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The Amnesty Commission, the government institution established to promote peace, reconciliation and the reintegration of former rebels into society, has come under intense scrutiny after the Auditor General exposed a series of financial, procurement and operational weaknesses that threaten its ability to effectively deliver its mandate.

The Auditor General’s December 2025 report paints a troubling picture of an institution grappling with staffing shortages, stalled procurements, poor records management and unrecovered public funds despite its critical role in implementing the Amnesty Act of 2000.

The Commission, whose vision is to achieve a peaceful and conflict-free Uganda and whose mission is to contribute towards peace and harmony through forgiveness and reconciliation, is responsible for encouraging combatants to abandon rebellion, processing amnesty applications, counselling returnees and supporting their reintegration into communities. However, the latest audit indicates that significant administrative weaknesses continue to undermine these objectives.

The audit revealed that the Amnesty Commission accumulated domestic arrears amounting to UGX 664.46 million by the close of the financial year, raising concerns about the institution’s financial management and its ability to meet outstanding obligations.

Staffing levels were also found to be critically low. According to the Auditor General, the Commission has an approved establishment of 63 positions, but only 30 positions, representing 48 percent, had been filled, leaving 33 positions, or 52 percent, vacant. The shortage of personnel raises questions about the Commission’s capacity to effectively implement its nationwide programmes, including sensitisation on the Amnesty Act, demobilisation of former combatants, counselling, resettlement and reintegration of returnees.

The audit further found significant weaknesses in procurement performance. During the 2024/25 financial year, the Commission planned to undertake 15 procurements worth an estimated UGX 899.81 million. However, auditors established that seven procurements valued at UGX 809.25 million were never implemented, leaving key planned activities unrealised.

Auditors also raised concerns over poor accountability for government property. A review of the Commission’s work plans and performance reports showed that agricultural inputs and tools worth approximately UGX 100 million had been procured for 200 reporters and victims under its reintegration programme. However, the Commission failed to maintain adequate stores records for the procured items, making it difficult to properly account for the distribution and management of the supplies.

One of the most striking findings relates to a vehicle procurement that has remained unresolved for several years. The Auditor General reported that in 2021, the Amnesty Commission contracted a company to supply a Toyota Hiace High Roof at a total contract price of UGX 239.10 million. The Commission paid a deposit of UGX 80 million, but the procurement was never concluded. By the time of the audit, the supplier had neither delivered the vehicle nor refunded the money paid by the Commission, leaving taxpayers exposed to a substantial financial loss.

The audit also questioned budget execution during the year under review. Although Parliament appropriated UGX 1.098 billion to finance the Commission’s recurrent expenditure, only UGX 1.057 billion was warranted, resulting in an overall funding variance of UGX 42 million.

The findings place fresh pressure on the leadership of the Amnesty Commission, headed administratively by Acting Secretary Jabel Bwowe, to explain why these long-standing financial, procurement and operational weaknesses persist within an institution entrusted with one of Uganda’s most sensitive peace-building responsibilities.

The Amnesty Commission occupies a unique position within Uganda’s justice and reconciliation framework. Established under the Amnesty Act of 2000, it provides former insurgents and collaborators with an opportunity to renounce rebellion, surrender weapons, obtain certificates of amnesty and reintegrate into civilian life without prosecution. The Commission is also mandated to promote dialogue among warring parties, sensitise the public on the Amnesty Act, facilitate demobilisation, repatriation, counselling and resettlement of former combatants, and support their return to their communities.

However, the Auditor General’s findings suggest that unless the Commission urgently addresses its staffing shortages, procurement failures, weak record management and financial control weaknesses, its ability to effectively deliver on its mandate of promoting peace, reconciliation and lasting stability could remain under significant strain.

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Concern is mounting over the health of veteran politician and retired military officer Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali, who remains admitted at Nakasero Hospital after being hospitalized earlier this week.

The 87-year-old former Second Deputy Prime Minister has been receiving treatment at the private health facility since the beginning of the week, according to sources familiar with the matter.

On Friday morning, members of Gen. Ali’s family held a closed-door meeting at the hospital. Several of his children, including some who travelled from outside Uganda, were seen arriving at the facility throughout the day.

Among those at the hospital was his son, Ali Siraj, the Minister of State for Works. When approached by Uganda Radio Network after the family meeting to provide an update on his father’s condition, Siraj declined to comment, saying only: “Please don’t write it.”

Later in the afternoon, one of Gen. Ali’s daughters, who had arrived from Sudan, told URN that her father’s condition “was not good,” but did not elaborate.

Government has, however, confirmed that the veteran statesman remains under medical care. When asked about the condition of Gen. Ali at the Government Media Centre on Friday, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Justine Kasule Lumumba, said he was receiving treatment but did not provide further details about his illness or prognosis.

