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Express FC break 26-year trophy jinx to lift CECAFA Cup, bag shs90m Fufa Dime

by RICHARD KINTU on

Ugandan side Express FC beat Malawi’s Nyasa Big Bullets to lift the CECAFA Kagame Cup on Saturday evening. In a scintillating match played at Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Martin Kizza scored the Wankuluku outfit’s sole goal in the 22nd minute to bring glory home. The win ends express’s 26-uyear long wait for a trophy, with the Wasswa Bbosa led side having last won a trophy in 1995.

The Red Eagles will however have to thank their danger man Eric Kambale who dispossessed a Big Bullet’s player just after the half way line and then initiated a sweet and quick one-two interplay with midfielder Muzamiru Mutyaba who then released a sweet through ball which Kambale squared to Kizza to slot a cool sitter at the back of the net.

The win is express’s maiden club’s cup triumph but the icing on the cake is that it guaranteed them a US$25,000 (about Shs90,000,000) prize money from football governing body, federation of Uganda football associations (FUFA).

The prize was staked by FUFA after they saw off Zanzibar’s KMKM in a 2-1 win at the Azam Sports Complex in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam last Tuesday evening. The prize is a repeat of a similar offer that FUFA extended to KCCA FC which won the 2019 CECAFA Cup edition. It should be noted that the 2020 edition was not held due to coronavirus interruption. Congratulations Express!!

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Lockdown misery as Tenant impregnates landlady & her daughter

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Uganda is grappling with increased cases of teenage pregnancies due to the lockdown. This explains why many parents are pressuring the government to open up schools so that they can send their idle children to the educational institutions so as to save them from raging sexpests.

A recent report revealed that over 4000 teenage girls fell pregnant in the recent lockdown and are at risk of missing studies once school resumes. However, similar cases have been reported across Africa, with Kenya, Zimbabwe also experiencing a similar challenge.

But perhaps one of the most unfortunate stories of Covid-19 lockdown pregnancies happened in Zimbabwe after a landlord suffered a double blow when his tenant impregnated both his wife and daughter during a recent lockdown.

Sources say that trouble for the Budiriro-based landlord, only identified as Nyauta, began when he hired the tenant identified as Reason Musiwechivi to ride his wife to town due to the lockdown’s travel restrictions. Nyauta and his wife have been married for 20 years and are blessed with 3 children.

It was reported that Reason rode his landlady to town on a daily basis but soon Nyauta who is a teacher got rumours that the rider and his wife would spare time to have sex before he rode her back home.

Nyauta first confronted Reason but he denied the claim. However, hell broke loose when about a month later Nyauta’s wife clashed with his daughter at Reason’s home after the pair met there while each of them had gone there to get service from the bike rider.

It was then that the mother learnt that her daughter was two months pregnant for the rider; meanwhile, it emerged that the mother was also carrying Reason’s 3-month-old pregnancy.

Sources say mother and child had kept the matter secret but their 40 days ended when Nyauta’s wife went to a pharmacy to buy abortion pills.

It is said that she unfortunately confessed to the pharmacist who happened to be Nyauta’s close buddy and so he revealed the dark secret to his friend.

It is said that the furious landlord attacked his tenant but the situation was saved by other tenants who separated the two men. The landlord has since evicted Reason from his house and also sent the wife packing as well. The couple are yet to divorce even though they are separated while the daughter is still living with her dad.

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Bugisu Man Who Has Thwarted Four Coup Attempts Against Museveni Unveiled!

by HENRY MULINDWA on

President Yoweri Museveni has survived four White Collar attempts all of which could have adversely impacted on his rule and image. However, thanks to the efforts of one of his longtime admirer and supporter for that matter, the president has waded through those sensitive muddy waters. But who is this man and what did he do exactly? Where is he?

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Peter Magomu Mashate is a London based Ugandan Barrister of the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn of Court London and has been there for decades as a Lawyer. He is also an enrolled Advocate of all Courts of Judicature of Uganda. He’s been on the forefront of fighting for justice not only for his British clients but also for the Blackman. Although most people when they reach the white man’s land do not want to associate with the black man, to Mashate this is like the opposite.
“I am one person who doesn’t believe in racism and Xenophobia. Whether black or colored or white, we all have the same blood. Skin colour is something I really don’t pay attention to but of course as an African, I feel proud and I can’t bury my head in the sand because I want to look like the whites or even speak like them. I am an African of Ugandan origin and a tenacious freedom fighter and Crusader of Social fairness and Justice” he says.

