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Why Every Ugandan Should Embrace, Support URA’s Tujenge Uganda Drive

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BY JULIUS ODEKE

By Julius Odeke

Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has stepped up its countrywide tours in a bid to have all the taxpayers realize the presence and the value of the tax body. The programme is intended to help create awareness and trust among Ugandans about URA’s operations.

Mr. Ian Muhimbise Rumanyika, the URA acting Assistant Commissioner Public and Corporate Affairs, posted a 58-second video on social media while appreciating the 7th coronation anniversary of the Busoga kingdom’s Kyabazinga, William Gabula Nadiope IV.

Because social media is a critical medium of communication for youngsters, it makes Rumanyika’s method very commendable of URA; for many people not only in Busoga sub-region heard about the services of URA in that noble cause. I wish the same should be extended to other regions’ activities — even if not necessarily coronations. This will help Ugandans to feel their tax body.

On Tuesday, September 7, 2021, URA held a webinar with a topic: Offence Management Process and Prosecution. The event had two distinguished and notable panelists; Enock Miiro (in-charge Offence Management desk) and Sbabani Matovu (in-charge Investigations and Prosecutions) at URA.

The webinar was moderated by Douglas Kabagambe, the in-charge Strategic Analysis. In the same line, URA has hatched a robust sensitization programme dubbed Tujenge Uganda, a Kiswahili phrase for ‘Let’s build Uganda’.

The Tujenge Uganda programme launched its work in eastern Uganda in partnership with the local governments of Kamuli, Buyende, Bukungu, Kyankoole and Kapyokolo and Iyingo landing sites. Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) was in tow to ensure that as taxpayers are registered, they too, need to formalize their businesses as well.

The purpose of the programme which will soon be rolled to the other parts of the country will first see eastern Uganda’s districts of Iganga, Mbale, and Soroti served, and it’s intended to inform and educate Ugandans on how the tax body operates when collecting taxes.

What formed part of the sensitization programme are three notable topics of; Tax Identification Number (TIN) registration, Tax returns filing, and Tax advocacy services. All these services are rendered free of charge when a client seeks help from the tax body’s offices which are now spread to all regions. For example, we have URA offices in Mbale, Soroti, Jinja, Gulu, Arua, Mbarara, Fort Portal among others to name but a few. But we also have the field offices like Mpondwe, Mutukula, Entebbe, Malaba, and Busia

This is very key; for many times we’ve heard Ugandans say, “This is our money.” This means Ugandans know about many things concerning URA but URA needs to cement this by properly informing, educating, and sensitizing them so as to arouse interest in paying taxes.

Without taxpayers, then the collection of taxes will face serious obstacles where the country will stand to lose billions of shillings. URA has in the past been having 1.8 million taxpayers on its system but in this year there is a plan, according to Mr. Rumanyika, to increase the tax register by 500,000 taxpayers.

In this regard, a bus is traversing the country with the inscriptions: “Developing Uganda Together”. This bus is a URA moving office that will link the tax body with the taxpayers and they are offering online services especially to remote areas that lack proximal access to URA offices and electronic services.

The tax body through her partner the European Union (EU) benefited from funding since the financial year 2018/19 on a number of initiatives like the acquisition of two specialized Mobile Tax Education and Outreach activities in support of the national agenda of domestic revenue mobilization.

This is being done because the business environment has transformed and is transforming faster due to modern technology. And for that, no Ugandan should be left out. Tomorrow, given the technology the globe is enjoying and embracing. Soon we shall be asked to digitalize our land and other property so that it will be easier for the tax body to conduct its duty of levying taxes.

One of the areas where our country will be able to boost tax collection and management is in the property sector and it’s where we need to ensure that we have a digitalized land management system to ensure that land rates and stamp duty grow. And once they are digitized, URA will know where each property is located. Modern countries have developed because their citizens are good taxpayers and the monies collected are put to good use. So, we too can emulate them.

With all these programmes that have been rolled out, Ugandans don’t need to be fleeced of their monies that an individual outside the URA offices wants to help a client to access services at a fee. No! Gone are those days when Ugandans were charged Shs90,000 just to have a TIN. Simply walk to URA offices nearby and get served cost-free. It’s also a deliberate bid to fight corruption but also to instill a culture of community service to its employees. And in so doing, URA will have officers with impeccable integrity, people who are hinged to the institution’s ethos of three core values; patriotism, integrity, and professionalism. That is what Ugandans want.

So, as Ugandans who are the taxpayers, let’s embrace the 30-year journey that URA has rolled to us to ensure Ugandans are given professional service as we move towards economic independence. It should be noted that in the Financial Year 2020/21, URA collected net revenue of Shs19,263.00 billion. During the FY 2019/2020, the net revenue collections were Shs16,751,64 billion, against a target of Shs20,344.13 billion. The collections were Shs3,592.49 billion below target performing at 82.34 percent which is commendable.

