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  • ‘Dai Dai’ Overtakes ‘Waka Waka’ to Become the Biggest World Cup Song Ever

    ‘Dai Dai’ Overtakes ‘Waka Waka’ to Become the Biggest World Cup Song Ever

    Burna Boy and Shakira have rewritten the World Cup record books.

    Their collaboration, Dai Dai, has become the highest-charting FIFA World Cup song in Billboard Hot 100 history after soaring 25 places this week to a new peak of No. 17.

    The milestone sees Dai Dai overtake Shakira and Freshlyground‘s iconic 2010 anthem, Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), which held the previous record for 16 years.

    The song is also making waves beyond the United States.

    It climbed to No. 3 on the Canadian Hot 100 this week and is now battling for the No. 1 spot on the UK Official Singles Chart.

    The achievement means Shakira now holds both the old and new records for the highest-charting World Cup song, while Burna Boy celebrates his first World Cup anthem to reach the historic milestone.

  • Peter Okoye Draws Backlash After Dismissing Nigerian Languages

    Peter Okoye Draws Backlash After Dismissing Nigerian Languages

    Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has come under fire after suggesting that Nigeria’s indigenous languages offer little value.

    The former P-Square singer made the controversial remark after a fan questioned whether his children could speak Igbo, moments after he proudly praised their fluency in French.

    Okoye, who is currently on holiday in Paris, said watching his children speak French so effortlessly had him thinking about buying a home in the French capital.

    Still in Paris! Watching my kids speak French so effortlessly makes me think… maybe it is time to own a crib here in Paris.

    A fan then asked whether his children could also speak Igbo.

    Okoye did not hold back.

    And who naija language help? Make I hear word abeg.

    The comment quickly sparked backlash on social media, with many users accusing the singer of disrespecting Nigeria’s indigenous languages and overlooking their cultural importance.

    Critics also noted that P-Square built much of its success by blending Igbo, Yoruba and other Nigerian languages into its music, helping the duo connect with audiences across Africa.

    They argued that the group’s commercial success proves local languages remain a powerful part of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

  • NMG-U set to return after month-long shutdown – Sqoop

    NMG-U set to return after month-long shutdown – Sqoop

    Nation Media Group (NMG) – Uganda is preparing to resume operations after a month-long shutdown that disrupted television, radio, newspaper and digital services following a military operation on June 28.

    The company’s return was confirmed on Tuesday through separate statements issued by NMG and its majority shareholder, Tanzania’s Taifa Group, signalling the end of weeks of negotiations involving President Yoweri Museveni, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and Taifa Group chairman Rostam Aziz.

    Although the company did not indicate the exact time when all its platforms would be fully operational, it said services would resume in phases.

    “Our services across television, print, radio and digital will be restored progressively as we complete the necessary operational arrangements,” NMG Chairman Joe Muganda said in a statement.

    He added that the company remained committed to delivering “trusted and balanced journalism” while thanking readers, viewers, listeners, advertisers and business partners for standing with the organisation during the interruption.

    The announcement came hours after Taifa Group welcomed the development, describing it as a victory for dialogue and regional cooperation.

    The investment company, which earlier this year became NMG’s majority shareholder after acquiring a controlling 54.08 per cent stake through Taifa Limited, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the company’s editorial independence.

    “We fully support the Group’s commitment to fair, balanced, independent and responsible journalism that informs, educates and contributes positively to public discourse,” Taifa Group said.

    The media house’s operations were halted shortly after midnight on June 28 when security personnel entered its Namuwongo headquarters and the Kampala Serena International Conference Centre, where NTV Uganda and Spark TV operate.

    The operation knocked NTV Uganda and Spark TV off air while disrupting production of the Daily Monitor, The EastAfrican, KFM, Dembe FM, sQoop and other digital platforms. Employees were denied access to the affected premises for weeks.

    Gen Muhoozi later said the shutdown had been undertaken on the guidance of President Museveni, accusing the media house of pursuing what he described as a sustained campaign against the government while advancing opposition and foreign interests.

    Behind the scenes, negotiations intensified as NMG suspended its online operations on June 30, saying the move was intended to create room for dialogue.

    On July 1, Rostam Aziz met Gen Muhoozi at the Special Forces Command headquarters in Entebbe before holding another meeting with President Museveni at State House on July 17. Although neither side disclosed details of the discussions, the engagements fuelled speculation that a settlement was imminent.

    The shutdown attracted criticism from media freedom organisations within and outside Uganda, with several groups urging authorities to safeguard press freedom and restore the company’s operations.

    While Tuesday’s announcement confirms that NMG will resume broadcasting and publishing, neither the company nor government officials have publicly disclosed whether any conditions were attached to the reopening.

