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Kassanda District on Saturday joined the rest of Uganda in the inaugural National Cleaning Day, with Hon. Hajji Abdul Bisaso, Member of Parliament for Kassanda South, taking the lead in mobilising residents for a vigorous community clean-up.

The exercise, held at St. Matia Mulumba Health Centre III in Nakiganda, Kiganda Town Council, drew strong participation from local leaders and ordinary citizens. Similar clean-up activities took place across the district, with particularly good attendance reported in Kiganda, Kassanda and Bukuya Town Councils.

The nationwide initiative follows a directive by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, who announced that the last Saturday of every month will be observed as National Cleaning Day. From 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Ugandans are expected to clean homes, markets, schools, health facilities, roads, drainage channels and other public spaces. The programme, approved by Cabinet under President Yoweri Museveni, aims to reduce preventable diseases linked to poor sanitation and instil a lasting culture of environmental responsibility.

In Kassanda, the clean-up reflected both local commitment and national purpose. MP Bisaso worked side by side with residents, clearing surroundings around the health facility and emphasising the shared duty of keeping the community clean and healthy.

Deputy Resident District Commissioner Mike Ssegawa praised President Museveni for giving the exercise the green light, describing it as another practical front in the President’s “Kisanja Hakuna Kulala” agenda of disciplined, results-oriented governance. Ssegawa recalled that during the election campaigns the President had openly expressed disappointment at the poor state of sanitation and hygiene in many townships, and said the monthly clean-ups directly respond to that concern.

Residents who turned out expressed satisfaction at the high level of mobilisation and the visible improvement achieved within a few hours. Leaders at parish and town-council level coordinated efforts, ensuring that priority areas such as health centres, markets and drainage channels received attention.

The exercise underscored that cleanliness is both a local responsibility and a national priority. By participating fully, the people of Kassanda South demonstrated that ordinary citizens and their elected leaders can work together to build healthier communities while contributing to Uganda’s broader public-health goals.

As the country settles into the monthly rhythm of National Cleaning Days, Kassanda’s strong showing offers an encouraging example of how local leadership and community spirit can turn a national directive into tangible progress on the ground.

Together, a cleaner Kassanda South contributes to a cleaner Uganda.

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After a six-month field-based survey conducted by Public Opinions across Uganda—during which Ugandans nominated the top 18 Uganda Women Empowerment Champions—Public Opinions is proud to present this list of the greatest contributors to the socioeconomic development of women in Uganda.

Each winner was inducted onto the Public Opinions Uganda Women Empowerment Hall of Fame Poster (2025/2026), recognized with the Responsible Investment Global Award by Public Opinions, and inducted into the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions and Responsible Investments (2025/2026).

1. Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja
Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda
Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja became Uganda’s first female Prime Minister in June 2021, serving as the head of government business in Parliament. She routinely utilizes community tours and local development funds to urge women’s groups and religious organizations to engage in income-generating activities and embrace government initiatives like the Parish Development Model. She has been at the forefront of fighting corruption and ensuring better service delivery all over Uganda to the benefit of women.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

2. Dr. Francisca Ayodeji Akala
Country Manager, World Bank Uganda
Dr. Francisca Ayodeji Akala is credited for driving key initiatives in Uganda focused on women’s economic empowerment, notably through the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) Project, analytical policy framing, and adolescent empowerment programs. She has partnered with the Africa Gender Innovation Lab to prove that girl-only safe spaces and clubs providing vocational and life skills significantly increase young women’s independent income.Furthermore, she has promoted women’s financial inclusion initiatives and boosted transparency and accountability in public service in Uganda.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

3. Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni
First Lady of Uganda and Minister of Education and Sports
Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni’s many achievements in the women and social sectors include founding the Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO), championing rural women’s economic programs, and advancing girl-child education as Minister of Education and Sports. She created the National Strategy for the Advancement of Rural Women in Uganda (NSARWU) to help village women build small businesses and gain money management skills. Over the years, she has promoted local SACCOs and government financial inclusion plans—such as the Parish Development Model—to help women get out of poverty. Additionally, she has pushed for equal school access and focused on safety and facilities for young girls in schools. Committed to gender mainstreaming, equity, and equality, she has also heavily focused on combating corruption and promoting transparency and accountability.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