Indeed, his argument can be seen in his long held consistent desires to serve his country back home. Though he has been in the Diaspora for decades, he unlike most Ugandans who do not want to return, has been a regular and active person as far as serving his country is concerned even more regular to his Constituency than some local MPs in Uganda do.

Mashate leads NRM UK chapter to meet Museveni in London

For example, when it comes to cultural matters, Mashate is not a stranger here. He is actually one of the brains behind the constitution of the Inzu Ya Bamasaaba chiefdom. No wonder, when this institution began, he was appointed the first Attorney General of this institution in the Cabinet of His Highness Wilson Weasa Wamimbi Umukuuka 1 where he served with all his energy until he handed over power and proceeded to campaign as a Parliamentary candidate in 2016 General election.

Mashate opines that “Some people embrace this leadership as a way to enrich oneself. To me, leadership is all about serving the people. It is people first then you think of yourself. And this is an attribute which a few of our leaders have. Most of them think that leadership is the simplest way to amass wealth” he says.

That aside, Mashate is not a stranger to national politics. In his struggle for the freedom of his people from the bondage of poverty, he has tried to seek position of leadership and true; he almost made it. He stood for MP Bungokho North Constituency and uprooted the then area MP Yahaya Gudoi in the NRM Primary election. In the General election 2016, he polled 12,642 votes while FDC polled 13,021 and was only defeated narrowly by a contestable tiny margin of 379 votes by FDC candidate Sizomwe.

“The huge surge in his vote is attributed to his unrelenting community involvement in constituency projects across all religious and ethnic divide as his brand of politics is uniquely one of unity” said Ramadthan Bakusekamajja, a local leader and resident in Mbale.

And yet at the party level, Mashate is also there. For example he’s been the general secretary for the NRM Diaspora League.

THWARTING DIPLOMATIC EMBARRASSMENT ON MUSEVENI

His service to the country has not only been to the wanainchi alone but also extended to the His Excellency YK Tibuhaburwa Museveni; there by putting off frustrating power schemes endless times.

For example, in 2018 following the Arua incident, Museveni came under verbal artillery by one of the MPs Paul Williams in the UK parliament. To him, that wasn’t a simple situation. Museveni; a president of a sovereign country was officially invited for a CHOGM meeting but he was not protected from embarrassments.
“It required someone of courage and selfless patriotism to counter the MP. As you can see, the president had an entourage but they all feared to respond to the attacks against him. But barristers are the Elite legal brain of the UK and highly respected members of UK society and as a barrister-at-law I sat down and said; if this is going to be my last day here in London, let it be but I can’t allow my president (Museveni) for whom I have served all these years to be humiliated like that!” He says.

To him, the MP Dr. Paul Williams’ attacks against Museveni weren’t directed at him as a person but it was an attempt to usurp the power of Ugandans who democratically choose their leaders.
“It was a big risk for me to respond but I did it. I thought I was going to lose my Residence Status here but because of my president for whom I greatly campaigned from days of UPM in 1980, I wrote a very strong materially and factually loaded letter to Dr. Paul Williams and I challenged him to come to Uganda and engage with us but not to dictate to us. Uganda is an independent country” he says.

Mashate (right) with Museveni and Margaret Zziwa in Rwakitura

REFUSING SHS10BN TO BETRAY MUSEVENI IN UK COURT

Putting Dr. Paul Williams’ matter aside the same Mashate had earlier on rallied to defence of the president in a very sensitive and sensational suit in the UK courts where millions of pounds were being sought personally against the president and not vicariously as the President. As Uganda’s foreign affairs ministry was still dillydallying after being served with the Suit, the case was going to be determined exparte. This therefore meant that Museveni was going to incur heavy costs and by extension the country. Arrangements were made and Mashate ably defended Museveni till victory came his way. Mashate a “rare specie” resisted an inducement of the equivalent of Uganda shillings 10 billion to compromise the UK case against the President and enter a Consent order on terms adverse to the President and the country. This is truly a corruption free patriotic mind difficult to find in Uganda easily.

DEFENDING MUSEVENI’S VICTORY AGAINST KIZZA BESIGYE

His legal prowess also helped Museveni win the 2006 election petition filed by Kizza Besigye since he was part of the legal team for the president. Besigye had laid a super legal ambush against Museveni seeking to undo his victory but this effort failed thanks to Mashate and the team of other patriotic lawyers who defended Museveni!

