Blog

When the last runner crossed the finish line at the fifth Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon, Kasese was only getting started.

After a day of endurance, determination and personal triumph, the town traded running shoes for dancing shoes as the Tusker Lite Neon Rave transformed Kasese into one giant celebration. With more than 8,000 runners turning up for the marathon and an even bigger crowd coming out to celebrate, Kasese was painted neon and turned all the way up.

The message was simple: the race may have ended, but the party had just begun.

The Tusker Lite Neon Rave lived up to its billing, bringing together an electric mix of music, color, entertainment and ice-cold drinks. Local stars from Kasese got the crowd going, setting the tone for a night that felt as much like a celebration of the town as it was the grand finale to one of Uganda’s biggest running events.

Then came the headliners.

Cindy Sanyu took the stage and sent the energy levels soaring, delivering the powerful vocals and commanding performance that have made her one of Uganda’s most loved entertainers. Hit after hit, the crowd sang along, jumped in the air and showed off their best dance moves.

Pallaso kept the momentum going, turning the rave into a full-blown party with a catalogue of crowd favorites that had thousands on their feet.

From the first beat to the final song, the atmosphere was impossible to ignore. Kasese had officially turned up the Lite.

And, of course, no Tusker Lite celebration would be complete without the drinks.

From a cold Tusker Lite in hand to the wider Uganda Breweries portfolio, guests had plenty to choose from throughout the night. Whether it was the refreshing taste of Tusker Lite or something more premium like Don Julio, the experience was designed to give revellers the perfect way to unwind after an unforgettable day.

For Sandra Againe, Tusker Lite Brand Manager, the Neon Rave has become an integral part of what makes the marathon experience unique.

“The Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon has always been about more than the race itself. The Neon Rave has become a signature part of the experience, giving runners, fans and the people of Kasese an opportunity to come together, celebrate and truly own their Lite. This fifth edition was particularly special to see, with thousands of people showing up, bringing incredible energy and making Kasese come alive. From the local talent to our headline acts, the music, the lights and, of course, a cold Tusker Lite in hand, it was a fitting celebration of an incredible day and a milestone fifth edition.”

But beyond the music, drinks and neon lights, the rave captured something bigger about the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon.

For five years, the event has grown beyond a marathon. It has become an experience that brings together sport, entertainment, travel, culture and lifestyle, drawing thousands of people to Kasese and putting the beauty and vibrancy of the region firmly in the spotlight.

The marathon celebrates what people can achieve when they push themselves. The Neon Rave celebrates what happens when, after all that effort, you finally let go and enjoy the moment.

That is the spirit of Own Your Lite.

After months of training, kilometers on the road and the challenge of taking on the Rwenzori Marathon, runners, residents, visitors and music lovers all got their moment to simply have fun.

Some came to see their favorite artists. Others came to dance. Some came to celebrate finishing the race. And many simply came to be part of the experience.

Whatever brought them there, one thing was clear: Kasese was ready to celebrate.

KAMPALA: Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth has challenged Ugandan graduates to look beyond paper qualifications and focus on practical skills, innovation, integrity and enterprise as they enter an increasingly competitive job market.

Oboth-Oboth made the call on Friday, August 21, while addressing the 16th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere Business Institute (MBI) at its campus in Makerere, Kampala, where 564 students graduated with certificates and diplomas in Journalism, ICT, Business and Finance.

The ceremony also marked 33 years of MBI’s service in education and was attended by parents, guardians and former Makerere University Chancellor Prof. Mondo Kagonyera.

The Speaker told the graduands that the value of education should not end with the acquisition of certificates, warning that the real test begins when graduates are required to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.

“Today you receive a certificate; tomorrow the world will ask what you can do with it. Education must therefore give us more than documents. It must give us skills, character and the courage to create opportunities,” Oboth-Oboth said.

He said tertiary institutions have a critical responsibility to prepare young people for an evolving national and global economy by equipping them with practical knowledge and the ability to adapt to changing demands.

The Speaker also urged the graduands to embrace technology without losing the human qualities that remain essential in the workplace, particularly character, judgment and integrity.

“Artificial intelligence will transform the workplace, but it will never replace character, judgment, and integrity,” he said.

Oboth-Oboth encouraged the graduates to use their training to establish enterprises, create employment and develop solutions to challenges affecting their communities and the country at large.

He also addressed concerns raised over the rising operational costs faced by private education institutions, including taxation, utilities, internet expenses and infrastructure requirements.

The Speaker reassured education administrators that Parliament would advocate for an enabling policy environment aimed at ensuring that Ugandans can access affordable and quality education.

The plight of orphans and vulnerable children also featured prominently in his address, with the Speaker highlighting challenges including school dropout, early pregnancy and marriage, child labour, drug abuse and mental health difficulties.