    The resumption brings to a close one of the most consequential standoffs between the Ugandan state and the country’s largest independent media organisation in more than a decade.

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

  • NTV, Daily Monitor to resume full operations one month after shutdown

    Nation Media Group (NMG) Uganda has announced that it will fully resume operations, exactly one month after its television, radio, print and digital platforms were forced to shut down following a military operation.

    The media house confirmed on Tuesday that its services will be restored progressively, marking the end of weeks of disruption that began on 28 June when security personnel raided its facilities in Kampala.

    In a statement, NMG PLC Chairman Joe Muganda said the company is ready to return to serving its audiences with its core mission of delivering credible and balanced journalism across all its platforms.

    “As we return to serving you, our focus remains the delivery of trusted and balanced journalism across all our platforms,” Muganda said.

    He also thanked readers, viewers, listeners, advertisers and business partners for their patience and continued confidence in the company’s brands during the shutdown.

    The development follows high-level engagements involving President Yoweri Museveni, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and Tanzanian businessman Rostam Azizi, whose investment company, Taifa Limited, earlier this year acquired a controlling 54.08 per cent stake in Nation Media Group, East Africa’s largest media company.

    NMG’s operations came to a halt in the early hours of 28 June after security personnel raided the Daily Monitor headquarters in Namuwongo and the Kampala Serena International Conference Centre, where NTV Uganda and Spark TV operate their broadcast studios.

    The operation triggered a power outage that knocked NTV Uganda and Spark TV off air at around 5:00am. It also disrupted the publication of the Daily Monitor and affected the operations of the group’s radio stations, KFM 93.3 and Dembe FM 90.4, as well as its digital platforms.

    At the time, Gen Muhoozi said the shutdown had been carried out on the orders of President Museveni. He claimed the action was taken because of what he described as a sustained campaign by the media house to undermine the government and its leadership while promoting opposition and foreign interests.

  • Shatta Wale Reveals the Rumour That Ended His Friendship With Burna Boy

    Shatta Wale Reveals the Rumour That Ended His Friendship With Burna Boy

    Shatta Wale has claimed his friendship with Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy fell apart after his former team members allegedly convinced the singer that he had an affair with his girlfriend.

    Speaking on a recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, the Ghanaian dancehall star said he treated Burna Boy like family whenever he visited Ghana, providing him with accommodation, cars and everything he needed during his stay.

    The relationship changed after he parted ways with some members of his team, whom he accused of spreading false rumours to damage his relationships with influential people.

    They told Burna Boy that I was f**king his girl he brought to Ghana. He just bought it.

    Shatta Wale said he repeatedly tried to reconnect with Burna Boy after the Nigerian star’s career reached new heights, but his calls and messages went unanswered.

    He even contacted Burna Boy’s mother and manager, Bose Ogulu, hoping she could help him speak to the Grammy winner.

    Instead, she told him Burna Boy was unavailable.

    Despite the fallout, Shatta Wale says he is happy for Burna Boy’s global success.

    He only wishes the Nigerian star had given him the chance to clear his name before believing the rumours his former team members spread.

  • Pilsner Lager brings Kiga Culture to life at Rukundo Egumeho 10

    Pilsner Lager brings Kiga Culture to life at Rukundo Egumeho 10

    The spirit of Southwestern Uganda took over the Millennium Grounds on Sunday for the first 2026 edition of Bakiga Nation and the grand celebration of the “Rukundo Egumeho” 10-year festival journey. As revelers turned up from early on, the day proved once again that culture remains the ultimate anchor for community, pride, and connection.

    The theme of enduring love was palpable from the onset, as the official beer partner, Pilsner Lager welcomed guests with a special Kigezi Cultural Village and a special Pilsner treat for the first 250 arrivals. Festivalgoers stepped into an immersive heritage experience featuring a collection of traditional drums, baskets and other ornaments inviting them to capture the moment and honor a decade of heritage.

    “At Pilsner Lager, we believe in celebrating the authenticity, unity, and heritage that define our consumers,” said Lillian Kansiime, Pilsner Lager Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries. “Standing with Bakiga Nation for 10 years of Rukundo Egumeho allows us to reward our consumers in spaces that celebrate exactly who they are.”

    The day’s entertainment unfolded with energetic cultural troupe performances, deejay sets from DJ Cross and Alberto as a rotation of Kigezi’s finest musicians and MCees keeping the crowd engaged with throwback classic Kiga rhymes and chants.

    Speaking on the decade-long journey, event organizer Owen Bigombe highlighted the emotional weight of the milestone saying,

    “As a festival, Rukundo Egumeho started as a simple celebration of Bakiga as a community back in 2016. Now looking at the turnout today at 10 years, we are honoured to have all these people and support behind our heritage to make this milestone even more meaningful.”

