Opinions | MINISTRY OF ICT AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE

08 November 2025

NRM DELIVERING PROGRESS IN LANGO (2021–2026)

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Government continues to transform lives across the Lango sub-region through visible progress in wealth creation, education, health, and infrastructure. From Amolatar to Kwania, communities are benefiting from improved livelihoods and expanded access to essential services as Uganda advances toward Vision 2040. Amolatar Over UGX 26.1 billion has been invested through the Parish Development Model (PDM), benefiting 26,000 individuals in 1,273 enterprise groups. Farmers like Opeto Tonny and Ongom Joshua have expanded their goat and poultry farms, demonstrating the PDM’s impact on household income. The Emyooga Programme has injected UGX 2.97 billion into 35 Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs), serving nearly 2,000 members, while the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) has supported 59 youth groups with UGX 287 million, creating new employment opportunities. Amolatar hosts 53 Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, 8 Universal Secondary Education (USE) schools, and one technical institute, serving over 32,000 learners. Upgraded health centres, a new ambulance, and modern maternity wards have improved healthcare. Partnerships with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) introduced three solar-powered irrigation systems and a valley tank, enhancing food production and security. Dokolo Dokolo has received UGX 21.9 billion through PDM, supporting 17,700 enterprise groups. The Senior Citizens Grant now reaches 8,000 older persons, while the Agriculture Cluster Development Project (ACDP) has boosted post-harvest handling. Three new Seed Secondary Schools, located at Okwongodul Lakeside, Batta, and Adeknino, were built under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UGIFT) programme. These schools provide modern classrooms and laboratories to over 4,500 learners. Health services have expanded with the addition of seven upgraded facilities, including a new maternity ward at Abalang Health Centre III, and malaria cases have been reduced by over 30% through annual mosquito net distribution. Improved roads and a UGX 1.3 billion investment in water and sanitation have increased access to clean water. The UGX 14 billion Kabalega–Mwanga Historical Site Project is positioning Dokolo as a new tourism hub in Northern Uganda. Alebtong Over UGX 18.4 billion has been disbursed through the PDM, alongside funds from Emyooga, YLP, and the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP), supporting 15,000 households in agriculture and small business. Five new Seed Secondary Schools in Awei, Angetta, Abia, Adwir, and Amugu now serve 6,000 learners, reducing dropout rates. The district has one Health Centre IV, ten Health Centre IIIs, and four Health Centre IIs, with the addition of new staff housing and ambulances enhancing healthcare delivery. Road rehabilitation under the UGX 1.3 billion Road Fund has enhanced connectivity, while electricity access now covers seven sub-counties and four town councils. Piped water systems in Amugu, Abako, and Alebtong Town Councils provide clean water to 12,000 residents. Otuke Since 2022, UGX 16 billion has been invested through the PDM, benefiting 52 SACCOs and 16,000 individuals. Complementary programs such as Emyooga, YLP, UWEP, and UGIFT have expanded opportunities for women, youth, and farmers. Otuke now hosts new Seed Secondary Schools and a technical institute in Okwang, providing vocational training to 2,000 learners. Barjobi Health Centre III was upgraded to Health Centre IV with a new operating theatre. Over 108 kilometres of roads have been opened, rural electrification now reaches nine sub-counties, and enhanced security operations have significantly reduced cattle rustling, thereby restoring peace and economic activity. Kwania Kwania has channelled UGX 12.5 billion through the PDM, empowering 12,000 households engaged in poultry and livestock. Additional support from Emyooga, YLP, and UWEP has strengthened small enterprises and created new income streams. Two new Seed Secondary Schools in Aduku and Abongomola now accommodate 3,800 students, increasing enrolment and reducing dropouts, especially among children from fishing communities. Conclusion Across Lango, the NRM Government’s investments between 2021 and 2026 reflect its commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. With expanded education, healthcare, roads, and enterprise support, the region stands as a model of community empowerment and resilience. Every new school, health centre, and enterprise tells a story of steady progress and shared prosperity under the NRM Government. The Writer is a Communication Officer – Ministry of ICT & National Guidance