He said Parliament remained committed to advocating for policies that keep vulnerable children in school while creating pathways through which they can access skills, opportunities and productive livelihoods.

The Speaker warned that Uganda could not afford to leave sections of its potential workforce behind, urging stakeholders to ensure that vulnerable children are given a fair opportunity to complete their education and acquire employable skills.

Kawempe Division South MP Hajjat Madina Nsereko Ntale reinforced the message, urging the graduands to embrace hard work, discipline and self-reliance as they transition from school into the world of work.

She pointed to government wealth-creation programmes, including the Parish Development Model (PDM), as some of the opportunities young people can utilise to build sustainable livelihoods.

Nsereko Ntale urged the government to work with young people as genuine partners in implementing such programmes, challenging the graduates not to spend all their time looking for formal employment.

Instead, she encouraged them to utilise available opportunities, including the UGX1 million PDM SACCO funding, to establish viable enterprises and create jobs for others.

“Become employers rather than job seekers,” she told the graduands.

In his closing remarks, Oboth-Oboth congratulated the management and staff of Makerere Business Institute for 33 years of educating and equipping Ugandans, urging the graduating class to regard their qualifications as a launch pad rather than the end of their journey.

He challenged them to make their education count for God and the country by applying their knowledge with integrity, innovation and a strong sense of responsibility.

Makerere Business Institute was founded in 1993 by Nathan Itungo, the Member of Parliament for Kashari South. The institution offers certificates and diplomas in business, ICT, journalism and vocational disciplines.

---

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

Fresh details have emerged surrounding the sudden death of Dr Henry Stanley Okia, the longtime principal of Hillside Schools Naalya, with questions now being raised about the circumstances leading to his death at Case Hospital on Thursday morning.

Dr Okia, according to sources familiar with the events, had initially gone for a medical check-up ahead of a planned Hillside Schools trip to South Africa.

The school had reportedly planned an overseas trip during this term two holidays, and learners as well as staff members who were expected to accompany them were required to undergo medical examinations before travelling.

Sources told Red Pepper that Dr Okia was among those who went for medical checks, with the school boss reportedly visiting Mulago Hospital on Wednesday afternoon for a heart-related examination.

The medical tests were reportedly conducted by a doctor known personally to Dr Okia and who is also a parent at Hillside Schools. Red Pepper is withholding the doctor’s name pending independent verification of the information and the circumstances surrounding Dr Okia’s treatment.

According to the sources, the doctor also works at both Mulago Hospital and Case Hospital.

After the Mulago tests, Dr Okia was reportedly advised to proceed to Case Hospital for further cardiovascular examinations.

It was at Case, sources claim, that Dr Okia was allegedly informed that his medical results from Mulago which had delayed were now available and that the condition identified in the report meant he could not proceed with the planned trip to South Africa.

The doctor reportedly advised him to undergo what was described as a minor heart procedure.

However, because it was already late in the day, Dr Okia was allegedly advised to spend the night at the facility, with the procedure expected to take place at around 9:00am the following morning.

On Thursday morning, according to the sources, Dr Okia was reportedly taken into the theatre on a wheelchair for the procedure.

The sources further claim that no family consent forms had been signed before he was taken into theatre, although this account could not independently be verified by Red Pepper.

About 20 minutes after he entered the theatre, the sources claim, a nurse reportedly rushed out and informed Winnie, Dr Okia’s last-born daughter who was attending to him, that her father had died.

The sudden turn of events has since left family members, friends and the wider Hillside Schools community seeking answers about what exactly happened between the time Dr Okia went for the medical checks and his death.

The account emerging from sources also differs from some reports circulating, which have portrayed Dr Okia as having simply gone to the hospital for tests before suddenly collapsing and dying.

However, Red Pepper has not independently verified the circumstances of the procedure, the medical findings, the alleged absence of family consent or the exact cause of Dr Okia’s death.

It is also not yet clear whether the procedure itself contributed to his death or whether he suffered a medical complication arising from his underlying condition.

The hospital and the medical personnel involved have not, at the time of publication, publicly provided a detailed account responding to the specific claims surrounding the events.

Dr Okia’s death has sent shockwaves through Hillside Schools, where he had served for years as a senior figure and principal of the Naalya campus.

As questions mount over his final hours, attention is now turning to the medical records, the tests conducted at Mulago, the treatment administered at Case Hospital and the circumstances surrounding the procedure that preceded his death.

More details to follow…

---

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

SSEMBABULE — Kampala International University law graduate Geoffrey Tumusiime, a lawyer and emerging political figure in Ssembabule District, has called for far-reaching reforms in the district, saying its future depends on leadership that places citizens, justice and economic transformation at the centre of governance.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on Sunday, August 23, 2026, Tumusiime, who is eyeing the Lwemiyaga parliamentary seat, said his political ambition is not simply about occupying an elected office but about contributing to a new generation of leaders seeking to transform Ssembabule through improved service delivery, community awareness, agricultural development, youth empowerment and respect for the rule of law.

