Author: admin

Police have sent a strong warning to their own officers: wearing a police uniform does not give anyone a licence to use excessive force.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke says officers who break the rules governing the use of force must be held personally responsible for their actions.

His warning comes as investigations continue into the shooting of Ronald Juuko Kizito during the National Cleaning Day exercise at Ndejje.

Rusoke described the shooting as a regrettable incident that should never have happened, saying Police is determined to establish exactly what happened and ensure that the deceased gets justice.

He said the officer identified as PC Ogwal Allan involved is already in custody because Police believes, at this preliminary stage, that the force used was not proportionate to the threat.

But Rusoke was careful not to declare the officer guilty before court. He said Ogwal will get his chance to explain himself and defend his actions through the legal process.

According to Rusoke, police officers can use force, including firearms, but there are rules. The force must match the threat.

If the threat is low, an officer cannot respond with excessive force simply because he has a gun or other authority.

Rusoke said the use of force must also be legitimate and the officer must be able to explain and account for why it was necessary.

That, he said, is the standard Police officers are expected to follow.

And when an officer breaks that code, Rusoke says the Police Force must not protect him simply because he is one of their own.

Instead, the officer must face the consequences. Rusoke said Police officers are guided by both international standards and Uganda’s own laws and professional regulations on the use of force.

He said the Ndejje shooting is now being examined against those standards. At the same time, Rusoke defended the need for police intervention during the National Cleaning Day exercise.

He said officers were not sent out to simply brutalise people. They were briefed and instructed to use minimum force and engage members of the public as much as possible.

But Rusoke said enforcement was also necessary because, despite the massive participation of Ugandans in the cleaning exercise, there would always be a few people who refused to follow the directive.

Without some level of enforcement, he argued, the entire exercise could be undermined by a small number of people.

The problem, he said, is when an individual officer goes beyond the instructions given to him.

Rusoke compared this to other professions, saying every profession has rules and codes of conduct, but there will always be individuals who break them.

The answer, he said, is not to condemn the entire profession but to hold the individual offender accountable. For Police, that means an officer who crosses the line must be dealt with.

He said the Force’s position is therefore clear: condemn the misconduct and hold the officer accountable.

Rusoke also used the briefing to correct an earlier mistake over the name of the officer accused in the Ndejje shooting. He said the suspect is PC Ogwal, not Okello as previously communicated.

He apologised for the error and said the correct name would be reflected in Police records.

KAMPALA — Government has handed ITRACOM Fertilizers Uganda the task of distributing a massive consignment of 173,913 bags of fertiliser to targeted farmers under a new intervention aimed at restoring Uganda’s declining soil fertility and boosting agricultural productivity.

The distribution programme was officially launched on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) headquarters in Entebbe.

The intervention is being implemented under a Presidential Directive targeting farmers involved in strategic and high-value agricultural enterprises, particularly coffee, tea and cocoa.

Under the programme, MAAIF has procured the 173,913 bags of fertiliser from ITRACOM Fertilizers Uganda for distribution to selected farmers and farmer groups.

Launching the programme, Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze said the intervention is part of Government’s wider efforts to transform agriculture by increasing productivity, promoting evidence-based farming and improving farmers’ access to critical inputs.

Tumwebaze urged farmers to embrace precision agriculture, stressing the importance of soil testing before applying fertiliser.

“We are entering a new era of farming where decisions must be guided by evidence. Farmers need to apply the right input, in the right quantity and at the right time if we are to achieve higher productivity and better incomes,” Tumwebaze said.

The Minister also called for continued prioritisation of smallholder farmers, saying Government interventions should reach those who need support most.

MAAIF Permanent Secretary Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama said the programme seeks to address Uganda’s persistently low fertiliser use and declining soil fertility, which he said continue to undermine agricultural productivity.

Uganda’s fertiliser consumption currently stands at only about 2–3 kilogrammes per hectare, compared to the continental average of 22 kilogrammes and the Abuja target of 50 kilogrammes per hectare.

Kasura-Kyomukama said the fertiliser distribution was therefore not merely a ceremonial exercise but a practical intervention intended to improve the productivity of farmers and enable them to participate more effectively in the money economy.