The tax body hopes to hit Shs22.42 Trillion for the FY 2021/22, however, during a conference that was held early this year, URA announced that the target for the FY 2021/22 is Shs44.7 trillion whereby Shs22.42 trillion of the total revenue target will be locally collected.

Of this, Shs20.8 trillion will be tax revenue and Shs1.5 trillion will accrue from non-tax revenue. Ugandans can make this possible if we work as a team that has the vision to develop our country. And given the fact that URA is rolling out sensitization and outreach programmes that will ensure that every Ugandan gets to know the intention of the tax collector, then we shall definitely achieve the set projections with ease.

It’s against this backdrop that every Ugandan is urged to join the Tujenge Uganda and then we shall enjoy the fruits later on. For God and My Country!

Julius Odeke, is a journalist and communication officer for Kalaki District Local Government.

Email: jodeke@gmail.com

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How Maj. Jessica Alupo Has Reshaped Vice President’s Position

by HENRY MULINDWA on

To some people in Uganda, on hearing the title vice president, they think that the one occupying this office must be a very complicated person who can’t be approached easily due to the clout that comes with this position.
Some even think, the vice president doesn’t hold a mobile phone or has no time to talk to people who need him or her!
Whereas this maybe true depending on the character of the holder of this office, the current vice president Maj. Jessica Rose Alupo Epel is a different story!

VP Alupo with Gen. Saleh in Gulu


Gone are days when the vice president would not interact with ordinary people but instead always kept in the space traveling abroad or chose to speak through protocol.
To Alupo, everything is possible. From making personal interactions with people including legislators to investors, Alupo finds time to interact with the youths.


This was proven when she recently devoted time off her busy schedule and met leaders of National Youth Council at her office.
Indeed her meetings are always cordial and interactive and usually end with strong breakthroughs in form of resolutions made.

VP Alupo with ministers Tayebwa and Kadaga


This has therefore made her a darling to many other groups and it’s the reason her office has become another busy bee compared to other government departments. Not only does she answer phonecalls, but also finds time to engage those on social media platforms if the situation warrants. Where it requires on-spot inspection, you will find her there! One will find her in National Medical Stores, Mulago health facility etcetera; all interventions meant to improve on service delivery to wanainchi!


“The VP remains calm and keeps on her lane ad the vice president yet very effective and efficient”

a top inspector told this news site.
VP Alupo with leaders of National Planning Authority at her office


Indeed we are told Alupo on a good day, will start her work with a prayer at her home for devine intervention and then quickly proceeds to office very early and she’s among the last officers to leave office.
In fact, some officers in government now equate her time management antics to those of former prime minister Apollo Robinson Nsibambi.


“If Nsibambi gave you an appointment at 10am sharp, be sure he would be there at 10am sharp. This is the kind of a leader Alupo is. She’s time conscious and always wants to account for every minute that goes. This is why even some media practitioners couldn’t catch up with her handover (from former VP) ceremony. They were told at exactly 8am and some came at 9am. They found the function had ended. This is Alupo. She gets to office early and leaves very late after meeting everyone who wants to meet her”

says one the inspectors in her office.


On fixing gaps in government departments, ministries and agencies, Alupo almost every week holds a meeting with two or three of the MDAs where they give her an update on progress reports and pending issues. She has for example met the management of National Planning Authority, she has met officials from finance, donors, investors and a line of other dignitaries in the country.

Alupo, among several meetings she made today was to meet Danish investors. The team met her at her office where they discussed about agribusiness, agro-industrialization and marketing.
This move is meant to benefit the two countries in trade and the citizens of Uganda. So interested in pushing Uganda to the much-desired middle income status, Alupo who’s also the woman MP for Katakwi will approach highest ranking offices in the land if that’s what it takes to discuss and get solutions.

Alupo hands over M7 pledge to elderly former MP Ben Etonu

She recently met her boss President Yoweri Museveni and also went ahead to meet the coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho better known as Salim Saleh in Gulu. This is why a few weeks ago, she was able to relieve the president of a huge hitherto unfulfilled pledge he made sometime back to youth, women, mosque and church of Katakwi. The president gave her shs100m which she religiously delivered in it’s rightful portions of shs20m each.


Not only has she picked interest in national and constituency issues, but also our foreign policy is of great concern to her. This is the reason several ambassadors have made visits to her office to brief her on the bilateral relations that exist between Uganda and her neighbors. A case in point is her meeting with the ambassador of Uganda to Ethiopia HE Rebecca Amuge Otengo. Those who have been following regional issues, Ethiopia is a strategic area for Uganda. For example, it’s where the African Union is headquartered and besides, it’s a member of the IGAD where Uganda is also a member.

