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  • Government rehabilitation programme restoring hope among repatriated Ugandans- Maj. Gen. Matsiko 

    Government rehabilitation programme restoring hope among repatriated Ugandans- Maj. Gen. Matsiko 

    The government’s rehabilitation programme for Ugandans repatriated from South Africa is restoring hope, rebuilding confidence, and equipping returnees with the knowledge and skills needed to become productive citizens, Maj. Gen. Henry Matsiko, Joint Staff Political Commissariat of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has said.

    Speaking to the returnees at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi, on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Maj. Gen. Matsiko commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for what he described as his unwavering commitment to protecting Ugandans wherever they are and ensuring they are given a second chance to rebuild their lives.

    The returnees are currently undergoing a two-week government rehabilitation programme that includes psychosocial support, patriotism and ideological orientation, financial literacy, wealth creation, and civic education before they return to their respective districts.

    Maj. Gen. Matsiko said the government’s decision to repatriate Ugandans affected by insecurity and xenophobic violence in South Africa reflects President Museveni’s longstanding commitment to the welfare of Ugandans.

    “This intervention demonstrates the President’s compassion and commitment to his people. Since his youth, he has always stood with those facing hardship. When the government learned that Ugandans were experiencing insecurity in South Africa, it acted swiftly to bring them home safely,” he said.

    He explained that the rehabilitation programme is designed to help the returnees regain confidence, rebuild their lives, and contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

    Drawing lessons from the Biblical parable of the prodigal son, Maj. Gen. Matsiko said the government had chosen compassion over condemnation by welcoming the returnees home and giving them an opportunity to start afresh.

    “Like the father who warmly welcomed the prodigal son, the government has embraced these Ugandans and is preparing them for a new beginning.

    Through psychosocial support, financial education, and patriotic orientation, they are being equipped to rebuild their lives,” he said.

    Maj. Gen. Matsiko urged the returnees to embrace wealth creation, innovation, and entrepreneurship, describing them as the surest pathways to both personal success and national development.

    He observed that although Africa is richly endowed with natural resources and enormous potential, its progress has historically been hindered by slavery, colonialism, and external exploitation.

    According to him, political independence offers Africans an opportunity to restore their dignity through production, innovation, and wealth creation.

    He encouraged the returnees to identify opportunities within their communities rather than wait for formal employment.

    “Jobs are created by people who solve problems in society. Every challenge presents an opportunity to innovate, produce goods and services, and create employment for yourself and others,” he noted.

    The senior UPDF officer also called on Africans to strengthen unity and reject discrimination against one another.
    He said the experiences many Ugandans endured in South Africa highlight the importance of promoting Pan-Africanism, regional integration, and peaceful coexistence across the continent.

    According to Maj. Gen. Matsiko, regional integration expands markets, strengthens security, and creates greater economic opportunities for African countries.

    “The future of Africa lies in unity, not division. Together we are stronger economically, politically, and strategically,” he emphasised.

    Maj. Gen. Matsiko challenged the returnees to reject what he described as the colonial mindset that undermines confidence in Africa and encourages young people to believe that success can only be found abroad.

    Instead, he urged Ugandans to appreciate their country’s peace, favourable climate, improving infrastructure, and growing economic opportunities.

    “We must believe in ourselves, appreciate our country, and recognise that Uganda offers enormous opportunities for those who are willing to work hard,” he said.

    He expressed confidence that the returnees would become ambassadors of patriotism and mindset transformation in their communities.

    “If those who have understood these lessons share them with others, they will inspire a new generation committed to innovation, wealth creation, and national development,” he added.

    The Commissioner of the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), Ms. Hellen Seku, said the rehabilitation programme has already recorded encouraging results.

    She noted that within the two weeks of training, participants had demonstrated remarkable behavioural and attitudinal transformation, reflecting the effectiveness of the government-led sessions.

    “The fourteen days have not been in vain. The returnees have developed a greater love for their country and are already planning how to engage in wealth creation after returning home,” Ms. Seku said.

    She revealed that participants have been organised into groups to facilitate continued engagement under various government wealth creation programmes after completing the rehabilitation.