He also appealed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to intervene in conflicts and insecurity in Lwemiyaga, arguing that communities cannot prosper when disputes and insecurity continue to threaten their livelihoods.

“If possible, I call upon President Museveni to intervene in the conflicts of Lwemiyaga and the insecurity in Lwemiyaga,” Tumusiime said.

His appeal comes as he seeks to build a political profile in a constituency whose politics have for years been closely associated with former Member of Parliament Theodore Ssekikubo.

From Ssekikubo Admirer to Political Challenger

Tumusiime’s political journey carries an unusual twist: the politician he now hopes to challenge was once his role model.

Growing up in Ssembabule, Tumusiime admired Ssekikubo’s confidence, public speaking skills and ability to engage with political issues.

“He was open, articulate and most of the time I felt that Ssekikubo would lead us into the Promised Land as the people of Ssembabule,” Tumusiime recalls.

However, he says his political perspective has changed with time.

“I grew up with political ambitions and, as a young man, Ssekikubo was my role model. He was such a kind man, hardworking, but his nerve on the constituency has drastically changed,” he said.

Tumusiime now wants to move from observing politics to actively shaping it, presenting himself as part of a younger generation that believes it can offer a different direction for Lwemiyaga and the wider Ssembabule District.

A Lawyer with a Reform Agenda

Tumusiime’s reform agenda is rooted in his legal training and understanding of community development.

He is a graduate of the Law Development Centre and holds a diploma qualification. He also studied law at Kampala International University and is continuing his academic journey there.

His legal background, he says, has taught him that development without justice and public awareness can leave communities vulnerable.

“As a lawyer, creating community awareness and letting people embrace powerful leaders and standing where there is a need in the community welfare is important,” he said.

For Tumusiime, citizens must understand their rights and responsibilities, as well as government programmes designed to improve their livelihoods.

He argues that political leaders should not merely announce government programmes but should follow their implementation at the grassroots to ensure ordinary citizens benefit.

Agriculture: Ssembabule’s Sleeping Giant

In the villages of Lwemiyaga, Tumusiime sees an economic opportunity he believes has not been fully exploited.

Agriculture and livestock farming dominate the local economy, with many households depending on cattle, crop production and related businesses.

Tumusiime’s own upbringing has given him a personal connection to agriculture. Born to David Ndengana and Jovans Kyonyunyu, he grew up in a family where his father was a cattle herder.

He says this background exposed him to both the opportunities and vulnerabilities associated with rural livelihoods.

“It is blindingly obvious that agriculture is the booming business in Ssembabule, much as the community is still struggling with infrastructure development such as roads and health centres,” he said.

Tumusiime wants government agricultural programmes to be implemented more effectively so farmers can move from subsistence production to commercially oriented agriculture.

He argues that agricultural transformation must go hand in hand with better roads, markets, health facilities and access to information.

Land Conflicts and Social Justice

Tumusiime also identifies land conflicts as one of the challenges holding back communities in Ssembabule.

He says citizens need greater awareness of the law and the mechanisms available to them when seeking justice.

He believes community sensitisation can help reduce disputes while empowering citizens to participate more confidently in governance.

For Tumusiime, the law should not remain confined to courtrooms and legal books but should become a practical instrument for protecting ordinary citizens.

He believes his legal background can help bridge that gap between the law and the communities it is intended to serve.

Calling for Presidential Intervention

Tumusiime says conflicts and insecurity in Lwemiyaga require serious attention.

He has therefore appealed directly to President Museveni to intervene where necessary, arguing that presidential leadership could help calm tensions and restore confidence among communities.

“If possible, I call upon President Museveni to intervene in the conflicts of Lwemiyaga and the insecurity in Lwemiyaga,” he reiterated.

He said a peaceful environment is essential for farmers, traders, investors and young people to pursue economic opportunities.

A Political Journey That Started at 18

Tumusiime’s political ambitions began when he was still a teenager.

At the age of 18, he wanted to contest for Parliament, but his mother, Jovans Kyonyunyu, advised him to first complete his education.

“You’re still young to involve yourself in politics. The doors are more open for you in business if you finish with studies,” Tumusiime recalls her telling him.

Rather than abandoning politics, he followed her advice and pursued his studies.

His academic journey later opened the door to leadership. At Kampala University, he served as guild president in 2016, gaining experience in mobilisation, representation and leadership.

He later contested for guild leadership at the Law Development Centre, although he lost to Ivan Busulwa.

