Another of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie‘s children has taken legal steps to remove “Pitt” from her surname.
Court records show that Zahara Jolie-Pitt has filed to legally change her name to Zahara Marley Jolie, marking the latest move by one of the former couple’s children to distance themselves from their father’s surname.
Under California law, the filing includes a public notice before the court can approve the request.
Zahara is not the first of the couple’s six children to make such a change.
In 2024, Shiloh legally dropped “Pitt” from her surname after turning 18. Vivienne has also appeared professionally as Vivienne Jolie, while reports indicate that Maddox has begun the legal process to change his name to Maddox Chivan Jolie.
The latest filing has renewed public interest in the long-running family dispute that followed Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s separation in 2016.
Jolie filed for divorce after an incident aboard the family’s private jet. She later accused Pitt of abusive behavior during the flight, allegations he has consistently denied.
The FBI and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services investigated the incident but closed their inquiries without bringing criminal charges against the actor.
Neither Brad Pitt nor Zahara has publicly commented on the latest name-change filing, and the court documents do not give a reason for her decision.
The petition is expected to be considered by a California court following the completion of the required legal notice process.
Segmento has no problem with fans enjoying the AI version of Ayibambe.
In fact, he says they have him to thank for it.
The gospel singer, real name Jordan Ssekamate, revealed that he personally created and uploaded the AI version of the song, insisting he has no regrets despite criticism from some fans.
I personally put that song in AI, but the only mistake I made was using a lady’s voice. I do not regret doing it because it is my song.
While some concertgoers have reportedly called for the AI version during live performances, Segmento says the requests only remind him of one thing.
No technology can replace a real performance.
When people shout that they want AI instead of me, it does not make me feel bad. It actually makes me happy because they have nowhere to get AI to sing for them at concerts. They still need me in person to perform.
The singer now hopes to prove that point with his next concert.
He admitted his previous show fell short because of poor decisions on his part but believes experience and professional guidance have changed the way he approaches live events.
The last time I organized a show, things did not go well because I was young and I did things I now regret. This time I have changed, and I have a promoter who will handle everything professionally.
The appointment of Godfrey Byekwaso as the new Managing Director of Centenary Bank marks more than a leadership transition at Uganda’s largest commercial microfinance bank. It signals continuity, institutional confidence and a deliberate succession strategy aimed at sustaining one of the country’s most remarkable banking growth stories.
Effective 1st July 2026, Byekwaso took over from Kasi whose 16-year tenure has transformed Centenary Bank from an indigenous financial institution into a dominant force in Uganda’s banking sector. Under Kasi’s leadership, Centenary Bank has expanded its footprint, deepened financial inclusion, strengthened digital banking and grown into a financial powerhouse with assets exceeding UGX 8.6 trillion, profit after tax of UGX 424.2 billion, over 3.4 million customers, customer deposits of UGX 5.27 trillion and a loan book of UGX 4.16 trillion as of December 2025.
This growth has been built on strong governance, prudent risk and financial management, customer trust and a clear mission of serving communities across Uganda especially the underserved.
Byekwaso’s appointment reflects the bank’s commitment to continuity, institutional stability and sustainable growth. Having served within the Centenary family since 2012, he brings deep institutional knowledge, proven leadership experience and a strong understanding of the bank’s mission, purpose, culture and strategic priorities.
During his tenure as General Manager Finance and Chief Financial Officer, he played a central role in strengthening the bank’s financial performance, operational resilience and growth strategy. He worked closely with the executive leadership team during a period when the bank expanded its national footprint, strengthened digital banking services and consolidated its position as Uganda’s leading microfinance and retail bank.
Outgoing Managing Director, Fabian Kasi (R) handover instruments of office to incoming Managing Director, Godfrey Byekwaso (2nd L) in presence of Board Chairman of Centenary Bank Uganda, Bwoch Gustavio Orach Lujwero
In April 2023, Byekwaso was appointed as the Deputy Managing Director, Centenary Bank Malawi following the Group’s acquisition there; the first cross border expansion by a Ugandan bank. He was later in October 2024 elevated to Managing Director where he led the bank through a turnaround to profitability.
