The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has launched a nationwide child online protection campaign in schools, targeting thousands of students and teachers with digital safety awareness sessions.
The multi-day outreach programme, running from March 9 to March 12, is being conducted in the districts of Masindi, Mbarara, Gulu, and Mbale.
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Through the initiative, students and teachers are being trained on how to identify cyberbullying, share information responsibly online, and report digital threats.
Participants are also being sensitized on how to use the toll-free reporting line 0800 222 777 to report online abuse and harmful content.
Protecting Millions of Young Internet Users
According to UCC, the campaign comes at a time when nearly 22 million children under the age of 15 in Uganda are increasingly engaging with social media platforms, online learning tools, and digital communication channels.
The rapid growth of internet use among young people has created new opportunities for learning and connectivity, but it has also exposed children to risks such as cyberbullying, online exploitation, and harmful digital content.
Officials say empowering children with digital literacy and safety skills is critical to ensuring that they can navigate the internet safely.
Linked to Global Consumer Protection Efforts
The school outreach programme also forms part of activities marking World Consumer Rights Day, observed globally on March 15.
This year’s approach emphasizes that digital platforms should be treated as consumer products that must be safe for users, especially children.
Partnerships for Online Safety
The campaign is being supported by partners including the Uganda Computer Emergency Response Team (UgCERT), which is providing practical resources from the Online Safety Educational Toolkit.
The toolkit helps schools teach students about safe digital behavior, privacy protection, and responsible social media use.
The initiative also builds on previous surveys conducted by UCC and its partners that revealed widespread online harms affecting children and young internet users in Uganda.
Call for Community Involvement
UCC has called on parents, teachers, and communities to actively participate in protecting children online.
Officials say creating a safer digital environment requires collaboration between schools, families, regulators, and technology providers.
As internet access continues to expand across Uganda, authorities stress that digital safety education must become as important as traditional classroom learning, ensuring that young people can benefit from technology without falling victim to online dangers.
Renowned audio producer Ayo Bassboi, born Michael Mulonde, has shared a list of some of his favorite songs released in the past ten years, tracks that never miss on his personal playlist.
Interestingly, despite being a celebrated music producer himself, none of the three songs on his list were produced by him.
This reflects the deep respect he has for the craft of fellow producers in the industry.
The third song on his list is “Mazze Okwetegereza,” produced by Nessim. The track features legendary duo Radio & Weasel alongside Maro.
Speaking about the song, Ayo Bassboi said he has loved it since it was released.
Mazze Okwetegereza — I love that song from way back. I love the way Radio & Weasel and Maro blended and executed their verses on that project. Everyone brought something different and nailed it. Whenever I listen to it, it still feels fresh and new to my ears.
The second song on his list is “Tanimba” by Vyroota, produced by Banger Boi.
Tanimba by Vyroota — I love the production and the vocals of the artist. Everything about the song is just nice.
Topping his list at number one is “On My Way” by King Saha, produced by Mimo (Simon Hensler-Akena).
My number one song is ‘On My Way’ by King Saha. I love that song so much because it always feels like a dedication. It sounds like a new song in my ears every day.
In this selection, Ayo Bassboi highlights not only great music but also the artistry and production talent behind some of Uganda’s most memorable songs of the past decade.
Kampala, Uganda – When you think of elections in Uganda, it’s easy to picture ballot boxes, long queues, and heated political debates. But behind all that machinery, there’s a man quietly making sure it all runs smoothly: Richard Baabo Kamugisha, Uganda’s newly appointed Electoral Commission Secretary. And with 25 years in the game, he’s the kind of career bureaucrat who knows the ins and outs of every polling station in the country.
From District Offices to the National Stage
Kamugisha’s journey is a story of steady climb and quiet competence. He joined the Electoral Commission in 1999, cutting his teeth as a District Registrar and later Returning Officer. In those early days, he was the one making sure voter registers were correct, candidate nominations were processed, and polling stations were ready to go. It was meticulous, often thankless work, but Kamugisha thrived in it.