4. H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
President of the Republic of Uganda
The NRM Government, under the visionary leadership of H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has transformed the lives of women in Uganda through a comprehensive strategy of affirmative action, economic empowerment, and expanded educational access. By institutionalizing special seats for District Woman Representatives in Parliament and local councils, the administration has elevated women into key decision-making roles, resulting in a judiciary that is now over 50.6% female. Economic independence is prioritized through the Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Girl Child, the GROW Project, the Parish Development Model (PDM), and Emyooga, among other programs. The government has dismantled traditional gender barriers within the national armed forces (UPDF), allowing women to serve in diverse capacities previously reserved for men. His leadership has ensured that women are not only participants but primary drivers of Uganda’s national development.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

5. His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II
Kabaka of the Kingdom of Buganda
His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II has advanced women’s empowerment through key initiatives,including appointing female ministers in the Buganda Kingdom cabinet, supporting the Nnabagereka Development Foundation, and mobilizing resources for maternal health and fistula campaigns. He has championed grassroots women’s savings and self-help groups through development programs like CBS PEEWOSA and integrated women leaders into county (Masaza) and sub-county development committees. He has mobilized resources and medical drives for women suffering from obstetric fistula, partnered with health organizations to target adolescent girls and young women through prevention programs, promoted safe motherhood initiatives and community health infrastructure across Buganda, and encouraged women to participate in the Mwanyi Telimba Initiative.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

6. His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV
Kyabazinga of Busoga Kingdom
His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV has dedicated himself to promoting the education of the girl child. Leading the campaign to put a stop to forced marriages, he has over the years committed himself to fighting teenage pregnancies and female genital mutilation. He has traversed the Busoga sub-region preaching financial inclusion and encouraging women to form SACCOs to benefit from government programs.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

7. His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV
King of Toro Kingdom
His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV has promoted initiatives aimed at reducing mother-to-child HIV transmission and improving healthcare access for expectant mothers in the region. He has supported efforts to address health vulnerabilities disproportionately affecting young women and girls, launching specific advocacy campaigns in partnership with the Uganda AIDS Commission and UN Women to return young mothers and schoolgirls who dropped out during crises or lockdowns back to classrooms. Furthermore, he has publicly advocated for ending violence against women and girls, noting that empowered women guarantee a prosperous society.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

8. Nnabagereka Sylvia Nagginda
The Queen of the Kingdom of Buganda
In 2000, Nnabagereka Sylvia Nagginda established the Nnabagereka Foundation, which spearheads health campaigns, girls’ education advocacy, and community support. She founded the Ekisaakaate Program—a renowned non-formal cultural mentorship camp initiated by the Queen that has successfully trained and guided over 40,000 young women since 2008. She has also supported the annual economic forum backed by kingdom leadership, which connects thousands of women entrepreneurs, farmers, and leaders to build financial literacy and cooperatives.

Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

9. Dr. Ruth Aisha Kasolo
Project Coordinator, GROW Project
Dr. Ruth Aisha Kasolo has successfully led the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) Project in Uganda, which has achieved major milestones by disbursing over Shs 133 billion to women-owned businesses, reaching more than 430,280 women with entrepreneurial services, and expanding low-cost financing and regional business training. She continues to engage women all over Uganda to start businesses while also focusing on their families, and she is a great promoter of equity and equality.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

10. H.E. Major (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo
Vice President of the Republic of Uganda
H.E. Major (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo has consistently championed women’s inclusion in parliament, local councils, and public service. She routinely channels financial backing and Presidential grants to women-led local groups and farmer enterprises, and has rallied leaders to fight domestic violence, early marriages, and defilement to protect the development cycle of young girls.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

11. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba
Chief of Defence Forces (UPDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations
Recognizing that corruption largely affects women, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has over the years dedicated himself to fighting corruption at all levels. He announced a plan to redirect his official CDF allowances into a functioning savings and credit cooperative organization (SACCO) for women in Uganda. He has publicly emphasized the importance of educating girls, referencing the sentiment that “women hold up half the sky” during a community fundraising event for a girls’ school in Rushere, while also promoting the recruitment of women into the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