VP Alupo meets Amb. Rebecca Otengo at her office


“Ethiopia has been an ally to Uganda in the fight against terrorism in the region. Therefore, if the VP chooses to understand the goings-on in relation to our cooperation, this is something that must be welcomed”

an inspector added.
  • VP Alupo with Danish investors at her office


Back home where she hails from, Alupo has chosen to play politics of unity of purpose as opposed to playing petty politics. This is why recently, she rallied MPs and top cream from her Teso sub-region to work as a group regardless of their political or economic stand.
“She’s out of petty politics working harmoniously virtually with everyone. This is going to help us on mobilization of Teso” an inspector said.

VP Alupo chairs a meeting with all Teso leaders at her office


Recently, she told national broadcaster-UBC that she likes listening more than talking. To her, the more she listens, the more opportunity she gives the other person to freely express him or herself and it’s out of this, that she can ably prescribe a solution.

Mechanizing agriculture is paramount


A soldier by profession, the former education minister Alupo has a soft heart for gals who want to join the armed forces but are still fearing about joining thinking they will be discriminated. She keeps giving confidence to such ladies that there’s no favoritism in the army and everyone is treated the same way depending on performance.

Watch the space!

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FEATUREDNEWS

King Oyo launches Vision 2045 to promote health, end poverty & Aids in Tooro

by RICHARD KINTU on

The Omukama of Toro, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV has started a drive that will see Tooro kingdom become the nucleus of first class socio-economic development in Uganda.

The grand plan is enshrined in what he termed as his Vision 2045 for Tooro kingdom.

The vision was launched over the weekend, during his 26th coronation anniversary celebrations at the Karuzika Palace in Fort Portal town, Kabarole district.

According to Oyo, “Tooro Kingdom’s Vision 2045 will guide the development agenda and transformation of Tooro Kingdom for the next 25 years with the overall goal of empowering people and communities of Tooro Kingdom for a better life and prosperity.” He added that Vision 2045 will also propel Tooro Kingdom to become a model for inclusive and sustainable development.

To actualize it, the king broke it down into seven focus areas, which arfe practically the key challenges that must be addressed and overcome to better the lives of the people of Tooro. The focus areas include:

Promoting, Preserving and Protecting the culture and heritage of Tooro, Skills Development for Youth (focus area 2), Investing in Agriculture for Food Security, Poverty Eradication, Employment and Wealth

Creation (Focus Area 3) and Promoting Tourism as a powerful vehicle for economic growth, job creation and improved livelihoods in Tooro Kingdom (Focus Area 4). Others are: Climate Change, Environment and Water Conservation; Health for All and Ending HIV/AIDS by 2030.

The function was held virtually due to the need to guard against the Covid-19 pandemic. However, notable dignitaries like deputy speaker Anita among graced it. Here are some pictures to give you a sneak peek into how the function transpired:

WIN BIG! << CLICK TO FOLLOW LINK!! >>

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FEATUREDNEWS

M7 Succession Plan Takes Shape In NRM

by HENRY MULINDWA on

Exclusive details on how the ruling party-NRM is planning to transit from its current chairman and president Yoweri Museveni to another are hereby exposed for the first time.


In the plan, Gen. Yoweri Museveni is supposed to do one thing; anoint his successor preferably Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the political machinations begin full blast. Muhoozi however, so far to some extent faces former premier John Patrick Amama Mbabazi.


“He (Museveni) cannot pick but he will only anoint a person. At the moment, Gen. Muhoozi stands a better chance in NRM because he’s a youth and an accomplished soldier. However, there must be a silent coup within NRM guided by Museveni himself if this is to happen” a top NRM inspector told this news site.

DETAILS
Not so long ago, Gen. Museveni held a meeting. It took place at his home in Rwakitura. The meeting was attended by Margaret Zziwa, Arimpa Kigyagi, Bernard Mujasi, Magomu Mashate, Abraham Byandala, Ruth Tuma among others. This meeting was meant for Zziwa and her team to present a report to Museveni in respect of the gross indiscipline within NRM, unfulfilled pledges among other issues affecting the party at the time. The Zziwa team was baptized as NRM adhoc issues committee.


We got a brief that in that meeting, one of committee members Mashate proposed to the president that it was high time NRM considered tabling a bill seeking to create two chambers in parliament just like that of UK (House of Lords and House of Commons).


“Your Excellency, we have many people who have been in the party and served well but want to retire yet they are still useful. I suggest we create a special chamber to accommodate them so that we don’t lose their expertise” an inspector quoted him as telling the president in that meeting.
Museveni listened carefully and rolled his eyes in the socket possibly trying to critically probe into this suggestion. After some good seconds, he responded with a question that ‘but how would that work?’