By Fiona Luboga

08 November 2025

GENZ COPYCATS: AN EMERGING CRIMINAL THREAT TO DEMOCRACY

There is an emerging fashionable trend mimicking radical political activism by the so-called GenZs, seeking to turn their countries upside-down, morphing into criminal gangs as seen last year in Kenya, and this week in Tanzania taking advantage of election fallouts. During the 2020-2021 Uganda election, a group led by NUP purveyors, tried to create anarchy through street battles with the police, army and publicly assaulting, real or perceived political rivals but the goons were eventually neutralized through a hard tackle. They have now returned in this election on mantra “ Protest vote” foolishly hoping to use intimidation, blackmail and necked violence to have their way even when Ugandans may say no to them at the ballot box. In Kenya, following a tightly fought general election pitting William Somei Ruto, and Raila Amolo Odinga, President Ruto, the winner, introduced an economic reform law to spur revenue collection, which the political elite opposed, and tried to exploit youth concerns to oust a democratically elected government. For weeks, security forces in Kenya fought running battles with criminal gangs posing as GenZs sowing mayhem, wanton destruction and burning down whatever came to their sight. And they wrecked all this havoc, including ransacking parliament even after President Ruto withdrew the controversial legislation, and instead demanded his political scalp. The youths forcefully tore-down parliament parameter wall, ransacked it and forced a sitting to flee, all in the name of being ‘aggrieved’ with the status qou, yet destroying the very foundation of their country’s existence, attempting to rend Kenya ungovernable. It took heavy-brutal-handedness for calm to be restored in East Africa’s largest economy, and in its trail the loss of innocent lives, bloodshed, and sowing the seeds of a culture of impunity by the young people, which has now been wholesomely copied in Tanzania. Tanzania, that has been stable, secure, peaceful, and a good example for the whole of Africa, is now shaken to the core, but Tanzania must never let to fail like other African countries under whatever reason. While bad policies and governance should be opposed and vigorously challenged by citizens, old and young, it is counter-productive for the so-called aggrieved to burn down their countries particularly as they are egged on by the neo-colonial forces seeking to keep Africa underground. It appears that the American and European meddlers into Africa, having failed with the so-called Arab Spring of fifteen years ago, that distablised northern African, and sowed fire and ash, sending hundreds of thousands to death on the high seas towards Europe, have not been content, and are now returning through instigating the GenZs. Under the diabolical guise of spreading democracy, clean elections, good governance, human rights, quality jobs, and equitable prosperity which they never bequeathed when they were firmly in control as the colonialists for seven decades, they now return but only as pretenders falsely believing that Africans are too stupid to see through the scheme. African leaders and elders owe their people deals, but the GenZs should never allow themselves to be exploited or used to once again destroy, subjugate, and misdirect Africa’s emerging renaissance. We should always remember that those shenanigans took advantaged of our fore-fathers using shades of religion to capture and maintain control of our collective minds, and have so succeeded in portraying Africans as inferior in every respect. Africa, and Uganda in particular should say never-again, to foreign meddlers whatever sweetener they may offer. Uganda, has steadily emerged from deep black holes after four decades of political violence, social and economic decadence with so much blood poured down public spaces that we should learn to resolve disagreements peacefully. Uganda GenZs, both in rural and urban ought to know the opportunities they seek cannot be brought through violence, and hence should avoid the language of destruction.