Unfortunately, though all his colleagues like Chief Justice Alphose Owiny Dollo and others have since been deployed and others to cabinet as ministers, but Mashate is still on Katebe. We are told he has made frantic efforts to be deployed and be appointed at least to any of the existing vacancies in various commissions. However, this hasn’t yet materialised, probably the fountain of honour thinks that he is still in the Covid scary UK but truth is, he is back to stay in Uganda. For now, research shows there are existing gaps in Uganda Human Rights Commission, Judicial Service Commission, Uganda Airlines Board and above all, gaps in cabinet including that of minister for justice and constitutional affairs.

UPM POLITICS

Mashate born to Mzee Erieza Mashate who was the UPC leader Eastern Region & independence leader of greater Bugisu was in 1966 political crisis victimised by Obote because he belonged to Grace Ibingira and Barak Kirya UPC progressive wing. Mashate who is also nephew of the late Professor Dan Wadada Nabudere, is a historical Uganda Patriotic Movement (UPM) and was a member and youth actvist at its formation together with the late His Highness Sir Bob Kipiro Mushikori Umukuuka 2 (King of Bagisu). He also campaigned for President of UPM YK Museveni and the late Mzee Jack Maumbe Mukwana the UPM candidate for Member of Parliament Bungokho Constituency where Mashate hails from. However both his candidates President Museveni and Maumbe Mukwana were rigged out and lost to Obote UPC gang in 1980 General election.

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FEATUREDNEWS

What Is M7’s Game Plan For Uganda Human Rights Commission?

by HENRY MULINDWA on

The numbers to run Uganda’s human rights watchdog-Human Rights Commission have continued to reduce raising further questions as to whether government is ready to uphold human rights.


Whereas the commission should have seven members, it is currently running with only two members as commissioners. The last straw was made this week when president Museveni pulled out one the remaining commissioners Dr. okiria Acan and posted her to IGG’s office as the second deputy IGG.


Acan is an Acholi but married to an Itesot resident in Bukedea district represented by deputy speaker Anita Among. A renowned mulokole, Acan has been a commissioner in UHRC since 2019. Museveni recently appointed former deputy IGG Beatrice Wangadya as the chairperson of this commission ending years of this commission working like a headless chicken. It’s chairperson Medie Kaggwa died two years ago and calls from both within and outside for the president to name a chairperson had all along landed on rocky ears.


The commission currently has two commissioners including Medie Mulumba and Mzee Kateebalirwe both whose contracts are also soon coming to an end. As for Wangadya, she is yet to be vetted by parliament but sources suggest the delay by parliament to vet her is because they want him to first fully nominate all commissioners.


“What is the use of approving the chairperson who has no team to work with? It is better the president speeds up the process of naming other commissioners so that the commission can fully function. We always allocate funds but there’s no proper supervision because of lack of manpower” sources said.


Museveni’s appointments to this commission have always been received with controversies. Everytime he makes such appointments parliament makes noise wanting him to consider gender and regional balance something he feels threatened to fullfil.

  • President Museveni
  • kadaga


For example, we have chanced on a letter where he and his former speaker Rebecca Kadaga exchanged bitterly about these Human Rights Commission appointments. Apparently, the president had presented a list naming people Kadaga viewed as all from the west. Besides, they had no woman among them. She rejected the appointments and immediately notified Museveni who; though he yielded to her pressure, told her off.


The letter is dated 27/2/2012 and it’s entitled ‘Vacancies on the Human Rights Commission’ and was addressed to Kadaga personally.


“I have received your letter of 23rd/December/2011 regarding the two vacancies on the Human Rights Commission. I noted the comments you made on balancing (regions, gender etc). We should not get over diverted to this issue in every institution. It may disrupt our ideological view of Uganda” he said.


He went on ‘balanced development shall be understood to mean the development of infrastructure (Karuma-Arua road, Soroti-Lira road etc)’
So bitter he was that the president even assured Kadaga that the much talked about regional balance doesn’t help the region, but instead the appointments he makes only help the beneficiaries alone.


“These appointments help the individual involved not necessarily the region. I always take that issue into account but also I take other issues into account (personal merit, historical contribution etc). I hope you will consider those factors” he said before naming one female Itesot to the commission.


For now, it remains unknown who Museveni is bringing as a commissioner in this Commission but currently, there exists four vacant posts. This implies it has no quorum to transact business even with Wangadya being named as chairperson. This commission is key when it comes to investigating human rights abuses by key players especially security forces and other errant people. It’s always the first point of call by political players especially when there are confrontations between government and it’s people. Therefore, it’s absence or work always attracts both government and public interest in case of human rights concerns. The president on the other hand, must hunt for ‘trusted’ cadres. But who are they? Where do they come from?


Watch out for names of possible appointees!!

