Category: News

H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has arrived in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania, to participate in the 25th Ordinary Summit of the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State.

The summit is being held under the theme: “Deepening Integration for Improved Livelihoods of EAC Citizens.”

The meeting will bring together regional leaders to deliberate on strengthening economic cooperation, enhancing regional integration, and advancing initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of citizens across the East African Community.

Upon arrival in Arusha, President Museveni was received by a delegation of Tanzanian and Ugandan officials led by Hon. Patrobas Katambi, Tanzania’s Minister of Home Affairs, and Hon. Dennis Londo, Tanzania’s Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade.

Other officials present at the reception included:

-Dr. Samwel Shelukindo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Tanzania)

-Amb. Mindi Kasiga

-Robert Mbwasi, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Trade (Tanzania)

-Hon. John Mulimba, Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Affairs

-Amb. Fred Mwesigye, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania

-Amb. Anne Katusiime, Head of the Uganda Consulate in Arusha

-Brig. Ronald Bigirwa, UPDF Defence Advisor

The summit is expected to review progress on key regional integration pillars including trade, infrastructure development, and economic transformation, while also addressing emerging regional priorities aimed at fostering sustainable development and prosperity for the people of East Africa.

President Museveni’s participation underscores Uganda’s continued commitment to the goals of the East African Community and the strengthening of regional cooperation.

 

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Uganda’s most decorated artist Eddy Kenzo has broken his silence following explosive remarks from fellow singer Lil Pazo, who recently claimed he hasn’t benefited from the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF).

Over the weekend, Lil Pazzo publicly addressed the President and blasted leaders within the music industry, branding them selfish and unrewarding. His fiery comments sent shockwaves through the fraternity — and Kenzo, who also serves as a key figure in the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), was quick to respond.

“He Has Benefited Hugely”

In a firm but measured rebuttal, Kenzo dismissed Lil Pazzo’s claims, insisting the singer is actually one of the federation’s biggest beneficiaries.

“We have helped Lil Pazzo a number of times. He has benefited hugely from the federation and remains among the top beneficiaries,” Kenzo partly explained.

Kenzo’s response suggests there’s more behind the scenes than what the public may know — hinting at support and opportunities extended to the controversial singer through UNMF initiatives.

“I Don’t Control Him”

Despite the tension, Kenzo clarified that he has no control over Lil Pazzo’s actions or statements and admitted he doesn’t understand the root of the criticism.

Renowned Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel, real name Adidja Azim Palmer, is set to perform in Uganda as part of his upcoming East African tour under the Talanta East Afrika Festival.

According to organisers, the regional tour will kick off in Kampala on May 1, 2026, where Kartel will headline a major concert at the Lugogo Cricket Oval, one of the country’s most iconic live entertainment venues.

During the Kampala show, the global dancehall icon will share the stage with a lineup of Ugandan performers including Elijah Kitaka, Aaronx, Cindy Sanyu, DJ Lito, Etania Mutoni, and popular DJ duo Slick Stuart and Roja, among others.

After the Uganda leg, Kartel will head to Kigali on May 2 for a performance at the BK Arena, before wrapping up the regional tour in Nairobi on May 8 at Laurette Gardens in Kasarani.

 

Organisers describe Talanta East Afrika Festival as more than just a concert series. The initiative is designed as a cross border cultural experience celebrating East Africa’s music, fashion, cuisine and artistic expression while bringing together audiences from across the region.

“Talanta East Afrika Festival is about creating a platform that unites East Africans through music, culture and shared identity,” said Bushington of Tunez Records Uganda, one of the festival’s lead organisers.

“We believe the region has incredible talent and cultural energy, and this festival is designed to showcase that power to both regional and global audiences.”

Organisers say the event will combine live performances with digital storytelling across platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and WhatsApp, alongside influencer collaborations leading up to the May tour dates.

Beyond entertainment, Talanta East Afrika Festival is being positioned as a regional economic catalyst. Organisers say the initiative aims to drive tourism and hospitality revenue in host cities, create employment opportunities in production and the creative sector, and stimulate local fashion, food and nightlife economies.