BY OFWONO OPONDO

07 November 2025

THE BENEFITS THAT THE NRM AIMS TO SAFEGUARD

Our opposition colleagues have raised concerns regarding the accomplishments that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) asserts it will maintain in the upcoming term if re-elected. The opposition contends that there are no achievements worth safeguarding. While their assertions may hold some truth, particularly in light of the ongoing unresolved issues, it is inaccurate to claim that the ruling party has not made any advancements over the past forty years. It is crucial to recognize the facts and acknowledge contributions where they are warranted. I was born at a time when the ruling party had just assumed power; thus, my knowledge is somewhat limited. Nevertheless, accounts from witnesses and research reveal that insecurity was rampant in Uganda and other African nations. Ugandans, along with numerous other Africans, lived in trepidation prior to the NRM's ascension to power. Following its rise, the NRM initiated efforts to establish peace, stability, and security by overcoming armed opposition factions such as the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), Alice Lakwena's Holy Spirit Movement, and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). It established a disciplined, professional, and community-oriented force (UPDF) that refrains from seizing citizens' property, in contrast to the previous military regime. The NRM has fostered regional stability through peacekeeping and security operations, particularly in Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and has actively participated in regional efforts to combat insurgent groups. Additionally, it spearheaded disarmament initiatives, especially in the Karamoja sub-region, to mitigate cattle rustling and improve local security. Currently, the stability, peace, and security within the country enable individuals to travel freely at any time without interruptions, and businesses function beyond standard hours, cultivating a sense of safety and stability. The promotion of peace, stability, and security has facilitated the infrastructure development across multiple transport modes that includes roads, air, water and railway. As of September 2025, Uganda has approximately 6,287 kilometres of paved (tarmac) roads. These roads are essential to the national road network, connecting various borders of the country. The government is continuously improving and expanding paved roadways to connect all regions of the country, even though a significant portion of the national network remains unpaved. The focus is on enhancing the paved road infrastructure through both new constructions and restoration initiatives. In the water transport sector, significant ports are undergoing upgrades, and the national ferry network is being expanded. Projects include the Bukasa Port Development, Port Bell, and the rehabilitation of Jinja Pier. The government operates a fleet of 13 ferries on lakes and rivers such as Lake Victoria and the River Nile. New ferries, including the MV Sigulu, have been introduced to connect remote areas and districts, including those surrounding Lake Bisina. Additionally, the MV Kaawa cargo ship was rehabilitated with support from the World Bank to enhance cargo transport on a vital triangular route. Uganda's aviation sector has seen considerable infrastructure improvements at Entebbe and various other airports, the reestablishment of the national carrier (Uganda Airlines), and a steady increase in both passenger and freight traffic. Entebbe International Airport is being expanded to raise its capacity from 2.0 million to 3.5 million passengers, with a renovated terminal and a new cargo terminal already in operation. A second airport in Hoima is under construction to support oil, tourism, and agriculture. Upcountry aerodromes such as Kisoro, Gulu, and Arua are being upgraded to enhance connectivity and tourism. The national airline has improved by acquiring new Airbus A330neos and Bombardier CRJ900s and has obtained the necessary certifications. Uganda Airlines has broadened its network to include destinations such as Dubai, Johannesburg, and Mumbai, resulting in substantial increases in both revenue and passenger numbers. Over the last forty years, Uganda's transportation industry has undergone significant improvements, marked by considerable growth and upgrades in infrastructure across multiple transport modalities, including road, air, and maritime. The writer works with the Uganda Media Centre

SARAH NANTEZA

29 October 2025

KIRUHUURAS WEALTHY; UNDERSTANDING PRESIDENT MUSEVENIS CONTEXT

While canvassing for votes in the Karamoja sub-region in recent days, Presidential candidate Yoweri Museveni urged people in the region to end nomadism and cattle rustling if they are to enjoy the government’s transformative programmes currently underway.According to his message, transformation will be derailed if the two vices are not discarded once and for all. To fully illustrate his point, he used the example of how he had since transformed the people in Kiruhuura District and made them rich through a mindset change, because they once suffered a similar problem—nomadism. The Kiruhuura people were formerly cattle nomads, just like the Karimajong, but have since been transformed after listening to the president’s correct advice. The shift from a nomadic to a settled lifestyle for the Kiruhuura people brought significant cultural and economic change, as Museveni educated them about the benefits of a settled life. These benefits included improving their animals from traditional Ankole long-horned cows that produced little milk compared to Fresian breeds that produce large quantities, thereby increasing the household income earned through selling large amounts of milk. He educated these nomads to adapt by learning to cultivate crops or by hiring others to farm for them, and by commercializing their livestock production to earn cash for their children's formal education. Museveni not only ended pastoralism among his community, he also taught them to fence their land, create water sources on their own land, and keep quality cattle breeds that add value to the owners. One of the most critical changes in settled lifestyle was living in one permanent place. When they settled down, they started eating health organic foods; they learnt to eat vegetables in addition to milk and meat. Hygienic foods clearly replaced milk as a staple food in their community. As a result, these once poor nomads of Kiruhuura began living modern lifestyles. They built decent houses, drive nice cars, and earn not only from cows but from crop husbandry because they were taught to diversify their farming methods. Sadly, the president’s message to the people of Karamoja has been taken out of context to imply that he was boasting that his people in Kiruhuura are rich. The other wrong implication the naysayers are attaching to the president’s message is that he seem to suggest the Karimojong are still poor simply because they either don’t value work or lack innovation. Of course those peddling such falsehoods are the usual ideologically bankrupt groups that are always looking for every opportunity to misinform and disinform to soil the name of the president. These groups have gone further to insinuate that the Kiruhura people are rich because of their association with the president, since he is one of them anyway. This is absurd. When President Museveni came to power in 1986, he picked up where he had left off. While still a student at Ntare School and the University of Dar es Salaam in the late 1960s, he knew much better that nomadism was a futile practice among his people. There are many stories of how he would gather nomads in the Ankole sub-region to educate them about the need to live a settled life. During his holidays, Museveni did not have the luxury of having fun like any young man; instead, he spent all his time educating his people about mindset change. When he finally became President, he strongly advised them against loaming the country with their cows in search of fresh pastures. He advised them, among other things, to use their lands for a few but improved breeds that give them enough milk for sale. Indeed, the Kiruhuura people heeded the president’s advice and transitioned to a permanent settled lifestyle. It is no wonder that Kiruhuura is among the first two districts in Uganda to produce large volumes of milk. Kiruhura alone produces 1.2 million litres of milk every day, about 60 per cent of the total milk produced in the country. Kiruhuura’s milk accounts for 45% of Uganda’s milk export. As a result, people’s incomes have drastically changed. Household income is among the highest in the country. Decent means of transport have been acquired,and healthy lifestyles are now a standard feature for these once haggard-looking pastoralists. Finally, what was clear in the president's message to the Karimajong is that they must adopt a mindset change and listen to his advice, as the Kiruhuura nomads did. This, however, must be peaceful and voluntary. Nomadism and cattle rustling is indeed a primitive form existence that any sensible leaders must discourage. And that is precisely what the president meant when he was counselling the Karimajong people, but not bragging at them like most biased social media keyboard warriors are quick to comment. The writer is the Ag. Executive Director Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE

28 October 2025

REGIONAL BOOT CAMPS ENHANCING YOUTH CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION.

Throughout last week, UNICEF Uganda, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, held innovation boot camps in the Greater North and Eastern regions in anticipation of this year's World Children's Day celebration, which is scheduled for November 20th under the theme "my day, my rights". They engaged young people from previous celebrations to act as change agents and advocates through regional boot camps, enabling children to gain knowledge, develop, and share solutions that benefit their communities. The regional boot camps began in Arua for the Great North, followed by the Eastern region, then the Western region, and will conclude in the Central region. The boot camps are organized under the theme "Invest in Uganda's children for a better future." I participated as part of the team responsible for the digital promotion of the boot camps. I was particularly impressed by how the youth identified various issues, proposed solutions, explained how these solutions would benefit their communities, and outlined strategies for sustaining these solutions. The innovation boot camps are part of the broader I-UPSHIFT initiative, aimed at equipping young people with skills in social innovation and entrepreneurship. The camp for the Greater North was held in Arua district, with representatives from Yumbe, Madi Okollo, and Terego districts attending from their schools, including Edena Primary School in Madi Okollo, Eleke Primary School in Yumbe, and Lygbari Primary School in Terego. The focus here was on school children who are currently enrolled. The young innovators used their problem-solving skills to tackle real-world challenges, turning ideas into sustainable, commercially viable solutions. It was truly inspiring to see creativity and purpose manifesting in their efforts. Initially, the children were guided through the stages of pitching, detailing what they would be doing and the methods involved. Subsequently, the practical component commenced with pitch preparation on Tuesday, the 20th of October 2025, referred to as the mock pitch, followed by the final pitch on the 21st of October 2025. Lugbari PS, originating from the Terego District, was declared the winner to represent Greater North at the National Finals on World Children's Day. This achievement followed their exceptional pitch, which earned them a score of 77.6 points with the Ever-Ready Club, thus securing the 1st position. In contrast, the Smart Life Skills Club finished in 2nd place with a score of 69 points. Following our conclusion with Greater North, we proceeded to the Eastern region in the Soroti district, where the emphasis was on out-of-school children. The Eastern Region boot camp included participants from the Napak, Amudat, Kotido, and Nakapiririti districts. Similar to the Greater North, participants from the Eastern region were also guided through the pitch criteria after presenting their pitch ideas, which outlined the issues they aimed to tackle. Initially, the participants had not put in more energy in the pitch but upon informing them that the two winning groups would be traveling to Kampala, I observed a notable concertation in their pitching preparations. In fact, some groups chose to remain for several additional hours to refine their pitches. The youth pitched their ideas identifying the problem, proposing a solution, demonstrating how the solution would benefit the community, and ensuring the sustainability of the solution. After the pitches concluded, the judges declared Napak district as the winner, with team Leopard achieving first place, while team Lion earned second place, both set to represent the Eastern region at the National finals in honor of the 2025 World Children’s Day. During the boot camps, young participants expressed their concerns about significant issues impacting their lives, including school drop-out rates associated with poverty, the unavailability of sanitary pads affecting girls' school attendance, restricted access to water, early marriages, deforestation, and unemployment, while promoting change through innovative strategies. The writer works with the Uganda Media Centre