For Tumusiime, the defeat became part of his political education.

“One of my lecturers at Kampala University, Mr Nkugwa, who also taught me political science, had it that politics in general is a zero-sum game. You go for it expecting victory or losing. Personally, I’ve ever been in such a stance, so I know what I am chasing,” he said.

Youth Must Have a Greater Role in Leadership

Tumusiime believes Uganda’s young people should play a greater role in shaping the country’s future.

He says young people have the energy, education and creativity required to transform communities if given opportunities to lead.

“The youths today are the ones who hold the vigour to lead the country where it is destined to be,” he said.

His argument, however, is not that experience should be discarded. Rather, he believes younger leaders should learn from those who came before them while bringing fresh ideas to governance.

The Family Influence

Behind Tumusiime’s political ambition is a family that he says has supported his journey.

He particularly credits his grandfather, Elia Kalemire, whom he describes as an influential figure in Ssembabule.

“My grandfather has been very supportive both financially and materially. He is a focal person in Ssembabule and that’s why I strongly believe that as a family we are destined for leadership,” he said.

Tumusiime says the support has strengthened his belief that leadership should be treated as a responsibility to communities rather than a privilege for individuals.

A New Chapter for Ssembabule?

Tumusiime’s ambition comes at a time when the political landscape of Ssembabule continues to evolve.

Having grown up admiring Ssekikubo, he now wants to challenge the political establishment and persuade voters that a younger generation can provide new energy and fresh ideas.

However, his proposed political programme extends beyond personalities.

He wants to see a Ssembabule where farmers can prosper, young people can find opportunities, land disputes are resolved through lawful mechanisms, citizens understand their rights and government programmes reach the people for whom they are intended.

He also wants improved roads and health services, arguing that economic transformation cannot happen when communities remain disconnected from markets and essential services.

For Tumusiime, therefore, the Lwemiyaga contest is not simply a race for a parliamentary seat. It is a test of whether a young generation can translate education, professional experience and community mobilisation into political leadership.

As he puts it, the youth have the “vigour” to lead.

In Ssembabule, Tumusiime now appears ready to test that conviction at the ballot box.

His message is straightforward but ambitious: Ssembabule needs reforms, Lwemiyaga needs peace, and its people deserve leadership that turns promises into measurable results.

Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at Submit an Article

For an artiste who had spent years building a catalogue, perfecting her stagecraft and waiting for the moment to headline her own major concert, Vinka’s maiden show was never going to be just another night of music.

At Vinka Live and Loud, held at Cricket Oval, the singer turned the stage into a carefully choreographed celebration of her journey, her music and the people who have been part of her rise.

The scale of the production immediately signalled that this was a concert designed to match the occasion. A gigantic stage, six partitioned screens that gave fans across the venue clear views, elaborate choreography, fireworks and the live accompaniment of the Double Black Band combined to create a spectacle that stretched well beyond a conventional music show.

The evening began at exactly 9:10pm with a five-minute biography of Vinka projected onto the giant screens. Voices from different stages of her life and career, including Swangz Avenue co-founder Julius Kyazze, Benon Mugumbya, Viboyo, Winnie Nwagi and the father of her child, offered glimpses into the journey behind the artiste fans know today.

It was an intentional reminder that before the hit songs, energetic dance routines and celebrity status, there was a story.

Five minutes later, more than 10 dancers marched onto the stage and arranged themselves like a church choir as hymns filled the venue, creating an almost spiritual atmosphere.

Then came Vinka.

She rose from beneath the stage in a sparkling purple outfit as the crowd erupted, with fans in the ordinary section particularly vocal.

“Vinka, we want to party!” they shouted.

She responded with Thank God, followed by Sure. Her elaborate opening outfit, however, appeared to restrict her movement, and she soon removed part of it, allowing herself to loosen up and give the audience the energetic performer they had come to see.

By the time Chips Na Ketchup came on, there was little doubt that the party had begun.

Even the VIP section could not resist for long. Guests abandoned their seats and joined the rest of the venue in singing and dancing.

And perhaps that was the strongest statement Vinka made throughout the night: she has quietly built a catalogue that people actually know.

From By the Way to Oli Malaika, she moved across the enormous stage, repeatedly crossing from one end to another to ensure that no section of the audience felt forgotten.

The collaborations soon began flowing.

Kent and Flosso joined her for Overdose, before Vinka continued with Love Doctor, Fimbo, Panic and One Bite. She then shifted the mood with reggae versions of Omukwano Gwo and Ebigambo, before returning to the party with Goodie Goodie.

The arrangements became more adventurous as she incorporated elements of Busta Rhymes’ Make It Clap, Dawn Penn’s No No No and Shaggy’s I’m Still In Love into the performance.