12. Gen. Proscovia Nalweyiso
Senior Presidential Advisor on Military Affairs
Gen. Proscovia Nalweyiso is the most senior and highly decorated female officer in the history of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and has been named as the most senior female military leader in the whole of Africa. She has dedicated her life to promoting the rights of women all over Uganda and has inspired many women to join the armed forces.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

13. Dr. Diana Atwiine
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health
Dr. Diana Atwiine has led a national campaign to fight drug theft in hospitals and promoted the transition to a single-dose HPV vaccination for 10-year-old girls to improve coverage and protection from cervical cancer. She has also promoted collaborations with partners like Softcare Uganda to supply health facilities with essential maternal and menstrual hygiene commodities, alongside championing the fight against malaria all over Uganda.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

14. Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho (Salim Saleh)
Chief Coordinator, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC)
Apart from his role in the liberation of Uganda, Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho (Salim Saleh) has been at the forefront of promoting a money economy strategy targeting women all over Uganda. Through his leadership as Chief Coordinator of OWC, local women’s groups and smallholders participate in agricultural value-chain and outgrower initiatives (such as cooperative cassava and coffee schemes) intended to transition rural households from subsistence farming to commercial production.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

15. Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA)
Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako has been credited for promoting and ensuring reliable and affordable electricity all over Uganda, thereby benefiting women in cottage industries. She designed the Uganda-Kenya and Uganda-Rwanda regional power transmission interconnections in 2010, spearheaded the execution of the Global Energy Transfer Feed-in Tariff (GET FiT) framework from 2012 to 2021 to boost private renewable investments, and led the 2014–2016 national LED energy-saving bulb distribution project, saving roughly 30 megawatts of peak grid demand. She has been described by President Museveni as a loyal NRM cadre who is incorruptible and dedicated to the national development agenda.

Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

16. Rt. Hon. Charles Peter Mayiga
Katikkiro of the Kingdom of Buganda
Rt. Hon. Charles Peter Mayiga has over the years traversed all parts of Buganda promoting financial inclusion,women’s rights, and women’s empowerment. He has described women as the basis for socioeconomic transformation and has consistently stated that no country can develop without involving women in political leadership and private sector development strategies. He is also commended for promoting the Mwanyi Telimba Initiative, encouraging women to participate in coffee growing.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

17. Haji Yunus Kakande
Secretary, Office of the President
Haji Yunus Kakande has worked tirelessly to promote women’s participation in political leadership and to increase the number of women serving as Resident District Commissioners (RDCs). Having visited many districts of Uganda advocating for women’s rights and economic involvement, he vehemently promotes women’s economic support, girl-child skilling, and encourages women to form SACCOs and participate in the Parish Development Model. He is also passionately dedicated to the fight against corruption in Uganda.Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.

18. H.E. Jan Sadek
Ambassador and Head of the European Union Delegation to Uganda
Under his leadership, the European Union in Uganda has achieved major milestones in empowering women and girls, focusing on ending violence, boosting economic opportunities, and improving social inclusion. He has backed multi-million euro initiatives (such as Team Europe and EIB packages with local banks) to secure green and decent jobs, credit access, and business training for women-led micro-enterprises. Furthermore, he has promoted investment in capital grants and business incubators specifically designed for small-scale women traders and sustainable energy access, supported inclusive schooling and community projects (like Together Tukola) that provide school scholarships for girls alongside direct business grants to their mothers, and funded targeted programs in northern Uganda addressing life skills, health rights, and school retention.

Recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award and inducted in the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions 2026.
The personalities above were nominated by the people of Uganda during the Public Opinions field-based survey. Henceforth, they were recognized by Public Opinions with the Responsible Investment Global Award as Uganda Women Empowerment Champions and were inducted onto the Public Opinions Uganda Women Empowerment Hall of Fame Poster. They have also been confirmed for induction into the Public Opinions Journal for Certified Development Champions and Responsible Investments 2026 in appreciation of their contributions toward socioeconomic transformation and the empowerment of the women of Uganda, who are the mothers of the nation.

Recognized and certified by:
Public Opinions
Web: www.publicopinions.net
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As Uganda’s succession debate intensifies, the growing interaction between the PLU Leader and Rwanda’s long serving administration has become a subject of public interest.

Are these engagements simply the normal diplomacy of neighbouring states, or do they reflect a search for lessons on navigating political transition? Examining history, governance and institutional development may offer important insights into Uganda’s uncertain political future.