His return to Uganda therefore comes with valuable regional experience, broader strategic exposure and tested leadership credentials that position him well to guide Centenary Bank Uganda into the next phase of growth.
One of the most significant aspects of this transition is the long-standing relationship between Kasi and Byekwaso. The two leaders first worked together at FINCA Uganda before reuniting at Centenary Bank. This long-standing professional relationship has helped shape a shared commitment to financial discipline, customer-centric service, innovation and institutional excellence. As a result, the transition has been seamless, preserving the values and strategic focus that have defined the bank’s success over the years.
Byekwaso is recipient of several industry accolades, including the Finance Transformation Award (2018), Strategy Execution Award (2019) and CFO of the Year (2020) at the ACCA Uganda CFO Awards. He holds a Master of Business Administration (Finance) and a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) from Makerere University and a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA) and a Member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU).
He has served on several Boards and governance committees, including as: Board Member and Chairperson of the Operations Committee, Bankers Association of Malawi, Board Member, National Switch of Malawi, Chairperson of the Audit Committee, Inter-University Council for East Africa, Chairman of the Board, St. Lucia Namagooma Secondary School, Member of the Finance and Investment Committees of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe.
In addition to his executive banking career, he is a Partner at DATIVA & Associates Certified Public Accountants, providing quality assurance, audit, financial review and strategic advisory services.
Outgoing Managing Director, Fabian Kasi (R) shares a handover handshake with incoming Managing Director, Godfrey Byekwaso (2nd L) as Board Chairman of Centenary Bank Uganda, Bwoch Gustavio Orach Lujwero looks on
Beyond the boardroom, Byekwaso is a passionate advocate for ethical leadership and community development, having served on numerous corporate, professional and faith-based boards across the region.
He has provided leadership in professional and community organizations, serving as: Pioneer President, CEO Apprenticeship Program Alumni Association, Pioneer Chairman, Uganda Bankers CFO Forum, District Treasurer, Rotary District 9213 and he is a past President, Rotary Club of Kiwatule.
The story of Centenary Bank over the decades has largely been defined by consistent growth, prudent management and an unwavering focus on financial inclusion. The transition from Fabian Kasi to Godfrey Byekwaso is designed to ensure that that story continues. In many ways, the moment represents not an end of an era, but the evolution of one.
As the Bank enters this new chapter, customers, shareholders, partners, regulators, and staff can remain confident in the institution’s strategic direction, operational strength and long-term commitment to transforming lives through inclusive and innovative financial solutions especially in rural areas sustainably.
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The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Mr. Aggrey David Kibenge, has urged ghetto youth in the Busoga sub-region to embrace a positive mindset, discipline and hard work as key pillars for personal and community transformation.
The Permanent Secretary emphasised that mindset change is essential if ghetto youth are to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
“If you receive government funding to start or expand a business but instead use it to marry, then the intended purpose of the money is defeated. That is why a positive mindset is very important. You must think positively if you want to succeed,” he said.
Mr. Kibenge made the remarks while addressing participants during the final day of the Busoga Sub-region Ghetto Structure Leaders’ Retreat held on Monday, July 13, 2026, at Bishop Willis Centre in Iganga Municipality.
The three-day retreat, held under the theme “Empowering the Ghettos for a Crime-Free Society,” brought together leaders from 131 ghetto depots across the 11 districts and one city in the Busoga sub-region.
Mr. Kibenge explained that one of the core mandates of the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development is to empower communities such as the ghettos by enabling them to realise their full potential through skills development, increased labour productivity and cultural development.
“We promote gender equality, protect vulnerable groups, create decent jobs and build strong social cohesion for all citizens,” he said. He encouraged the youth not to lose hope, noting that everyone deserves an opportunity to rebuild their lives.