The developments come amid growing public concern and widespread speculation on social media regarding the condition of one of Uganda’s longest-serving political figures.

Gen. Moses Ali, born on April 5, 1939, has played a central role in Uganda’s political and military history for more than five decades. He served as a senior military commander and minister during the Idi Amin administration before leading the Uganda National Rescue Front (UNRF) rebellion in the early 1980s.

Following a peace agreement with President Yoweri Museveni’s government in 1986, he and his fighters were integrated into the National Resistance Army, where he was commissioned as a Major General.

He subsequently served in several senior Cabinet positions, including Minister of Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Third Deputy Prime Minister, First Deputy Prime Minister, and most recently Second Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader of Government Business in Parliament from 2021 to 2026.

Although he was not reappointed to Cabinet following the 2026 General Elections, Gen. Ali retained his parliamentary seat as Member of Parliament for Adjumani West Constituency, extending a political career that has made him one of Uganda’s longest-serving legislators.

As of Friday evening, neither Nakasero Hospital nor Gen. Ali’s family had issued an official statement detailing his medical condition, and no further information had been released regarding his treatment.

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The death toll from the King David Junior School bus crash in Kapchorwa has risen to 26, according to the latest government update, deepening the grief of families gathered at the school as they waited for news about their children.

The government said the victims include 21 pupils and five members of staff, among them the school director, Tadeo Ssekadde. Despite the update, many parents remained in anguish on Friday, saying they still did not know whether their children were among the dead, injured or survivors.

The Acting Minister of Education, Dr John Chrysostom Muyingo, who addressed parents at the school in Ndejje, said the government had formed an inter-ministerial committee to investigate the cause of the crash.

He said 217 pupils and staff had travelled for the educational tour using two buses and support vehicles. The bus involved in the crash was carrying 107 people when it overturned as the group returned from tourist sites, including Sipi Falls. According to the minister, 44 survivors were admitted to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, with several in critical condition.

But for many parents, the official figures offered little comfort. Their biggest concern was knowing the fate of their own children. “We need to know whether our children are safe or not. We need the status of which child is in which situation,” one parent told the minister.

Florence Sitenda, a resident of Kiza Kimwanyi, said she had spent hours searching for information without success. “Up to now, we do not know whether our child died or not. The name is not appearing on the lists being shared,” she said.

As the hours passed, more heartbreaking stories emerged. Atuhire Flavia, the school’s bursar, said one pupil she knew had died while another survived with critical injuries. Another parent, Qureshi Jjumba, broke down in tears after learning that only one of his three children who had gone on the trip had been confirmed alive. The fate of the other two remained unknown.

Although authorities released partial lists of identified victims, many families were still waiting for confirmation. URN has learnt that, frustrated by the lack of clear information, some parents travelled to Mbale and Kapchorwa in search of their children.

The area Member of Parliament, David Sserukenya, appealed for patience, saying officials were still working to identify some of the victims. “We are told some children cannot be identified by eye, and there will be a technical process. Let’s remain calm and allow the ministries of Education and Health to complete the process,” he said.

Parents also appealed to the government to ensure the safe return of pupils who were not involved in the crash, saying reuniting families with their children would help ease the fear and uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Mercy Lakisa, said counsellors had been deployed to the school to provide psychosocial support to parents, pupils and staff affected by the tragedy.

“We have brought in counsellors to support the children, parents and teachers during this difficult moment. The emotional pain of losing loved ones and waiting for information about missing children requires proper support,” Lakisa said.

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Music lovers, artistes and culture enthusiasts have a date with Lunkulu Island this August as the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts returns for its 18th edition, promising three days of unforgettable performances, networking and creative experiences.

Set for August 28 to 30, the festival will once again transform the scenic island into a hub of music, dance, theatre, visual arts and cultural experiences, bringing together some of Uganda’s finest talent alongside international performers.

But beyond the entertainment, this year’s festival has a bigger mission, opening doors for young women pursuing careers in Uganda’s creative industry.

Through the CREATA programme, emerging female creatives will not only perform before large audiences but will also receive mentorship, industry exposure and opportunities to connect with promoters, booking agents and cultural organisations that can help launch their careers.

In an exciting addition, participants in Next Media’s CREATA programme will also be paired with some of Uganda’s top TikTok creators and digital influencers, giving them first-hand insights into content creation, personal branding, audience growth and monetising their talent in today’s digital economy.

For fans, the festival promises much more than concerts. Visitors can look forward to immersive visual art exhibitions, film screenings, creative symposiums, cultural tourism experiences and the inclusive Every BODY Counts dance programme. Wellness activities, sports and mental health spaces will also be part of the experience.