Uganda’s political conversation is steadily moving beyond General Yoweri Museveni’s long tenure toward a more pressing question: what kind of transition awaits the country?

After nearly four decades under one leader, succession is no longer a distant political theory, it is a national issue that will shape Uganda’s democratic future, institutional independence stability and regional influence.

Increasingly, the public attention has turned to General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, whose arrogance, public profile and regional engagements have fuelled widespread discussion about the country’s next generation of leadership.

No discussion of Uganda’s future can ignore its historical relationship with Rwanda. During the struggle that brought the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) to power in 1994, Uganda served as an important base for many RPF members, including the current Rwandan President, Paul Kagame.

That chapter established one of the closest political and military relationships in East Africa. More than three decades later, the frequent meetings between General Muhoozi and President Kagame naturally attract public interest, particularly at a time when succession dominates Uganda’s political space.

Officially, these meetings are explained as diplomatic engagements intended to strengthen bilateral relations, regional peace and security cooperation. That is both reasonable and expected between neighbouring countries. However, politics rarely exists only in official statements.

Every meeting between leaders carries symbolic significance, especially when one participant is widely viewed by many people as a potential future successor.

Whether intended or not, these visits inevitably invite questions about what lessons Uganda’s CDF/First Son, seeks from one of Africa’s most influential political figures. When will the Rwanda’s CDF consistantly visit General Museveni?

It would be speculative to claim that General Muhoozi travels to Kigali to learn how to govern Uganda. No public evidence supports such a conclusion.

Yet it is equally reasonable to observe that future leaders often study neighbouring governments, exchange experiences and seek practical lessons on statecraft.

The more important question is not whether learning occurs, but what kind of governance philosophy Uganda hopes to strengthen as it prepares for an eventual transition.

Rwanda is internationally recognised for efficient public administration, infrastructure development, urban planning, disciplined implementation of government programmes and relatively low levels of corruption. These achievements have earned the country praise from many development partners.

At the same time, international human rights organisations have consistently raised concerns about restrictions on political competition, civic freedoms and freedom of expression. Rwanda therefore presents both accomplishments and controversies, an example that invites careful study rather than unquestioning admiration or outright dismissal.

Uganda faces a different set of realities. Public debate increasingly centers on approved cases and allegations of corruption, unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, shrinking civic space and concerns over the independence of institutions responsible for justice and accountability.

Whether considered individually or collectively, these issues have become central to the country’s governance debate. They have also raised an uncomfortable question: can Uganda’s institutions effectively outlive the political personalities who have dominated them for decades?

That question becomes even more significant because succession is about far more than replacing one president with another.

It is about determining whether the next administration will strengthen institutions or merely inherit the political architecture of the previous one.

Strong democracies survive changes in leadership because institutions remain stronger than individuals. Weak and dictatorial regimes, however, often discover that changing faces without changing systems produces continuity rather than transformation.

Another reality deserves equal attention. Long-serving governments naturally produce influential political and economic networks whose interests are closely tied to continuity. Such actors often become decisive during periods of succession because preserving influence may become as important as selecting a successor.

Their calculations can shape national politics long before citizens cast a single vote. Any future leader will therefore face not only the expectations of the public but also the competing pressures of deeply established centres of power known as “Power Brokers”

If General Muhoozi is indeed expected by many to represent Uganda’s next political generation, then the standard by which he should be judged must extend far beyond military command.

The country requires leadership capable of restoring confidence in public institutions, strengthening the rule of law by respecting the Constitution, fighting corruption through proper institutional channels, expanding economic opportunity, protecting fundamental rights and rebuilding trust between citizens and the state. Those responsibilities demand broad civilian leadership as much as military experience.

Uganda’s transition should therefore not become a contest about personalities or family names. It should become an opportunity to ask larger constitutional questions. Can public institutions operate independently? Can courts command public confidence?

Can security agencies remain professional and politically impartial? Can Parliament exercise effective oversight? Can citizens freely express differing political opinions without fear? These questions matter far more than speculation surrounding individual meetings or diplomatic visits.

The enduring relationship between Uganda and Rwanda should remain one of mutual respect, regional cooperation and shared prosperity. There is nothing unusual about neighbouring leaders consulting one another.

