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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.

Lil Pazo grabbed the microphone at a high-profile creatives’ meeting over the weekend, he likely expected applause… not a full-blown social media firestorm.
Lil Pazo was among a group of artists who met Sevo at Kisozi Farm, where discussions centered on the state of Uganda’s music industry and the government’s role in supporting creatives.
It was meant to be a productive conversation about growth, structure, and opportunity. Instead, it quickly turned into a headline-making moment.

During his address, Lil Pazo didn’t hold back. He criticized certain music leaders, accusing them of being selfish and self-centered, and questioned how some individuals in influential positions were managing resources meant to uplift artists.

Almost instantly, online users began connecting dots, whether accurate or not. Many interpreted his remarks as a bold and direct attack on Bebe Cool, the Gagamel boss and a key figure often associated with music industry leadership and government-aligned initiatives.
Within hours, timelines were flooded with claims that Pazo had “called out” Bebe Cool publicly. Fans braced for what they thought could be the next major industry showdown.

But just as the rumor mill gained momentum, Lil Pazo stepped forward to set the record straight.

“I was never speaking about Bebe Cool as per claims,” he clarified. “I have no bad blood with the Gagamel leader. He is my boss and supported me throughout campaigns.”

According to the singer, his frustrations were never aimed at Bebe Cool personally. Instead, he says his comments were directed at individuals managing government studios in Mengo, Kampala, people he believes are not effectively serving the interests of artists.
“I was speaking about those in charge of government studios in Mengo,” he added, making it clear that his critique was about systems and management not personal rivalries.

In an industry where one sentence can ignite weeks of tension, Lil Pazo’s clarification appears to have cooled what could have escalated into another public music feud.
For now, he insists there is no rift between him and the Gagamel boss just a desire to see improvements in how resources meant for creatives are handled.

Enock Mugabi aka iWitness is a Journalist, Seasoned Writer and Music Analyst with a passion for sports.
Connect with him on social media using the links below in bio.

Aaron Kaviiri A.Ateenyi

The recent evacuation of 43 Ugandan students from Iran by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) stands as a remarkable demonstration of Uganda’s commitment to the safety and welfare of its citizens living abroad.

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, the students—who were studying at various institutions in Iran—found themselves in a potentially dangerous situation. In response, Ugandan authorities moved swiftly to secure their safety.

The rescue operation was coordinated by Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), working closely with the Director General of the External Security Organisation and Uganda’s Military Attaché in Turkey, Bob Ogiki.

Through this coordinated effort, the 43 students were safely evacuated from Iran to Turkey before being flown back home to Uganda aboard Ethiopian Airlines. The operation not only highlighted the UPDF’s operational efficiency but also demonstrated the Ugandan government’s proactive approach to crisis management.

Such decisive action reflects a broader commitment by the Ugandan government to protect its citizens, regardless of where they may be in the world. By moving quickly to secure the students’ safety, Uganda reinforced the message that the well-being of its people remains a top priority.

The successful evacuation also underscores the importance of strong diplomatic relations and effective coordination with international partners. The collaboration between security agencies, diplomatic missions, and international transport networks ensured that the rescue operation was executed smoothly and efficiently.

For Ugandans living and studying abroad, this action sends a reassuring signal—that their government remains vigilant and ready to intervene when their safety is at risk. It also demonstrates to the international community that Uganda is prepared to go the extra mile to protect its citizens in times of crisis.

Ultimately, the successful evacuation of these 43 students stands as a clear example of effective leadership, coordination, and commitment to national responsibility. It will likely be remembered as a moment when swift action and strong leadership came together to safeguard Ugandan lives.

@kaviiriaaron@gmail.com

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For years, Ugandan artists have chased the dream of crossing borders and conquering international stages.

Some have come close, others continue to push, but according to singer A Pass, the biggest barrier might not be the industry, the money, or even the market but the mindset at home.

Speaking about the challenges Ugandan creatives face, the “Tuli Kubigere” singer said the culture of constant criticism often crushes innovation before it has a chance to grow.

“It’s difficult to go global in Uganda because we hate our own,” A Pass said.

He explained that whenever someone attempts something unique or different, the reaction is rarely encouragement. Instead, many people immediately start searching for flaws.

“Someone will see you doing a unique thing and they won’t find a negative aspect to it. They will always find a bad thing out of the good,” he told NBS TV’s After 5 crew.

According to the singer, this mindset runs deeper than just music. He believes it reflects a broader national attitude that spills into many areas of life.

“We have a negative mindset and it’s in everything, in politics, in business, everywhere,” he added.

A Pass believes this culture of criticism makes it difficult for Ugandan creatives to experiment, evolve, and compete globally.

While other countries rally behind their stars and celebrate their achievements, many Ugandan artists find themselves battling skepticism from the very audience they hope will champion them.

Musician Eddy Kenzo has urged fellow artists to set aside political differences and work together to push for the amendment of Uganda’s copyright law.

Kenzo, whose real name is Edrisah Musuuza, was actively involved in campaigning for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) a few months ago. However, he now says it is time for musicians to focus on industry matters rather than politics.

Speaking in an interview with a local television station, Kenzo emphasized that unity among artists is key if they want to achieve the long-awaited amendment to the copyright law.

“Let us put politics aside and fight for the copyright law amendment. It can be achieved if we are united and moving in the same direction. The amendment will benefit all of us, those in government and those in the opposition,” he said.

Kenzo believes the proposed amendment will greatly improve the creative industry by ensuring artists earn fairly from their work.

According to him, the Copyright Law Amendment Bill is already before the Parliament of Uganda and could soon be tabled for debate.

Popular TikToker Chicken Chicken has revealed that he has no immediate plans of settling down in marriage.

Speaking during an interview with a local television station, Chicken Chicken explained that he will only consider marriage when his daughter asks him about having a mother in the home.

According to the social media personality, marriage is currently not among his priorities as he is focused on raising his daughter and improving his personal life.

“I won’t marry yet. I am not in a rush to do so and will only choose to marry when my daughter questions me about a mother. I am focusing on her upbringing and developing personally,” he explained.

Chicken Chicken added that he is working on building a strong bond with his daughter to ensure they share a close and loving relationship.

The TikToker previously denied fathering the child, but later accepted responsibility after a prolonged dispute with the child’s mother.