sings, “Situka means rise up, not just for myself, but for every Ugandan.” This way Bobi Wine is focused on meaningful and effective liberation of Uganda in its entirety: its identities, belonging, independence, nationality, sovereignty, citizenship, cultures and all the captured civic spaces.
Themes
Bobi Wine’s political quest for the new liberation of Uganda and its people can be cast in three themes:
1. Resistance against oppression, combined army-police brutality.
2. Calls for accountability, social justice.
3. A “new Uganda”: united, inclusive, equitable, reclaiming sovereignty.
It is most likely that most Ugandan politicians – those in power and in opposition – have allocated time to critically think and reason about Bobi Wine’s new station in Uganda’s body politic. They are looking at him in very simplistic and dismissive ways. Many of them focus on his past in the spirit of No Change and fail to see that he has moved miles ahead and that his messages speak to both the old and new generations of Ugandans. I have heard the more critically aware academics and intellectuals that abhor their current situation of fear and silence admitting that Bobi Wine might be the one they have been waiting for to liberate their academia and themselves from capture and estrangement.
Impact
What all this means is that Bobi Wine’s music and his own person have impacted the Ugandan society and people quite profoundly in less than a decade. It will never be the same. Not even the brutality of the army and police and the let-down of Ugandans by the orthodox politicians will decelerate the wind of change that Bobi Wine and his music have ushered in, especially among the young people. It is not true that the crowds that have recently thronged Bobi Wine’s rallies in all parts of the country are just anxious to see a former music icon, as many orthodox politicians are wrongly emphasising to the diverse electorate. It seems the people want the new narrative Bobi Wine is putting across. They are tired of hearing the same old narrative from the 1980s in a century of new information and new communication. Of course, just like President Tibuhaburwa Museveni said, he is the master of violence; Bobi Wine has cast himself as the beneficiary of the digital age.
Therefore, I can unequivocally state that Bobi Wine’s impact is five in one:
1. He has energised youth, filled stadiums, and fuelled protests.
2. He has bridged generational gaps, making change feel tangible and people less fearful and less silent.
3. He and his supporters face censorship and arrests, but he has shown courage and leadership in adversity as he continues to spread his influence and liberation messages through digital spaces, thereby being visible globally.
4. The “New Liberation” Narrative (NLN) appeals to the young generations of Ugandans and is embraced by some older Ugandans who were not convinced by the Old Liberation Narrative (OLN).
5. There is growing discontent with corruption, unemployment, occupation and restricted freedoms. This is fuelling a belief that Uganda’s liberation is incomplete. Bobi Wine continues to tap into this frustration, using music to amplify a call for systemic change, much like Fela Kuti did in Nigeria – blending protest with art.
Therefore, if anyone thought art and music were useless and should be devalued in schools and universities, it is a good lesson we learn from Bobi Wine that they are effective tools for liberation.
Challenges and Reflections
Many obstacles remain to be confronted by Bobi Wine’s New Liberation Movement: these include state crackdowns and censorship. However, Bobi Wine is balancing hope with caution, adapting his activism to survive and spread his message of new liberation. So far so good for his New Liberation Narrative. It now remains for Ugandans to use the ballot paper to show that the message of New Liberation has sunk in their minds, even if President Tibuhaburwa Museveni said a mere piece of paper cannot remove him from power and that he is like a cotter pin of a bicycle, which goes in by knocking and comes out by knocking.
Questions
Whatever political achievements Bobi Wine has recorded using digital space, music and art, two questions will remain begging for answers:
1. How does music translate to tangible change?
2. Can music unite Uganda’s diverse voices beyond urban hubs?
Well, we have to wait for critical analysts who have been following Bobi Wine’s presidential campaign trail to tell us what they critically think 5 years later the impact of Bobi Wine is since he plunged himself into the messy politics of Uganda.