At 10pm, Vinka left the stage, leaving her dancers to keep the audience entertained as the first act came to an end.

The break, however, was brief.

Swangz Avenue artistes, including Elijah Kitaka and Azawi, helped maintain the momentum before Vinka returned at 10:31pm.

This time, she appeared in a striking pink outfit, emerging amid fireworks as she launched into Believe.

The second act was largely a celebration of Vinka’s musical relationships.

Mudra joined her for Kimuli Kyange, while Fik Fameica came on for Tubikole, one of the evening’s biggest crowd moments.

Then came Nzigulawo with Spice Diana, followed by Fire Burn with Jackie Chandiru.

The Jackie Chandiru collaboration carried its own significance. The two had previously shared a stage at the Blu 3 concert, but their reunion at Vinka’s own show was particularly fitting given that Vinka once worked as a dancer for Jackie before eventually becoming one of Uganda’s leading female artistes.

There was more to come.

Aaronx joined her for Only You, Kataleya and Kandle appeared for Tompa, while Nessim joined Vinka on keyboard for Lalala.

After Mapozi and a brief but electrifying instrumental display by Michael Ouma, Vinka switched gears with Bailando, bringing the second act to a close at 11:23pm.

Winnie Nwagi then took over the stage with Jangu before delivering one of the night’s biggest surprises.

She was joined by Khalifah AgaNaga and Eddy Kenzo for the Nassanga Remix, sending the crowd into another frenzy as fans broke into the familiar dance routines associated with the song.

At 11:45pm, the third and final act began.

Vinka returned alongside Elijah Kitaka and John Blaq for Wanika Bendela, before teaming up with John Blaq again for Sweet Loving.

The collaborations continued with Tutu Maama alongside Kitaka, while Ava Peace joined her for Batuleke.

Then came Amaaso, performed alongside Winnie Nwagi and The Mith.

For the final stretch, Vinka returned to some of the songs that have helped define her career, closing with Oluyimba Lwomwaka, Sirubala and All Over You.

By the time the final notes faded, Vinka had made one thing abundantly clear: she was not short of songs, friends or moments.

Her concert unfolded like a carefully written three-act story, beginning with reflection, moving into celebration and eventually exploding into a full-blown party.

The production, brought together with the support of Bell Lager, matched the ambition of Vinka’s first major headline show, with the brand’s presence fitting naturally into a night built around music, celebration and the artiste’s long-awaited moment.

But ultimately, the night belonged to Vinka.

She brought together the dancer she once was, the performer she became and the artiste she has spent years building into one expansive live experience.

With a massive stage, live instrumentation, fireworks, elaborate choreography and a parade of collaborators, Vinka Live and Loud was more than a maiden concert. It was Vinka taking stock of how far she has come and, for three hours, showing Kampala exactly what she had been building all along.

Here are 10 of the leading Ugandan news websites (primarily English-language digital/news portals and newspaper sites), based on recent mentions in media directories, traffic discussions, popularity, and coverage of national affairs as of 2026.

Rankings are approximate—exact traffic varies (older SimilarWeb-style data from ~2024 showed Daily Monitor, Nile Post, and others leading; current figures are limited due to media disruptions, and international sites often dominate broader “news in Uganda” metrics).

Major ones frequently cited across sources include:

1. New Vision (newvision.co.ug) – Leading government-linked English daily/newspaper site with broad national coverage (politics, business, sports, features). Part of Vision Group; consistently among the most widely referenced.

2. Daily Monitor (monitor.co.ug) – Independent Nation Media Group outlet known for investigations, politics, and in-depth reporting. Historically one of the top-traffic sites; faced temporary closure/military restrictions in mid-2026 but remains a major digital presence.

3. Nile Post (nilepost.co.ug) – Digital news platform (linked to Next Media) covering breaking news, politics, business, sports, and lifestyle; often ranks high in online traffic discussions.

4. ChimpReports (chimpreports.com) – Online site focused on breaking news, politics, business, and investigative reporting.

5. The Independent (independent.co.ug) – News and analysis outlet emphasizing politics, business, and regional affairs.

6. The Observer (observer.ug) – Independent outlet known for political reporting, commentary, and analysis.

7. PML Daily (pmldaily.com) – Online platform with politics, business, sports, and commentary; previously ranked among top-visited.

8. SoftPower News (softpower.ug) – Digital site covering Uganda headlines, politics, and society.

9. Watchdog Uganda – Digital news/opinion site focused on politics, governance, and society.

10. Eagle Online or similar digital outlets (e.g., also commonly listed alongside others like Daily Express or UG Standard in directories) – Platforms publishing headlines, features, and business updates; the broader ecosystem includes many active digital sites.

