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As the world marks International Women’s Day, Uganda joins the global community in celebrating the women with the theme  “Scaling up Investment to Accelerate Access to Justice for all Women and Girls in Uganda,” Over the past decades, Uganda has made notable progress in promoting women into positions of authority from Parliament and cabinet ministries to district leadership and public institutions. These gains were not accidental, they were the result of deliberate policies, advocacy by women’s movements, and the determination of generations who believed that women must have a voice in shaping the future of the nation.

However, celebrations such as International Women’s Day also offer a moment for reflection. As Ugandans celebrate women’s achievements, an important question emerges towards how effectively are women in leadership using their positions to advance justice, peace, and the protection of citizens’ rights?

Many citizens hoped that increasing the number of women in positions of power would bring stronger advocacy for social justice and human dignity. Women leaders are often viewed as voices for families, communities, and vulnerable populations. They carry the expectation that their leadership will reflect empathy, fairness, and courage when national challenges arise. Yet during times when the country faces serious political and social concerns, many citizens feel that these voices are not always as strong or visible as expected.

Uganda continues to face complex political and social realities that affect ordinary families. In some cases, families struggle with the consequences of prolonged legal and political disputes that leave parents detained for extended periods while awaiting resolution through the justice system. When a parent is absent due to imprisonment without timely judicial processes, the impact extends beyond the individual to children, spouses, and entire communities. Women leaders, many of whom understand the role parents play in holding families together, are uniquely positioned to advocate for fairness, transparency, and efficiency within legal systems.

At the same time, broader political tensions have, over the years, shaped Uganda’s social and economic landscape. Citizens often look to leaders especially those trusted to represent marginalized voices to encourage dialogue, fairness, and accountability in governance. Women leaders can play a critical role in strengthening public trust by standing firmly for justice and promoting peaceful engagement when national disagreements arise.

International Women’s Day is also a reminder of the everyday struggles faced by many women across the country. Workplace harassment, insecurity in communities including domestic violence, and limited access to legal protection remain challenges that affect girls, Women’s dignity and economic independence. When such issues persist, the presence of Women in leadership becomes even more significant. Their voices can influence laws, shape policies, and push institutions to respond more effectively to the concerns of Girls Women and Families.

The experiences of Women working in informal sectors further illustrate the importance of responsive leadership. In urban centers such as Kampala, many street vendors are Women who rely on small-scale trade to support their families. A significant number are single mothers or young mothers striving to provide food, education, and stability for their children. While city authorities must manage urban order and regulation, policies that affect livelihoods should also consider social realities. Women leaders have the opportunity to advocate for balanced solutions that protect both city planning goals and the survival of vulnerable families.

Ultimately, the question is not whether women are present in leadership positions, Uganda has made clear progress in that regard. The real question is how these positions are used to strengthen justice, defend human rights, and build trust in public leadership. Representation alone is not enough, meaningful leadership requires courage, independence of thought, and a willingness to speak when society faces difficult moments.

International Women’s Day should therefore be more than a celebration. It should also be a reminder of responsibility. Women in leadership hold to transform governance by promoting fairness, and accountability. Their voices can help bridge divisions, protect vulnerable citizens, and strengthen confidence.

As Uganda celebrates International Women’s day, the country also looks to its women leaders with hope and expectation. By standing up for justice, peace, and the protection of families, they can reinforce the values that inspired the struggle for gender equality in the first place. In doing so, they will not only honour the spirit of International Women’s Day but also help build a balanced and trusted leadership for the future of Uganda.

The author is a social development specialist and CEO Bridge your mind Centre.

Email: bwani.jose@gmail.com

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Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel has publicly denied any involvement in the rumored May 2026 East African tour that had been circulating in various reports and promotions.

The alleged tour, which was being promoted as the Talanta East Afrika Festival, was expected to take place in Kampala, Kigali, and Nairobi.

In a lengthy statement shared on social media, Kartel dismissed the reports as unauthorized and potentially fraudulent, urging fans to only trust information released through his verified platforms.

“It has come to my attention that a post is circulating claiming that I will be embarking on an East African tour in May 2026.
Let me be absolutely clear: neither my management nor I have any knowledge of, or involvement in, any such tour. No East African shows have been announced or confirmed by my team.
Any individuals, promoters, or platforms claiming to be booking or advertising these shows are acting without authorization and are misleading the public. Fans, promoters, and venues are strongly advised not to engage with or send money to anyone making such claims, as these may be scams,” he wrote.

The dancehall singer further emphasized that all his concerts and appearances are only announced through his official channels.

Kartel also warned that anyone fraudulently using his name to promote events will face serious consequences.

“For the avoidance of doubt, all official announcements regarding Vybz Kartel appearances and tours will come directly from my verified platforms or from my authorized representatives only.
As a reminder, the only individuals authorized to speak on my behalf are my manager, Linton T.J. White, and my attorney, Jason Mitchell. Anyone falsely using my name to promote unauthorized events will be dealt with accordingly,” he added.