What matters is the nature of the lessons ultimately embraced. Administrative efficiency should never come at the expense of constitutional accountability, just as democratic freedoms should never excuse poor governance or corruption. Uganda deserves both effective government and strong democratic institutions.

The greatest service Uganda’s next leaders can offer is to demonstrate that political legitimacy is earned through constitutional processes, accountable governance and the confidence of the people not through family lineage or inherited political networks.

Likewise, Rwanda’s enduring partnership with Uganda will be strongest when it is seen as a relationship between two independent nations, not between two political families occupied state houses.

In the end, governments may change, but the friendship between the peoples of Uganda and Rwanda should remain protected by respect for sovereignty, constitutionalism and the principle that the destiny of every nation belongs to its citizens alone.

The Author is a social development specialist and CEO Bridge your mind centre.

Email; [email protected]

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For many Ugandans, tequila used to arrive with a ritual. A pinch of salt. A wedge of lemon. A quick countdown among friends, before the glass is tossed back in one fiery gulp, followed by watering eyes, burning throats and, sometimes, hazy memories the next morning. Somewhere along the way, it had become accepted that this was simply what tequila was supposed to do. However, we were wrong.

Good tequila shouldn’t wage war on your palate; it should invite you into a conversation. One that begins with aroma, unfolds in layers of flavour and lingers long after the last sip. If your only memory of tequila is the burn, chances are you’ve never really tasted it.

The difference often begins with what’s in the bottle. Authentic tequila is made from the Blue Weber agave plant, grown primarily in designated regions of Mexico, under strict regulations. The finest expressions use 100% Blue Weber agave, while cheaper alternatives, known as mixtos, blend agave sugars with other fermentable sugars. Those shortcuts, coupled with industrial production methods, can produce a spirit that feels sharp and one-dimensional rather than balanced and expressive.

Craftsmanship is what changes everything. Slow cooking allows the agave to develop natural sweetness, careful fermentation preserves character, and thoughtful distillation refines rather than strips away flavour. Some tequilas are then matured in oak barrels, where time adds texture and complexity instead of masking imperfections.

Take a thoughtful sip and quality tequila reveals itself gradually. A vibrant Blanco may carry notes of cooked agave, fresh citrus, herbs and cracked black pepper. Reposado, rested in oak for several months, introduces gentle hints of vanilla and caramel. Añejo deepens into dried fruit, honey and warming spice, while Extra Añejo, which is the Don Julio 1942, aged for years, offers layers of oak, cocoa and rich toffee that invite slow contemplation.

That philosophy is exemplified by producers such as Don Julio, whose tequilas are crafted exclusively from fully matured 100% Blue Weber agave, harvested at peak ripeness. Rather than chasing intensity, the emphasis is on patience, balance and allowing the agave to speak for itself.

“The biggest misconception is that tequila is meant to be endured,” says Judie Nandekya, senior Brand Manager, Tequila and Rum East Africa. “Authentic tequila is designed to be appreciated. When you slow down, nose the spirit before you sip and allow the flavours to unfold naturally, you discover a depth that surprises even people who thought they didn’t like tequila.”

The ritual matters, too. Forget the race to the bottom of the glass. Serve tequila neat at cool room temperature or only lightly chilled, ideally in a copita or tulip-shaped tasting glass that concentrates its aromas. Swirl gently, inhale, then take small sips, letting the spirit coat your palate before swallowing. The finish is where great tequila tells its story.

Curious and adventurous individuals can discover and experience the tequila story firsthand at the Don Julio Tequila Sundowner, happening today, Sunday (July 26th), at Mediterraneo Restaurant in Kololo from 2 pm -11 pm, where the focus is less on shooting tequila and more on understanding the culture, heritage, and the spirit behind the glass.

Bring your friends tomorrow and taste the finest tequila, Don Julio, while learning about its roots.

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Old boys of the prestigious and mighty Ntare school in Mbarara have praised their own fallen OB Dr. Micheal Kansiime, the executive director Dairy Development Authority (DDA) who passed on last night.

OBs, have described him as a meticulous servant of Uganda whose exemplary and distinguished career spanned his leadership of DDA up to the time of his death.

The late Dr. Micheal Kansiime

The OBS who joined Ntare with him has shared interesting facts about the late. He has been described as a life long Christian and one of the most staunch Christian that ever graced Ntare School.