“This launch is not merely ceremonial. It is a practical intervention to restore soil fertility, increase productivity and enable our farmers to participate more fully in the money economy,” he said.

He said MAAIF was establishing a distribution system based on speed, proximity and accountability, with fertiliser expected to reach farmers closer to their communities while measures are put in place to prevent diversion.

“There will be no fees, no charges and no diversion. These fertilisers are a Government intervention and must reach the farmers for whom they are intended,” Kasura-Kyomukama warned.

State Minister for Agriculture Desire Muhooza welcomed the programme, saying it demonstrates Government’s continued commitment to supporting farmers involved in strategic agricultural value chains.

She said the initial consignment would benefit farmers and farmer groups engaged in coffee, tea, cocoa and other strategic agricultural enterprises, with eligible beneficiaries receiving the fertiliser free of charge.

“This is an important day for our farmers. We are grateful to His Excellency the President for supporting this intervention and ensuring that farmers in strategic agricultural value chains can access these critical inputs,” Muhooza said.

She urged beneficiaries to use the fertiliser appropriately and work with agricultural extension workers to ensure maximum benefits.

The launch brought together senior MAAIF officials, Government institutions, local government representatives and agricultural stakeholders, highlighting the coordinated approach being taken to implement the intervention.

Representing ITRACOM Fertilizers Uganda, Mr. Bigirimana pledged the company’s commitment to ensuring timely delivery of the fertiliser to designated districts.

He said the company would not only supply the fertiliser but also support farmers with knowledge on proper application.

“Our commitment is clear: we will ensure that the fertiliser reaches the designated districts as guided by the Ministry, while providing the necessary knowledge and support to enable farmers to achieve optimal results,” Bigirimana said.

He commended Government for creating an enabling environment for local fertiliser production and appreciated the support of the President, MAAIF, Ministry of Finance, Operation Wealth Creation and other Government agencies.

To prevent abuse of the programme, MAAIF said it has put in place measures including verified beneficiary lists, proper documentation, secure delivery points, immediate distribution and reporting at district and parish levels.

The fertiliser will also be clearly marked “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale”, with beneficiaries warned that they will not be required to pay for it.

The Ministry will conduct follow-up assessments to establish how the fertiliser is being used, its impact on crop productivity and challenges encountered by farmers.

The findings will be used to inform future agricultural input-support programmes.

Government says the intervention is expected to contribute to the restoration of soil fertility, increased agricultural productivity, improved household incomes and stronger food and nutrition security.

Kasura-Kyomukama said the ultimate test of the programme would not be the launch itself but its impact on farmers.

“When Government invests in agriculture, the ultimate measure of success must be what happens in the farmer’s garden, on the farm and in the household,” he said.

---

GOT A HOT STORY? LET US KNOW!

Got breaking news, explosive secrets, or hard evidence?

Email us: redpeppertips@gmail.com

We accept tips, documents, videos, photos, and recordings—the more evidence you have, the better.

CONFIDENTIALITY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY. SOURCES ARE ALWAYS PROTECTED!

About Post Author

A powerful Kampala family, a contested inheritance and a mysterious collapse set the stage for The Last Mugerwa, a new Ugandan drama that explores what happens when wealth and influence begin to unravel under the weight of buried secrets.

Created and directed by Ugandan filmmaker Allan Manzi, the film follows the Mugerwa family, a wealthy and influential dynasty whose carefully maintained image begins to crumble after its patriarch, Mzee Mugerwa, collapses following a haunting encounter with his ancestors.

What first appears to be a medical emergency soon becomes a mystery. While doctors struggle to explain what happened, suspicion grows within the family that the patriarch’s death may have been orchestrated.

The question of who stands to inherit his wealth further deepens the conflict, turning family loyalty into a struggle for survival.

At the heart of the approximately 30-minute film is a family whose problems extend beyond money. Affairs, fractured relationships, secret alliances and a buried truth threaten to destroy the family from within.

The film also introduces a supernatural element, linking the family’s present troubles to a dark pact made in the past and the consequences of ancestral debt.

The story brings together themes familiar to Ugandan audiences, including family structures, business ambitions and the struggle for power, while placing them within a suspense-driven narrative.