SARAH NANTEZA

25 October 2025

NORTHERN UGANDA, NRM AND MUSEVENI THIS ELECTION CIRCLE

By the time you read this piece, National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate, would have wound up his first phase of campaign in northern Uganda as seen with a sea of supporters at his main public rallies sending the tongues of critics wagging in awe. As an election pitch, the NRM and its lead candidate, call him the torch-bearer, Yoweri Museveni themed “Protecting the gains” as the mantra, because each Ugandan has something, however little, to protect. It is an appropriate pitch seeing the distance so far, and many things, small and big achieved. To the small families herding cows, goats and sheep in Karamoja, the ability to settle down for the first time in life-history, is a huge personal satisfaction that opens many doors. Having a piece of cloth on one’s back, seeing children in school and not scavenging the streets, railway stations, and no menacing gun-totters on the rampage is huge. For the neighbours of Karamoja, having gone through the past three straight years without any violent cattle raids, both during day and night, leaving destructions behind the trail, is additional plusses, to NRM and Museveni. The constant and persistent loud call by candidate Museveni, for every family, home and persons to focus on mobilising for wealth creation, poverty eradication and socio-economic transformation is falling on ears ready to listen. And Museveni is chatting for broad national unity and reconciliation, but with socially balanced justice. Reconciliation without equitable justice is pretence and, therefore, hollow. back-of-beyond place, that suffered two decades of war, and before it, circles of state-inspired ethic retributions. The northern bitterness boiled, spilled and Museveni has gradually and patiently cooled it down. So, the rest, Mugisha Muntu (ANT), Mubarak Munyagwa, Robert Kyagulanyi (NUP) and Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC) maybe listened to when they go to the north, but only for being busybodies lambasting NRM and Museveni for allegedly overstaying beyond the welcome. From their respective election campaign trail, Museveni is the main problem. They make it appear as once Museveni the individual is removed from office, overnight, Uganda will become a lovely paradise without a focused national mindset change. In fact, Ugandans should see of as a political swindle. As an example, each time, Kyagulanyi tries his mouth at policy issues like mineral and oil weal, he has ended up more in failure, or misspeaking, than being coherent. Clearly, Kyagulanyi comes off as a man who is not ready or has no capacity to understand the laws governing many sectors in Uganda. Apologies, I actually don’t know why I even typed his names. In the crucible of Uganda’s politics, and elections in particular, no party pitches better than NRM. President and candidate Museveni, has been, and remains the strong torch-bearer of our current unquestioned patriotism, guardian of peace as well socio-economic transformation. Museveni’s public rallies have been well-attended, NRM mobilizers must now occupy the ground until polling day.

BY OFWONO OPONDO

22 October 2025

WEST NILE REGION: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI'S MESSAGE FOCUSED ON CONSOLIDATING PEACE, PROMOTING WEALTH CREATION AND DEVELOPMENT