“We were all created in the image of God. From the beginning, we are equal, and that means we all have the ability to achieve our dreams. Along the way, some of us lose focus and take the wrong path. What we need is another chance to do what is right, and that is why rehabilitation programmes like this are important,” he said.
Mr. Kibenge reminded the participants that the government’s responsibility is to create an enabling environment where citizens can utilise their talents and skills to improve their livelihoods.
“President Museveni has always emphasised that you cannot transform society without transforming people. Development revolves around people, not merely the resources we possess,” he said.
He added that the government is committed to restoring hope, instilling discipline among ghetto communities through their leaders and supporting them to achieve economic transformation.
Speaking about youth development, Mr. Kibenge noted that Uganda’s youthful population requires deliberate planning and investment.
“Out of every 100 Ugandans, about 73 are below the age of 30. This means we must plan effectively for the youth. Failure to do so exposes communities to challenges such as poverty,” he said.
He highlighted several government interventions aimed at empowering young people, including Universal Education programmes, the Parish Development Model (PDM), the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP), the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) and the Jua Kali initiative.
“Youth like you can access funding through the Youth Livelihood Programme and invest collectively. Those in the creative industry are also supported. Last year, the government injected Shs28 billion into the creative sector. If you are organised, it becomes easier to benefit from these programmes,” he noted.
Mr. Kibenge also encouraged the ghetto youth to enrol in the government’s Industrial Skilling Hubs to acquire technical and vocational skills that can enable them to create self-employment opportunities.
He further revealed that the Ministry of Gender operates an apprenticeship programme through which skilled youth are attached to companies and receive a monthly stipend of Shs540,000 during their training.
He underscored the importance of the ghetto structures in transforming communities and urged the newly elected leaders to be hardworking, honest, patriotic and to reject drug abuse and criminal activities.
The Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilisation, who also serves as Deputy Press Secretary to H.E the President, Alhaji Faruk Kirunda, informed the Permanent Secretary that the government last year injected Shs1.2 billion into the 12 Ghetto SACCOs in the Busoga sub-region to support youth with affordable start-up capital for businesses and other income-generating activities.
He explained that the retreat, which commenced on Saturday, July 11, 2026, forms part of the government’s broader rehabilitation and empowerment programme aimed at transforming ghetto communities, promoting responsible leadership, reducing crime and integrating youth into national development programmes.
“During this retreat, we have equipped the leaders with leadership skills and strategies for mobilising their communities to fight poverty and transform their lives. The participants represent the 11 districts and one city in the Busoga sub-region,” he said.
Alhaji Kirunda reassured the ghetto youth of continued government support through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and other government ministries, departments and agencies.
“The Ministry of Gender has several grants and poverty alleviation programmes that the youth can benefit from,” he added.
The Iganga Resident State Attorney, Ms. Peace Biira, who represented the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), urged the ghetto leaders to work closely with the Office of the DPP and other law enforcement agencies to promote a crime-free society.
She highlighted serious offences handled by the DPP, including aggravated murder, rape and drug-related offences, warning that some of these crimes attract prison sentences of up to 15 years upon conviction and life sentence.
She urged the leaders to sensitise fellow youth to stay away from crime and become responsible citizens.
Busoga Ghetto Leaders Swear-in:
At the same event, the Chairperson of the Busoga Ghetto Electoral Commission, Mr. Hatim Waiswa Mpaata, introduced the newly elected Busoga Ghetto Giant, Mr. Blessing Byakika from Jinja City, who took the oath of office.
The oath was administered by the Chief Magistrate of Iganga Chief Magistrate’s Court, His Worship Kenneth Komakech.
Other regional executive members and district ghetto leaders representing the 131 ghetto depots across Busoga were also sworn-in.