Manzi Media, the production company behind the project, says the film is part of its effort to tell African stories with both local authenticity and international appeal. The production draws on African family structures and business dynasties to examine questions of loyalty, ambition and what people are willing to do to protect their interests.

The film features a cast drawn from Uganda and Kenya, including Allen Komujuni, Ronnie Ndubi, Malaika, RiverDan Rugaju, Diana Luvanda, Evelyn Kemizinga, Pelly Peninah Nampanga, Arnold Muhereza, Stephen Katusiime, Linda Kayitesi Kayita and Herbert Montez Kafrika, who plays Mr Mugerwa. Jeremiah Khari Okeny is also introduced in the production.

Evelyn Kemizinga plays Mercy Mugerwa, the family’s matriarch, who tries to keep her fractured household together while protecting a secret capable of destroying everything they have built.

Malaika plays Sarah Mugerwa, a reserved but intelligent chief financial officer whose abilities begin to emerge as the secrets surrounding her husband threaten the life she has built. Ronnie Ndubi takes on the role of Adrian Semakula, an ambitious senior executive caught between competing factions in the Mugerwa power struggle.

Behind the camera, Manzi serves as director and executive producer, with Peter Niwagaba as writer and producer, Malaika Tenshi as line producer and Emmanuel Gashumba as director of photography.

Manzi’s filmmaking career began at Maisha Film Lab before he earned a master’s degree in Film and Television from Sacred Heart University in New York. He has also worked with NBCUniversal on Emmy Award-winning programmes including Maury, Jerry Springer and Master of None.

Unlike many locally produced dramas that seek a television home, The Last Mugerwa is being released directly to YouTube. The film is scheduled to premiere on September 6, 2026.

For Ugandan audiences, the film offers a familiar setting with a darker twist: a family empire where the greatest danger may not come from an outsider, but from the people sitting around the same dinner table.

Don’t want to miss out on any story? For updates on all Sqoop stories, follow this link on Telegram:https://t.me/Sqoop

FORT PORTAL — The proposed event-management bill for the funeral and burial of the late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV has hit a staggering Shs1.724 billion before VAT, according to a budget submitted to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.

The budget, dated August 29, 2026, puts the direct event costs at Shs1.59675 billion, with an additional eight per cent event-management fee of Shs127.74 million, bringing the proposed total to Shs1.72449 billion before the 18 per cent VAT.

However, the document does not give a final grand total inclusive of VAT, despite listing an 18 per cent VAT line.

The proposed expenditure covers preparations at several locations connected to the King’s funeral and burial, including the airport reception, Buziga Royal Palace, Karambi Tombs, Kaberole Church and Karuziika Royal Palace.

At the Karambi Tombs, the royal burial grounds, the proposed budget allocates Shs60 million for a 30-metre by 70-metre dome tent and another Shs30 million for VIP-area floor boarding.

The royal burial site would also receive a Shs15 million PA system designed to serve 4,000 people, while Shs16 million is proposed for eight live-feed LED screens.

Another Shs20 million is earmarked for cultural-themed decoration, with Shs10 million set aside for cultural entertainment, MCs and a DJ.

The budget further provides Shs10.8 million for three 150 KVA generators and fuel, Shs7.6 million for live-feed and broadcast streaming, Shs7 million for bouncers and private security and Shs4 million for mobile toilets.

At Karuziika Royal Palace, where preparations are expected to run for 14 days, the proposed budget includes Shs98 million for a 20-metre by 30-metre VVIP over-deck terrace.

Another Shs56 million is allocated for tents in the palace gardens, while Shs49 million is proposed for a parking tent.

At the old palace, the budget provides Shs42 million for a tent, while Shs42 million is allocated for PA services.

Two generators and fuel are budgeted at Shs44.8 million.

One of the biggest single allocations in the entire proposed budget is Shs168 million for six LED screens, each measuring 3.5 metres by two metres, at Karuziika Royal Palace.

The palace preparations also include Shs60 million for decoration from the funeral through to the coronation, Shs34 million for floor boarding, Shs33.6 million for lighting and Shs42 million for plastic chairs and linen.

The logistics bill also runs into tens of millions of shillings.