The trail in West Nile led him to Koboko, Zombo, Madi Okollo, Arua City, Maracha, Pakwach, Adjumani, Nebbi, Moyo, Obongi, Yumbe and Terego. During his speeches, the president underscored his administration's deliberate effort to bring the right ideology that changed the country. He for example said he had been part of the past governments and realised there was sectarianism and this meant they couldn’t form a national army or national party. According to Museveni, with these mistakes by earlier government, he became part of the student movements and when NRM took power, they did away with sectarianism of tribe, religion and looking down upon women. He said this meant that a national army could be formed with recruits from all parts of the country without segregation, a factor he said ensured that the boundaries of Uganda are protected. To him, this created lasting peace that Uganda is enjoying for the first time in the last 500 years. He cited examples of majority of people of West Nile who had previously run into exile in neighbouring countries like Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan who are now back home . According to Museveni, peace didn’t come by mistake but rather by deliberate efforts by the NRM. He also noted that because of deliberate efforts, NRM can win an election in the first round without a re-run, noting that this is so because the party did away with sectarianism of tribes and religion to ensure it build massive support around the country. President Museveni gave examples of past political parties like Kabaka Yekka, UPC, DP and others which he said had either been build on tribal or religious lines which meant they couldn’t raise even 40% of the vote since no religion or tribe has that number of followers. To this, he said the NRM thought different and this has contributed to peace. Peace Leading to Development During his rallies, Museveni told thousands of supporters that peace ensured government can now focus on developing the country, citing major road works, electricity expansion, and improved telecommunication in the West Nile as catalysts for regional growth. He emphasized that the West Nile which was previously a volatile region is now stable and leading the country’s development and trade with neighbours like DRC and South Sudan where Ugandans previously ran into exile. He praised the region's progress, attributing it to the government's consistent stance against wrongdoing and commitment to doing what is right. With the West Nile now connected onto the national grid, the president said development in the area will be spurred and everyone will benefit. Promoting Wealth Creation Wealth creation was a central theme of Museveni's campaign, focusing on household income and economic empowerment. He promoted the Parish Development Model (PDM), designed to lift households into the money economy, and encouraged commercial agriculture, suggesting alternatives like fruit farming and fish farming to boost income. He said that with the shs1 million each households receives as part of PDM, they can use it to invest in agriculture in form of goat rearing, chicken rearing or any other venture and get profits. Museveni emphasised that while many talk about development, one can get out of poverty without having development infrastructure like tarmacked roads. He told the gatherings that tarmac roads don’t fight poverty but engaging in wealth creation does, giving examples of cattle keepers in Ankole who listened to this message and are now well-off. According to Museveni, many of these are over 90km away from tarmac and don’t have electricity at their farms but installed solar power and are making money. He said that wealth creation should be at the forefront and others can come later. While progress has been made, challenges persist. Museveni acknowledged internal conflicts and urged attention to these issues. The President also emphasized the importance of reconciliation and non-retaliation, especially in post-conflict regions like West Nile. President Museveni's message in West Nile Region reflects the NRM's commitment to consolidating peace, promoting wealth creation, and driving development. With a focus on economic infrastructure, social services, and addressing key issues, the President has resonated with many in the region. As Uganda moves forward, it remains to be seen whether the NRM's message will continue to inspire progress and prosperity The Writer Works with Uganda Media Centre

By Catherine Namuddu

19 October 2025

THANK YOU, BBC, FOR TELLING UGANDANS ABOUT UGANDA

Once again, we are indebted to our friends at the BBC this time from Nairobi for reminding Ugandans what is really happening in Uganda. Without their investigative binoculars peering across the border, how else would we have known that our soldiers wear uniforms, that our President leads, and that our country has enjoyed uninterrupted peace for nearly four decades? According to the latest revelation, Uganda is apparently ruled by a “shadow army.” A terrifying phrase, no doubt — except for the small inconvenience that this so-called “shadow army” also guards our borders, airports, oil fields, and the same journalists who write these alarming exposés. The BBC calls it “a private army.” We call it security. They call it “an iron grip.” We call it stability. But who are we to argue with foreign experts who know our country better than we do from 600 kilometers away? Let’s be fair. In a continent where power often changes hands through coups, conflicts, or hashtags, Uganda’s greatest crime is consistency. The same leadership that ended decades of chaos now stands accused of leading for too long as though peace had an expiry date. Perhaps next time we should schedule a civil war every fifteen years to please the analysts. And about the President’s family: yes, they serve in government. So do many families around the world the Kennedys, the Trudeaus, the Bushes. When it’s in America or Canada, it’s called “dynastic legacy.” When it’s in Uganda, it’s “family capture.” Maybe the only difference is the accent. Then comes the favourite Western chorus: “militarisation.” One wonders what they expect soldiers to do — open flower shops? The Special Forces Command, they say, is “too loyal.” Indeed. Uganda’s biggest problem, it seems, is that our soldiers love their country too much. Still, we must appreciate the commitment of these journalists who fly in to rescue us from our ignorance. They arrive with pens trembling with concern, explain our politics to us, and return to their safe hotel breakfasts to file their “urgent” stories about the apocalypse that never comes. Thank you, dear correspondents, for caring so deeply about our democracy that you forget to ask Ugandans what they actually think. So yes, our nation has its challenges. But it also has peace, order, and growth things that don’t make sensational headlines. While others chase clicks, Uganda continues to chase progress. And if that steady hand on the wheel is what the BBC calls an “iron grip,” then by all means, tighten it. Because if this is dictatorship, then we kindly request five more decades of it preferably with better roads.