Ultimately, however, it is what the voters vote (New Liberation or Old Liberation?) and what the managers of the coming 2026 General Elections decide to tell the world came out of those elections that will determine whether Uganda will remain with the old liberation narrative from the 20th century or embrace the new liberation narrative.
Conclusion
Bobi Wine’s music is a rallying cry for a Uganda seeking renewal, challenging the status quo and inspiring hope. As the country listens to the beat of Situka, the question remains: will the rhythm of change outlast the silence?
For God and My Country.
Prof. oweyegha-Afunaduula
Center for Critical Thinking and Alternative Analysis
The 8th edition of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup climaxed on Saturday, 6th December 2025, at Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe, where Kigulu edged Luuka 1–0 to lift their third Masaza Cup title in history.
As the dust settles on another competitive season of Busoga’s flagship football tournament, the 2025 edition registered notable positives while also exposing areas that still require urgent attention.
Player discipline stood out as one of the tournament’s biggest successes. Across 44 matches, only two red cards were recorded — a remarkable improvement that reflected better player conduct and officiating. This progress played a key role in maintaining the tournament’s competitive integrity.
Respect for Fixtures
With the exception of Budiope, who failed to turn up for their final group match against Bugweri, teams largely respected the fixture calendar. Out of 44 scheduled matches, 43 were played, a positive indicator of team commitment and improved tournament coordination.
Strong Fan Support
Fans turned up in large numbers, especially during the group stages, rallying behind their teams across different chiefdoms and playgrounds. Even midweek fixtures attracted impressive crowds, underlining the deep-rooted passion and unity football continues to inspire across the Busoga region.
Improved Player Security
Player security showed signs of improvement, with inner perimeter fencing introduced at several venues. Although mostly temporary and breached in a few isolated cases, this move marked a step forward in protecting players and match officials.
Increased Prize Money
The tournament registered growth financially, with the winner’s prize money increasing from UGX 12 million in 2024 to UGX 13 million in 2025. This increase reflects steady progress since the tournament’s inception in 2016 and remains a strong motivation for participating teams.
Return of Individual Awards
The 2025 edition reinstated key individual awards, including Top Scorer, Most Valuable Player, Best Goalkeeper, and Best Coach. While some awards were still missing, the return of these honours added value and recognition to individual excellence.
THE MISSES
Fixture Disorganisation
The Technical Organising Committee (TOC) continued to struggle with fixture consistency, often adjusting match dates at short notice. Poor communication — sometimes just one or two days before matches — affected player focus and fan turnout. Notably, matches played without abrupt adjustments attracted significantly larger crowds.
Low Turnout for the Final
Despite free entry, Kyabazinga Stadium did not reach full capacity for the final. Attendance was noticeably lower compared to group-stage matches at venues such as Kisiki College, Mafubira Primary School, Namayingo C/U Primary School, Busalaam Primary School, Wembley Stadium Mayuge, and Irundu C.O.U Primary School. Possible reasons included political tensions, fixture uncertainty, and limited media promotion.
Limited Media Coverage
Media attention remained low, largely due to insufficient access to timely information such as results, fixtures, standings, and statistics. Establishing a dedicated tournament media committee could significantly improve visibility and coverage.
Overuse of Neutral Venues
While neutral grounds promote fairness, repeatedly hosting knockout matches in Jinja and Butembe limited regional engagement. Rotating knockout fixtures across different chiefdoms could boost attendance and local excitement.
Absence of Pre- and Post-Match Press Conferences
The lack of structured pre-match and post-match press conferences deprived the tournament of momentum and media engagement. Such platforms would not only enhance visibility but also attract sponsors through guaranteed media exposure.
Poor Statistics Management
Inconsistent statistical records led to disputes, particularly around top scorers. A centralized statistics management system aligned with team departments is urgently needed.
Questionable Award Selection
Some award decisions raised debate. For instance, coaches who achieved historic milestones but fell short of the title were overlooked, raising concerns about over-rewarding trophy success at the expense of effort, growth, and context.