    According to Ms. Seku, the returnees are leaving Kyankwanzi with renewed patriotism, confidence, and a deeper appreciation of Pan-Africanism.

    “We do not expect anyone to leave here the way they came. Even simple behavioural changes such as cleanliness, discipline, and teamwork demonstrate that the messages are taking root,” she said.

    Ms. Seku commended the various government institutions and facilitators that contributed to the rehabilitation programme, saying their collective efforts had equipped the participants with practical knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose.

    “The facilitators have done an excellent job. The government has played its part by giving them another opportunity. The responsibility now lies with the returnees to utilise the knowledge they have acquired and contribute to national development,” she added.

    The returnees are expected to complete the rehabilitation programme on Sunday, July 19, 2026, before returning to their respective homes, where they will be linked to various government wealth creation initiatives as they rebuild their livelihoods.

    The rehabilitation programme forms part of the government’s broader commitment to supporting Ugandans returning from difficult circumstances abroad by facilitating their successful reintegration into society and empowering them to contribute to the country’s socio-economic transformation.

     

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  • Fik Fameica Tells Fans to Forget About His Wizkid Collaboration

    Fik Fameica Tells Fans to Forget About His Wizkid Collaboration

    The long-awaited collaboration between Fik Fameica and Nigerian superstar Wizkid may never happen, and the Ugandan rapper wants fans to stop waiting for it.

    Fik Fameica says supporters should move on because he no longer expects the project to come to life, even though it once looked like a real possibility.

    Forget about my collaboration with Wizkid and do not anticipate it. I might even bring a bigger and better collaboration than that one.

    Fik’s latest remarks mark a major change in tone after years of expressing hope that the collaboration would eventually happen.

    In 2024, the rapper revealed that negotiations had stalled after Wizkid’s management reportedly asked for around $100,000 to make the collaboration happen, an amount he said he could not afford at the time.

    Even then, Fik insisted he had not given up on the project.

    The collaboration first came into the picture in 2017 when Wizkid visited Kampala.

    During a press conference, the Nigerian superstar listened to Fik perform an acapella version of his hit song “Byenyenya” and expressed interest in working with him, sparking excitement among fans across East Africa.

    Nearly a decade later, Fik appears ready to close that chapter.

    Rather than waiting for a Wizkid feature, the rapper says fans should look forward to what comes next, hinting that he has even bigger collaborations on the way.

  • Minister Babalanda Mourns King David Junior School Victims of Kapchorwa Accident

    Minister Babalanda Mourns King David Junior School Victims of Kapchorwa Accident

    KAMPALA — The Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, has expressed grief over the tragic accident in Kapchorwa that claimed the lives of 20 pupils and Mr. Tadeo Ssekade, founder and director of King David Junior School Ndejje.

    In a condolence message, the Minister said she received the news “with a heavy heart” and extended deepest sympathies to the bereaved families, loved ones, the entire King David community, and the Ministry of Education and Sports.“My deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, the entire King David community Ndejje and Ministry of Education and sports,” she said. Minister Babalanda also prayed for the quick and full recovery of all children still receiving treatment following the accident.

    Bus wreckage

    She commended health teams, community leaders, and regional emergency teams for their courage and compassion in responding to the tragedy. “Sincere gratitude to the health teams, community leaders, and the regional emergency teams for their courage and compassion in responding to the tragedy,” she added.

    Quoting scripture, the Minister offered prayers for comfort and healing. “May the Lord comfort the bereaved families and be a healer to the injured. _‘The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.’ — Psalm 34:18_,” she said.She concluded: _“May their souls rest in eternal peace!”

    The accident has drawn widespread mourning across the country, with leaders and citizens sending messages of support to the affected families and school community.

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  • New Twist in Ex-Minister Ajedra, Aisha Alibhai Divorce Battle

    New Twist in Ex-Minister Ajedra, Aisha Alibhai Divorce Battle

    The bitter divorce dispute between former State Minister for Finance Gabriel Ajedra Aridru and Parliament’s Hansard Editor Aisha Alibhai remains unresolved, with proceedings before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kira continuing without a final determination.