Since making Lunkulu Island its permanent home, Bayimba has hosted some of the continent’s biggest names, including Alpha Blondy, Jose Chameleone, Sheebah, Maddox Sematimba, Spice Diana, GNL Zamba, and King Saha.

Whether you’re looking for great music, creative inspiration or a chance to discover Uganda’s next generation of stars, Bayimba Festival 2026 promises something for everyone.

The festival runs from August 28 to 30 at Lunkulu Island in Buikwe District.

Revolutionary Card has world-class technology designed to Transform Customer Experience and Enhance Financial Freedom

Stanbic Bank Uganda has officially launched the Infinite Card, its latest innovation aimed at their affluent clientele, who will benefit from the advantages of unparalleled financial flexibility.

The card was recently unveiled during an exclusive high profile fine dining experience at the Kampala Serena Hotel.  Arthur Kiwanuka, the Head of Affluent Banking, said the Infinite Card aims to revolutionize the way customers interact with their finances.

Features include no annual fees, global acceptance, and enhanced rewards programs.  Kiwanuka said, “Today marks a significant milestone for us. Our Infinite Card embodies our commitment to innovation and customer-centric banking, extending the world of limitless possibilities because at Stanbic, it’s not just banking!”

Kiwanuka said card holders can now easily manage their finances through a dedicated mobile app that allows for real-time tracking of expenses and customized spending insights. The tool not only simplifies their banking experience, but also empowers them to effortlessly achieve their financial goals.

Salim Kitagenda, the Bank Head of Products said as the banking landscape continues to evolve, the Stanbic Bank remains at the forefront of innovation.

“We want our clients to know that banking should be a source of empowerment, not just a transactional relationship and with the Infinite Card, we are inviting our customers to explore the limitless possibilities that come with effective financial management,” he said.

Other features of the card include Unlimited Cash back. Customers earn cash back on every purchase, with higher rates for transactions in specific categories such as travel, dining, and online shopping.

Cardholders can access airport lounges, travel insurance, and discounts on hotel bookings, making it the perfect companion for frequent travelers. Through its Flexible Payment Options, card users are offered various repayment plans, allowing them to choose what best fits their financial situation.

These features are designed to enhance the customer experience, offering convenience and value in an increasingly fast-paced world.

Sam Mwogeza, the Stanbic Bank Executive Director reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment in driving Uganda’s growth by providing products perfectly tailored to customers’ needs.

“We want to thank you for believing in us; not just at a personal level, but as financial partner for your families and businesses. We want to elevate the role that we play in your financial journey and enable you enhance your lifestyle and create a strong legacy so that your empires can live from generation to generation,” Mwogeza said.

Officials said with Stanbic Bank’s focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and financial empowerment, Uganda’s biggest bank is poised to redefine banking experiences and set new standards in the industry. The Infinite Card represents a bold step toward a future where banking is not just a service, but a pathway to achieving dreams and aspirations.

Mwogeza said Stanbic Bank is led by its purpose; ‘Uganda is our home we drive her growth’.He said, “Some people say of grass being greener everywhere, but at Stanbic we say that the grass is only greener where you water it. So we are committed to water Uganda, water communities at the same time water our customers in what’s important to them. A true measurement of our impact is how on how well you strengthen our communities. That’s why we are dedicated to help our customers have a better life, but also so that the next generation has a better start than the previous one.”

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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on officers from the War College of Mali to embrace patriotism, Pan-Africanism, economic transformation and strategic security as the foundation for Africa’s prosperity, stability and long-term development.

The President made the remarks on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at State House Entebbe while delivering a Lecture of Opportunity to a delegation of student officers from the War College of Mali. The delegation was led by the Commandant of the War College of Mali, Brig. Gen. Moussa Yoro Kanté.

Drawing on more than six decades of involvement in African affairs, President Museveni said the continent’s future depends on addressing what he described as Africa’s three historical missions: creating prosperity, guaranteeing strategic security and promoting African unity.

“I have been involved in African affairs for the last 65 years. I was a follower of Modibo Keita, Kwame Nkrumah and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, and I am a Pan-Africanist,” President Museveni said.

He explained that Africa’s liberation struggle was never solely about attaining political independence but also about creating sustainable prosperity for its people.

“If African people need prosperity like other people, then the question is: where does prosperity come from? It cannot come from begging. Africa has been begging for decades, yet many countries remain poor. Prosperity comes from producing a good or service that other people are willing to buy,” he said.

Using his experience as a cattle keeper, President Museveni illustrated the importance of markets, noting that wealth is created by producing for wider markets rather than for one’s immediate community.

“My tribe cannot make me prosperous because they produce the same things I produce. It is the wider Ugandan market that buys my milk and beef. That is why patriotism is important. Uganda is the market that supports our prosperity,” he said.