Poor Time Management
Approximately 80% of matches failed to kick off at the scheduled time, highlighting weak enforcement of tournament regulations.
Fan Indiscipline
While player discipline improved, fan indiscipline remained a major concern. Incidents involving stone-throwing and attacks on referees, players, and officials were reported in Bunhole Bunhanhuba, Busiki, and other venues. Such behavior threatens the tournament’s safety and image.
Lack of a Permanent Tournament Office
The absence of a permanent Masaza Cup office affected coordination, communication, and petition handling. Teams and fans struggled to access officials, leading to frustration and loss of confidence in tournament administration.
Limited Final-Day Entertainment
While football is the main attraction, the final lacked structured entertainment. Featuring regional and national musicians during opening or final ceremonies could enhance spectacle, boost attendance, and attract sponsors.
THE WAY FORWARD
If organisational gaps are addressed — particularly in fixtures, media engagement, fan discipline, and administration — the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup has the potential to grow into one of Uganda’s most attractive regional football competitions.
The build-up to the 10th Olwekobaano Energy Expo 2025 gained momentum today as Busoga Yaiffe President Dr. Charles Mbalyohere and Eric Kihuluka, the Deputy Katukiro of Obwa Zibondo bwa Bulamogi, rallied communities to embrace clean energy solutions, health services, and knowledge-sharing opportunities during this year’s milestone edition.
Addressing journalists at Kaliro Resort Hotel, the leaders highlighted the expo’s expanded focus on solar technologies, community health, and strategic partnerships, calling on residents from Kaliro and neighbouring districts to attend the four-day event scheduled for 12th–15th December at the Green Belt and Kaliro Country Resort.
This year’s theme is “Taking affordable, reliable & clean energy to more people and places using strategic partnerships,” The expo also marks a decade of advancing renewable energy solutions, innovation, and the Busoga Yaiffe HEAT Strategy — Health, Education, Agriculture and Trade.
Solar and Clean Energy Technologies Take Centre Stage
Dr. Mbalyohere said this year’s event will feature some of the latest solar and renewable technologies, with exhibitors displaying solutions tailored for households, businesses, and farmers.
“People coming to the expo will be able to see and buy some of the latest solar and other renewable technologies that will be exhibited, including solar irrigation systems that are good for farmers,” he said. “When you have an irrigation system, you are able to farm throughout the year without waiting for the rains.”
He emphasized that access to modern, affordable energy is central to transforming livelihoods in Busoga, especially as climate change continues to disrupt traditional farming patterns.
Free Health Camp to Serve Communities
Beyond energy innovations, Busoga Yaiffe has lined up a comprehensive health camp to offer free services throughout the expo period.
“Health officers are going to be available throughout the time we are here. Doctors will carry out tests and offer medication when possible — free of charge,” Dr. Mbalyohere announced.
The medical team will include dentists, opticians, general physicians and cancer screening specialists, with a special focus on prostate cancer awareness for men.
Conference on Strategic Partnerships
A two-day conference will run from Friday to Saturday, bringing together experts, policymakers, innovators and development partners to discuss the expo’s theme: “Taking affordable, reliable and clean energy to more people and places using strategic partnerships.”
Dr. Mbalyohere noted that the sessions will deepen conversations on long-term solutions to energy poverty and community empowerment.
Bulamogi Chiefdom Reaffirms Support
Speaking at the briefing, Deputy Katukiro Eric Kihuluka said the Bulamogi Chiefdom remains firmly committed to the expo’s mission and the empowerment of local communities.
“We want to see every member of the chiefdom with money in their pocket,” he said. “To achieve this, the information people need is found at events like Olwekobaano. Knowledge is fire — you get it from a neighbour.”
He encouraged residents of Kaliro and neighbouring districts to attend the event, saying the expo has become a trusted platform for exposure, skills development and practical learning.