    The case, registered as Divorce Cause No. 24 of 2025, has attracted public attention since RedPepper first reported on the dispute last year. Court records show that both parties have filed competing pleadings, presenting different accounts of the events that led to the breakdown of their marriage.

    The couple got married under Islamic law on April 12, 2021, according to a marriage certificate filed before court.

    Sources familiar with the matter say the proceedings have faced repeated delays since last year, with several scheduled sessions failing to proceed. The sources claim that Alibhai has changed legal representation on multiple occasions, leaving the matter yet to move to a substantive hearing.

    One of the major issues before court is the ownership and occupation of the matrimonial home in Kira Municipality.

    In her pleadings, Alibhai maintains that the property is jointly registered in the names of both parties and that she has a legal interest in the home.

    Ajedra, in his court filings, maintains that the disputed house was constructed before the parties entered into marriage, making the property one of the key issues for determination by court.

    The court documents also indicate that Alibhai has raised concerns regarding communications between Ajedra and his former wife, Elizabeth.

    Ajedra, however, maintains that his communication with Elizabeth is limited to co-parenting their two sons and says he has no intention of rekindling their former relationship.

    Meanwhile, sources close to Ajedra say the former minister has been focusing on rebuilding his personal life as the court battle continues.

    The divorce case remains pending, and no final decision has been made on the competing claims before court.

    RedPepper will continue to follow the proceedings and report developments as they emerge from the court record.


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  • UCAA Present Achievements, Future Priorities as Top Bosses Appear Before Parliament 

    UCAA Present Achievements, Future Priorities as Top Bosses Appear Before Parliament 

    On 16 July 2026, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) presented its strategic direction, performance results, achievements, challenges, and future priorities to the Parliamentary Committee on Infrastructure. The presentation offered Parliament a comprehensive picture of where Uganda’s civil aviation sector stands today and where it intends to be over the next five years. Far from being merely a report on airports and aircraft, the presentation illustrated the critical role aviation plays in national development, tourism, trade, investment, and regional connectivity.

     

     

    At the heart of UCAA’s message which was presented by Director Finance, Hassan Musinguzi was its mandate as the institution responsible for promoting safe, secure, regular, and efficient civil aviation in Uganda. Established by an Act of Parliament in 1991, the Authority serves as regulator, airport manager, infrastructure developer, and provider of air navigation services. These responsibilities make UCAA one of the most strategically important government agencies in the country’s transport sector.

     

     

    The Authority’s long-term vision is to be a leading provider of safe, secure, and sustainable civil aviation services, supported by a mission focused on maintaining the highest standards of safety, security, and service. This commitment is reflected in the strategic plan covering the period FY2025/26 to FY2029/30, which is guided by five core objectives: strengthening the aviation policy and regulatory framework, improving airport infrastructure and services, building an economically viable aviation industry, strengthening institutional capacity, and promoting strategic partnerships.

     

     

    During the presentation, UCAA highlighted how its strategic plan aligns with Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV). The Authority contributes directly to the Integrated Transport Infrastructure and Services Programme, an area considered essential for unlocking economic growth and improving connectivity across the country. In practical terms, this means investing in airports, supporting tourism development, enhancing regulatory oversight, and ensuring that the aviation sector remains capable of meeting both domestic and international standards.

     

     

    Among the most significant interventions planned over the next five years are the continued upgrade of Entebbe International Airport, operationalisation of Kabalega International Airport, rehabilitation and modernization of regional aerodromes, development of an aviation master plan, and reforms aimed at separating aviation regulation from airport operations and management. These initiatives are intended to position Uganda’s aviation sector to meet future demand while supporting broader national development priorities.

     

     

    The Authority also used the opportunity to review its performance for the financial year 2025/26. Overall performance was reported at 79.7 percent, demonstrating substantial progress across a wide range of targets despite operational and financial challenges facing the sector. UCAA recorded total revenue of UGX 346.5 billion, handled approximately 2.36 million international passengers, and maintained a record of zero major safety occurrences during the year. These results underscore the Authority’s continued emphasis on balancing growth with safety and operational reliability.