It seems the one who posed the idea wasn’t ready to pursue it further, instead, the man kept quiet.
“Mashate didn’t develop it further. He kept quiet when the president tried to ask for details. It’s not clear why he kept quiet. Did he fear to annoy the chairman? No one can tell” an inspector told us.
Now, 10 years down the road, the same issue seems to be catching up with the party chairman if the country is to have a smooth transition.

President Museveni

WHAT’S ON TABLE?
We got it on proper grounds that for now, all eyes within the ruling party are glued to next year 2022. It is this year that is allegedly going to determine what will happen in 2025 in respect of Museveni’s leadership and transition for the matter.
It was stated that in the coming year, many things are going to happen most of which are related to whether Museveni stands again in 2026 or he hands over the mantle to a new person.


In the meantime, there are two proposals. Amend both the National constitution and that of NRM or to engineer a national referendum. The whole idea is to have a way to create a special organ/chamber to cater for the interests of historicals or senior leaders like it’s done in the UK where such experienced people are refered in the House of Lords.
“In order to have a fundamental change of political dispensation, you need a referendum. If this can’t happen, we need to take it through parliament” an inspector explained to us.’


The idea to use the national parliament is meant to cover the project so that it doesn’t look as though it’s only seeking to benefit the giants in the ruling party.


“This has to be done for wider legitimacy so that it is not viewed as an NRM project or that of our beloved successor”

an inspector added.


Back at plot 10 Kyaddondo NRM headquarters, the constitution is also supposed to be amended to create a special organ identified as Elders Council of Ideological Stabilization of the Party. This proposed council is different from the NRM’s Elders league or that of historicals.


The council is only going to accommodate mainly selected top NRM CEC bosses in CEC including Museveni, Haji Moses Kigongo, Rebecca Kadaga, Haji Nadduli and a few influential party bosses unlike the Elders’ league which has every tom, dick and harry and only appears to answer affirmative action issues in the party.

GEN. MUHOOZI FRONT
Currently, there’s a surge on social media platforms by individuals asking the CLF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba to stand for president in 2026. In effect, the agitators are asking the president to anoint his only son Muhoozi to take up the mantle from him when he chooses to retire.


Indeed, even within the ruling party top brass, such calls for the CLF to succeed his dad are gaining weight by the day.
Our Inspectors revealed that for Gen. Muhoozi to ascend to the top, two things must happen. In the process of amending the national constitution, a proposal to change our country’s political setting from adult sufrage to parliamentary system must be done.


Secondly, Museveni must allow Gen. Muhoozi tl retire from the forces sometime before 2025. In so doing, Muhoozi is supposed to position himself for the position of NRM CEC vice chairperson for Western region. This will make him attend the top meetings of the ruling party. And because the national chairman of NRM is usually elected later, after getting to this office, he is supposed to seek for the chairmanship of NRM. When he does this and after a successful amendment of the constitution to revert to parliamentary system, Muhoozi is supposed to stand for an MP seat either in Gomba, Kiruhura or any part he will feel like.


“The work of the party will be to hunt for votes and have majority MPs. When they come and time comes to form government, there’s no way our members shall elect another person when our party chairman (read MP Muhoozi) will be in parliament. He will automatically become our flag bearer and president for that matter” an inspector explained.

MUSEVENI FOR NEW ROLE

When Museveni tactfullyrelingishes the chairmanship of the party, he; together with selected cream of NRM CEC bosses will head to the Elders Council of Ideological Stabilization of the Party to be created through a proposed amendment to the NRM constitution.


At National level, he together with his other team, will sit in the proposed special organ to be determined by parliament.
According to the proposal, the Elders Council will have limited powers over the party leadership playing an advisory role but if things run astray, it’s mandate may overrun that of the party.


“On the face of it, it will have some limited powers so that it doesn’t seem to antagonize the structures of the party. This will avoid suspicion by the new party leadership (young Turks). Therefore, the roles of the current CEC will shift to the council”

explained an inspector.


Both amendments according to the plan aim to give a soft landing to the current powerful leaders in the country so that there is continuity of peace and stability.


“The justification is that; you’re preserving political brain expertise. Even in the civil service, someone retires due to age cap but government goes around it and gives such a person a contract not as a civil servant but as a necessary expert or consultant. So, these elders may have retired but need to be preserved. It may appear as a weak group but when things become bad, they come in to give direction. This will give a clear transition from Museveni to Gen. Muhoozi” says an inspector.

WHY NRM FAVORS GEN. MUHOOZI

To begin with, he’s a soldier and that according to the planners, the military has taught him discipline and conformity to rules or orders. Secondly, by Museveni maintaining Gen. Muhoozi as a Senior Presidential Advisor in charge of Special Operations, keeps him in executive to learn statecraft.