Notes:

– Other frequently mentioned or active ones include Bukedde (Luganda, Vision Group), Red Pepper (tabloid), Uganda Radio Network (URN), and sites tied to TV like NBS/Nile Post.

– Radio remains the dominant news source overall in Uganda, with digital/newspaper readership lower; many sites have faced regulatory or operational challenges.
– Traffic data is fluid (e.g., some international sites like BBC rank high in local search metrics). For the latest, check tools like SimilarWeb/Semrush or the sites directly.

These provide solid coverage of current Ugandan news.

Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at Submit an Article

As Ugandans seek to secure internationally rated legal services, Public Opinions has recognized KATS – Katende, Ssempebwa Advocates as the Best Banking and Finance Law Firm in Uganda. Recognized for promoting and upholding international best practices and standards in legal services as well as working toward deepening and actualizing the 30 principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,Public Opinions stated that KATS becomes part of the only 100 best law firms in Uganda recognized by Public Opinions out of over 5,000 law firms registered in Uganda.

Public Opinions stated that KATS has been confirmed for induction into the prestigious Public Opinions Journal for Certified Best 100 Law Firms in Uganda 2026 in appreciation of its contribution towards attainment of Uganda Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Public Opinions noted that other notable people who have been recognized by Public Opinions over the years include H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda, who received the Uganda Peace and Development Champion prize from Public Opinions at a ceremony he presided over. Public Opinions said others include Kenyan President William Ruto, then Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, Gen. Salim Saleh, Judiciary Secretary Dr. Pius Bigirimana, and other prominent leaders.

Public Opinions stated that the firm was founded in 1969 by John W. Katende (SC), who is the Founding and Senior Partner.

Public Opinions noted that Mr. Katende is one of the two Founding and Senior Partners of KATS, along with Professor Ssempebwa.

Public Opinions said Mr. Katende’s experience spans over 55 years of practice in Uganda and the East and Central Africa region.

In his career, he has been involved in any and everything that has to do with law and legal practice in Uganda, and ask any judge or legal practitioner, with unanimity they concur that without doubt John is one of the finest lawyers in the country’s history.

As a law student at the University of Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania, class of ’69, his classmates included former Vice President of Uganda HE Right Honourable Edward Ssekandi, former Chief Justice of Uganda Benjamin Odoki (2001-2013), former Chief Justice of Kenya Johnson Evans Gicheru (2003-2017), former Chief Justice of Tanzania Augustino Ramadhani (2010-2017), former Principal Judge of Uganda James Ogoola (2004-2016), former Attorney General of Kenya Amos Wako (2013-2017), and former Justice of the Court of Appeal of Uganda Caroline Okello.

Regarding his education, Mr. Katende earned a Master of Laws (LL.M) from Harvard Law School in 1970 as an African Fellowship Fellow, making him one of the very first East Africans to receive an LL.M from Harvard Law School, after having earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of East Africa at Dar-es-Salaam in 1968, where he graduated first in his class.
Public Opinions stated that Professor Ssempebwa, the other Founding and Senior Partner of KATS, is the Supervising Partner of all legal work undertaken by the Firm.

Seldom does one person combine success both in the academic and practice arenas, but Professor Ssempebwa has achieved just that, having not only participated in groundbreaking litigation where he appeared in the first case brought before the newly instituted East African Court of Justice, but also having been instrumental in the formulation of numerous laws in Uganda while reaching the pinnacle in the academic field as a celebrated Professor of Law at Makerere University in Uganda as well as the Universities of Dar-es-Salaam and Zambia.

Professor Ssempebwa has practiced law both within and outside the courtrooms with distinction for over 55 years and he is a leading consultant in several areas of practice in Uganda.

He has meritoriously earned the title of “Senior Counsel” in the Ugandan Courts of Judicature, and his outstanding scholarly record has made him a leading authority in Uganda on matters relating to Revenue Law and Taxation, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Conveyance, and General Litigation, establishing him as one of the most respected and most widely consulted lawyers in Uganda.

Samuel S. Serwanga serves as Partner and Director of Litigation, leading the firm’s litigation practice.Public Opinions said that the founding partners of the firm are John W. Katende and Prof. Frederick Ssempebwa.Public Opinions stated that KATS is Uganda’s largest and leading law firm, boasting over sixty (60) full-time legal and support staff.
Public Opinions noted that KATS is a full-service law firm providing all legal and advisory services categorized under Transactional & Advisory, Litigation & Alternative Dispute Resolution,Intellectual Property, Business Support, and Pro bono.

Public Opinions stated that KATS is internationally ranked as the number one law firm in Uganda year after year by Chambers and Partners: Global Guide to the World’s Leading Lawyers For Business, IFLR 1000: Guide to the World’s Leading Financial Law Firms, and the Legal 500, which represent the premier benchmark league tables for lawyers worldwide.