The OBs further reveal that URA Commissioner John Musinguzi, Passport Commissioner  Johnson Namanya, URA’s Abel Kagumire, and Uganda National Housing ED Eng. Kenneth Kaijuka took matters of the Lord to the highest level at school. They were very good friends and their high level of Christianity has never been forgotten at the school.

Dr. Kansiime was in A’level and used sleep in Africa Room 4 He went on and joined Makerere University where he graduated with a degree in veterinary medicine.

OBs who have been so close to him also reveal that he has fought a tough battle against Kidney disease. That it has been a hard fight to an extent of going through kidney donation from his better half.

But God’s ways are not our ways. May his Soul rest in Eternal Peace.

 

About Post Author

 

JINJA — The Minister for the Presidency and Woman Member of Parliament for Budiope West Constituency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, on Saturday officiated at the celebrations marking the Silver Jubilee (25 years) of priesthood for Rev. Fr. Anthony Musana at Wansimba Parish Pastoral Council in Namagera Town Council, Jinja District.

The thanksgiving celebration was held under the theme: “The Favours of the Lord I Will Recall” (Isaiah 63:7).

Addressing the congregation, Hon. Babalanda conveyed greetings from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Kataaha Museveni, as well as the staff of the Office of the President.

She thanked Rev. Fr. Musana’s family for nurturing him in the Christian faith, quoting Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

The Minister praised Fr. Musana for dedicating his life to God’s service and for providing moral and spiritual guidance to communities.

“A nation blessed with both good religious and political leaders is guided in the right direction, resulting in peaceful and prosperous communities. While their roles differ, they share one purpose—serving the people and providing responsible stewardship of the nation,” she said.

Hon. Babalanda noted that God-fearing citizens are more likely to uphold honesty, reject corruption and promote integrity in their homes, schools, markets and workplaces. She added that religious institutions continue to play a vital role in fostering forgiveness, tolerance, reconciliation and national unity, especially during periods of political or tribal tension.

She urged religious leaders to continue preaching the Word of God and to work closely with communities in addressing societal challenges, particularly corruption, which she said has eroded public trust and undermined service delivery in some government institutions.

“A strong nation requires both morally upright citizens and responsible leaders working together to promote equitable service delivery and transform the economy,” she said.

The Minister also encouraged Ugandans to embrace the Four-Acre Model as a practical approach to household wealth creation and poverty eradication. She further urged wananchi to take advantage of government wealth creation initiatives such as Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga and the GROW Project to improve household incomes.

With the country entering the final phase of the ongoing Local Council elections, Hon. Babalanda called on voters to support NRM flag bearers.

“Local Council leadership is the foundation of effective service delivery. It is at this level that PDM beneficiaries are identified, endorsed and monitored, while community security also begins at the village level,” she said.

She added that NRM leaders understand President Museveni’s vision for socio-economic transformation through programmes such as the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, infrastructure development, electricity expansion, healthcare improvement and security enhancement.

The Minister further appealed to leaders across the Busoga Sub-region to work together in the fight against poverty and ensure that government programmes reach every deserving household.

Speaking at the celebration, Rev. Fr. Anthony Musana thanked Hon. Babalanda for accepting his invitation to officiate as chief guest during the commemoration of his 25 years of priestly ministry.

He commended the Minister for her dedication to public service, describing her as a committed mobiliser, loyal, hardworking and patriotic cadre of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

The celebration was attended by Justice Batema Ndikabona, Registrar of the High Court; Hon. Kintu, Deputy Clerk to Parliament; Mr. Waiswa; Hon. Peace Tibyaze, Woman Representative for Jinja District; Hon. Muyonjo Hussein, Member of Parliament for Jinja Northern Division; Hon. Walyomu Moses; Hon. Namatovu Masitula, Member of Parliament for Kamuli Municipality; Amb. Stephen Mubiru; Rev. Fr. Mwase; several local leaders; and hundreds of faithful and residents from across the Busoga Sub-region and beyond.

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KAMPALA, UGANDA — A government job can make the difference between a health centre that serves its community effectively and one crippled by staff shortages; between a classroom with a qualified teacher and one without; between citizens having confidence in public institutions and losing trust in them.