“He’s the kind of person who notices the details others miss,” says a colleague who has worked with him for years. “If a ballot is out of place, he’ll know it before anyone else.”
From the districts, he rose to Head of Field Operations, coordinating electoral activities across the country, and then to Director of Operations, where he became the mastermind behind nationwide elections. He’s been in the thick of it all—from the logistical headaches of distributing ballots to the delicate art of voter education, ensuring that even in the most remote corners of Uganda, elections happen fairly and efficiently.
A Career Built on Experience
Kamugisha’s story is not flashy, but it’s solid. Educated at Makerere University, he brought academic rigor to practical administration, blending management skills with hands-on experience. Over the years, he has seen Uganda’s elections evolve, learning what works and what doesn’t, and earning respect from colleagues across the political spectrum.
When Leonard Mulekwah, the previous Secretary, was suspended, Kamugisha stepped in as Acting Secretary, proving he could handle the enormous responsibility of running the EC Secretariat. Now, with his formal appointment, he’s the Accounting Officer and administrative head, responsible for everything from budgeting to supervising national elections.
The Man Behind the Role
What makes Kamugisha stand out is his calm professionalism. While politics around elections can be heated, he’s known for keeping a level head, focusing on logistics and process rather than rhetoric. Observers say that his appointment sends a message: the EC values experience and competence over politics.
“He knows the country’s electoral landscape better than most anyone,” says one analyst. “You want him in the office when the polls are coming up.”
Watchdog Verdict
Richard Baabo Kamugisha isn’t a headline-grabbing politician; he’s the quiet operator making democracy work behind the scenes. With 25 years at the Electoral Commission, he brings continuity, expertise, and calm leadership to Uganda’s electoral machinery. For those interested in the story of elections beyond the drama, Kamugisha is the man to watch.
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The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU) has recognized outstanding performers in the Accounting Technicians Diploma (ATD) examinations for May and December 2025, naming the best students across various subjects during its recent graduation ceremony.
The ICPAU Merit Awards were presented by CPA Sandra Nakibuule Baate, a council member of the institute, in recognition of the candidates who demonstrated exceptional academic performance in the professional examinations.
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Top ATD Candidates
The students recognized as the best performers in their respective ATD papers include:
ATD 3 – Principles of Business & Company Law: Able Damalie Kuteesa
ATD 4 – Business Mathematics and Statistics: Immaculate Nankinga
ATD 6 – Economics and Entrepreneurship: Luke Kasajja
ATD 7 – Information & Communications Technology: Immaculate Nankinga
ATD 8 – Business Management: Able Damalie Kuteesa
ATD 9 – Financial Accounting: Winniefred Nakawuma and Pius Omuna
ATD 10 – Principles of Taxation: Joan Oshaba
ATD 11 – Principles of Finance: Joan Oshaba
ATD 12 – Principles of Auditing: Janat Balikanda Nampiima
Some candidates stood out by topping more than one paper, with Immaculate Nankinga, Able Damalie Kuteesa, and Joan Oshaba each emerging best in multiple subjects.
412 Graduate from ICPAU Programs
During the ceremony, ICPAU graduated 412 students across its professional programmes.
Of these:
378 students completed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) programme
12 students graduated with the Certified Tax Advisor (CTA) qualification
22 students completed the Accounting Technicians Diploma (ATD) programme
The graduates sat their final examinations in May, August, and December 2025.
Notably, the ATD graduates represent the final cohort to be assessed directly by ICPAU, as future assessments for the programme will be handled by the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB).
Professionals Urged to Adapt to AI Era
Speaking at the ceremony, George Arodi, Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Baati Limited, challenged Ugandan professionals to become more competitive, innovative, and proactive in the face of rapid technological change.
Arodi warned that artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies are reshaping the global labour market and may reduce employment opportunities in some companies.
He revealed that companies within the Safal Group, including Uganda Baati, are considering reducing their workforce by about 15 percent as part of adjustments linked to technological changes.