It is hoped that his military credentials plus his indirect role in executive, puts him at an added advantage so that by that time (of election as president) he will be superb. Inspectors also told us that already, Muhoozi runs a vast network within the Civil Service especially among officers at commissioner level. By the time he becomes president, these shall be the ones running ministries and departments as permanent secretaries or directors. In fact, we are told, Muhoozi is the one secretly helping his dad to detect and weed out goons in the civil service through his network. It’s this network that reports to him on the alleged misdeeds by some top technocrats in MDAs.


“Uganda’s army is a revolutionary one just like that of Cuba and Tanzania. It’s professional and ideologically well aligned to the original movement. The army therefore will always back a person it’s founding commander (read Museveni) will handover to. Revolutionary armies follow an ideology. This is why we have a female president in Tanzania and in Cuba, a brother (Laural) took over when Fidel Castro felt that he had done his part. The same can happen here. Museveni will become an advisor and the army will respect this anointed person particularly Muhoozi” an inspector added.


In the proposed plan, all old guards in the NRM party will have to go with Museveni.
“The old guards want to retire and remain around. This is the only way we can cater for them. It’s is the only was we shall have a bloodless transition because people want to settle. We have done our things and we want peace and stability to continue. We can only do this through a tactical silent coup within the NRM to have Muhoozi become next president. He’s got all it’s takes to continue with the revolution” am inspector knowledgeable on the machinations explained.

Muhoozi Kainerugaba

GEN. MUHOOZI ALLEGED HURDLES
However, whereas the ruling party would want Muhoozi to take over, there’s fear within the issue of Bobi Wine factor. Firstly, Bobi going by the official results by the EC, already has 38percent youths. On top of this, intelligence suggests that most teens aged 13 plus are singing People Power slogan. This, it is feared that by 2026, this fraction of teens will be of voting age and will automatically vote Bobi Wine also known as Robert Kyagulanyi of NUP.


It is for this reason therefore that allowing the next election to be under the normal practice of adult sufrage, this makes chances for Muhoozi to become president slim. It is also feared that even if Museveni returns, he will also face stiff challenge against Bobi. The only option is to change the system and return to parliamentary democracy.


“Direct election is very tricky for him. Even if he wins with 99percent, there will arise a question of legitimacy. It will be difficult for him to convince people that he won. Even questions of dynasty will now come in. So, it’s a big challenge for our general to win a direct election” the inspector said.

ENTER MBABAZI
Better refered to as Mr. Kololo, Amama Mbabazi is also being looked at as a possible successor. He’s reported to have the NRM structures which he can easily rejuvenate in case Museveni anoints him. Even in security circles, Mbabazi is said to have goodwill there as long as he gets Museveni blessings.

Mbabazi Amama


“Sevo can only annoint but not pick a successor. Those who want peace and stability to continue, will automatically follow his advice. He will annoint and find time to talk to those who are opposed to his favorite person. This will be done early enough so that by 2025, his choice will have a smooth ride” an inspector summed up.


Gen. Museveni has consistently said he doesn’t need to propel his son to power but instead, it will be Ugandans to decide who their next leader is.
Watch the space!

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FEATUREDNEWS

REVEALED: Why Tycoon Was Buried In Cemetery & Not Masaka Ancestral Home

by RICHARD KINTU on

Hotel Africana tycoon Bulaimu Muwanga Kibirige aka BMK life’s journey permanently ended Sunday when he was laid to rest at the Muslim cemetery in Nkoowe, Wakiso district.

Leaving behind a legacy of hard work, selflessness and inspirational entrepreneurship, BMK was mourned by multitudes that included the high and mighty of this country. President Museveni, deputy speaker Betty Among, among others, eulogized the fallen tycoon and like everyone else, bemoaned the loss his demise has permanently bestowed upon this developing nation that still badly needed him.

Born at Matanga, Kaddugala in Masaka district, BMK would ideally have been buried at his ancestral home as per Kiganda custom.

However, he chose to be buried at the Nkoowe Muslim Cemetery, joining his mother and daughter Sarah Muwanga whom he had already buried there.

Addressing mourners at Nkoowe, Sheikh Umaru Yusuf, the deputy imam of Masjid Musa Mosque at Hotel Africana, told mourners that BMK would ideally have been buried at his ancestral grounds but his generosity made him get buried in a cemetery.

Yusuf narrated that BMK’s change of burial site began in 2005 when the tycoon lost his son named Musa in an accident in Canada.

The son burnt to ashes in the car and BMK was compensated heavily by the Canadian government. 

In so much grief, BMK consulted with Muslim Sheikhs and imams who then advised him to invest the money in Dawa (a muslim act that results into eternal blessing to the doer; usually aimed at strengthening Islam).

It is upon this that BMK decided to use the money to build a mosque at Hotel Africana.

The mosque was named Masjid Musa, in memory of his son. He then used the balance to buy 17 acres of land in Nkoowe. Of this land, he dedicated 16.5 acres to the Muslim community to act as a burial ground.