The newly elected executive committee comprises: Blessing Byakika (Ghetto Giant), Frank Tanaz (General Secretary), Sserwadda Sharny (Secretary for Finance/Treasurer), Makanika Fahad (Secretary for Rehabilitation and Empowerment), Oundo Gilbert (Secretary for Research, Security and Intelligence), Anisha Takali Nanzala (Secretary for Mobilisation), Bulagala Najib (Ghetto Spokesperson), Basoma Isaac (Secretary for Welfare) and Naikoba Rehema (Secretary for Female Affairs).
The retreat was organised by the Office of the Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilisation, in collaboration with the Uganda Police Force’s Crime Intelligence Directorate.
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American fitness influencer Ashton Hall has revealed that he was unable to visit Uganda during his recent African tour because of U.S. entry measures linked to the country’s Ebola outbreak.
The 30-year-old content creator, who toured Ghana, Rwanda, and Nigeria over the past two weeks, said Uganda was originally part of his travel plans before he decided to leave it off his itinerary.
Speaking during a livestream, Hall explained that travelling through Uganda, even for a layover, could have complicated his return to the United States.
If you go through Uganda and have a lay over there. You cannot leave Africa they send you back. If I had not landed in Las Vegas they would send me back to Africa for 20 days. Because I guess there is an outbreak.
According to Hall, the U.S. entry measures made it impossible to include Uganda on his itinerary despite his interest in visiting the country.
His comments come as Uganda continues to strengthen surveillance and response efforts following confirmed Ebola cases linked to the wider regional outbreak.
While the World Health Organization has advised against blanket travel restrictions, some countries have introduced additional public health measures for travellers arriving from affected areas.
In the dynamic and rapidly expanding digital landscape of Uganda, a new generation of entrepreneurs is emerging, leveraging social media platforms to transform personal passions into thriving businesses.
Among these innovators, Namatovu Hilda stands out as a compelling example of how authentic online engagement can translate into tangible commercial success.
At just 23 years old, Hilda has masterfully converted her fervent interest in automobiles and a burgeoning TikTok audience into a registered automotive accessories enterprise, Hilda Car Accessories Kampala, strategically located in the bustling Mengo district of Uganda’s capital.
This extensive news story delves into Hilda’s remarkable journey, exploring the genesis of her digital presence, the strategic pivot from content creation to retail, the operational intricacies of her business, and her significant contribution to Uganda’s burgeoning creator economy.
The Genesis of a Digital Journey: Passion for Cars on TikTok
Hilda Namatovu’s foray into the digital realm began not with a meticulously crafted business plan, but with a genuine and unadulterated passion for cars.
Her initial presence on TikTok was a personal outlet, a space where she could freely express her enthusiasm for vehicles, share her reactions to different car models, highlight accessories that caught her eye, and engage in general discussions about the automotive industry.
Unlike many content creators who embark on their digital journeys with a clear monetization strategy, Hilda’s early videos were characterized by an authentic, uncommercial intent. She simply loved cars, and her content reflected this pure interest, resonating with a growing audience who shared her fascination.
Her early TikTok feed was a vibrant tapestry of informal car commentary. Viewers would find her reacting to the latest car designs, showcasing innovative accessories, and offering her candid opinions on various automotive features.
This organic approach to content creation proved to be her most potent asset. Her authenticity and relatable style quickly built a substantial following, creating a community of car enthusiasts who valued her insights and shared her passion.
This period of genuine engagement laid the foundational trust that would later become the bedrock of her commercial success. It was a testament to the power of niche content and the ability of social media to connect like-minded individuals across geographical boundaries.
From Digital Engagement to Commercial Venture: The Birth of Hilda Car Accessories Kampala
The pivotal moment in Hilda’s journey arrived when her audience’s engagement began to shift from purely conversational to overtly transactional. Her followers, captivated by the accessories and modifications she showcased, started inquiring about where they could purchase similar items.
Questions like “Where can I buy those seat covers?” or “Who installed those lighting systems?” became increasingly common. Some even sought her assistance in sourcing specific car parts or recommending reliable installers . This consistent pattern of inquiries served as an undeniable market signal, revealing a clear demand that extended beyond mere entertainment.