     

    A deeper look into performance indicators showed that out of 207 planned actions and targets, 121 were completed or achieved implementation levels of at least 80 percent. Another 74 were still in progress but below the 80-percent threshold. This performance demonstrates an organization that is actively executing its plans while recognizing areas that require additional attention and resources.

     

    Performance varied across the Authority’s strategic objectives. The strongest results were recorded under economic viability, which achieved 86.7 percent performance, followed by compliance-related activities at 82.5 percent.

     

    Financial performance formed a major part of the presentation. Aeronautical revenue remained the dominant source of income, generating UGX 276.3 billion and accounting for the vast majority of total revenue. Non-aeronautical revenue contributed UGX 69.2 billion, while government funding amounted to UGX 1 billion. Overall revenue performance reached 86.3 percent of budget.

     

    The revenue structure revealed the continued dependence of Uganda’s aviation sector on core operational services. Passenger service charges, security charges, air navigation fees, and aircraft landing and parking fees remained the key contributors to aeronautical revenue. Meanwhile, non-aeronautical income was driven by rent, utilities, interest income, parking fees, and handling charges. The growing contribution of non-aeronautical revenue demonstrates the Authority’s gradual efforts to diversify its income streams and improve financial sustainability.

     

    Operationally, the year delivered mixed but generally positive outcomes. International passenger traffic registered growth compared to the previous year, while commercial aircraft movements exceeded planned targets. Cargo performance showed contrasting trends, with exports declining compared to the previous period and imports recording a slight decline. Even so, the aviation sector maintained steady activity levels, reinforcing its importance as a driver of commerce, travel, and investment.

     

    A major portion of the presentation focused on achievements in safety and security oversight. UCAA reported successful implementation and maintenance of state safety and security oversight systems, development of its State Safety Programme, implementation of a business continuity plan, and completion of specialized training initiatives. These achievements reflect the Authority’s commitment to maintaining compliance with international aviation standards while continuously strengthening Uganda’s aviation safety framework.

     

    Infrastructure development was another area highlighted before Parliament. Several significant projects were completed during the year, including the new Passenger Terminal Building at Entebbe International Airport, rehabilitation and extension of Apron 1, implementation of Performance Based Navigation systems, acquisition of aircraft recovery equipment, installation of additional security screening equipment, and upgrades at Jinja Airfield. These projects are designed to improve passenger experience, operational efficiency, and airport safety.

     

    The Authority also provided updates on ongoing projects. These include modifications to the passenger terminal building, installation of an airfield ground lighting system, upgrades to airport perimeter roads, construction of access roads and perimeter fencing, construction of a new terminal building at Kisoro, implementation of integrated concession management systems, installation of passenger information systems, and establishment of technical workshops. Together, these projects represent a significant investment in the modernization of Uganda’s aviation infrastructure.

     

    Despite these achievements, UCAA was candid about the challenges facing the sector. Chief among them is the growing debt owed to the Authority by government institutions and Uganda Airlines. As presented to Parliament, overall debt stood at UGX 233.9 billion, including government debt of UGX 91.6 billion and Uganda Airlines debt of UGX 91.7 billion. Such outstanding obligations place pressure on cash flows and reduce the Authority’s ability to finance critical infrastructure and operational requirements.

     

    Other challenges identified include the high cost of developing and maintaining aviation infrastructure, constantly evolving international regulatory requirements, the impact of pandemics and epidemics on air travel, the high cost of training aviation professionals, and limited land available for airport expansion. For each challenge, UCAA outlined mitigation measures ranging from government engagement and international cooperation to capacity building and strategic land acquisition.

     

    Looking ahead, the Authority outlined priorities for FY2026/27. These include addressing international audit findings, accelerating infrastructure development, strengthening institutional capacity, improving revenue generation, and deepening partnerships and collaboration. Revenue projections for the coming year indicate expected collections of more than UGX 402 million as presented in the budget estimates, driven by both aeronautical and non-aeronautical activities as well as government support.