Meanwhile, the 0.5 acres were reserved as burial ground for him and his relatives who would choose not to be buried at the family’s ancestral home in Matanga, Masaka, where his father Ali Kibirige was buried.

Sources say that on top of choosing the burial ground in memory of his son, BMK also wanted to enjoy the benefits of Muslims being buried amongst fellow Muslims. A source told us that such burial has an Islamic reward that will be earned on judgment day.

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DS Anita Splashes Shs100m Towards Virika Cathedral’s Facelift

by HENRY MULINDWA on

Congregants at Virika Cathedral have a reason to smile after their desire to renovate their church was boosted with shs100m.
The cash has been given by deputy speaker Anita Annet Among who officiated at the launch of the fundraising drive for the repairs on this cathedral situated at Fort Portal in Fort Portal City.


In total, the cathedral requires shs2bn and that on today’s function where Anita was the chief guest, a total of shs200m was raised both in cash and pledges.


In attendance included Minister of Tourism Col. Tom Butime, Government Chief Whip Thomas Tayebwa, Parliamentary Commissioner Esther Afoyocan among others.


“I want to encourage well wishers to continue sending contributions. We may not raise all the Shs2 billion today but we shall do it over time” she noted as she contributed Shs100m towards the repairs of the Cathedral.


Anita counseled well wishers that there are blessings in building God’s house. To prove how serious she wanted the work done, Anita moved the basket around for contributions from the congregation attending the fundraising drive, attracting applause.


“This is one sign of good leadership. A good leader has to be of an example. Thank you mama Bukedea for the loving heart and continue serving the country whole heartedly” the locals cheered.

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FEATUREDOPINION

NUP should boycott IPOD money, too!

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By Faruk Kirunda

The nascent National Unity Platform (NUP) has declined to join the Interparty Organization for Dialogue (IPOD), a forum which brings together parties with representation in Parliament to dialogue on issues affecting the country.


NUP was invited together with the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) to join the organization after the expiry of the 3-year MOU which member parties had signed before NUP was formed. Surprisingly, the NUP Secretary-General David Lewis Rubongoya, wrote to the IPOD secretariat communicatiung that they were declining to join, alleging that the platform has been “used to legitimize a brutal regime that has no regard or respect for democracy.” He described the forum’s meetings as “tea and photo” opportunities.


Previously, it was FDC boycotting IPOD activities, their reasons including that they didn’t want to shake hands with President Museveni who usually attends in his capacity as National Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Last year, FDC’s chair at the summit remained empty, symbolically representing its absence from the table of men. As we talk, FDC is paying for its mistakes, with its base steadily getting eroded because all potential allies see them as arrogant and uncooperative.


At the time, I predicted that in a few years (if not before this year), FDC would be a limping shadow of its former promising self, and take on the mantle of a “sick man of Uganda’s politics”; isolated, defied, desperate and obsolete. I believe I was not far off the mark as the party has shrunk considerably, losing place to NRM and NUP in its former strongholds. I also based on FDC’s stance on IPOD to predict that opposition agitators for a single front by the opposition at the general election should forget it because a seed of discord has been sowed.


When FDC boycotted the summit at Munyonyo, DP’s Nobert Mao, JEEMA’s Asuman Basalirwa and UPC’s Jimmy Akena attended. FDC made fun of them and claimed they were in bed with NRM. Such remarks were an affront on the dignity and rights of the other parties, and also an attack on the collective agenda to develop and grow multiparty politics in Uganda.

IPOD is not a private enterprise of any one individual or group but a forum for discussing matters of mutual interest. It’s also a forum for raising some of the concerns that abstaining groups raise on the streets and in the corridors.


NUP is making the same mistakes as FDC and will live to regret. An attitude of self-importance and self-isolation is selfish and self-seeking.
NUP is showing too early that they are not for unity and that they despise the efforts of other players. They are playing a defeatist game; they claim to have a lot of grievances but cannot come forward to table them formally for solutions to be found. Who did they consult before deciding to boycott IPOD? Why not recall its MPs since it is by virtue of their presence in Parliament that it qualifies to belong in the body? Why not completely relocate from Uganda since the Museveni/NRM they loathe so much is present all over the country? It is not enough to avoid him at in IPOD circles.


Among the key benefits of belonging in IPOD is receiving a share of funding under its arrangement to support their activities. Is NUP turning down this support or they will only go for the buttered side of things? I will follow up to see how they will reconcile themselves on this-even FDC.


NUP’s level of intolerance is very worrying. As a young party, they would set a good example by promoting politics of dialogue and reconciliation. It is possible that other having representation in Parliament, they have not put together a proper political programme to sell in the political common market, and this worries them that they may be overwhelmed by the superior programs of NRM, which has majority MPs, and DP, or even FDC, or UPC, which are more established and experienced.
NUP should style up and act with maturity if they are to set an example of how they want others to treat them.