    Beyond the music, food, and free-flowing Pilsner Lager, the day’s crowning moment included a grand raffle draw that saw Seezi Mugabe, hailing from Muhanga, Rukiga District, walking away with a brand-new car, affectionately dubbed his CARkiga to cap off a monumental anniversary.

    It was a memorable Sunday that proved that ten years on, the enduring love and unity of the Bakiga Nation shines brighter than ever. Through its unwavering support, Pilsner Lager reaffirmed its role as a vital connector of people and a preserver of the traditions that bind communities together.

  • Bell Lager, Uganda Waragi surprise Vinka at rehearsals, confirm partnership for Live & Loud Concert

    Bell Lager, Uganda Waragi surprise Vinka at rehearsals, confirm partnership for Live & Loud Concert

    The beats were pumping heavily on Tuesday morning inside MoTIV’s studios. Vinka and her dancers were deep in choreography as sweat, preparation, and pure energy filled the room. Then the doors unexpectedly swung open.

    Rehearsal ground to a halt. Vinka paused, looking up in surprise.

    Two brand managers revealed their mission for Bell Lager and Uganda Waragi to step in as active companions supporting Vinka’s journey from the rehearsal floor all the way to Lugogo Cricket Oval.

    Lillian, Brand Manager for Bell Lager, pulled up with a Bell cooler as Roy, Brand Manager for Core Mainstream Spirits at Uganda Breweries, walked in beside her with a Uganda Waragi Premium bottle in hand. Following a symbolic handover of their respective gifts, Lillian and Roy took it a step further all set in their dancing shoes as they jumped into the dance routine with Vinka and her choreography team.

    “We congratulate Vinka on reaching this important milestone with her inaugural Live and Loud concert,” said Lillian Kansiime, Bell Brand Manager. “Every artist dreams of getting to a moment like this, and we are proud to be part of Vinka’s journey. The brand has always believed in investing in Ugandan talent because our music tells the story of who we are. We look forward to celebrating with her fans in August and creating another unforgettable chapter in Uganda’s entertainment story.”

    “We didn’t want to pull Vinka away into a press conference,” added Core Mainstream Spirits Manager Roy Tumwizere. “Ugandan music and energy come alive right from the rehearsals and studio time. As Uganda Waragi shows support for an artist who is authentically and uniquely Ugandan, we decided to join her from preparation to the main stage to say that we are literally with you every step of the way.”

    As a former backup dancer and manager turned chart-topping superstar, Vinka embodies the relentless hustle, creativity, and resilience that Bell Lager and Uganda Waragi have celebrated for generations.

    This partnership surprise is a celebration of Ugandan pride, talent, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As two of Uganda’s heritage brands combine raise a glass to Vinka’s historic moment, they are also raising the bar for how brands show up for their artists.

    The collaboration aligns with Bell Lager’s Uganda’s Very Own campaign, which celebrates Ugandans whose stories have become part of the nation’s cultural identity in its ongoing 75th anniversary celebrations. Vinka’s journey as one of the country’s leading performers makes her a natural fit for that celebration.

    After the quick dance session, the day’s lighthearted disruption wrapped up with a quick photo shoot, cementing both UBL flagship brands as official partners for Vinka Live & Loud before letting the starlet resume her rehearsal session.

    So when fans step into Lugogo Cricket Oval on Friday, August 21st, 2026, they can expect a premium, authentically Ugandan experience with signature and flavorful drinks, custom setups, and interactive spaces matching the high energy of the night courtesy of Uganda’s heritage and most iconic spirit and beer brands.

    The Vinka Live & Loud show is organized by Swangz Avenue and is slated for Friday, August 21, 2026, at the Lugogo Cricket Oval. Tickets are currently available across designated outlets.

  • Former NBS TV anchor Solomon Serwanjja wins LC1 Chairperson seat by just one vote

    Former NBS Television news anchor Solomon Serwanjja has been elected LC1 chairperson of Bamutakudde Village in Mukono North after securing a dramatic one-vote victory in a closely fought election.

    Running as an independent candidate, Serwanjja polled 106 votes to narrowly defeat National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Lule Badru Ssozi, who received 105 votes. The election featured three candidates.

    His victory comes after a competitive campaign that drew significant public attention, with many following the race because of his background in journalism and investigative reporting.

    Serwanjja previously worked at NBS Television for six years before leaving the broadcaster in 2021. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the African Institute for Investigative Journalism.