The proposed budget sets aside Shs60.2 million for 14 large equipment trucks and Shs50.4 million for accommodation and upkeep of a 24-member B Team.

Another Shs21 million is allocated for accommodation and upkeep of a six-member A Team.

The event-support crew would receive Shs14 million, while Shs8.4 million is earmarked for passenger vehicles and another Shs2 million for fuel for movements within Fort Portal.

Media and publicity also account for a sizeable chunk of the proposed expenditure.

The budget allocates Shs35 million for a 14-day content team covering videography and photography, including cameramen, camera equipment, a drone, audio and lighting equipment, photographers, editors and post-production services.

Another Shs18 million is proposed for event printing and branding, while Shs12 million is earmarked for blogs and media coverage.

A further Shs20 million is proposed for production of a tribute video and slideshow, while Shs48 million is budgeted for 4,000 A4 programme booklets.

At the airport reception, the proposed expenditure includes Shs3 million for a 15-metre by 10-metre tent, Shs2 million for a red carpet, Shs2.5 million for cultural decoration and Shs5 million for a cultural reception.

The airport package also provides Shs8 million for media and press coverage, Shs2.5 million for printing and branding and Shs1 million for a PA system.

At Buziga Royal Palace, the proposed budget includes Shs42 million for two large tents hired for seven days and Shs18 million for roadside Tooro Kingdom branding.

Another Shs7 million is proposed for a PA system.

Other Buziga allocations include Shs5.6 million for transport, Shs5.6 million for tables, Shs5.6 million for executive mobile toilets and Shs4.55 million for a generator and fuel.

At Kaberole Church, the proposed expenditure includes Shs15 million for a 1,000-person tent, Shs8 million for a 300-person tent and Shs25 million for decoration.

The budget further provides Shs8 million for a PA system, Shs5 million for lighting and Shs3.6 million for a generator and fuel.

The proposed Shs1.72449 billion figure is therefore before VAT, meaning the eventual cost could be higher if the listed 18 per cent VAT is applied to the taxable amount.

However, the document leaves the final VAT-inclusive grand total blank.

The proposed budget offers a detailed glimpse into the scale of preparations planned for the late King’s final rites, with spending covering everything from tents, screens and sound systems to security, transport, media, cultural entertainment and palace infrastructure.

The figures remain contained in a proposed event-management budget submitted to the Ministry and should not be interpreted as proof that all the listed amounts have already been spent or finally approved.

---

GOT A HOT STORY? LET US KNOW!

Got breaking news, explosive secrets, or hard evidence?

Email us: redpeppertips@gmail.com

We accept tips, documents, videos, photos, and recordings—the more evidence you have, the better.

CONFIDENTIALITY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY. SOURCES ARE ALWAYS PROTECTED!

About Post Author

Thousands of Ugandans came together across the country on Sunday for the 2026 Rotary Cancer Run, turning out in large numbers to run, walk and raise funds in support of the fight against cancer.

Centenary Bank, which has partnered with the Rotary Cancer Run for the past 15 years, joined Rotary Uganda and thousands of Ugandans in this year’s run. The Bank has contributed more than UGX 3 billion towards the initiative over the years as a platinum sponsor, supporting cancer awareness, screening, treatment and the development of critical healthcare infrastructure.

Speaking at the 2026 Rotary Cancer Run at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Centenary Bank Managing Director, Godfrey Byekwaso, said the Bank remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve the health and well-being of Ugandans.

“Today’s run is a reminder that we all have a role to play. We can champion cancer prevention by adopting healthy lifestyles, encouraging regular screening and early diagnosis, supporting families affected by cancer and continuing to invest in facilities and services that improve access to treatment. I implore everyone to see every step you have taken as a contribution towards saving lives,” he said.

This year’s Rotary Cancer Run will support the completion of the LINAC bunkers at the Centenary Bank Cancer Centre at Nsambya Hospital. The bunkers will house radiotherapy equipment that will help expand access to cancer treatment for Ugandans.

Through its partnership with Rotary Uganda, Centenary Bank has partnered in the construction of the Rotary-Centenary Bank Cancer Centre at Nsambya Hospital, which provides cancer screening, chemotherapy, surgery and palliative care services. The partnership has also facilitated more than 300 health camps across the country, taking cancer awareness, screening and early detection services closer to communities.