     

    The presentation ultimately conveyed an institution that is pursuing modernization while navigating significant financial and operational constraints. UCAA’s message to Parliament was one of cautious optimism: the foundations for growth have been laid through strategic planning, infrastructure investment, regulatory reforms, and performance improvements. However, sustaining this momentum will require timely funding, debt resolution, continued government support, and successful implementation of ambitious development projects. As Uganda seeks to strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub, the work of UCAA will remain central to connecting the country to opportunities across Africa and beyond

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  • Davido Shares the Difficult Questions His Children Ask About Their Mothers

    Davido Shares the Difficult Questions His Children Ask About Their Mothers

    Davido has opened up about one of the toughest parts of fatherhood, revealing that his children have started asking difficult questions about their family.

    Speaking during a BBC interview, the Afrobeats superstar said his two oldest daughters, Imade and Hailey, wanted to know why they have different mothers and why they do not live with him.

    As his children grow older, he said those conversations have become impossible to avoid.

    My children are coming of age and they have started asking why they have different moms and why don’t they live with me and stuff that kids ask.

    He also recalled one moment that caught him off guard when his eldest daughter, Imade, asked about something she had seen on television.

    One day, my first daughter walked up to me and said, ‘Daddy, I saw you on TV holding and dancing with two girls.’

    Despite those difficult conversations, Davido said he works hard to stay actively involved in all of his children’s lives, even with the demands of his music career.

    Davido is a father of six children and has often spoken about how much family means to him.

    He shares twins with his wife, Chioma Adeleke, and they also lost their son, Ifeanyi, in 2022. His other children are Imade, Hailey, and Dawson, whom he shares with three different women.

    Even with a busy international music career, Davido says he remains committed to being present for each of his children as they grow up.

  • 20 School Children, Director Perish in Kapchorwa Accident

    20 School Children, Director Perish in Kapchorwa Accident

    A school trip meant to give pupils a memorable learning experience has ended in one of Uganda’s deadliest road crashes after 21 people, including 20 pupils, were killed when a school bus overturned in Kapchorwa District.

    Police have confirmed that the devastating crash happened on Thursday evening at Chekwatit Village, Kimawa Parish, Kawowo Sub-county.

    According to Police spokesperson for Traffic and Road Safety SP Michael Kananura, the victims were travelling in an Isuzu school bus, registration number UA 108BQ, belonging to King David Junior School in Ndejje, Makindye Division, Kampala.

    The pupils had been on an educational tour to the famous Sipi Falls and were heading back when tragedy struck.

    Preliminary police investigations indicate that the driver, whose identity has not yet been established, lost control of the bus while descending the road. The vehicle reportedly veered off the road, slammed into a huge roadside rock and overturned.

    The impact killed 20 pupils and one adult male instantly.

    Several other occupants survived with injuries and were rushed to Kaserem Health Centre IV, Kapchorwa General Hospital and Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for emergency treatment. Police said three adult men and several children were among those injured, although the exact number of survivors is yet to be confirmed.

    The bodies of all the deceased were taken to Kapchorwa Mortuary, where they await identification by relatives and postmortem examinations.

    Police have launched investigations to establish the exact cause of the crash, including whether speeding, mechanical failure or other factors contributed to the accident.

    The Uganda Police Force has extended condolences to the bereaved families, the management of King David Junior School and everyone affected by the tragedy, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

    The crash is yet another painful reminder of the dangers on Uganda’s roads, especially during school trips and long-distance travel.

  • King Michael weighs in on Bebe Cool’s 3.6 Bn Mansion

    King Michael weighs in on Bebe Cool’s 3.6 Bn Mansion

    Veteran dancehall star King Michael has shared his thoughts following the noise surrounding fellow musician Bebe Cool’s newly acquired multi-billion-shilling mansion in Bwebajja.

    Bebe Cool recently dominated social media after purchasing a luxurious home reportedly worth $1 million (approximately Shs3.7 billion) for his wife, Zuena Kirema. The exciting news was revealed by Zuena herself through her social media platforms, where she expressed heartfelt gratitude to her husband for upgrading their family’s lifestyle with the stunning property.

    While the mansion attracted admiration from fans, it also sparked conversations about celebrities publicly displaying their wealth.