While Vybz Kartel will headline the festival, organisers say the full lineup of East African performers will be revealed gradually in the coming weeks as more artists and collaborators come on board. The festival is expected to feature a mix of established and emerging talents from across the region, highlighting the diversity and vibrancy of East Africa’s evolving music scene.

Talanta East Afrika is also working with Rolling Stone Africa as its official media partner, with the publication expected to amplify coverage of the festival across the continent.

As anticipation builds ahead of the May 2026 tour dates, the festival is already shaping up to be one of the most ambitious cross border cultural events in the region’s recent entertainment calendar.

Muzzinyi Sovaria Hughes has finally broken her silence and she is not entertaining the gossip around her love life.

The presenter, whose real name is Nicole Tinah Hills, recently addressed swirling allegations linking her romantically to fellow broadcaster Mr. Henrie during a candid television interview. For months, whispers had suggested the two shared more than studio conversations, but Sovaria firmly dismissed the claims, describing their relationship as nothing beyond friendship.

According to her, the rumours couldn’t be further from the truth.

“Mr. Henrie has been just my friend since the time I joined Galaxy FM,” she clarified, adding that she has never even visited his home and that much of the circulating information is simply inaccurate.

Instead, Sovaria revealed that her heart already belongs elsewhere… to a mysterious partner she affectionately calls “Teddy Bear.” While fans may be eager to put a face to the name, the media personality says patience is key.

In a world driven by oversharing, she has chosen privacy over publicity.

“My love life is private but not a secret,” she explained, noting that although she openly speaks about her partner, she is not ready to introduce him to the public just yet. According to her, the man behind the nickname is also the reason behind her glowing confidence and radiant smile.

“He is the one taking care of me and is responsible for my looks,” she added with a laugh.

Beyond clearing the air about her relationship status, Sovaria also used the moment to address what she described as malicious gossip aimed at undermining her success. She believes jealousy often fuels false narratives, especially in the competitive media industry.

“When people see someone who has achieved something, they will always talk about them,” she said, brushing off the accusations as opinions from outsiders who do not truly know her life.

As Sovaria continues to dominate the airwaves, she appears determined to let her work -not rumours – do the talking.

In a move that has sparked widespread speculation about political interference and ethnic favoritism, Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs oversaw a significant leadership handover at the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) on March 5, 2026. Lt. Gen. Joseph Musanyufu, the Permanent Secretary, presided over the ceremony where outgoing officials handed over offices to interim appointees, amid praise for past reforms but growing concerns over the motives behind the changes.

Maj. Gen. Apollo Kasiita-Gowa relinquished his position as Chief of Citizenship and Immigration Control to Col. Geoffrey Kambere, who assumes the role on an acting basis. Similarly, Brig. Johnson Namanya handed over as Commissioner for Citizenship and Passports Management to Assistant Commissioner Murari Moses, while Assistant Commissioner Marcelino Bwesigye took charge as Acting Commissioner for Borders and Foreign Nationals Management.

The transitions mark the end of a tenure that transformed Uganda’s immigration system from a bureaucratic nightmare into a more efficient operation. Over the past few years, reforms within the directorate helped streamline passport applications and visa processing, significantly reducing waiting times and improving service delivery.

Public reactions on social media platforms highlighted the achievements of the outgoing leadership. Many users credited the team for improving the passport application process and introducing a clearer online system that reduced long queues and unnecessary delays. Others commended the immigration directorate for simplifying visa processing and improving customer service.

However, beneath the praise lies growing unease. Some critics allege the shake-up could be linked to concerns within security circles regarding the issuance of passports and national identification documents to individuals of Rwandan descent. The debate touches on longstanding sensitivities tied to the complex political and security relationship between Uganda and Rwanda.

The timing of the changes has also drawn attention following remarks by the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, in February 2026 in which he stated that he intended to remove officers he accused of frustrating Ugandan-Banyarwanda in accessing national identification documents. The statement sparked heated debate online, with some observers interpreting it as an indication of military influence over immigration administration.

Officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs have dismissed such claims. Government spokespersons have maintained that the changes were part of routine administrative transitions, noting that several of the officers had completed their tours of duty after years of service since being seconded to the immigration directorate in 2018.

According to ministry officials, the outgoing team played a critical role in modernizing the country’s immigration services, introducing digital platforms and improving efficiency across passport issuance and border management systems.

Nonetheless, the leadership changes come at a time when Uganda continues to navigate a sensitive regional environment. Although diplomatic relations between Uganda and Rwanda have improved compared to previous years, underlying tensions remain, shaped by past disputes involving border closures, security accusations and deportation claims.

Observers say maintaining professionalism and transparency within immigration institutions will be crucial in safeguarding public confidence and ensuring equal treatment for all citizens.

Human rights advocates and governance analysts have called for clear communication from government regarding the reasons behind the leadership changes. They argue that transparency is essential to prevent speculation and to reinforce trust in key public institutions.

As the new interim leadership settles into office, attention will now turn to whether the reforms introduced over recent years will continue and whether the directorate will maintain its progress in improving service delivery to Ugandans.

For now, the handover signals a new chapter for Uganda’s immigration leadership—one that will be closely watched by both the public and regional observers as the country continues balancing national security interests with administrative independence.

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Ugandan songstress Zafaran is making one thing crystal clear — her music dream is far from over.

Earlier this year, the talented singer officially parted ways with Kampala-based powerhouse label Swangz Avenue after reportedly failing to reach a mutual agreement with management. The quiet exit sparked speculation among fans about the future of her career.

Since her departure, Zafaran has noticeably shifted gears — spending more time engaging Ugandan music lovers on TikTok, holding live discussions, and reconnecting directly with her fanbase.

“The Dream Lives On”

Addressing concerns about her musical journey, Zafaran assured fans that leaving the label does not mean walking away from her passion.

“I haven’t given up on my music career. I moved on from Swangz Avenue, but the dream lives on. I will keep striving to achieve success musically,” she explained during a discussion with fans.

Her message? This is a transition — not a retirement.

Three Years, No Breakthrough

Zafaran spent over three years under Swangz Avenue, working on multiple music projects and collaborations. However, despite the exposure and structured backing, she never quite secured the major breakthrough many expected.

Now operating independently, the singer appears determined to carve her own path — free from label constraints.

Ugandan dancehall musician Ziza Bafana has spoken openly about why he decided to move away from church music and pursue a career in secular entertainment. According to the artist, the world outside the church provides greater recognition and appreciation for musicians who want to build successful careers. During a recent interview on the Ugandan show Shalom 256, Bafana reflected on his earlier experiences performing in church. He explained that although the church played an important role in nurturing his musical talent, he often felt that his efforts were not properly recognized within that environment.

The dancehall star noted that in church settings, musicians are typically treated the same as everyone else who attends for prayer and worship. Because of this, he believes artists rarely receive the special acknowledgment that their talent and dedication might deserve. “In church, you are not seen differently from the person who simply came to pray,” he explained, suggesting that the secular world tends to celebrate talent more openly. Bafana believes that the entertainment industry outside church walls offers musicians more opportunities to grow, gain fame, and receive rewards for their work. He argued that mainstream audiences are more likely to appreciate performers who entertain them, which can lead to greater success and recognition.

During the discussion, the artist also questioned how many gospel musicians have managed to achieve global fame comparable to mainstream performers. He suggested that it is extremely difficult for gospel artists to reach the same level of international recognition as major pop stars. To emphasize his point, Bafana referenced the late global pop legend Michael Jackson. According to him, no gospel musician in history has managed to match the worldwide influence and fame that Jackson achieved during his career.

Bafana further explained that gospel artists often face strong competition from musicians who perform songs about everyday life, relationships, and entertainment. These themes tend to attract broader audiences, making it easier for secular performers to gain popularity. Because of these factors, the dancehall artist said he ultimately decided that pursuing secular music offered him a better chance to grow his career and reach a wider audience. While he still acknowledges his roots in church music, Bafana believes his move to the secular stage was the right choice for his ambitions as an artist.