Public Opinions said the firm maintains an unparalleled client roster comprising major international and local corporations, financial institutions, the Government of Uganda and other nations, non-governmental organizations, airlines, oil companies,insurancecompanies,cutting-edge technology firms, and most of the prominent individuals in the nation’s economy and other sectors.

Public Opinions stated that KATS is a member of LEXAfrica, Africa’s first and largest Legal Alliance comprising over six hundred (600) lawyers in twenty-five (25) jurisdictions across Africa.

Public Opinions said KATS boasts talented, highly qualified, and experienced lawyers who, uniquely in this market, are recognized as market leaders in their areas of expertise and specialization, are dual qualified and licensed to practice in the State of New York, London, and across East Africa, graduated from some of the world’s leading law schools including Harvard, Columbia, Cambridge,and the London School of Economics, and have had practical legal training at other world-renowned international firms like Slaughter & May,Hogan Lovells, Eversheds, Doughty Street Chambers, Covington & Burling, and Morse, Barnes-Brown Pendleton.

Public Opinions stated that KATS has the size, strength, and resources to provide quality results and has been a leading advisor on many groundbreaking transactions that raise new and complex questions of law that have never been addressed in this region.

Public Opinions said the firm has consistently been the number one choice for clients with groundbreaking and unusually challenging transactions in the region and is a major player in the facilitation of the legal and economic development of the East African Community.

Public Opinions noted that KATS actively engages with universities’ law faculties to encourage and empower students to pursue their dreams and equip them with practical advice for success in their chosen field.

For example, Alice Namuli Blazevic hosts “Coffee with Alice”, a mentorship forum held monthly for law students and young graduates geared towards bridging the gap between law school and legal practice, while also aiming to nurture young leaders and teach them how to pay it forward.

Some lawyers at the firm also assist in the coaching of mock trial teams in international moot competitions such as the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition in the United States of America and the All Africa Human Rights Moot Court Competition.
Public Opinions stated that in 2017, the firm established the ‘Annual Katende Ssempebwa Moot Court Awards’ which celebrate and honor the Best Orator and Overall team of the Law Development Centre Moot Court competition, an educational institution for higher learning offering law students a Post-Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice required for enrollment as an advocate in Uganda, with the competition presided over by Judges of the Courts of Judicature in Uganda.

Public Opinions Journal for Best 100 Law Firms in Uganda.
Web: www.publicopinions.net
Tel: +256774992426

Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at Submit an Article

BY BARRISTER PETER MAGOMU MASHATE

During a retreat at Kyankwanzi in July 2024, President Yoweri Museveni complained of limited taxes that were being collected by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA). The Head of State went on to say that not only does URA collect limited taxes, but also its officers and staff steal even the little they collect.

“First of all, there is a lot of under-collection of taxes, but also there is massive stealing of what is collected. Now you can imagine how much we could do if we plug both under-collection and the stealing,” he said during a Ministers and PSs retreat at Kyankwanzi.

Feeling disgusted, he formulated a special desk within State House for Revenue Intelligence sharing, naming Mr David Kalemera as it’s pioneer head, but working alongside other agencies like the IGG and SHACU.

Since 2024, the fight against corruption in URA has raged on, leaving several of its officers going behind bars and some being interdicted. According to URA, as reported in the Daily Monitor, another officer, Mr Geoffrey Ssozi, the URA External Operations Manager in charge of Dar-el-Salaam Customs, was also arrested on Thursday last week. URA Assistant Commissioner for Public and Corporate Affairs Mr Robert Kalumba is quoted as confirming that the embattled officer was caught red-handed soliciting a bribe worth USD 60000 (UGX 220 Million) from an investor whom the arrested officer Ssozi later revealed to be Simbaland!

Mr Ssozi’s arrest adds to a list of officers arrested since the President expressed his dissatisfaction.

Without delving into the merits of alleged Ssozi’s case (since it is still under investigation), my concern is on whether the URA Commissioner General will respond by way of widening the scope of investigation to unearth more gaps within the tax body. This is clearly in national interest.

By widening the investigation, the CG and the country at large will be in position to know whether the frequent arrests of URA officers orchestrated by tax payers/whistle blowers is not a new trick by possible tax evaders to intimidate, stifle, and/or divert any ongoing internal audits against them.

On this particular note, I would urge the CG to shift focus to the taxpayer (Simbaland) as mentioned by Ssozi while investigations against him also continue.

Of particular interest is the alleged bribe of UGX 220 million. This is not a small amount for anyone to pay without a big interest. Remember, according to URA’s explanation, the initial bribe demand by Ssozi was USD 100, 000 or UGX 380 million. The question therefore is: What was the purpose of this huge payment?