    Speaking during an interview with Galaxy TV’s Rewind show, King Michael made it clear that although he respects Bebe Cool’s decision to celebrate such a milestone online, he personally no longer believes in showcasing his possessions to the public.

    According to the veteran singer, publicizing every achievement often attracts unnecessary negativity, jealousy, and criticism from people who may not genuinely wish others well.

    “Everyone has their own way of doing things. Personally, I’m way past that. I cannot be posting my assets for people to see because at the end of the day, you create enemies and annoy people. Even when it comes to my family, I never bring them up in the media. You will only know that my daughter is getting married and wonder where she has been. I do not live a life of showing off my achievements, but I congratulate Big Size Bebe Cool,” King Michael said.

    Despite his reservations about flaunting wealth online, King Michael applauded Bebe Cool for reaching such an impressive milestone, adding that the mansion had finally silenced critics who had spent years mocking the Gagamel boss over claims that he did not own a permanent home.

    King Michael also reflected on his own journey in the entertainment industry, revealing that there was a time when he openly embraced a flashy lifestyle. During the height of his fame in the 2000s, he frequently displayed luxury cars, expensive fashion, and lavish living.

    However, he eventually chose to step away from the spotlight when it came to his personal life, preferring to enjoy his success privately instead of seeking validation online.

    The dancehall star noted that many people mistakenly assume he is no longer financially comfortable simply because he rarely posts his lifestyle on social media.

    “Those around me are the only ones who know that I’m living a good life, but a person who doesn’t know will be the one to doubt that. I thank God that the life I’m living is what I dreamt of. I used to do that before, but they always doubted me and it looked like I was just bragging and proving points. But if you look at just my watch, you will definitely know that it is expensive,” he added.

    King Michael’s remarks have reignited the debate over whether celebrities should openly celebrate their wealth or keep their personal achievements private. While some believe sharing success inspires fans, others agree with the veteran singer that keeping certain milestones away from social media offers greater peace of mind.

  • Minister Muyingo halts all educational tours and trips following tragic school bus accident

    Minister Muyingo halts all educational tours and trips following tragic school bus accident

    The acting Minister for Education and Sports in the Ugandan Cabinet, Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, has announced the immediate suspension of all school trips and educational tours across Uganda following the tragic road accident involving pupils of King David Junior School.

    Speaking on behalf of the government, Dr. Muyingo confirmed that no school will be permitted to conduct trips or tours until further notice.

    On behalf of the Government, all school trips and tours across Uganda have been suspended with immediate effect.

    The directive follows a fatal crash that claimed the lives of 20 pupils and one adult from King David Junior School, Ndejje, who were travelling to Kapchorwa for an educational trip.

    The accident occurred at Chekwatit Village, Kimawa Parish, Kawowo Sub-county in Kapchorwa District at around 8:00 p.m.

    The victims were travelling in an Isuzu bus, registration number UA 108BQ, when the crash happened. Apparently, the drivers whereabouts are still unknown since he went on the run.

    In the aftermath of the tragedy, the school’s operations have been suspended for two weeks, with parents directed to pick up their children and take them home.

    Authorities have since launched investigations to establish the exact cause of the deadly accident as the nation continues to mourn the lives lost.

    The post Minister Muyingo halts all educational tours and trips following tragic school bus accident appeared first on MBU.

  • NO MORE SCHOOL TRIPS! Education Minister Suspends All Educational Tours After 21 Pupils Die in Kapchorwa Horror Crash

    NO MORE SCHOOL TRIPS! Education Minister Suspends All Educational Tours After 21 Pupils Die in Kapchorwa Horror Crash

    The Government has immediately suspended all school trips and educational excursions across Uganda following the devastating road crash that claimed the lives of 20 pupils and one adult from King David Junior School in Kapchorwa.

    Education and Sports Minister John Chrysestom Muyingo announced the drastic measure on Friday, saying the safety of learners must come before educational excursions.

    The decision follows Thursday’s horrific crash in Chekwatit Village, Kawowo Sub-county, Kapchorwa District, where a school bus carrying pupils from an educational tour to Sipi Falls overturned after the driver reportedly lost control.