A Decade of Impact
As the Olwekobaano Energy Expo marks ten years, organisers say the event has evolved into a regional model for promoting clean energy, innovation and grassroots development. Thousands are expected to attend this year’s edition, including students, farmers, business owners, innovators, civil society organisations and government agencies.
The expo is organised by Busoga Yaiffe, a community-based development initiative promoting sustainable solutions across the HEAT sectors.
Looking Ahead
With mounting interest and a growing appreciation for renewable energy, the 2025 edition is expected to set new benchmarks in clean technology adoption, community health outreach and knowledge-sharing.
Kaliro officials say the district is ready to host and build on the expo’s legacy as one of the region’s biggest annual development events.
A devastating accident occurred on the Iganga-Bugiri Highway this morning, resulting in the loss of at least 10 lives and leaving three others injured. The accident involved a taxi, registration number UBN 817H, which was traveling from Busia to Iganga when it lost control and crashed into a stationary trailer, registration number UA 647BA, at Busowa in Bugiri District.
According to eyewitnesses, the accident occurred at around 7 am in Busowa Town Council. The taxi, a Toyota Hiace, was attempting to overtake another vehicle when it collided with the stationary trailer. Preliminary investigations by the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety suggest that the taxi driver was forced to react abruptly when another vehicle approached from the opposite direction, causing him to lose control of the vehicle.
SP Michael Kananura, the spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, explained that the driver’s attempt to avoid a head-on collision ultimately led to the tragic accident. “In an effort to avoid a head-on collision, the driver swerved to the left, lost control, and rammed into a stationary trailer,” he said.
The accident claimed the life of the taxi driver, along with at least nine other passengers. Three other individuals were injured in the crash and are currently receiving medical attention. The identities of the victims have not been released pending notification of their families.
The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has launched an investigation into the accident to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash. SP Kananura noted that the investigation is ongoing and that more information will be released as it becomes available.
The accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for caution when driving, particularly when overtaking other vehicles. The Iganga-Bugiri Highway has been the scene of several accidents in recent months, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and adherence to traffic regulations to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
In a surprising turn of events, contestants in the Kamuli LCV race have put aside their rivalry and rallied behind the NRM flag bearer, Kaloli Dhizaala. This move is seen as a significant step towards unity and sanity in the district’s leadership.
Dhizaala, who has contested for the same seat three times, expressed his gratitude and humility at the development, stating that it is a “Christmas gift to the people of Kamuli.” He assured the public that he will adopt the best-valued manifestos from his fellow contestants and work together with them to serve the people of Kamuli.
The former contestants, including Sarah Auma, Thomas Ikanga, Emmanuel Songola, and David Kamaali, stated that they are rallying behind Dhizaala not only because he is the party flag bearer but also because they trust his capacity to carry out their manifestos and work together with them despite the competition.
“We have the same ideology, interests, and purpose, and we win together in the interest of the party,” said Sarah Auma, a former LCV Vice Chairperson. “We unconditionally rally behind you and hand you our manifestos, support, and loyalty.”
Daudi Kamaali, who has worked closely with Dhizaala, praised his integrity, principles, and passion to serve the people and bridge the gaps created by camps. “We have the same principles to restore dignity, integrity, and public confidence and trust in leadership,” Kamaali said.
Thomas Ikanga, a former Public Accountant, clarified that they have decided to rally behind Dhizaala because he embodies unity and is a pace-setter. “He is open for consultation, allows us to harness our resources and potentials to serve at appropriate capacities, best for Kamuli to rise and shine again,” Ikanga said.
Tito Ikanga, addressing the district sub-county chairmen, councilors, and opinion leaders, cautioned them against civil servants and political brokers who have plunged the district into chaos. “We complain of health workers extorting money from patients, but forget it is because they bought the jobs expensively,” Ikanga said. “The clique of civil servants who have colluded with MPs, contractors, and brokers to plunge our district down are all out fronting candidates loyal to them against public will.”