 

Uganda’s journey to a brighter future depends on strong local governments. Last month, the Ministry of Local Government launched its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan—a UGX 2.2 trillion roadmap to improve service delivery, revenue collection, and decentralization. This plan is a serious call for change. At Watchdog Uganda, we believe the key to success lies in the Local Government Management of Service Delivery (LGMSD) Performance Assessments. These reports clearly show what is working and what needs fixing, helping the country move toward the National Development Plan IV and the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Think of LGMSD as a report card for districts and municipalities. It measures how well they handle planning, budgeting, education, health, water, sanitation, and other services. By acting on this information, Uganda can deliver better schools, healthier communities, and stronger local economies—for farmers in villages and business owners in towns alike.

What the Latest LGMSD Report Shows

The 2024 LGMSD National Synthesis Report, which covers 176 local governments, highlights real progress alongside areas that still need attention. Average performance has improved over time, especially in education and health.

Education Services: Isingiro and Ibanda districts both scored 96, reflecting strong school infrastructure and improved teacher oversight.

Health Services: Kamwenge District led with a score of 95, supported by improvements in facility management and staffing.

Infrastructure Assets: Bukedea District topped the category with 96, demonstrating effective use of grants for roads and public buildings.

At the same time, challenges remain in water, sanitation, and production services. Many local leaders still require better training and technical support to address these gaps. These numbers are not just statistics—they affect people’s daily lives, from access to clean water to reliable healthcare.

Celebrating Success: Top Performers Setting the Standard

Some districts are showing the rest of the country what is possible. The top 10 performers in 2024 demonstrate the power of good planning and community involvement:

* Kiruhura District: 95.25 – Strong performance in budgeting and infrastructure management.
* Isingiro District: 94.72 – Excellent results in education and health services.
* Ibanda District: 94.65 – Consistent progress across multiple sectors.
* Kabale District: 93.93
* Kamwenge District: 93.37
* Rukungiri Municipal Council: 92.38
* Bukedea District: 90.67
* Rukungiri District: 88.68
* Kumi District: 86.55
* Kasese District: 85.92

These districts often use performance-based grants wisely and involve residents in mobilizing local revenue. For ordinary Ugandans, this translates into better roads, improved schools, and functioning health facilities. For policymakers, it proves that incentives and effective management can deliver tangible results.

Facing the Gaps: Where Urgent Improvement Is Needed

Not every area is performing well. The lowest-ranked local governments face serious challenges such as procurement delays, weak planning systems, and staffing shortages.

* Kamuli Municipal Council: 24.00
* Kibuku District: 27.88
* Tororo Municipal Council: 29.75
* Bugweri District: 30.20
* Butebo District: 31.80
* Luuka District: 31.92
* Kaliro District: 32.90
* Sironko District: 34.68
* Iganga Municipal Council: 35.63
* Masaka District: 36.12

These low scores threaten Uganda’s development targets, including equal access to basic services. However, they are not permanent setbacks. Practical solutions such as stronger monitoring systems, leadership training, and partnerships with development organizations have already helped better-performing districts improve.

Linking LGMSD to the 2030 Vision

The Ministry’s new strategic plan aligns closely with the LGMSD findings. It prioritizes revenue mobilization, leadership training, and addressing gaps in water and production services. By linking assessment results to grant allocations, government can create a cycle of improvement: stronger performance leads to increased support, which in turn enables better service delivery.

Imagine a Uganda where every district performs at its best—where households access clean water, schools are properly equipped, and health centres operate efficiently. This vision supports the National Development Plan IV’s goals of sustainable growth and resilience in the face of challenges such as climate change.

Time for Action: What Must Happen Now

Watchdog Uganda believes the following steps are necessary to accelerate progress:

* Strengthen leadership capacity: Provide structured training and continuous mentorship for local government officials.
* Improve transparency: Introduce digital systems that allow real-time monitoring of local government performance.
* Reward strong performance: Expand performance-based funding and encourage peer learning among districts.
* Empower citizens: Encourage community participation in monitoring projects and holding leaders accountable.