    As LC1 chairperson, Serwanjja will lead the village’s Local Council I, the lowest level of local government in Uganda. The role includes overseeing local administration, resolving community disputes, coordinating security matters and supporting development initiatives within the village.

  • RISKY BUSINESS! Condom Shortage Pushes Kasese ‘Meat’ Sellers & Buyers to the Edge

    RISKY BUSINESS! Condom Shortage Pushes Kasese ‘Meat’ Sellers & Buyers to the Edge

    Commercial sex workers in Kasese District have raised concerns over a shortage of condoms and lubricants, warning that the scarcity is exposing them to a higher risk of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections while also affecting their livelihoods.

    The women say the lack of essential reproductive health supplies has reduced the number of clients willing to engage in protected sex, leaving many with difficult choices between earning an income and safeguarding their health.

    Veronica Kabugho, a commercial sex worker, said the shortage has left many of them vulnerable and appealed for an urgent restoration of supplies.

    Another sex worker, Hilda Kamahungye, said many women in the trade also face stigma and discrimination whenever they seek healthcare services, making it even harder to access reproductive health commodities.

    She explained that she did not choose sex work willingly but resorted to it after being abandoned by her husband with the responsibility of raising their children.

    Ruth Kahunde, Director of the Kasese Women’s Health Support Initiative, attributed the shortage partly to recent cuts in donor funding, which have affected the availability of reproductive health supplies.

    She said the organisation is working with various partners to replenish stocks and establish distribution points across urban centres in the district to ensure easier access for those who need them.

    Meanwhile, Asiimwe Zainab, a social worker with Kasese District, encouraged commercial sex workers to report shortages to health officials instead of assuming the problem exists across all health facilities. She noted that many sex workers rely on a single health facility and may be unaware that supplies are available elsewhere.

    Kasese District Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Mustafa Kikusa acknowledged the challenge and assured residents that efforts are underway to restore a steady supply of condoms and lubricants. He also called on the public to remain vigilant and continue observing measures that reduce the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.


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  • COURT SHIELD! PearlBank Saved from Shs15.3m Compensation Blow

    COURT SHIELD! PearlBank Saved from Shs15.3m Compensation Blow

    The High Court has overturned a lower court ruling that held PostBank Uganda liable for wrongly paying more than UGX15.3 million intended for a Ministry of Internal Affairs employee to another person with a similar name.

    In a judgment delivered on July 27, 2026, Justice Simon Peter M. Kinobe allowed PostBank’s appeal, setting aside an earlier decision by the Mengo Chief Magistrate’s Court, which had ordered the bank to refund UGX15,362,412 to William Barigye together with interest, general damages, exemplary damages and costs.

    The dispute arose after William Barigye, an Assistant Commissioner in the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control, claimed that between December 2012 and June 2014, part of his salary and facilitation allowances were mistakenly paid into a PostBank account belonging to another individual, William Baligye, instead of his Centenary Bank account. He sued the bank seeking a refund and damages, arguing that it negligently released the funds despite differences in the names.

    PostBank, however, maintained that it merely acted on electronic payment instructions received from the Bank of Uganda, which directed it to credit a specified account in the name of “Barigye William.” The bank argued that the account holder possessed identification documents bearing the name “Barigye William” and regularly signed withdrawal slips using that name, despite the bank’s records also reflecting the spelling “Baligye.”

    In his judgment, Justice Kinobe extensively discussed the legal relationship between a bank and its customer, describing it as contractual but also one founded on trust, fiduciary responsibilities and statutory obligations. He noted that while banks owe their customers duties of care, clients also have a responsibility to ensure payment instructions and account details are accurate.

    The judge further observed that a bank is not an insurer against losses arising from errors made by depositors or third parties. “It is imperative to underscore that… a bank does not serve as an insurer against fraud, particularly where such fraud arises from the client’s own negligence or that of a depositor,” the court stated, adding that a depositor who mistakenly credits funds into the wrong account cannot automatically shift liability to the bank if it acted without negligence.

    Justice Kinobe found that William Barigye had never held an account with PostBank and therefore had no customer relationship with the bank. Consequently, the court held that PostBank owed him no duty of care, noting that the bank’s duty was owed to its account holder, who had consistently presented identification and signed documents as “Barigye William.”

    The court also found that the Ministry of Internal Affairs did not notify PostBank about the payment anomaly until August 2014, by which time all the disputed funds had already been withdrawn, making it unreasonable to expect the bank to have foreseen any irregularity.

    Justice Kinobe concluded that the trial magistrate had erred in finding the bank negligent and allowed the appeal, setting aside the entire judgment of the lower court. However, acknowledging that the case raised an important legal question about the relationship between banks and their customers, the judge ordered each party to bear its own costs of the appeal.


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