Yet behind every unfilled vacancy, delayed public service and shortage of professionals lies a less visible struggle—the battle to ensure that recruitment into public service is based on merit rather than corruption.

The Government of Uganda is now tightening safeguards to seal the loopholes through which corruption infiltrates public service, warning that bribery, nepotism, sexual favours and political interference in recruitment processes will no longer be tolerated.

Leading this renewed push is the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government, Mr. Ben Kumumanya, whose directive issued on July 10, 2026 seeks to strengthen integrity, transparency and accountability in Uganda’s decentralised recruitment system.

In a circular referenced ADM/92/01, addressed to District Chairpersons and City Mayors, Mr. Kumumanya reminded local leaders that recruitment into Local Governments must strictly comply with the Constitution of Uganda and the Local Governments Act, Cap. 138.

“As you are aware, Local Government Service Commissions are established under Article 198(1) of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and Section 59 of the Local Governments Act, Cap. 138,” he stated.

He further noted that Section 60(1) of the Act empowers Local Government Service Commissions to appoint, confirm, discipline and remove officers serving district and urban councils.

However, he emphasised that these constitutional powers must always be exercised with integrity, transparency, accountability, fairness, impartiality and merit.

The Permanent Secretary expressed concern over persistent reports of corruption in recruitment, including demands for bribes, nepotism and sexual favours in exchange for employment opportunities.

“These practices are totally unacceptable and must be dealt with as stipulated under the relevant laws and regulations,” Mr. Kumumanya directed.

He also questioned why some Local Governments continue returning wage funds despite having approved staffing structures and critical vacancies.

“It has been reported time and again that Local Governments return wage funds that have already been appropriated. This must be explained, and whoever is responsible for this commission or omission should be held accountable and disciplined,” he said.

Mr. Kumumanya further warned political leaders against exerting pressure on Service Commissions during recruitment exercises.

“It has also been brought to our attention that some Political Leaders put pressure on District Service Commissions and City Service Commissions to recruit people outside the established processes and proceedings. This is illegal and should stop wherever it is happening,” he cautioned.

Under the directive, Local Government leaders are required to carry out due diligence on members of Service Commissions, closely monitor compliance with ethical standards, investigate allegations of corruption and ensure that commissioners found guilty of misconduct are removed in accordance with the law.

Beyond promoting good governance, the reforms are expected to strengthen service delivery across the country.

Makindye Ssabagabo Town Clerk Mr. Moses Otimong said transparent recruitment is fundamental to building effective public institutions because quality services depend on competent personnel.

He revealed that staffing in the municipality’s health sector currently stands at only 48 per cent of the approved establishment, leaving significant gaps in service delivery.

“Recruitment reforms are important because we must fill critical vacancies with competent and dependable professionals if we are to meet the growing demand for services,” Mr. Otimong said.

He added that recruiting qualified personnel strengthens healthcare, education, infrastructure development and other essential government services.

At Bukakata Seed Secondary School, Head Teacher Mr. Emmy Kasule echoed the same message, saying schools can only achieve quality learning outcomes when recruitment is based on competence and professionalism.

“An institution can have modern facilities, but without competent and committed staff, achieving the desired results becomes difficult. Recruitment must always focus on merit and professionalism,” Mr. Kasule said.

Uganda’s decentralisation policy was designed to bring government services closer to the people. Its success, however, ultimately depends on the competence, integrity and professionalism of those entrusted with delivering those services.

Mr. Kumumanya’s directive therefore represents more than an administrative instruction—it is a preventive anti-corruption strategy aimed at safeguarding the integrity of public service from the very beginning of the recruitment process.

By ensuring that government jobs are awarded fairly and transparently, the Ministry hopes to build a public service that is competent, accountable and capable of delivering better services to Ugandans.

The fight against corruption does not begin after public money has been stolen. It begins at the recruitment stage—by ensuring that the right people enter public service through lawful, transparent and merit-based processes.

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The United States has imposed a second round of sanctions on Sudan over allegations that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) used prohibited chemical weapons during the country’s civil war, escalating pressure on the military leadership despite Khartoum’s continued denial of the accusations.