According to Arodi, accountants must move beyond traditional roles and become actively involved in strategic decision-making and organisational operations.
Future Custodians of Transparency
Nancy Amuge Owino, chairperson of the Public Accountants Examinations Board, reminded the graduates that society expects accountants to uphold transparency, integrity, and accountability.
“The knowledge and skills you have acquired place upon you a responsibility to contribute positively to society and to the growth of our economy,” she said.
The message was echoed by Timothy David Ediomu, president of the ICPAU Council, who noted that the qualifications equip graduates with the technical expertise, ethical grounding, and professional judgement required in today’s complex professional environment.
Although the CPA graduates have completed their academic requirements, they will only become fully certified public accountants after obtaining membership with ICPAU, for which they currently qualify as associate members.
ICPAU Chief Executive Officer Derick Nkajja also highlighted the importance of the Certified Tax Advisor programme, noting that Uganda’s large informal economy still falls largely outside the tax net, limiting the country’s domestic revenue mobilisation.
He urged the graduates to uphold high ethical standards as they begin their professional journeys and contribute to national development.
Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” extends a welcoming hand to the world through its visa-free entry policy for a remarkable number of countries listed here:
This policy, designed to foster tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, allows citizens from many nations to experience the wonders of Uganda without the hassle of visa applications.
The policy, as outlined in the image, grants visa-free access to a diverse array of countries. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Bahamas to the lush rainforests of Rwanda, citizens of these nations can explore Uganda’s treasures without the need for a visa.
This initiative simplifies travel, making it easier for tourists to discover Uganda’s national parks, wildlife reserves, and historical sites. It also facilitates business travel, promoting economic growth and international collaborations.
Here’s a list of countries with visa-free entry to Uganda:
Antigua and Barbuda
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Botswana
Burundi
Comoros
Cyprus
DRC
Eritrea
Fiji
Gambia
Ghana
Grenada
Ireland
Jamaica
Kenya
Lesotho
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Malta
Mauritius
Mozambique
Rwanda
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Solomon Island
South Sudan
St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Swaziland
Tonga
Trinidad & Tobago
United Republic of Tanzania
United Arab Emirates
Vanuatu
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Hong Kong SAR
Nationals from the countries and regions listed above are not required to obtain a visa prior to travelling to Uganda, in accordance with Uganda’s visa exemption arrangements. This provision facilitates smoother travel and reflects Uganda’s continued commitment to promoting… pic.twitter.com/p4noQQ2nTc
At least 448 youths aged between 15 and 24, many of them university and tertiary institution students, were newly infected with HIV in 2025 in Mbarara City, raising fresh concern among health officials about the vulnerability of young people in academic institutions.
According to Dorcus Twinabaitu, the city’s HIV focal person, the infections were recorded between January and December 2025, contributing to a total of 1,678 new HIV cases registered in the city during the year.
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Health data shows that young people within the 15–24 age group accounted for 448 infections, making them the second most affected group after adults aged 25–39.
The statistics further indicate that 42 children aged 0–14 years were newly infected during the same period, while 883 adults aged 25–39 recorded the highest number of infections. Another 305 infections were registered among people aged 40 and above.
Twinabaitu noted that the high number of infections among young people is particularly worrying because Mbarara hosts several universities and tertiary institutions, attracting thousands of students from across the country.
Public health experts say the campus environment can expose students to high-risk behaviours, including unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, alcohol use and limited access to consistent HIV prevention services.
They warn that many young people still underestimate their vulnerability to HIV despite ongoing awareness campaigns.
Health officials in the city are now calling for strengthened HIV prevention programs targeting youths, especially in higher institutions of learning.
These interventions include increased HIV testing, condom distribution, sexual health education, and youth-friendly health services to help reduce new infections among the student population.
Twinabaitu emphasized that addressing infections among young people is critical to controlling the broader HIV epidemic.
“Protecting young people from HIV is essential because they represent the future workforce and leadership of the country,” she said.