His statement comes just a day after allegations spread online claiming he would be touring East Africa in May this year.

The Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Judith Nabakooba, has raised concern over persistent challenges surrounding land registration in Uganda, urging churches and other institutions to prioritise surveying and formal registration of their properties to prevent disputes and encroachment.

Speaking during Uganda’s national observance of the Women’s World Day of Prayer at St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral, Nabakooba said many religious institutions across the country continue to face risks of losing land due to a lack of proper documentation.

The global day of prayer, marked by Christian women in more than 150 countries, was this year led by Nigeria. In Uganda, the event was hosted by the Uganda Orthodox Church under the umbrella of the Uganda Joint Christian Council (UJCC), which brings together the Orthodox Church, the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Uganda.

While addressing the gathering, Nabakooba emphasised that beyond spiritual reflection, the event also presented an opportunity to address pressing national challenges, including land management and the protection of church property.

Nabakooba said the Ministry of Lands has increasingly received complaints involving church land being encroached upon, illegally occupied, or contested in courts due to inadequate documentation.

According to the minister, many churches historically acquired land through donations from communities or traditional leaders, but never completed the formal processes required to secure legal titles.

“This has left several church properties vulnerable to encroachers and opportunistic land grabbers who take advantage of the absence of proper land documentation,” she said.

She explained that surveying and registering church land would provide legal protection and ensure such properties remain available for community services such as schools, health facilities, and worship centres.

“Proper land documentation is essential in protecting church property from encroachment and disputes. When church land is surveyed and legally registered, it safeguards the heritage of the church and ensures that these assets can continue serving communities for generations,” Nabakooba said.

Government–Church Partnership

The minister noted that the government values its partnership with religious institutions, which she described as critical in promoting social transformation, peace and unity in society.

She said the church has historically played an important role not only in spiritual guidance but also in education, healthcare and community development.

Because of this influence, Nabakooba urged church leaders to actively support government initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.

“Government remains committed to working with religious institutions to improve the well-being of our people. The church has always been a strong partner in promoting values of unity, peace and social transformation,” she said.

In addition to land issues, Nabakooba encouraged churches to mobilise their congregations to embrace the government’s Parish Development Model (PDM), which aims to transition Ugandans from subsistence livelihoods into the money economy.

The program supports income-generating activities at the parish level through financial assistance and community development initiatives.

Nabakooba said churches can play a major role in creating awareness about the program and encouraging participation among members.

“The church has a powerful influence within our communities. By encouraging members to participate in the Parish Development Model, the church can help many families access financial support, start small enterprises and improve their livelihoods,” she said.

She added that economic empowerment at the household level strengthens families and ultimately contributes to national development.

Addressing Challenges Facing Women

The minister also used the occasion to acknowledge the challenges faced by many women and families across the country, including gender-based violence, economic hardship and limited opportunities.

She said the Women’s World Day of Prayer should inspire not only spiritual reflection but also practical actions aimed at addressing these challenges.

“As we gather in prayer and reflection, we must also acknowledge the challenges that many women and families across our country continue to face. Events such as this remind us that faith must inspire action,” she said.

Nabakooba commended the Orthodox Church mothers’ group for using the platform to highlight issues affecting women and mobilise support for empowerment initiatives.

She described the effort as a demonstration of faith translated into meaningful action.

“I am particularly encouraged to learn that the Orthodox Church Mothers Uganda are using this platform not only for prayer but also to highlight critical issues affecting women and to mobilise support for women’s empowerment initiatives,” she noted.

Meanwhile, Nabakooba urged believers to use the gathering as a moment for spiritual renewal and renewed commitment to serving others.

She said the day’s reflection was guided by the Biblical message from Matthew 11:28, which calls on those who are weary and burdened to seek rest in faith.

“These words speak to all of us, especially women who often carry many responsibilities within our families, communities and places of work,” Nabakooba said.

She called on Christians to translate the spirit of prayer into practical efforts that promote justice, peace and prosperity in Uganda.

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Ugandan hip hop star Navio is switching things up once again, and this time he says the spotlight is firmly on the fans.

The rapper has announced a brand-new concert scheduled for August 29, promising a more relaxed and intimate experience compared to the traditional concert format many music lovers are used to.

Rather than the typical traditional indoor or outdoor venue with heavy staging and strict seating arrangements, Navio says he is exploring the idea of hosting the show in an open space, preferably on a rooftop.

The goal, according to the hip-hop star, is to create an atmosphere where fans can freely enjoy the music, vibe with the artist, and feel closer to the performance.

The rapper last held a major concert in October 2025 with the “Navio Live in Orchestra” show at the Kampala Serena Hotel, an ambitious production that fused hip-hop with a live orchestra.