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FEATUREDNEWS

Why Mass Retirements Are Rocking UPDF?

by HENRY MULINDWA on

By Henry MULINDWA

The army’s recent decision to retire over 600 officers and men from the armed forces didn’t come as a surprise.
We have established that more such general retirements and desertions are feared to happen following the deployment of Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba as the commander of land forces.


Apparently, those in the know suggest that president Museveni’s decision to deploy Muhoozi to the mainstream UPDF was premised on the fact that the forces were allegedly fatigued and therefore needed to be awakened to match the level at which the Special Forces Command was moving.


“Currently, the SFC is overstretched. It’s into guarding the fountain of honor, the strategic installations, oil wells and many VIPs. This is good but the numbers don’t match the level of demand. It therefore, means the UPDF also has to be equipped with proper training to develop it’s capabilities in order to reduce on pressure on SFC” sources explained.


Sources said that as a result, Gen. Muhoozi’s main work is going to ensure that the soldiers are properly trained and do the necessary exercises unlike in the past when there seemed to be laxity in regular exercises.


“The cases of indiscipline we are seeing among soldiers are rare among the SFC boys. Can you imagine a soldier picking a gun to shoot people because of a woman? These are things that point to lack of proper training and maybe being idle. Soldiers must always do exercises to keep them fresh and ready for deployment regardless of the situation” the sources added.
We are told out of this task, it is feared that many soldiers are going to be retired especially those who are weak and those will not manage rigorous training as ordered by Gen. Muhoozi.


“Don’t joke with that guy. We know him and how he has been treating us (SFC). He likes training, and training. Everytime, he wants you on training. I can assure you, you’re going to see many people seeking to retire from the army or desertions. They will not manage his work method in respect of training” the sources explained.


We are told Museveni was alarmed to see that several UPDF bosses had developed potbellies and others falling off like cockroaches even with minor ailments, an indication that many of them are unfit due to lack of regular training.
We have been informed that Muhoozi is supposed to tour all units and in the process, he will be screening those with capacity to be soldiers for more years.

Muhoozi


“Those found wanting due to excessive booze or weak will be presented for retirement. The force will retire them all. And those who will remain must be ready for training” sources explained.
The army a fortnight ago retired over 600 officers and men from the forces. Among those retired included bush-war generals Ivan Koreta and Pecos Kutesa.


Whereas, it was understandable for the retirement of bush-war heros due to age, other retirees had other issues that resulted into their ‘go back home’ directive. The UPDF court-martial has on several occasions held court sessions to discipline some of it’s officers who use the gun the wrong way. Some are accused of killing innocent people because of civil matters.


Muhoozi Kainerugaba has been the commander of the SFC, a force he helped build alongside other commanders like Gen. Leopold Kyanda, Gen. Muzeyi Sabiiti, Don Nabaasa and Mugyenyi Birungi. He was recently posted to head the Land Forces by his dad also commander in chief Gen. Museveni.

Museveni also posted Maj.Gen. Kyanda as the Joint Chief of Staff of the army. Both Muhoozi and Kyanda are close buddies meaning they now have the army under lock and key and can execute any exercise required to make the army more effective. In the recent days, Muhoozi has been cited visiting several units and taking them through rigorous morale boasting exercises. Watch the space!

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FEATUREDNEWS

‘Ex-Drunkard’ Rides To The Top As Northern Uganda Diocese Bishop

by HENRY MULINDWA on

 By Amon Tolit

Rev. Godfrey Loum has been elected the 8th Bishop of the Diocese of Northern Uganda, succeeding Rt. Rev. Johnson Gakumba who has been in this position since 2009. He will be consecrated and enthroned on 21st November at St. Philip’s Cathedral, Gulu.

Born on 4th October 1972 in Gulu, Rev. Loum holds two Masters degrees. In 2019 he earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Uganda Christian University. In 2018 he earned a Master of Arts in Development Studies from Cavendish University. In 2004 he was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in Divinity from Uganda Christian University. He has also received a Certificate in Strategic Planning and Management from Makerere University College of Business Management Science.

In spite of growing up in Northern Uganda during the LRA insurgency, Rev. Loum was able to complete his O-level and A-level exams. “Financial support, however, for teriary education was not available and he became totally discouraged and lost in drunkenness” says a statement from the CoU communications desk. Nevertheless; it says, on 4th October 1998 his life turned around when he was born again.