Charles Magaya, the Nabwigulu sub-county NRM Chairperson, urged Kamuli voters to put aside political camps and bridge the gaps to overhaul the rot that cripples service delivery. “Everybody is aware Kaloli is Kadaga’s candidate, but he has reached out to all camps, including some of us labeled Team Anita Mulamu,” Magaya said. “Like our Mzee Museveni, he also calls in even opposition voters, all because in the end, when elected, he will serve Kamuli people, not only NRM.”
Meanwhile, Robert Kalulu Owogutwe and Mubarak Ndhegwe, both from Buzaaya county, are still contesting for the district seat as independents. Kalulu is backed by a string of civil servants and power brokers, while Ndhegwe has a significant Muslim following in his Buzaaya county.
The development is seen as a significant boost to Dhizaala’s campaign, and it remains to be seen how the independent candidates will respond to the unity among the NRM contestants. As the election season heats up, the people of Kamuli will be watching closely to see how the candidates will work together to bring about positive change in the district.
From December 12‑15, the Green Belt and Kaliro Country Resort will host the 10th Olwekobaano Energy Expo and Conference, a four‑day showcase that has become the catalyst for transforming tKaliro district into Eastern Uganda’s “clean‑energy hub.”
The theme—“Taking affordable, reliable & clean energy to more people and places using strategic partnerships”—captures a decade‑long journey in which solar panels, biogas, electric mobility and regenerative agriculture have moved from luxury concepts to everyday necessities for households, farms, schools and businesses across the district.
A Decade of Momentum
When the inaugural expo arrived in Kaliro, most residents recalled seeing solar lanterns and bio‑energy kits only on photographs. Today, the district’s health centres illuminate maternity wards with solar power, farmers irrigate year‑round using photovoltaic pumps, and schools run on clean‑energy micro‑grids.
“The expo turned perception into practice,” says Dr. Charles Mbalyohere, President of Busoga Yaiffe and chief organizer of the Olwekobaano Energy Expo. “Kaliro has become a learning centre where policymakers, innovators and rural households converge to explore what clean energy can achieve. Our consistency, community engagement and openness to innovation have made the district the ideal home for this event.”
Local Government Backs the Vision
Kaliro’s leadership has long championed the expo’s objectives. Assistant Resident District Commissioner Kiduma Rogers praised the event’s impact on the local economy, agriculture and environmental stewardship.
“The expo is reshaping mind‑sets and equipping our communities with the skills needed for productive land use. I encourage every attendee to apply what they learn so we can boost household incomes and strengthen our region,” Kiduma said during a recent interview with Busoga Times.
Grassroots Stories of Change
For many residents, the expo has rewritten personal narratives.
“Before the expo, Kaliro was rarely mentioned in conversations about technology or innovation. Now we lead in solar home systems, improved cookstoves and irrigation solutions,” says Sam Jumbwike, a businessman who has watched the district’s reputation grow.
Nawaikoke farmer John Wako attributes a tripling of his vegetable income to a solar‑powered irrigation pump he purchased at the 2024 expo. “I can grow tomatoes and leafy greens all year, even during the dry season. The market has expanded and so has my family’s wellbeing,” Wako explained.
In the town of Buyinda, mother of three, Grace Namukose, credits a solar lighting kit from the expo with giving her children a safe, well‑lit space to study after dark, while eliminating hazardous kerosene fumes.
Health Services Light Up with Solar
A hallmark of each edition is a free health camp, and the 2025 event is set to serve at least 1,500 patients. Kaliro District Health Educator Julius Kiduka attributes improved health‑service delivery to the expo’s solar initiatives.
“Our maternity wards now run on reliable solar power, refrigeration for vaccines is uninterrupted, and laboratory equipment operates without diesel generators. These upgrades began with contacts made at the Olwekobaano expos,” he said.