Recognizing this unmet need, Hilda saw an opportunity to bridge the gap between her online influence and a tangible commercial offering. This realization marked her strategic pivot from being solely a content creator to an entrepreneur.
The transition was not impulsive; it was a deliberate response to the expressed desires of her loyal audience. To formalize her venture and instill confidence among potential customers and suppliers, Hilda registered Hilda Car Accessories Kampala with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).
This crucial step provided her business with legal standing, transforming her passion project into a legitimate enterprise. The establishment of a formal business entity was a critical differentiator, setting her apart from informal online sellers and building a robust foundation for sustainable growth.
Strategic Location and Product Offerings: Eden Mall, Mengo
The choice of location for Hilda Car Accessories Kampala was a strategic masterstroke. Her shop, T119, is situated within Eden Mall in Mengo, a district renowned as Kampala’s primary automotive corridor.
This area is a hive of activity, housing numerous car repair garages, spare-parts dealers, and a multitude of other automotive accessories shops. The proximity to landmarks like FUFA House and Kisekka Auto Centre Plaza further enhances its visibility and accessibility, making it a natural destination for motorists seeking automotive solutions.
However, Hilda’s approach to marketing and customer acquisition in this competitive environment is distinctly modern. Unlike many traditional traders in Mengo who rely heavily on walk-in traffic and conventional signage, Hilda Car Accessories leverages its founder’s digital prowess.
Her TikTok videos serve as both engaging content and potent advertising. She regularly showcases new stock, provides live demonstrations of product installations, and directly addresses questions from potential buyers . This innovative marketing strategy allows customers to experience products virtually before making a physical visit to the shop, creating a seamless journey from online discovery to in-store purchase.
The product range at Hilda Car Accessories Kampala is carefully curated to meet the diverse needs of Ugandan motorists.
The inventory includes a comprehensive selection of interior accessories designed to protect and personalize vehicle interiors, such as premium seat covers, stylish steering wheel covers, and durable car carpets.
For those seeking technological upgrades and enhanced entertainment, the shop offers a variety of electronics, including Android radios and advanced sound systems, alongside custom LED lighting solutions for both aesthetic appeal and improved visibility. Furthermore, recognizing the unique challenges posed by Uganda’s road conditions, Hilda Car Accessories also stocks practical maintenance products like heavy-duty shock absorbers, car fragrances, and specialized items for headlight restoration.
Each product is selected with an emphasis on quality, functionality, and value, ensuring that customers receive reliable solutions tailored to their specific requirements.
The Power of Personal Branding and Trust
Central to the success of Hilda Car Accessories Kampala is Hilda Namatovu’s personal brand. She remains the face of her business, frequently appearing in her promotional videos, explaining product features, and engaging directly with her audience.
This direct interaction has been instrumental in building a profound sense of trust and familiarity with her customer base. Unlike anonymous online sellers, many of Hilda’s customers feel a personal connection with her, having followed her journey and insights on social media long before she ventured into retail.
This parasocial relationship, cultivated over months or even years of consistent online engagement, forms a unique bond that transcends traditional customer-seller dynamics.
This personal credibility is a significant asset in a market where trust is paramount. Customers are not just buying products; they are buying into Hilda’s expertise, her passion, and her commitment to quality.
Her willingness to answer technical questions and provide genuine recommendations reinforces her image as a knowledgeable and trustworthy authority in the automotive niche. This approach has allowed Hilda Car Accessories to differentiate itself in a crowded market, fostering a loyal customer base that values authenticity and personalized service.
The business’s reputation is intrinsically linked to Hilda’s personal credibility, a dynamic that she skillfully manages by maintaining a consistent and authentic content style across all her platforms.
Contributing to Uganda’s Creator Economy
Hilda Namatovu’s entrepreneurial success is not an isolated phenomenon but rather a vivid illustration of a broader trend within Uganda’s burgeoning creator economy. Across the country, a growing number of content creators are leveraging their social media audiences to establish and scale physical businesses.