The performance stood out for its polished arrangement and unique sound, proving that the veteran lyricist isn’t afraid to experiment with his live shows.

But while that concert leaned toward a premium experience, the upcoming one is intentionally different.

Navio says the August event will be open to the general public, with tickets priced at Shs30,000 to ensure more fans can attend and be part of the experience.

“This is exclusive, and we’re running it from top to bottom again,” he told KFM on Friday.

“It’s going to be open to the people because that’s the theme of the whole thing,” he added.

Although the exact venue has not yet been announced, the idea of a rooftop hip hop concert in Kampala has already sparked curiosity among fans, many of whom are eager to see how the rapper will transform space into a memorable musical setting.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today assumed the Chairmanship of the East African Community (EAC) Summit, taking over from the outgoing Chairperson, President William Ruto of the Republic of Kenya, at the conclusion of the EAC Heads of State Summit held at the Arusha International Conference Centre.

During the Summit, Heads of State and Government also approved the appointment of Ambassador Stephen Patrick Mbundi of the United Republic of Tanzania as the new Secretary General of the East African Community.

In his remarks as the incoming Chairperson of the Summit, President Museveni thanked the leaders of the region for entrusting him with the responsibility of guiding the Community over the next year and conveyed greetings from the people of Uganda. He emphasized that East Africa stands at a critical moment in its history and urged leaders and citizens of the region to remain focused on the historic mission of Africa’s transformation.

President Museveni reflected on what he described as the challenge of “Okukonesa” , the mis-cooking of the African Revolution, a metaphor drawn from local languages describing food that fails to cook properly because the necessary heat is not applied for long enough. He cautioned that Africa must avoid repeating historical mistakes that led to colonisation and underdevelopment, stressing that weak leadership, disunity, and failure to adopt scientific and technological advancement had historically undermined the continent.

He recalled that by the year 1900, almost the entire African continent had fallen under colonial rule, largely due to divisions among African societies and the inability of leaders to respond strategically to the encroachment of foreign powers. Despite this, he noted that Africa survived because of the resilience of its people and the emergence of liberation movements across the continent and in the diaspora.

The President highlighted the historic mission of the African liberation struggle, which he said centred on four key objectives: liberation, modernisation, prosperity, and strategic security. He emphasized that the foundation for achieving these goals remains “Uhuru na Umoja” — Freedom and Unity.

According to President Museveni, while Africa has largely achieved political independence, the challenge of unity remains unfinished. He stressed that economic integration is essential to building prosperity, noting that production alone cannot create wealth unless producers have access to large markets.

He observed that Africa’s combined GDP remains relatively small compared to major global economies, arguing that fragmented markets across the continent limit economic transformation. Drawing lessons from countries such as China, India, and South Korea, he stressed that large internal markets are critical to economic growth and industrialisation.

The President therefore called on the region, particularly the youth, to focus on building productive economies, strengthening regional integration, and avoiding distractions that could undermine the long-term mission of development.

He also underscored the importance of strategic security, noting that modern states must be capable of defending themselves across all domains , land, air, sea, and space while working together to safeguard regional stability.

President Museveni paid tribute to the historic leaders who championed African unity and liberation, including Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, Kwame Nkrumah, Ahmed Sékou Touré, and Modibo Keïta, noting that their vision of African unity remains relevant today. He particularly commended Tanzania for its historic role in advancing regional integration and supporting liberation movements across the continent.

During the Summit, several key milestones were also marked. The meeting witnessed the swearing-in of judges appointed by the Summit to the East African Court of Justice, the launch of the 7th EAC Development Strategy (2026/27–2030/31), and the launch of the EAC Customs Bond, aimed at facilitating trade across the region.

The Summit also recognized regional youth excellence through the awarding of winners of the 2024 EAC Essay Writing Competition.

The Summit concluded with the presentation of the official Summit Communiqué by the EAC Secretary General, outlining key resolutions and decisions adopted by the Heads of State.

Under President Museveni’s chairmanship, the East African Community is expected to deepen regional integration, strengthen economic cooperation, and advance the collective prosperity and security of the region’s more than 300 million citizens.

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Social media comedian and content creator Publicity Natete has reportedly lost his job shortly after meeting President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

According to Natete, his employer terminated him from his boda boda management job and advised him to seek employment from the President instead.

Natete explained that he had been managing more than thirty boda bodas and earning about Shs5,000 from each daily.

“I have been handling over thirty boda bodas, earning Shs5,000 from each, but my boss told me to stop working and go to Museveni to get a new job and money from there,” he said.

Following the termination, Natete is now appealing to the government for support, saying he is struggling to take care of his household after losing his source of income.

Publicity Natete, together with popular YouTuber Isaac Katende, also known as Kasuku, were among the lead panelists at the second edition of the Jazz with Jaajja event that took place at Kisozi Farm earlier this year.