Secondly, if there was a tax audit against the taxpayer as URA explains, how much is involved and over what period?

Thirdly, what is the nature and magnitude of taxes owed to URA to warrant the taxpayer to part with a bribe worth USD 100,000?

Fourthly, since Ssozi’s duty station is miles away in Dar-el-Salaam, what influence did he have on the audit team to drop the tax audit in relation to Simbaland? These and many more questions would help the CG to widen the net and answer Ugandans who are anxious in the light of the warning by H.E the President.

Otherwise, if we restrict the investigation to only the Ssozi alleged transgressions, we risk falling into a possible diversion and losing a bigger picture of the scope of tax evasion.

The CG and his team should humbly use this opportunity to ask the taxpayer for his books of accounts.
To contextualize this, usually, big importers, exporters/consolidators (world-over), make illegal remittances back to their countries without a Remittance License(s) or even paying the required taxes. Some do this over a period of years, may be 5, or 10 or more.

This is what the CG and his team should be interested in because it is a green area that taxpayers exploit.

For that matter, it is my humble prayer that the investigation gets widened to cover the possibility of a diversion being created.

However, what is not in doubt is the fact that the fight against corruption of whatever form in this “KISANJA NO MORE SLEEP”, is well and truly underway and unstoppable as spearheaded by Balaam Barugahara, Justine Nameere and David Kalemera.

URA now has the chance to prove tax equality and patriotism, rights and attributes which are non-negotiable. With a week having passed now since the news of Ssozi’s arrest, the public on the other hand, is anxiously waiting for his arraignment before court of law for justice to prevail.

THE WRITER IS; FORMERLY LONDON BASED BARRISTER PETER MAGOMU MASHATE AN ADMINISTRATIVE, CONSTITUTIONAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS BARRISTER-AT-LAW OF THE HONOURABLE SOCIETY OF LINCOLN’S INN OF COURT LONDON UNITED KINGDOM.

Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at Submit an Article

Janzi Band is facing a major change in its line-up after several long-serving members announced their departure from the group, bringing an end to years of collaboration with the ensemble.

Among those who have publicly confirmed their exit are Kiwanuka Hakim, popularly known as Jajja Bam, and Chikuru Bonah, who separately announced that they were no longer working with the band.

In his statement, Jajja Bam described the decision as the beginning of a new chapter after what he called an incredible journey with Janzi Band.

“After an incredible journey with Janzi Band, I have decided to part ways and embark on a new chapter,” he said, while thanking his fans and those who had supported him, particularly “Mr Ssewa”, for standing by him since 2014.

Chikuru Bonah also announced his departure, telling fans that after careful consideration, he and Janzi Band had mutually decided to part ways.

“I am no longer working with Janzi Band. After careful consideration, we have mutually decided to part ways and continue on separate paths,” Bonah said.

He expressed gratitude for the time, experiences and memories shared with the band and wished the group success in the future.

The departures have attracted attention from fans of the Ugandan ensemble, particularly because the musicians have been part of the band’s journey for several years.

Several members of Janzi Band have called it quits after years with the group, announcing that they are parting ways and will reveal their next moves soon.
Janzi Band founder Ssewa Ssewa is expected to address the changes on Monday.#SqoopUpdates pic.twitter.com/QExwY4WXDZ

— sQoop (@sQoopUG) August 22, 2026

However, Janzi Band management has now sought to reassure its fans that the changes will not affect the group’s future.

In a public notice, the band officially acknowledged the departures of Jajja Bam and Chikuru Bonah, while wishing both musicians well in their individual careers.

“This band has never been a stranger to change. Over the years, we have seen members grow, evolve, and choose different paths, and each time, we have emerged stronger. This moment is no different,” management said.

The band revealed that replacements have already been put in place, suggesting that the transition had been anticipated and preparations were already underway.

“We are proud to confirm that experienced and capable replacements are already in place. Our standard of quality and performance will not only be maintained but elevated as we step into this new chapter,” the statement added.

Management has also asked fans to extend the same warmth and support they have shown the outgoing members to the new musicians joining the ensemble.

The latest departures come as Janzi Band prepares to enter a new phase under founder and band leader Ssewa Ssewa, who is expected to address the recent changes during a live-streamed public address on Monday, August 24.

According to a notice issued ahead of the address, Ssewa Ssewa will explain the recent line-up changes, introduce the new members and outline the band’s plans for the future.

His address is expected to provide more context on the departures and give fans their first official look at the new Janzi Band line-up.

For the departing musicians, the split appears to mark the beginning of new individual journeys, while for Janzi Band, it is being presented as another chapter in the evolution of an ensemble that has experienced several changes in its membership over the years.

Despite the exits, management insists the band’s core purpose remains unchanged.

“The music continues. The mission continues,” the statement concluded.