This model is particularly prevalent in sectors where visual demonstration and personal endorsement hold significant sway, such as fashion, beauty, food, and household products.
Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become indispensable sales channels, enabling creators to bypass traditional retail barriers and connect directly with their target markets.
This creator-led business model holds particular significance in Uganda, where direct platform payments for creators are often limited or unavailable. Consequently, many Ugandan creators have innovated alternative monetization strategies, relying on brand partnerships, direct product sales, and the establishment of their own businesses.
Hilda’s journey exemplifies this adaptive spirit, showcasing how creators can transform their influence into sustainable economic ventures. Her success underscores the potential of the creator economy to generate employment, foster entrepreneurship, and contribute to national economic growth, particularly among the youth. The government of Uganda has also recognized this potential, signaling moves to monetize TikTok and X creators, further legitimizing and supporting this evolving sector.
Future Aspirations and Challenges
Looking ahead, Hilda Namatovu harbors ambitious plans for the expansion of Hilda Car Accessories Kampala. Her vision includes diversifying the shop’s product range to encompass an even wider array of automotive accessories and introducing mobile installation services to enhance customer convenience.
She is also exploring the possibility of opening additional branches in other strategic locations or developing a dedicated online shopping platform to extend her reach beyond Kampala.
These plans reflect a forward-thinking approach aimed at solidifying her market position and catering to a broader customer base.
However, like any rapidly growing enterprise, Hilda Car Accessories faces its share of challenges. The business’s continued growth is heavily reliant on Hilda’s personal visibility and consistent engagement. While her personal brand is a significant asset, scaling operations will necessitate the development of robust systems that can function effectively even when she is not personally overseeing every sale or appearing in every promotional video.
Ensuring a reliable supply chain, fostering repeat customer loyalty, and building a team capable of upholding her brand’s values will be crucial for long-term sustainability. The transition from a founder-centric operation to a more institutionalized business model will require strategic planning and careful execution.
Furthermore, the broader context of Uganda’s automotive market presents its own set of complexities, including issues such as counterfeit products and the need for adaptable solutions suited to local road and climate conditions.
Hilda’s commitment to offering curated, high-quality products and expert advice positions her well to navigate these challenges. Her hybrid online-offline model, which prioritizes trust and community engagement, provides a competitive edge in a market that values both convenience and reliability.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Empowerment
Namatovu Hilda’s story is a powerful narrative of innovation, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her journey from a passionate TikTok creator to the owner of a thriving automotive accessories business in Mengo serves as an inspiring blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs in Uganda and beyond.
She has not only demonstrated the immense potential of social media as a Launchpad for commercial success but has also highlighted the critical role of authenticity, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication in building a sustainable enterprise.
Through Hilda Car Accessories Kampala, she is not merely selling products; she is fostering a community, building trust, and empowering other young Ugandans to pursue their passions and leverage digital platforms for economic advancement. Her contribution to the creator economy extends beyond her personal achievements, serving as a testament to the transformative power of digital entrepreneurship in a developing nation.
As Hilda continues to drive her business forward, her legacy will undoubtedly be defined by her ability to blend digital influence with tangible commercial success, inspiring a new generation to turn their passions into prosperity.
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The public service is the engine of our nation. From the village health worker, to the teacher in the classroom, to the Resident District Commissioner coordinating government programs in the district, every public office exists to serve the people of Uganda.
Yet in recent years, a dangerous rumor has spread in communities across the country: that government jobs, especially political appointments like RDCs, are “for sale.” That you must know someone, pay someone, or have “connections” to be considered. This belief is not only false. It is harmful. It discourages qualified Ugandans, breeds corruption, and undermines trust in government.
As public servants, it is our duty to set the record straight: Government jobs, including the office of RDC, are not for sale.