The era of uneven development must end. With the LGMSD framework as a guide and the Ministry’s strategic plan as the roadmap, Uganda has an opportunity to strengthen local governance and improve service delivery across the country.

Watchdog Uganda will continue to advocate for accountability, transparency, and practical solutions. The country’s future begins at the district level—and the time to act is now.

—

Mike Ssegawa is a veteran journalist, service delivery advocate, and Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Kassanda District.

Email: [kampalaplanet@gmail.com]

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The two-year grace period for repayment of the Parish Development Model (PDM) loans expires in March 2026 with individuals subscribing to different PDM SACCOs expected to make repayments within the next one year.

This revelation was made by the State Minister for Luwero Triangle and National Coordinator for the PDM, Hon. Dennis Galabuzi while appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (Central Government) on Tuesday, 03 March 2026.

“The first batch of money was disbursed in the financial year 2022/2023 because in 2021/2022, there were issues with the money so we more or less discounted it. We are currently reminding parish chiefs and everyone involved in supervision of PDM to sensitise the public on this,” Galabuzi said.

His comments followed concerns by Members of Parliament about the manner in which the public interpreted the purpose of the funds under the programme.

Galabuzi urged MPs to support the ministry in sensitising the public about the operations of the programme and the need to ensure its effectiveness as a revolving fund.
“PDM is a game changer if well implemented. The issue of repayment should be a concerted effort from our side as government and from Members of Parliament who do oversight. If beneficiaries pay back, then others will also benefit,” Galabuzi noted.

Hon. Patrick Nsamba (NUP, Kassanda County North) said many Ugandans who received PDM money construed it as a ‘goodwill bonanza’ that does not require repayment.
“Do you have a communication strategy that will ensure the realignment of the public perception about the loans they took under PDM?  Otherwise, they will be so disappointed that they have to pay back,” Nsamba said.

Kalungu West County MP, Hon. Joseph Ssewungu noted that the biggest challenge in effective implementation of the programme is communication and limited operation of the PDM technical committees.

He cited the Auditor General’s concern that the programme could suffer in coordination, delayed decision-making, and hiccups in monitoring and evaluation.

“During campaigns, the electorate would condemn PDM coordinators that they misused the money because there is no communication and committees are not giving reports. If you correct that, then public perception of the programme can improve,” Ssewungu said.

Hon. Fredrick Angura (NRM, Tororo South County) raised concern about the 127 parishes in the district that have not received funding under PDM.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya clarified that the parishes have not received funding because they do not have elected leaders at administrative units.

“When you do not have elected leaders, you are not a fully operational parish and have no chairperson for the parish development committees. But the elections for local councils are in the pipeline and we are waiting for funding to execute them,” Kumumanya said.

According to the Auditor General’s report, the communication on guidelines for payment of the Parish Revolving Fund (PRF) is at final draft level and yet to be disseminated.

“I advised the accounting officer to prioritise the roles and responsibilities of the high-level policy committee and the inter-institutional PDM technical committee and ensure proper documentation of resolutions and action points,” reads the Auditor General’s recommendation.

For many artists, a hit song brings fame. For Viboyo, a verse brought four wheels and a reminder that art still has the power to move strangers in ways that statistics cannot measure.

The “Mr DJ” verse, delivered with the smooth confidence that defined Viboyo’s early career, travelled further than he ever imagined. Somewhere out there, a listener didn’t just replay it. They rewarded it.

“I will tell you one thing,” Viboyo recalls, leaning into the memory with disbelief that still hasn’t faded. “I got my first car from the ‘Mr. DJ’ verse. And this was not even a show or anything. Someone just heard my verse and said, ‘Viboyo, you deserve something,’ and they gave me Shs15 million to buy a car. I didn’t even know them. I had never met them.”

For Viboyo, that car was more than transport. It was validation. It was proof that someone, somewhere, was listening deeply enough to invest not just emotionally, but financially.

“You can imagine how magical that is,” he says, still sounding like a man who occasionally checks to confirm it actually happened.

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