Three years later, he began preparing for ordained ministry at Uganda Christian University. He was ordained a deacon in 2007 and a priest in 2008. He has served as the Vicar of Christ Church in Gulu Town. He has been certified in trauma and HIV/Aids counseling, and promoted ecumenical unity through UJCC and the Bible Society Acholi Branch. Since 2012 he has served as the Chairman of the House of Clergy.

Rev. Loum is the published author of “A Quick Guide to Premarital Counseling for Pastors and Couples” by Penwall Publishers, Kampala. His life mission is to be “fully equipped to preach the Word of God in season and out of season; to reprove, rebuke and exhort with complete patience and teaching.” (2 Timothy 4:2) He is married to Ida and they have been blessed with three children.

The election was made by the House of Bishops of the Church of Uganda sitting at Lweza Training and Conference Centre on 12th August 2021.

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FEATUREDOPINION

M7’s Relegation of Lango and Buganda in the National Governance is Real

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By Ishaa Otto Amiza

Ishaa Otto Amiza

When President Museveni captured power in 1986, he promised Ugandans ” fundamental change”.So many people didn’t believe him. And 35 years down to road, I guess those who ignored or dismissed his statement are now getting to form. The fundamental change Museveni promised has now manifested itself into various ways that can be measured. It depends on which angle you look at it.

To me, ruling Uganda for nearly four decades uninterrupted  is fundamental change, and above all relegating Buganda and Lango from national politics and governance is one most fundamental change over the years. In my opinion here, I will dwell on the deliberate and strategic approach  to relegate ,the once, super tribes, Lango and Buganda who in our long history pre and post independence were the super influencers in determining the politics and governance of Uganda. The missionaries first landed and settled in Buganda before advancing to other parts of the Country.

It’s known that a part from the introduction of  religion, literacy and western political systems, Buganda was already a well established entity with it’s well structured government. In the case of Lango, their  settlement in northern parts of Uganda ,they had proven rare and unique with a well defined mode of leadership and governace system ,that resisted colonialism and fought alongside Kings of Buganda and Bunyoro against the British colonialists .

Their charisma in leadership and war was later carried forward by Obote and Oyite ,who championed political  and military struggles against colonialism and dictatorship in Uganda. No wonder the pre- struggle before and at independence, were championed by young leaders of  Buganda and Lango backed strongly by their own people with Kiwanuka of DP of Buganda origin , Obote of UNC- UPC of Buganda origin, and Mutesa of Buganda Kingdom, being leading icons of independence struggles. At independence and later through many political struggles, it therefore became more evident that, Lango and Buganda  couldn’t be avoided in the management of the affairs of Uganda. The prominence of these two tribes could further be traced during independence in 1962, the Buganda Crises of 1966, the liberation struggles of 1979 and the post liberation government and elections with Lule, Binaisa, Muwanga of Buganda and Obote, Oyite , Wacha Okwol of Lango being at the center stage and determinants of 1979 liberation war and the  general elections of 1980. 

Arising from the rivalry between these two major actors , Buganda and Lango, the military coup by top Acholi general was possible in 1985 and indeed the antagony soon grew into the NRA and Museveni’s bush war and military take over in 1986, hence the beginning of a new trend of political scheming by a non Langi or Muganda with clear understanding of these two tribes and exploit of their wisdom to strengthen his power base to the rest of the Country to date.It’s revealing that, when Museveni first came to power Lango maintained it’s resistance and rejected of the NRA- Museveni’s rule for nearly twenty(20) years unreservedly  making Museveni’s rule very complex.

Baganda meanwhile for the same period determined the way Museveni ruled. Both were major players in the reinforcement  and demobilization of Museveni’s advances in the political governace of Uganda .Lango collectively through their nurtured politicians fought relentlessly against the Museveni’s establishment, while Buganda on the other hand remained consolidated behind the misrule of Museveni.

Edward Muteesa
Milton-Obote

After twenty years of near divorce between Buganda and Museveni, the likes of Semogerere a Muganda started seeing light joining the Lango born icon lady Cecila Ogwal to jointly fight politically to STOP Museveni’s advances and to restore multi- party politics,the re-union between Lango and Buganda soon became eminent through Semogerere and Cecilia Ogwal. Sooner to than later, Baganda started getting the real feel of their dog they nurtured,when the Kabaka’s tour of his own Kingdom territory in Kayunga was met with iron first leading to the slaughter of over 100 Kingdom subjects in cold blood.

The true colour of the wolf was now exposed.  From that time to date, Museveni’s advances against the Buganda Kingdom subjects and their relegation from relevance in the national governance of Uganda is eminent. The emergence of Buganda through Robert Kyagulanyi of NUP , was met with the highest level of brutality, diznes of young Bagandans were butchered by the security forces sending a clear message to the Kabaka and his subjects, that, it’s not longer Uhuru, Buganda must collapse. 