1. What the Law and Policy Say Appointment to public office in Uganda is guided by the Constitution, the Public Service Act, and the NRM Manifesto of service and merit. For public service jobs, recruitment is done by the Public Service Commission and District Service Commissions through open advertisement, interviews, and shortlisting based on qualifications.
For political appointments such as Resident District Commissioners, Deputy RDCs, and Assistant RDCs, the process is guided by His Excellency the President, in coordination with the Minister for Presidency. The President, as the appointing authority, makes the final appointments.
At no point in this process is money a requirement. Any person who tells you to pay money for a government job is lying, and they are committing a crime.
2. The Role of Leadership in Clearing the Air This misconception has persisted for too long because it was not confronted openly. That is why I wish to sincerely thank Hon. Minister for Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda, for severally coming out publicly to clarify that RDC jobs are not for sale.
She has consistently told Ugandans that no one should pay money to anyone promising an RDC appointment. She has directed that any such cases be reported to police and to her office. Her clear and repeated communication has helped to protect young people and party cadres from fraudsters who prey on hope and desperation.
Such leadership is what we need. When leaders speak with one voice, the public gets clarity and the conmen lose space to operate.
3. The Damage Caused by “Job Selling” Rumors When people believe that jobs are sold, three things happen:
First, qualified people stay away. A graduate with good papers but no money concludes “I have no chance” and does not even apply. We lose talent.
Second, corruption is normalized. Some people are cheated and lose their savings to fraudsters. Others who manage to pay, once in office, feel entitled to “recover” their money through abuse of office.
Third, public trust erodes. Citizens start to believe that government does not care about merit or service, but only about money. That is a direct attack on the NRM principle of service to the people.
We cannot build the Uganda we want on foundations of bribery and deceit.
4. How Appointments Are Actually Done From experience in the field, here is how it works in practice: 1. Vetting: Background checks are done on integrity, academic documents, and track record in community service.
2. Shortlisting and Approval: A list is compiled and submitted through proper channels for consideration by the appointing authority. 3. Deployment and Induction: Those appointed are deployed and taken through induction on their role of monitoring government programs and mobilizing the population.
At every stage, the focus is on competence, character, and commitment to service. Not money.
5. What Citizens and Leaders Must Do A. Citizens: Do not pay anyone. If someone asks you for money for a government job, record the details and report to police, ISO, or the Office of the RDC. Protect yourself and others. B. Local Leaders: Use barazas, radio, and community meetings to spread this message. Tell parents, youth, and job seekers the truth. C. Public Servants: Lead by example. Be transparent. Treat every applicant fairly. D. Media and CSOs: Help us amplify the correct information and expose fraudsters.
6. The Way Forward: Merit and Service President Museveni has repeatedly emphasized that government must be built on merit and service. Uganda has too many challenges of poverty, unemployment, and service delivery to waste offices on people who bought their way in.
We need RDCs and public servants who understand government programs like PDM, Emyooga, and Parish Model. We need people who can mobilize communities, fight corruption, and ensure that government services reach the last person.
That can only happen if we protect the integrity of the recruitment and appointment process.
Let me repeat it clearly: Government jobs, including RDCs, are not for sale.
To every young person in Kawempe, in Kampala, and across Uganda: study hard, serve your community, be disciplined, and apply through the right channels. Your qualifications and character are your application.
To the fraudsters: stop deceiving Ugandans. The long arm of the law will catch up with you.
I once again thank Hon. Minister Milly Babirye Babalanda for her boldness in addressing this issue. Her voice has given hope to many and has protected many from being swindled.
A government that works for all of us must be built on truth, merit, and service. And that starts with how we recruit those who serve.
_The writer is the Deputy RCC Kampala City – Kawempe Division_
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The singer is appealing for financial support as he works to rebuild his life and revive a music career that once showed so much promise.
In a video circulating on social media, Alimpa asks well-wishers to stand with him as he tries to get back on his feet after a difficult period marked by personal and legal challenges.
His recent struggles have sparked concern among fans, with some attributing his troubles to alleged drug abuse and the company he has kept in recent years. Others say the challenges have also strained his relationship with members of his family.