NRM has its own grievances and is committed to democracy and dialogue as part of its contribution to a better Uganda. Whoever has grievances should table them for consideration among peers instead of gossiping about them in the media- and to foreigners.


Museveni, whom the opposition loves to hate, remains a most valuable partner at every turn in support of democracy and has also been very warm and supportive of IPOD which can be a springboard for dialogue between all political groups-not just parties represented in Parliament-so that the polarization we have witnessed of recent does not escalate, but NUP cannot see because their politics is amateurish and lacks ideological depth. If any group needs the auspices of IPOD, it’s NUP!


The problem is that some of the opposition players are so uncooperative and arrogant yet they accuse Museveni/NRM of the same whereas facts disprove their claims.

The author is a Private Secretary to H.E the President in Charge of Media Management

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Betpawa Unveils Mr Eazy as Continental Ambassador

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Uganda’s versatile artiste Mr. Eazy is the new continental ambassador for top betting Powerhouse, BetPawa. Betpawa announced the lucrative deal with the ‘Tumbiza Sound’ hit maker Thursday at Kabira Country Club during an event where eight (8) selected winners (combed across the country) took part in a football challenge penalty kick shootout amidst pomp and cheer from friends and family. Baryayanga Francis, a 38-year-old primary school teacher from Bushenyi district walked away with a brand new Toyota Rav 4 from BetPawa. Other winners won UGX750,000 (for 4th-8th place winners), UGX1.5m for third place, UGX3m for 2nd place.

Livingstone Mugambe, the Betpawa Marketing Coordinator for Uganda revealed that Thursday’s 8 winners placed their bets with Betpawa in August during the English Premier League matches.

“This then saw them enter our prize draw by Sunday 29th August and were drawn to take part on Monday 30th August,” Mugambe said.

The selected winners include: Byanyima Joseph (from Mitooma), Amoli Mario (Adjumani), Lukiiko Mike (Arua), Odora George (Kwania), Lematia Geoffrey (Arua), Mwebaza Kenneth (Luweero),  Okot Jalon (Tororo) and Baryayanga Francis.      

The brand new Rav 4 was the grand prize during BetPawa's Penalty Shootout held Thursday at Kabira Country Club. It was won by Baryayanga Francis- 38- year old teacher from Bushenyi
The brand new Rav 4 was the grand prize during BetPawa’s Penalty Shootout held Thursday at Kabira Country Club. It was won by Baryayanga Francis- 38- year old teacher from Bushenyi

The finalists participated in the penalty shoot-out where they used a special soccer board to act as the goalpost. This board had five (5) holes in different sizes and each hole contained a number of points.

They were then categorized according to points earned to determine those who will proceed to the next competition stage leading to the finale,” Mugambe said.   

Sports gambling can be consistently profitable if bettors have superior knowledge regarding athletes and teams, which many sports fans believe they have.

The proliferation of media coverage of sports and the variety of information services available give gamblers a sense of control and confidence that encourages them to wager.

“Our website is easy to use, has low data consumption and you can bet anytime anywhere, needing just an internet connected device,” Mugambe added.

BetPawa is a licensed sports betting company in Africa owned by an international group of investors with vast experience in global online betting. It has a regional place on the continent in Nigeria, Angola, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda

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Minister Babalanda Hails BMK as Fallen Tycoon spends Shs3bn trying to save life

by RICHARD KINTU on

Minister for the presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda has eulogized tycoon Bulaimu Kibirige aka BMK as an industrious Ugandan who inspired many modern local businessmen in the country.


BMK died Friday from a Nairobi hospital where he has spent about a year receiving treatment for prostate cancer.
News of his demise hit many Ugandans, with minister Babalanda also taking to her Twitter handle to express sadness at the loss of one of Uganda’s most accomplished entrepreneurs.


“We have lost an industrious son of Uganda who set the pace inspiring a new breed of local entrepreneurs. Rest In Peace, Hajji BM Kibirige!” Babalanda tweeted.

Tycoon spent billions
Meanwhile, it has emerged that the amiable tycoon spent over Shs3bn while trying to save his life. A source close to the family revealed that the money was spent on treatments, flights, and consultants. Other expenses included accommodation of caretakers in whichever country they would take him, visa arrangements, and upkeep money.

EULOGISED BMK_ Minister Milly Babalanda


“He has been to many countries like the UK, Germany, USA, Hong Kong, Thailand, and even in the United Arab Emirates seeking for treatment and possible cure of the cancer but the Lord had other plans. We are however happy that he put up a courageous fight and defied earlier timelines that doctors had previously given him,” the source said.