Kiduka adds that the upcoming health camp will provide diagnostics, maternal care and health education under one roof, urging residents from Kaliro and neighboring districts to attend in large numbers.
Environmental Gains Take Root
The district’s Natural Resources Officer, Paul Diogo, highlighted measurable ecological benefits.
“Adoption of improved cookstoves and biogas digesters has reduced pressure on our forests. Solar irrigation replaces diesel pumps, cutting emissions and fuel costs. Clean energy is now seen not just as technology but as a pathway to environmental protection,” Diogo stated.
Business and Innovation Thrive
Local entrepreneurs report a reshaped commercial landscape. “Our shop used to stock only basic radios and phones. Now we sell solar lanterns, smart chargers, water‑pumps and energy‑efficient appliances—a market created by the expo,” says Kaliro Town trader Michael Waiswa.
A nearby restaurant has switched to solar lighting, security cameras and refrigeration, resulting in lower operating costs and higher customer satisfaction.
Young innovators also find Kaliro an ideal testbed. “The community here is eager to try new technologies. We use the expo to pilot solar‑powered irrigation prototypes, and the feedback is honest and invaluable,” says Peter Mukose, who showcases her water‑purification system each year.
Partnerships Fuel the Future
Each edition of the expo draws NGOs, solar firms, universities and government agencies into collaborative agreements. “We’ve forged new partnerships with NGOs, solar manufacturers, research institutions and the Ministry of Energy. These collaborations have spurred investment, skills training and community awareness,” Mbalyohere notes.
Youth groups trained in solar installation now run their own service cooperatives, extending clean‑energy solutions to remote villages. “We were inspired by past expos, and now we’re the ones providing solar setups across the district,” says Solar Youth Initiative coordinator David Okwera.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to the 10th Olwekobaano Energy Expo ticks down, organizers anticipate over 200 exhibitors, several workshop sessions and a roster of regional policymakers poised to witness Kaliro’s transformation firsthand.
“Kaliro is proof that when communities are empowered, informed and connected to opportunity, they become leaders in their own transformation,” Dr. Mbalyohere affirmed.
The expo’s final day will culminate in a public forum where district officials, expo partners and beneficiaries will chart a roadmap for scaling renewable‑energy adoption beyond Kaliro’s borders.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has announced plans to challenge the Electoral Commission (EC) in the High Court following the disqualification of its Busiro East parliamentary candidate, singer-turned-politician Mathias Walukagga.
Walukagga was removed from the 2026 race after the EC ruled that he did not meet the required academic qualifications, a decision that has sparked controversy within the opposition party and among supporters in Busiro East.
NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya condemned the disqualification, accusing the Commission of deliberately targeting opposition candidates.
“Our legal team is handling the matter. This is not just about Walukagga; it’s part of a wider pattern targeting NUP candidates,” Rubongoya said.
He further raised concerns about the conduct of security forces, alleging that police and UPDF personnel have harassed NUP supporters during campaign activities.
“We are witnessing our supporters being arrested, and in some cases, beaten during campaign events. This is clearly aimed at weakening our movement,” he added.
The decision has also triggered reactions from voters in Busiro East. Maria Goretti Namusisi, a Makerere University student and NUP supporter, expressed disappointment with the process.
“If it were allowed to lend someone academic papers just to qualify, I would do it. We don’t want Ssegona back. He speaks for people’s issues but never brings them solutions,” she said, referring to incumbent MP Medard Lubega Ssegona, who is reportedly running as an independent after falling out with his former party.
Walukagga’s disqualification is expected to reshape Busiro East’s political landscape, with uncertainty now surrounding who will carry the NUP flag in the upcoming elections.
NUP’s legal appeal is expected to be filed in the coming days. The case is likely to test not only the EC’s application of academic qualification standards but also the broader fairness of the 2026 pre-election environment.