After regaining his freedom from prison, veteran singer Mamuli Katumba, his friend Butida, and Kiddee were among those reported to have supported him during his recovery.
However, some people close to the singer claim he later distanced himself from those who tried to help and returned to the same circle of friends they believe contributed to his struggles.
As Alimpa appeals for support, many fans hope the assistance he receives will help him rebuild his life and eventually return to doing what first made him a household name.
A school trip bus accident in Bugweri District that left one person dead and 15 others injured has renewed concerns about road safety, coming just days after another crash involving learners in Mukono District claimed one life.
The latest accident happened today, July 14, 2026, at around 4:45am in Nawangisa Village along the Mbale-Iganga Highway, where an Isuzu bus carrying students from St. Paul Secondary School in Katakwi collided with a stationary trailer.
The bus, owned by Amuria High School, was transporting 73 students to Kasenyi Landing Site in Entebbe for a geography tour when the crash occurred.
Police said the driver, Kasakya Abdallah, 68, died at the scene, while 15 people, including students, a teacher and the conductor, sustained injuries and were rushed to Iganga General Hospital for treatment.
The accident comes just days after another fatal crash involving a school trip in Mukono District, where a bus carrying students and teachers from Mwebaze High School in Wakiso District collided with a Uganda Railways train at Namumira Village.
The July 10 accident left one female adult, identified as the wife of the school head teacher, dead, while several other passengers were injured.
Police said preliminary findings indicated that the bus allegedly failed to stop at the railway crossing before attempting to cross the railway line. The driver reportedly fled the scene and remains wanted.
Today, Parliament’s Committee on Physical Infrastructure has summoned Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama to explain the rising number of road accidents and measures being taken to improve road safety.
The committee, chaired by Mbarara South MP Mwine Mpaka, said the minister will appear alongside technical officials from the ministry to respond to concerns affecting the transport sector.
The committee also wants explanations on the increasing number of abandoned road projects, with Mpaka saying several road projects across the country have stalled after contractors abandoned works, affecting transport and service delivery.
For Ugandan businessman Ssekaayi Simon, the journey into media was not a straight path. Before becoming associated with media ownership, he moved through different phases of work, including operating as a boda boda rider and later running a retail shop, experiences that shaped his ambitions as an entrepreneur.
Simon, who attended Makamba Memorial and later pursued secondary education in Wakiso District, would eventually venture into business and entertainment before returning to the media industry.
His first major step into media came through Horizon Media Uganda, a company he founded in 2008. The venture started as a video production and news company based in Ssumba, Wakiso District, providing news coverage and filming services for social events and ceremonies.
Over time, Horizon Media Uganda expanded its operations and developed a reputation as a growing video production and news platform in Wakiso. The company, however, later faced financial difficulties that resulted in its collapse.
After the setback, Simon shifted focus to other ventures, including a disco sound events business and property development in Buddo. The period away from media became a time of rebuilding after the challenges that had affected his first media venture.
Years later, Simon returned to the media sector through Uganda National Media Group (UNMG), a company created after the restructuring of Horizon Media Uganda. UNMG was relaunched with a different corporate structure, operating as a private limited company with shares rather than being centred around one individual.
Supporters of the restructuring argue that the new structure represents a different approach from the previous venture. Ssali Paddy, who has followed Simon’s journey, said the businessman had created a company structure that showed lessons had been learned from the past.
“The businessman should be given a chance,” said Magoola Emmanuel, arguing that Simon’s return reflects a struggle to rebuild his place in the media industry.
UNMG’s leadership says the company intends to focus on factual and balanced journalism as it seeks to establish itself in Uganda’s changing media landscape.
For Simon, the transition from an earlier failed media venture to a new company structure represents an attempt to turn past challenges into a foundation for a second chapter in media entrepreneurship.
Outside business, Simon is a father of three daughters and remains involved in property development and other business activities.
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