Byekwaso said Centenary Bank’s support reflects their commitment to improving lives beyond banking. Every year, Centenary Bank dedicates 1.5 percent of its previous year’s profits to corporate social responsibility initiatives that address community needs.

“Health remains one of our priority areas because access to quality healthcare helps families, businesses and communities thrive. This year, we have committed UGX 500 million to support the 2026 Cancer Run,” Byekwaso said.

He also noted that the Bank’s commitment to the Cancer Run goes beyond financial support, with various branches across the country having sold Cancer Run kits in preparation for the run and the bank’s staff across the country having been actively mobilized to participate in this year’s run. The Bank has also encouraged its customers, partners and communities to join the cause because fighting cancer requires collective action.

Centenary Bank’s support for the Rotary Cancer Run is part of its ESG mandate, where it supports communities in various activities outside banking under the themes of health, education, environmental stewardship and the social mission of the church. These include, but are not limited to, supporting hospitals with various needs like machinery and furniture; supporting schools with construction, textbooks and furniture; supporting communities with waste management, tree growing and sanitation equipment; as well as supporting the church with items like church furniture, events and financial literacy.

The Rotary Cancer Run has grown into one of Uganda’s largest charity events, bringing together individuals, corporate partners, institutions and communities to raise funds and awareness for cancer prevention and treatment. Centenary Bank’s participation is part of its wider commitment to improving lives and supporting sustainable community development.

About Post Author

KAMPALA — Government has slammed the brakes on the issuance of new mineral licences and exploration rights for 30 days, in a major regulatory reset aimed at cleaning up Uganda’s mining sector, eliminating speculative claims and stopping abuse of mineral rights.

The immediate moratorium was announced by Energy and Mineral Development Minister Dr Monica Musenero Masanza at the Uganda Media Centre on Friday, August 28, 2026, as Government moves to tighten control over the rapidly expanding minerals industry.

Musenero said the one-month freeze should not be interpreted as Government turning its back on investors but rather as an attempt to ensure that Uganda’s mineral wealth is controlled by credible investors capable of developing resources responsibly and creating value for the country.

“The grant of a mineral right is the first step in participating in the minerals industry,” Musenero said.

“It is therefore important that the licensing framework not only facilitates investment, but also ensures that credible and capable investors are attracted, mineral resources are developed responsibly, and value addition is promoted.”

The suspension comes amid concerns over the rapid expansion of mineral licensing in Uganda and the need to clean up the sector as the country positions minerals as a major driver of economic transformation.

Government wants the review to ensure that mineral rights are not being acquired merely for speculation, while investors who receive licences actually fulfil the work and development obligations attached to them.

The mining sector has been placed at the centre of Uganda’s wider Tenfold Growth Strategy, which seeks to grow the economy to about US$500 billion by 2040.

Minerals, together with agro-industrialisation, tourism and science, technology and innovation, have been identified as priority sectors expected to drive the transformation.

The Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) for 2025/26–2029/30 similarly places emphasis on value addition, industrialisation, employment creation and private-sector growth.

The latest licensing freeze follows a dramatic expansion in mineral rights, particularly after the introduction of the digital Mining Cadastre and Registry System, which was intended to improve transparency and administration in the allocation and management of mineral rights.

According to Commissioner of Mines Agnes Alaba, by June 30, 2026, Government had granted a staggering 212 prospecting licences, 497 exploration licences, five large-scale mining licences, 38 medium-scale mining licences and 18 small-scale mining licences, among others.

The portfolio also included three artisanal mining licences, three mineral smelting licences, six mineral refining licences, five mineral processing licences and 205 mineral dealer licences, alongside other permits and authorisations.

The scale of the licensing activity has now prompted Government to pause the issuance of fresh rights and scrutinise what has already been granted.

The Government’s Mining Cadastre Portal allows existing and prospective rights holders to submit applications, renewals, reports and other transactions electronically.

However, the Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines has acknowledged that data cleaning and system migration remain part of the transition to the digital system.

During the 30-day moratorium, the Ministry will review existing mineral rights, investigate contested and overlapping boundaries and establish whether licence holders are complying with their statutory work commitments.