Over 30 youth groups and networks of young mothers in Buyende District have received a Sh105 million financial boost from Right to Play Uganda, in a bid to strengthen their savings and credit associations and foster economic empowerment.
The handover ceremony, held yesterday at Buyende District headquarters, marked a significant milestone in efforts to combat rising social vices and promote sustainable livelihoods among vulnerable youth and adolescent mothers.
The funding, facilitated under the SHARE Project and supported by Global Affairs Canada, is designed to promote a saving culture, improve financial literacy, and redirect youth energy toward productive ventures. Brenda Aber, SHARE Project Manager, handed over the funds and urged recipients to use the money wisely to transform their lives and communities.
“We are happy to contribute to youth economic empowerment in response to their request during community mentorship activities,” Aber said. “This support should boost your livelihoods and enable you to access sexual and reproductive health services and information—critical tools for building a brighter future.”
Buyende District has long struggled with high rates of child marriage, defilement, and school dropouts—challenges that have plagued the region for years. However, district leaders say targeted interventions by development partners are beginning to turn the tide.
Michael Kanaku, the Buyende District Chairperson (LCV), acknowledged the district’s grim statistics but expressed optimism, citing ongoing community dialogues and youth-focused programs. “Unfortunately, Buyende tops the list in defilement, child marriage, and school dropouts. But we are slowly coming out of these vices through community talks, outreach programs, and partnerships with organizations like Right to Play, SHARE, and Plan International,” Kanaku said.
He emphasized that empowering youth economically gives them hope and alternatives to crime and despair. “When youth groups are supported, it brings mindset change and life-changing opportunities. This not only reduces social vices but also complements government poverty alleviation programs,” Kanaku added.
Titus Tumusiime, Country Director of Right to Play Uganda, stressed the importance of equipping young people with financial literacy, business skills, and life-saving knowledge.
“When youth and young mothers are supported to meet their basic needs, re-enroll in school, and access correct health information, they gain the confidence to make positive life decisions,” Tumusiime said. “We want them to stop being manipulated and instead invest their youthful energy in productive ventures.”
The intervention is already yielding results. Brenda Kitimbo, leader of the Mirembe Youth Group—a collective of child mothers and out-of-school adolescent girls—shared how the program has completely transformed lives.
“We were once subjects of public ridicule and exploitation,” Kitimbo revealed. “But with counselling, business training, and financial support, many young mothers have regained hope. Most are now back in school, supporting their children, and making informed choices.”
Another success story emerged from Bugaya Sub-county, where Dison Muzaaya, a village champion in Ngole Community, recounted the journey of a youth group formed after fishermen were evicted from Lake Kyoga.
“At first, many youth turned to crime—snatching bags, smoking weed, gambling,” Muzaaya said. “But one day, a few of us attended a workshop to get free food… and ended up starting a savings group with just Sh2,000 each week.”
Three years later, the group has accumulated Sh10 million in savings. With an additional Sh3.5 million from Right to Play, they plan to venture into modern goat and local poultry farming. “This is our way out of poverty,” Muzaaya declared.
While celebrating the progress, Kitimbo raised concerns about limited access to government empowerment programs. “We appreciate government initiatives like Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Enterprise Funds, and the Parish Development Model (PDM), but the requirements are too stringent for groups like ours,” she said. “Many young mothers and out-of-school girls are being excluded. We urge authorities to adapt these programs to be more inclusive.”
The LCV echoed this call, urging youth to leverage existing national programs to diversify income and become self-reliant. “Tap into Emyooga, YLEF, and PDM,” Kanaku advised. “Stay productively engaged, create jobs, and contribute to national development instead of remaining idle and hopeless.”
As Buyende continues its journey from despair to resilience, stakeholders agree that sustained investment in youth and young mothers is key to breaking cycles of poverty, violence, and exclusion. With renewed hope, skills, and capital, the next generation is stepping forward—not as victims, but as changemakers.
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