In the recent appointment of top cadres in government at Ministerial and Technical bench Baganda lost all their powerful positions, including Vice President which had appeared to be a reserve for Buganda as part of the historical agreement for bringing Museveni to head both the military and political arm of  NRM .

Thank God Baganda seem to have realized their fate and are beginning to see light while their counterparts in Lango are left in wonderment. In the latest attempt to tell off the people  Lango, the MAN neglected Lango in his appointment in Cabinet and CIvil Service ,leaving Lango in wonderment  besides Lango change of heart to get married to the old MAN with lots of expectations. Instead to humiliate Lango further, while Lango NRM cadres shout of their win in Lango, Museveni has signalled to them by elevating their rival  neighbours; Acholi and Teso to higher positions in NRM party and government.

Leaving in their cold of doing political business for daily bread through selling of their souls and mighty UPC party to Museveni.Museveni after capturing UPC and LANGO political base using Obote’s son and daughter- in-law should now be smiling in awe at LANGO and UPC as his menace in politics of Uganda.

Just the same way he has managed to destroy DP a strong Baganda party through sponsoring the political game inside. It’s up to Lango and Buganda to read between the lines, where they lie in the political governace of Uganda lest they are alienated for life. In writing this opinion, am not being tribalistic but the historical struggles of Lango and Baganda to  liberate all Ugandans from the British colonialists and Amin’s dictatorship is being  trashed and thrown into the dustbin of history through relegation.


The author is a UPC Secretary General  and  former MP for Oyam County South.

(The views expressed in this article are personal and not those of the publisher-Editor)

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FEATUREDOPINION

Embrace Irrigation Technology To Curb Down The ADVERSE&nBSP; Effect Of Climate Change On Agriculture

by HENRY MULINDWA on

BY ISHAA OTTO AMIZA

In an attempt to reclaim my lost parliamentary seat for Oyam County South, I offered myself in the last concluded general elections held in  February 2021. During campaigns my main subject was the enhancement of agriculture through the use and adoption of  irrigation technology to promote farming throughout the year in the face of the  unstable rainy (weather) conditions arising from climate change.

I told the voters ,that, once re- elected  my main focus was to implore government to invest heavily  on water for production using  irrigation technology inorder to  increase an annual  agricultural productivity. In the same vain,having studied the weather phenomenon for some few years, my view then was that , government needed to fast track and deliberately  promote and build the capacity of the community to adopt the use, operations and management of  irrigation facilities.

Nonetheless, traversing through Oyam District and the entire northern region , my impression was that, there available river  tributaries( Tochi,Okole,etc,) and swamps that could be used to establish small scale  irrigation schemes/ dams . On a rather good note NRM government had for sometime around 2016 invested multi billion shillings to revamp the old existing irrigation schemes,that,show Doho, Okile, Kibimba, Olweny rice schemes revamped .

Under the same arrangement it was worth noting that  the construction of new irrigation schemes like Tochi Irrigation Scheme in Oyam also commenced , besides   some ignorant politicians at the time, including the current  MP of  Oyam County South  mobilized the community to reject the project in the guise that  government was using the project to grab people’s land. Whereas I am a known critic of the NRM governance policies, this time knowing the importance attached to irrigation, went ahead to promote the need to establish  irrigation technology in Oyam and the entire Country.I was further, encouraged  by the emphasis of  President Museveni to promote small scale irrigation technology  using simple “drip bottle ”  irrigation technology,which to me was a good idea but not well nurtured to suit the dire need for irrigation technology .On this note, president Museveni had  demonstrated  the most desired political will and demonstrated the  commitment to promote irrigation technology in the Country. This was a noble idea.

Nonetheless, as a practicing water engineer, who had taken personal initiative to promote irrigation technology by conducting research on the use, operations and management of existing and new irrigation schemes in northern Uganda, it was something to be interested about.

 My  wide research on the use, operations  and management of irrigation technology was later shared with the Ministry of Water and Environment , department of water for production . My suggestion was for MoW & E  to engage a private agency to enhance the capacity building of community to adopt the use, operations and management of irrigation technology.

This research prompted the Ministry of Water and Environment to sign a Memorundum Of Understanding (MOU)  with Water for Life- Uganda (my company) to conduct “capacity building of on the use, operations and management of irrigation technology to the community beneficiary of northern Uganda.