The President noted that as production expands, national markets eventually become insufficient, making regional integration indispensable.

“When Ugandans began producing more sugar, textiles, milk and maize, the local market was no longer enough. That is why Pan-Africanism is not just an ideology; it is an economic necessity. Africa provides the larger market that will sustain our prosperity,” he said.

President Museveni also underscored the importance of socio-economic transformation, urging African countries to move beyond subsistence farming to commercial production and wealth creation.

“We told our people to produce not only for the stomach but also for the pocket. Many needs can only be met through money earned from productive economic activity,” he said.

On security, the President stressed that prosperity cannot be sustained without the capacity to defend it.

“You may become prosperous, but if you cannot defend yourself, others will destroy what you have built. Strategic security is therefore the second historical mission,” he said.

He observed that modern warfare has evolved beyond the traditional domains of land, air and sea to include space, arguing that no single African country has the capacity to compete effectively across all four domains on its own.

“Even developed countries such as France, Germany and Britain cannot independently dominate all these areas. That is why political integration in Africa is so important,” President Museveni said.

He welcomed ongoing efforts by Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger to strengthen regional cooperation, saying deeper political and security integration would better position African countries to safeguard their sovereignty and accelerate development.

Speaking about the continent’s current geopolitical challenges, President Museveni said Africa’s renewed vulnerability to external competition stemmed largely from the failure of post-independence leaders to fully unite the continent.

“The new scramble for Africa is a reality because of our mistakes. Once we got our freedom, we did not use it properly to unite ourselves,” he said.

The President also highlighted the importance of value addition, citing Uganda’s dairy industry as an example of how processing agricultural products increases incomes, creates jobs and expands export opportunities.

On terrorism, he said defeating violent extremism requires addressing both ideological and military dimensions.

“The first problem of terrorism is ideological. The second issue is army building. You must build professional forces capable of protecting the country and defeating those who use violence,” President Museveni said.

Earlier, the Commander Joint Staff Training and Doctrine, Brig. Gen. Wycliffe Keita, said the delegation, which arrived in Uganda on July 12, was undertaking a study tour aimed at deepening participants’ understanding of national security, defence transformation, regional peace and security, governance, civil-military relations and national development.

He noted that the delegation had engaged with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) and other institutions to learn from Uganda’s experience in defence, governance and national development.

“Your Excellency, today’s audience with you is the pinnacle of our study visit. You are widely recognised as one of the region’s leading Pan-Africanists because of your commitment to peace, unity and African solutions to African challenges,” Brig. Gen. Keita said.

The Commandant of the War College of Mali, Brig. Gen. Moussa Yoro Kanté, conveyed greetings from Mali’s President, Gen. Assimi Goïta, and thanked President Museveni for Uganda’s continued support to Mali’s defence sector.

“This visit is a direct result of your decision to strengthen military cooperation with Mali. We thank you for the officers who have been trained in Uganda and for your enduring commitment to Pan-Africanism,” Brig. Gen. Kanté said.

He revealed that the 37-member delegation comprises staff, defence officials and student officers from Mali, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Guinea, Morocco, Senegal and Togo.

During the interactive session, participants sought President Museveni’s views on regional security, terrorism, the renewed global competition for Africa’s natural resources and whether Uganda’s National Enterprise Corporation model could be replicated in other African countries.

 

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Police in Nansana have arrested four suspects and recovered more than Shs54 million in cash in connection with the alleged theft of Shs200 million from a residence in Lugazi.

According to a statement issued by the Uganda Police Force on Friday, the arrests followed intelligence received in the early hours of July 16, 2026, indicating that two men were moving around Nansana Heights Building in Ochieng One Zone carrying a bag suspected to contain a large amount of cash.

A team of officers from Yesu Amala Police Station, under the supervision of the Nansana Division Police Commander (DPC), responded immediately and intercepted the suspects. During the operation, the officers arrested two men who were found in possession of Shs35,611,500 in cash.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly told investigators that the money had been entrusted to them for safekeeping by their associate, identified as Kafeero Ramathan.

The suspects later led police to Standard Rose Site Guest House, where Kafeero Ramathan was arrested. Police say preliminary investigations indicate that Kafeero allegedly stole Shs200 million from his grandmother, a resident of Lugazi.

Investigators subsequently contacted the complainant and established that a theft case had earlier been registered at Lugazi Police Station, confirming the reported loss.

Police also arrested another suspect during the operation and recovered additional cash and several items believed to be connected to the alleged theft, bringing the total amount of money recovered to more than Shs54 million.

The four suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities are working to recover the remaining stolen money and establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft.

Police have commended the swift response by officers and the role of intelligence in tracking down the suspects, adding that further inquiries are ongoing before the suspects are presented in court.

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