    Addressing journalists, the minister questioned whether school trips were worth the growing loss of children’s lives.

    “Educational trips are important, but are they more important than the lives of our children?” he asked.

    Muyingo declared that all school trips and educational excursions are suspended with immediate effect until further notice, saying the ministry will not stand by as more children continue to die in preventable accidents.

    “We are not going to wait. We are not going to look on as our children are dying,” she said.

    The minister directed the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary to immediately review the national guidelines governing school trips and excursions, noting that although safety guidelines already exist, some schools have failed to implement them.

    She said the review will be conducted in collaboration with the Uganda Police Force to strengthen safety measures before schools are allowed to resume educational travel.

    The minister also reminded all schools that they remain obligated to comply with the existing safety requirements issued by the Ministry of Education and Sports.

    Speaking on Friday while visiting the school for assessment of the situation , the Minister clarified that the school activities and learning have been suspended for two weeks as investigations go on. He further noted that out of 936 learners in the school, 217 went for the school trip in two buses and two other cars. The bus that had 107 children crashed, killing 21 on the spot, including five teachers. He explained that 44 are injured and continue to receive treatment at Mbale Referral and Bulambuli hospital, among others.

    According to the Minister, the government through the Ministry of Education, Youths and Children Affairs is making arrangements to ensure that all learners and teachers who survived or are in need of specialised care return today.

    His announcement came as government leaders visited survivors admitted in hospitals across the Elgon sub-region.

    Meanwhile, Local Government Minister Balam Barugahara praised the extraordinary compassion shown by residents of Kapchorwa, saying he had never witnessed such kindness.

    After touring hospital wards where injured pupils are receiving treatment, Balam said many local women had voluntarily abandoned their daily activities to care for the children as though they were their own.

    “I found two or three women beside every child, caring for them like mothers,” he said.

    According to the minister, some of the women travel more than 20 kilometres every day carrying blankets, bed sheets and other necessities to comfort the injured children.

    “They are changing these children, covering them with blankets and staying beside them. Doctors are paid to do their work, but these women are simply acting out of love. The people of Kapchorwa deserve medals,” Balam said.

    He thanked medical teams and health facilities handling the emergency, including Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Muyembe Health Centre in Bulambuli District, Kaserem Health Centre and Kapchorwa Hospital, where dozens of injured children are receiving treatment.

    The minister revealed that some children suffered extremely severe injuries, including traumatic head injuries and abdominal injuries requiring specialised surgery, prompting transfers to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for advanced care.

    Government officials say every effort is being made to save the remaining survivors while investigations into the cause of the deadly crash continue.

    On Tuesday this week July 14, 2026, in Nawangisa Village along the Mbale-Iganga Highway in Bugweri District, a similar crash happened involving an Isuzu bus registration number UA551ED and a Mercedes Benz Actros truck registration number UBB269V.

    The bus, owned by Amuria High School, was transporting 73 students from St. Paul Secondary School in Katakwi to Kasenyi Landing Site in Entebbe for a geography tour when the accident occurred at approximately 4:45am.

    According to preliminary findings by police, the bus collided with a stationary trailer from behind. The driver of the bus, identified as Kasakya Abdallah, aged 68, died at the scene.

    Police confirmed that 15 other occupants were injured, including students, a teacher and the conductor. The injured victims were evacuated to Iganga General Hospital where they are receiving medical attention.

    Last week , on July 10, 2026, a Friendship Coaches bus carrying students and teachers from Mwebaze High School in Wakiso District collided with a Uganda Railways train at Namumira Village, Mukono District.

    Police said the bus had been hired to transport students and teachers for a study tour to Jinja and was carrying approximately 100 passengers at the time of the crash.

    Preliminary investigations indicated that the bus allegedly failed to stop at a designated railway crossing before attempting to cross the railway line, leading to a collision with the approaching train.

    One female adult, identified as the wife of the school head teacher, died at the scene, while several other passengers sustained injuries and were taken to Mukono General Referral Hospital and other nearby health facilities.

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