Whereas upon signing the MOU , the project never took off, due to political sabotage and conflict of  interests among some officials of the Ministry of Water and Environment at the time, it remained a serious subject  to implore government to ensure the enhancement of the capacity of the wider community to adopt irrigation technology.Meanwhile after, loosing elections in February 2021, I continued to evaluate the use and adoption  of irrigation technology to avert the adverse effect of  climate change which has caused unstable weather pattern affecting agricultural farming . 

It’s known that, unlike in the past, the two major rainy seasons are not longer reliable. This year alone the first rain that used to be around March and April was never available, and the dry spell has continued to flourish untill the second season that falls between June to  August. 

Taking a look of  Lango region , there is a likelihood of a terrible famine and looming poverty  resulting from no rains leaving the farmers with nothing to eat and sell for household incomes. Interestingly besides all these happenings in the face of political leaders , there is little debate about the need to adopt the use of irrigation technology as an alternative to promote agricultural productivity. The simple initiatives that were introduced by President Museveni  also went in abayance leaving the  farmers with no option but to continue waiting  for rains from God. 

This year’s weather situation should have informed our leaders and common people to realistically admit that,the effect of climate change will continue to affect rainfall and hence agriculture and therefore a known remedy needs to be adopted by both government and the common population .

 My emphasy to government since 2015, has been to promote irrigation technology among communities using simple technology and to build the capacity of communities to adopt the use, operations and management of existing  irrigation facilities.

Without government focusing on irrigation technology agricultural productivity will go down and farmers will become vulnerable to famine and poverty. I hope the NRM government and particularly, President Museveni and Members of Parliament embarks of the use and adoption of irrigation technology as an alternative means for faming.I beg to ask government.The author is former MP for Oyam County South/ UPC Secretary General and Executive Director of Water for Life-Uganda.

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FEATUREDSPECIAL REPORT

How House Staff Are On Tenterhooks Over Speaker Oulanyah ‘Poison’ Saga!

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Massive job loss among the staff of Parliament is looming; this news site’s Field Inspectors (FIP) have learnt. The planned screening targets recruitment procedure, academic qualifications and performance appraisals among existing parliament staff. The staff are supposed to reapply for their jobs and most of them are on firing line.


Our Inspectors have revealed that this matter has been heightened by fears that some crooks among the house staff could have had a hand in a botched assassination of speaker of Parliament Jacob Oulanyah by way of alleged poisoning. Oulanyah is fresh from hospital after two months battling a strange illness that according to our Inspectors, had finished some of his internal organs in the tummy.


No wonder, our Inspectors revealed; Oulanyah as he was being evacuated to hospital abroad, he kept shouting (complaining) on top of his voice that ‘stomach, stomach’
His handlers we are told kept comforting him but the situation was getting out of hand.
“He was first taken to Nairobi but we feared that mafia could follow him or might have agents there. The president quickly ordered that he’s taken further abroad possibly UK” our Inspectors revealed.


On reaching there, the doctors allegedly performed a quick but scientific operation on the speaker only to discover that some of his internal organs in the stomach (names withheld for privacy purposes) had been badly affected by the ‘chemical attack’
“Some of them had turned pale and others had started dysfunctioning. Some special operation (withheld) had to be performed. It was a terrible situation which I think the president seemed to be the savior at the time. His quick decision for further management of the situation helped a lot” our Inspectors revealed.


In fact, reports suggest that Museveni is not resting until he gets to know the forces behind this alleged chemical attack on Oulanyah. He has since directed his men to comb all possible avenues to establish if this was poisoning or something else. Initially, it was suspected that the speaker had been attacked by the deadly Covid which at the time was ravaging top officials in government and society.

We are told, Museveni thinks there could have been foul play though his man was saved.
Oulanyah on Sunday went to All Saints cathedral for a thanksgiving prayer in company of minister Ruth Nankabirwa and former premier John Patrick Amama Mbabazi for special prayers. Workholic Oulanyah was favored by president Museveni for this position and he defeated his rival Rebecca Kadaga on a margin of over 113 votes but he fell sick shortly after assuming office.


BACK IN PARLIAMENT
Now inspectors suggest that all efforts are being made to leave no stone unturned. The first causalities are the house staffs.
The first of all, have been banned from accessing Parliamentary canteen and bar. They are not supposed to dine from there anymore.


Instead, the staff have been asked to either look for food from vendors outside or dine from the open space that exists on Eastern Wing and overlooking National Theatre.
The same staff are not supposed to park in Parliamentary parking. They should find parking elsewhere.
“The Police has been directed to implement these directives. None MPs are not supposed to dine with MPs in the canteen or bar anymore” an inspector revealed.