Health authorities in Uganda continue to urge youths, especially those on campuses, to know their HIV status, practice safe sex, and seek early treatment when necessary as part of the national effort to reduce new infections.
A video making the rounds online appears to show Arsenal Football Club players enjoying Joshua Baraka’s song as they train ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash with German outfit Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
The first leg of the Round 16 match between the two teams will be played in Germany, and it is a crucial one for both as they set out towards advancing to the next stage to improve their chances of winning the Champions League.
In the clip, the Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and players, including Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Marli Salmon, Noni Madueke, and Leandro Trossard, go on about their drills as Joshua Baraka’s song ‘Morocco’ plays on the speakers.
Joshua Baraka’s manager, Lobstar, shared the clip on his Snapchat account, and it has since gone viral, spreading on other platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Music enthusiasts in Uganda have applauded Baraka and his team for exposing the Western world to Ugandan music after he performed at some of the biggest stages in world music, and his songs continue to gain massive streams across the globe.
The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, joined the launch of the upcoming RR Eye Camp that will be held in Bukedea District in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia.
The launch event took place on Tuesday at Kabira Country Club and was organised by the Ruparelia Foundation together with several partners.
Rajiv Ruparelia, the son of businessman Sudhir Ruparelia, died in a car accident along Busabala Road in May last year.
Speaking during the launch, Jyotsna Ruparelia, a director at the Ruparelia Group, said the eye camp is particularly meaningful to the family because it honours Rajiv’s passion for helping communities.
Speaker Among praised the Ruparelia Foundation for supporting government efforts by bringing essential services closer to the people, especially in rural areas.
“I expressed my appreciation to the Ruparelia Foundation, led by distinguished city businessman Sudhir Ruparelia, for augmenting government initiatives by bringing essential services closer to the community, thereby serving humanity,” Speaker Among said.
She further described the late Rajiv as a businessman and a staunch advocate of philanthropy. She thanked his family for upholding his legacy.
The three-day eye camp will take place from 27 March to 29 March 2026 at Bukedea Teaching Hospital.
Its objectives include providing free eye screenings and basic treatment to at least 2,000 individuals, performing 300 cataract surgeries, conducting 50 specialised surgeries for children, and distributing spectacles to over 1,000 people.
The initiative is set to benefit residents from several districts, including Bukedea District, Soroti, Mbale, Gulu, Lira, Tororo and Kapchorwa.
The camp will be open to both adults and children and aims to improve access to eye care services in communities where many people still struggle to receive treatment for preventable eye conditions.
According to the foundation, the initiative reflects Rajiv Ruparelia’s legacy of community service and philanthropy, values the Ruparelia family says it will continue to promote across Uganda.
Ugandan photographer Nik Creatives, whose real name is Felix Amanya, speaks out against the undervaluation of photography. In an interview, the 26-year-old (born 2nd February 2000) tells Mbu about his inspirations, experience, and dreams.
One of the first people who had a major impact on my journey was Lynda Ddane, who became my first influencer client.
Nik Creatives
What inspired you to become a photographer?
My photography journey was inspired by my sister, Ash Rita. At the time, she was pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication and had bought a camera. During one of my school vacations, she would often leave me at home with her Nikon D700.
Out of curiosity and passion, I started using it to take pictures of nature, surroundings, and everyday moments throughout the entire vacation.
Later, I met one of her former friends, who further inspired me and showed me that photography could actually become a career. From that moment, I started taking it seriously.
Initially, my biggest dream was to do music. I loved music so much because it connected me with many of the musicians I admired. Through photography, I eventually found myself working with musicians and even meeting presenters I had watched on TV.
One of the first people who had a major impact on my journey was Lynda Ddane, who became my first influencer client. Working with her opened many doors for me and helped me connect with people from different places around the world. That experience changed a lot for me and helped shape my career.
How would you describe your photography style?
Currently, I am mainly a fashion photographer, but I have recently developed a strong interest in wedding photography, which I would love to focus on more in the future.
What equipment do you typically use?