The sanctions, which entered into force on 20 July, expand export controls, impose additional financial and aviation-related restrictions and require the United States to oppose loans and financial assistance to Sudan through international financial institutions. They build on measures introduced in 2025 after the US determined that Sudan had violated the Chemical Weapons Convention.

According to the US Department of State, the latest sanctions are based on a “rigorous and independent national technical assessment” concluding that prohibited chemical weapons were used during the conflict between the SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted on 15 April 2023 and has since created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

Addressing the 112th Session of the Executive Council of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in The Hague on 9 July, US Ambassador Nicole Shampaine said “the prohibition on the use of chemical weapons is absolute and non-negotiable.” She called on Sudan to grant the OPCW Technical Secretariat “immediate, transparent and unrestricted access” to investigate the allegations and urged the authorities to comply with their obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention.

The United States also rejected Sudan’s decision to establish a national committee to investigate the allegations, arguing that domestic inquiries cannot replace independent international verification.

Responding to Khartoum’s announcement, the US delegation said “domestic bureaucratic mechanisms are not a substitute for treaty compliance and independent verification.” It added that Washington had not conducted its own investigation inside Sudan but had shared its technical assessment with the Sudanese authorities and urged them to cooperate fully with the OPCW.

During the OPCW Executive Council meeting, Chad warned that any possession or use of chemical weapons in Sudan would threaten the security and stability of neighbouring countries.

Sudan joined the Chemical Weapons Convention in 1999 and currently serves on the OPCW Executive Council. The United States has questioned whether a country accused of violating the Convention should continue serving on the Organisation’s executive body while the allegations remain unresolved.

Meanwhile, Sudan has dismissed the US allegations and sanctions as politically motivated and unsupported by evidence, further maintaining that the country neither produces, possesses nor uses chemical weapons.

In a statement issued on 20 July, the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said it “categorically rejects the unilateral and illegal sanctions announced by the United States against Sudan based on false allegations.”

US officials said the sanctions are intended to target those responsible for alleged violations rather than the Sudanese population and include exemptions for humanitarian and food assistance.

At the same time, the US delegation warned that “the risk of further chemical weapons use remains a concern, as does the broader violence affecting Sudan’s civilian population.”

Despite the tougher measures, Washington said it remains prepared to support Sudan if it complies with the Chemical Weapons Convention. “We are prepared to support Sudan in this process,” the US delegation said, adding that “the Convention’s integrity depends on our collective commitment to upholding its obligations, and Sudan must take the first steps in this direction.”

The latest sanctions deepen Sudan’s diplomatic and economic isolation as the war enters its fourth year. While the United States says the measures are necessary to enforce the global prohibition on chemical weapons, Sudan insists the accusations are politically motivated and unsupported by evidence. The dispute is likely to intensify international scrutiny of the conflict and increase pressure for an independent OPCW investigation.

 

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By Kasemire Christina Mulinde

Remember when friendships were easy? You saw each other every day at school. You knew everyone’s birthdays without checking your calendar. Plans happened naturally, and nobody had to schedule time to hang out.

Then adulthood arrived, and suddenly everyone was busy. One friend had a job, another moved out of town, and another disappeared for weeks because life simply became overwhelming.

At first, it feels personal. “Why do they not text me anymore?” “Why am I always the one making plans?” “Did I do something wrong?”

Sometimes the answer is yes, but often it is much simpler. People grow, life changes, responsibilities multiply, and friendships do not always end because someone stopped caring. Sometimes they change because life looks different from what it did five years ago.

The hardest part is accepting that not every friendship will stay exactly the same. Some people who were once part of your everyday life slowly become people you only speak to on birthdays. Others surprise you by showing up exactly when you need them most.

Growing up teaches you that friendship is not always measured by how often you talk. Sometimes it is measured by whether you can pick up the conversation months later as though no time has passed.

Of course, not every friendship deserves to be held onto. Some become one-sided, some become competitive, and some leave you feeling more exhausted than happy. Outgrowing people does not make you a bad friend. It makes you honest about who you are becoming.

The goal is not to have the biggest circle. It is to have people who celebrate your wins, check on you during your losses, and make you feel safe enough to be yourself.

As we get older, friendships become less about convenience and more about intention. The people who stay may be fewer, but they are often the ones who matter most.

Maybe growing up is not about collecting more friends. Maybe it is about learning which ones truly feel like home.