However, the parking issue we are told is sparking a revolt of sorts as former commissioners during speaker Edward Ssekandi’s last reign insist that the decision to construct new house parking was premised on the fact that staff also get parking. This has been the norm on grounds that the staff are the ones who carry sensitive gadgets where MPs’ work is kept and therefore must have a secure parking. The commission (then) had members including Kasule Lumumba, Guma Gumisiriza, Hamson Obua, Ibi Florence Ekwau and Ogenga Latigo LoP.


“What these MPs are not telling us is that most of them are indebted. They therefore hide their cars in the parking to dupe money lenders. You find someone has three cars parked here. Why? Others use the parking to sell their vehicles. The staff are the engine of this parliament, but why mistreat them?” An inspector quoted the mood.
On top of this, those who got jobs under favoritism by way of relations with the former administration of Parliament are sweating plasma.


For now, a proposal is being mooted to have all house staff reapply for their jobs.
“The proposal is to ditch all pro-Kadaga remnants and these are many. Secondly, they want all staff to start getting contracts yet the practice has been that their jobs are permanent and pensionable” inspectors explained.
We are informed that the Ssekandi commission made restructuring in the house departments and put staff on permanent and pensionable basis in order to help them on retirement.


“The pensions scheme was created to cater for those who will be retiring. If you put them on contract, what’s the fate of the pensions scheme? It is going to crash. Is the plan meant to erase efforts of former speakers Ssekandi and Kadaga or it’s for helping strength the departments in parliament?” An inspector added.
PARTIAL LIST OF STAFF WITH A DARK CLOUD ON THEIR HEADS

  1. Ekirapa Ruth Byoona. She has been in the Directorate of Leader of Opposition but now, she’s been taken to the pool.
  2. Ngolobe: He has been the Director transport. He has since been taken to office of the clerk with no job description.
  3. Walube: He has been the head of Hansard department. However, details from inspectors suggest he has been suffering from an ailment that nearly paralyzed his body. He’s therefore on and off. Inspectors revealed that Walube is allegedly under fire to explain his irregularity at workstation and also why there’s heavy backlog. Inspectors however, claim that his health troubles started way back in 2012 and has been on and off. He was only kept around on compassionate grounds to help him survive. Secondly, the ministry for gender, labor and social affairs through its occupational safety directorate allegedly closed the house’s printery on grounds of not meeting required health standards. This closure reportedly occured two years back hence affecting the timely outting of the Hansard. We are told, for the last two weeks, Walube has allegedly been summoned to explain his misdeeds and why he shouldn’t be shown the exit.
    Another Directorate facing intense screening soon is that of communication and public affairs. This explains why both speaker, deputy speaker and LoP have since recruited their personal media persons to manage their media and publicity affairs.
    “There’s total fire and panic among staff. Most of them are now hanging. They are in the pool/corridor” says our Inspectors.
    Watch out for more details about staff and their nature of recruitment. Inspectors are on the ground!
    Quick Total Recovery Rt. Hon. Speaker
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FEATUREDNEWS

Panic As Youth Livelihood Funds thieves made to vomit stolen funds

by RICHARD KINTU on

Karamoja : Beneficiaries who stole poverty eradication funds advanced to them through the Youth Livelihood Funds (YLF) programme are having sleepless nights following the government’s decision to go after their necks.


The programme was spearheaded through the gender ministry and were a brainchild of then Permanent Secretary Pius Bigirimana. The funds were disbursed through youth Saccos and were meant to help members of such Saccos across the country haul themselves out of poverty through provision of capital for group investment projects.


However, just like many similar programmes before, there was widespread misuse of this seed money as many beneficiaries diverted it to personal gratification ventures like marriage and merry-making. This prompted government to launch a bid to recover such monies those that wasted it.


Earlier this month, such recovery took place in Kramaoja region, particularly Karenga district. In a grueling recovery exercise conducted in the district, the RDC Karenga, Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka, recovered over Shs4.5m from YLP and UWEP defaulters. The money was recovered from Karenga Sub County and was part of the funds misappropriated under YLP and UWEP by group leaders and the LC3 Chairperson of the sub county.


The RDC, CAO Jonathan Mukose and the district vice chairperson are currently monitoring YLP and UWEP and ensuring that funds are recovered.
During the recovery exercise, it was discovered that some groups received the funds in 2015 but did not carry out any activity yet no money had been recovered from such idlers since then.


The recovered money was deposited on the district account and the RDC vowed that the recovery exercise will cover all the town councils in the new district.

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