I started my photography journey as a Nikon user, but over time, my interest shifted to Canon. At the moment, I mostly shoot using the Canon R6.
What kind of projects do you enjoy the most?
Personally, I enjoy outdoor shoots the most. I love capturing beautiful women surrounded by nature and creating storytelling images that carry emotion and atmosphere.
What has been your favorite project to date?
One of the projects I really enjoyed working on was Vibes and Visas with Mamideb.
How do you prepare for a photoshoot?
I prefer working on professional creative projects. I usually create a project plan with the client where we discuss the concept, location, and sometimes even the people who will feature in the shoot. After that planning stage, we execute the project together.
What do you think makes a great photograph?
An ideal client for me is someone who listens, respects the photographer’s advice, and is willing to invest in quality work. Photography is not just about taking pictures; it is about creating lasting visual stories.
What is your process for editing photos?
My process always starts with understanding the concept and setting up the right environment before capturing the images.
What are some of the challenges you face as a photographer?
One of the biggest challenges in the photography industry today is that many photographers focus mainly on money rather than building strong creative projects. At the same time, many clients in Uganda do not take the time to consult photographers for professional advice. Instead, they often rely on other service providers like makeup artists or hairstylists to recommend photographers.
However, there are still challenges in the industry. Some clients undervalue photography and feel photographers charge too much. Some photographers undervalue their own work, focusing only on quick money rather than quality and growth. In some cases, other service providers also influence clients to work with their own friends who are photographers, which can limit opportunities.
Dagy Nyce and L;ynda Ddane (Photo: Nik Creatives)
How do you stay relevant with the ever-changing photography trends?
To stay relevant and improve my work, I constantly do research and study new photography trends so I can continue improving my image quality and creative direction.
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?
For young photographers, my advice is simple: keep praying and stay focused on your passion.
How did you get the opportunity to work with celebrities like Mamideb?
I believe opportunities come from God. One of the people I consider God-sent in my journey is MamiDeb, who has had a significant impact on my brand. I see her as a destiny helper because her support and collaboration have helped my work reach new levels.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Seeing an artist or client light up when they finally see their photos. When I capture that raw emotion on stage, the confidence in a portrait, or the pure energy of a live show, and then they tell me, “Bro, these pictures made me cry happy tears,” or “this is exactly how I wanted to be remembered,” that moment hits different.
It’s not just about pressing the shutter. It’s knowing my lens helped someone’s dream look bigger, helped a local talent like Lydia Jazmine shine brighter, or turned an ordinary event into memories that last forever.
As the founder of Nik Creatives, I also love building a space where other creatives feel supported. Every shoot that leads to more bookings, every client who comes back because they trust me, that’s the real reward. In Uganda’s creative scene, we’re all growing together, and being part of that journey is priceless.
What are your future goals in photography?
Looking ahead, my vision goes beyond photography. That is why the brand is called Nik Creatives, not just Nik Photography. My goal is to build a full creative company that includes a music record label, video production, and other creative services. Photography is just the beginning.
Where can people find your work?
Nik Creatives Offices: Kampala City, Namanda – Russell Lane, Room L9.
Popular TikToker and musician Tom Dee has opened up about the positive impact marriage has had on his life.
The entertainer revealed that marrying his best friend Agatha Katrina brought him the stability he had been searching for.
Speaking in an interview with a local television station, Tom Dee explained that having a partner who fully understands him has helped him grow both personally and financially.
“Marrying my best friend, who understands me completely, gave me the stability I needed to finally build myself. I am thriving in all the ways possible,” he said.
In 2025, Tom Dee officially visited Agatha Katrina’s family for a traditional Kukyaala ceremony, a cultural introduction practice in the Buganda region that marks an important step in marriage preparations.
Later that same year, the couple welcomed their first child, further strengthening their family bond.
Tom Dee also advised fellow young people to take marriage seriously and make thoughtful decisions early in life rather than moving from one relationship to another.
According to him, commitment and understanding between partners can provide the stability needed to grow and succeed in life.
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