Famed for having founded the bodaboda business in Kampala, BMK will also be remembered for being a pacesetter in the hospitality industry among local Ugandans. In his biography, BMK revealed that he was diagnosed with cancer in 2015. In 2018,

however, doctors in the UK told him he would live for only three months and die. He however bravely believed he could live longer, which saw him relocate to the USA to seek alternative treatment. There, also, he was given four months but he still relocated to Germany in pursuit of a longer life. His will to live also saw him seek treatment in Thailand, India and later Tanzania and then Kenya where he finally died while on palliative care.


By press time his body was yet to jet into the country but his close friend and fellow tycoon Matovu Mansour aka Yanga said all preparations were underway to repatriate it in time. He is likely to be buried on Sunday at his ancestral home in Nkoowe, Wakiso district.

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Tycoon Lwasa in trouble as KCCA, UHRC Propose Tough GBV law

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By Joram Alex Waisukirawa

Recently, Masaka-born tycoon Emmanuel Lwasa started a verbal war that he has since sustained on former girlfriend Nabatanzi. While initially some men— especially SMAU members hailed Lwasa for finally booting the ‘money-draining babe’, many Ugandans have since turned around and are now accusing the showy tycoon of witch-hunting the TV personality. These have since joined Diana sympathizers to call for Lwasa’s arrest on charges of meting Gender-Based Violence (of a psychological nature) against Nabatanzi. This was after Nabatanzi confessed having been depressed by Lwasa’s witch-hunt and even mulled over suing the tycoon.

KCCA To The Rescue?
If nabatanzi is to go ahead with her threat, then KCCA in conjunction with the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) have teamed to propose a law through which Lwasa can pay for his sins against Nabatanzi. Specifically, the Capital City Authority (KCCA) is drafting a special ordinance to curb wife beating, child neglect and other forms of Gender Based Violence (G.B.V). Dubbed the “KCCA prohibition and Prevention of Gender Based Violence Ordinance 2021” the law proposes tougher punishment for perpetrators of domestic violence, early child and forced marriages, child labor, teenage pregnancies, school dropout and child neglect/dissertation among other forms of abuse.


Already, both KCCA political technical staff and political leaders have received a series of trainings from Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) and the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MOJCA) to shield this ordinance from being challenged and declared unconstitutional by courts if passed by the Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago’s Council.


While officially opening the last training on Tuesday last week, UHRC Acting Chairperson, Commissioner Med B., said cases of Gender Based Violence and indeed violence against women and girls have been on the increase over time and the COVID 19 pandemic has worsened the situation.


“Although both male and female gender have been affected, detrimental impact resulting from Gender Based Violence has visibly been noted amongst the female gender. And Despite the existence of a relatively enabling legal framework in the country on protection of the rights of women and girls, KCCA does not have a specific legislation on prevention of gender based violence; which we believe, is key in eliminating this form of violence,” he said.
He revealed that the Commission conducted capacity building trainings of selected KCCA Technical Officers, in November 2020 and later in May 2021.


“As a result, KCCA technical officers conducted community consultative meetings with Community/opinion leaders and some community members both at community and Division level in all the five Divisions of KCCA. The need for a specific ordinance to prevent and prohibit Gender Based Violence came out very strongly during the community consultative meetings thus leading to the development of a draft ordinance which is going to be presented today,” he said.

  • KCCA Deputy Lord Mayor Ms. Doreen Nyanjura explaining why she was happy with the G.B.V ordinance before she attended the training for political leaders
  • UHRC Commissioner Hon. Meddie B. Mulumba briefing Journalists about the KCCA ordinance after opening the training for Political leaders


The ordinance, he said, was drafted by key technical experts from the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development in close collaboration with KCCA technical officers.


The Deputy Lord Mayor Ms. Doreen Nyanjura said that it was a celebration on the part of women to have such a law prohibiting violence against them. Of course the laws against GBV have been there but they have not been specific enough for KCCA.
“Much as I am celebrating this coming ordinance, it is unfortunate that unlike men, we as women have had to fight for our rights. It is also very unfortunate that we actually have to come up with a special law for women not to be violated,” she said.
She said though Gender Based Violence cuts across gender, women are violated most.
Godwine Gumisiriza, the manager community services at KCCA said that before they thought of this ordinance, about 380 cases of GBV were being reported in Kampala every month.


“During the second lockdown, GBV cases were common. In total 550 cases were reported in Kampala alone yet so many go unreported. So this law will be very helpful in prevention, dealing with perpetrators and helping victims get justice,” he said.
These trainings have been facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme under the European Union (EU) Spotlight Initiative Project. Apart from KCCA, there are other local governments which the UHRC is training to have similar ordinances against G.B.V passed. These are; Amudat, Kasese, Kyegegwa, Kitgum, Arua and Tororo districts.


The UHRC is spearheading these trainings in fulfilment of its Constitutional mandate that requires it to undertake capacity building programmes for people to fulfil their duties and obligations and ensuring that all bills presented before parliament and District/Division Council ordinances are human rights compliant.

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