The review will also seek to identify inactive or non-compliant operators and establish whether mineral rights are being used for the purposes for which they were granted.

Permanent Secretary Irene Bateebe raised concerns over possible misuse of exploration rights, warning that some operators could be using exploration licences to undertake activities outside the scope of their authorisations.

“An exploration licence is intended to establish the nature, extent and economic potential of a mineral deposit, not to become a substitute for a production licence,” Bateebe said.

Government’s licensing framework distinguishes between prospecting, exploration, retention and mining rights, with different obligations and requirements attached to each stage.

Companies found inactive or non-compliant could face enforcement action under the law, including possible loss of their mineral rights where statutory conditions have not been fulfilled.

Despite the freeze, Government stressed that legitimate mining operations will continue.

Existing licence holders will still be able to pursue renewals, while geological samples may continue to be exported for laboratory analysis and testing.

Routine inspections, monitoring and compliance operations will also continue throughout the suspension.

Mineral exports will similarly continue under existing regulatory requirements, particularly where products meet the prescribed processing, documentation and export conditions.

Bateebe insisted that the review is not aimed at scaring away investors but at making Uganda’s mining sector more beneficial to the country.

“Uganda is not closing its door to mining investment,” she said.

“It is raising the question of who gets through that door, and what they are prepared to leave behind for the country.”

The clean-up is being undertaken under the Mining and Minerals Act, 2022, which replaced the previous mining law and introduced a broader framework for regulating mineral rights, strengthening the mining cadastre and increasing State participation in strategic mineral development.

The law established the Mining Cadastre Department and provides for a computerised Mining Cadastre and Registry System to process and maintain information on mineral rights and applications.

It also provides for the Uganda National Mining Company to manage the State’s commercial and participating interests in mineral agreements.

Government is increasingly seeking to move Uganda away from simply extracting and exporting raw minerals towards beneficiation, value addition, industrialisation, technology transfer and job creation.

The 30-day freeze therefore gives the Ministry an opportunity to clean up the licensing register, resolve disputed claims and tighten compliance before opening the door for new mineral rights.

For investors and operators, the message from Government is now clear: mineral licences will no longer simply be about securing access to Uganda’s resources, but demonstrating the capacity and commitment to turn those resources into jobs, industries, revenues and wider economic benefits for the country.

---

GOT A HOT STORY? LET US KNOW!

Got breaking news, explosive secrets, or hard evidence?

Email us: redpeppertips@gmail.com

We accept tips, documents, videos, photos, and recordings—the more evidence you have, the better.

CONFIDENTIALITY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY. SOURCES ARE ALWAYS PROTECTED!

About Post Author

Cindy Sanyu says she reached a point in her career where she felt like she was moving alone.

The singer, whose real name is Cinderella Sanyu Muyonjo, was reflecting on some of the challenges she has faced while continuing to push her music career forward.

During a conversation on Tawfiq Media, Cindy said she struggled to find role models who had remained as active and consistent in their careers as she has.

The biggest challenges have been internal, inside of me, because, to tell you the truth, the artist that I am these days has no role models that I look up to.

Her frustration, she explained, came from watching artists she admired slow down at a certain stage and move on to other things.

Cindy said she saw a different pattern among some male artists, pointing to Jose Chameleone and Bebe Cool, who continue to perform, while noting that female artists older than her, including Juliana and Irene, slowed down at a certain point.

Of course, there are amazing artists that we look at every day, but male artists sing even up to 60 without stopping. For example, Jose Chameleone is still doing shows, Bebe Cool is still doing shows. But female artists who are older than us, like Juliana and Irene, slowed down at a certain point.

That left Cindy facing a question she could not easily answer: should she keep going her own way or follow the path she had seen others take?

She says fears about age and changing audience reactions became part of that internal battle.

They slowed down, and it got to a point where I felt like I was moving alone.

The turning point came when Cindy decided to confront those fears rather than allow them to dictate her choices.

But when I was able to overcome my fears as a person, I decided to keep at it.

Now 41, the “Ayokyayokya” star shows no signs of slowing down.

In fact, she has no plans to retire from music, although she says her style may continue to evolve as she grows older.