ANKUNDA PEACE

18 October 2025

NUP'S APPETITE FOR IPOD CASH

Ideologically depraved Robert Kyagulanyi, sly Louis Rubongoya and the clutter of the National Unity Platform (NUP)party who apparently learnt nothing useful from the former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) on its way to eventual demise, partly over soft money. This week's U-turn by Bob, the political entrepreneur, and his accomplices in NUP, writing to join the Inter-party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD), mostly for money, is a classic lesson in political coup de theatre where stupidity gets a rendezvous with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) brinkmanship. It is necessary that Donald Trump back, and rolling down US international support, those who fund NUP, from outside Uganda, too have got squeezed and NUP did not see this coming. The back story, years back, FDC under Kizza Besigye, walked away from IPOD, an outfit to help political parties in parliament have structured and constructive engagement with one another away from the rough rumble and tumble of antagonistic politics. Besigye rejected any efforts to meet with President Yoweri Museveni for any engagement in their intractable disagreements that had nearly paralysed Uganda' politics, insisting that the only agenda should be Museveni's ouster from office. Doing Besigye and FDC's bid in belligerence, was Nathan Nandala Mafabi, who many may recall reported in the media driving to State House Entebbe only to switch off his phone midway, because he had been instructed not to meet Museveni and other IPOD members already at the venue. FDC maintained that stance until 2021, when the chips began to fall and there has been so little effort at recovery. Many are hearing nails being banged into the FDC coffin in their backyard, although its new leaders; Patrick Oboi Amuriat and Nandala say they are for constructive engagement with NRM or more appropriately, Museveni. FDC leaders were so wrong, on so many fronts, in false self-assumed importance, hoping they could take Ugandans for a ride endlessly in spite of being forewarned that the end of time was approaching. Enough became enough and Besigye got to the end of his hole. And surely, with the NRM, its abrasive opponents often get what they ask for. Now, NUP, indeed Bob is replaying the discredited old order politics, unable to read the audience. Apparently because he has been the first stage singer in Uganda to get up into mainstream and is there four years now, Bob is his own cloud. Bob is like the child laughing at their own silly jokes. He has been about many constituencies dictating who should or should not be elected in the next parliament more like Besigye tried to do with so dismal success even in his heydays. NUP like FDC has built its support base on a web of well-calculated and choreographed falsehoods, public sympathy from state arbitrary actions and high-handedness and as well as some genuine socio-economic grievances. Bob the far-less informed underdog falsely claims to be an authentic voice who should be trusted to deliver the so-called 'change' Ugandans desire, but he is wrong on many counts and will be ensnared in his own falsehoods. With a tirade of tribal-laden hate mongering, incitement, fascist outlook, and blanket branding whoever disagrees with him a traitor, each time he bleats at his campaign rallies, Bob does not seem to understand that he becomes unpleasant and unattractive to most Ugandans and voters. Looking at the NRM large wagon firmly on a new trajectory of Richard Todwong, Anita Among and Dennis Hamson Obua axis, leading presidential candidate Museveni's election campaign trail and vibe in northern Uganda that has come full-cirle, many do not see how and where Bob could hide this time round. It seems to me, that the energy of the youthful people is genuine countrywide, backed by the many solid, broad achievements of the NRM across Uganda.

BY OFWONO OPONDO

17 October 2025

UGANDA WILL NEVER TAKE SECURITY LECTURES FROM BBC

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) produced a wayward article written by Wycliffe Muia and titled, “Uganda’s Special Forces Command: The elite unit with a license to kill”, in their recent publication. This is not an exposé, but it is a relic of the colonial imagination, written with the same imperial arrogance that once justified the occupation of African lands. Beneath its sensationalism lies a familiar condescension; the belief that African nations cannot be trusted with power, professionalism, creativity, or sovereignty unless supervised by their former masters. The piece is not journalism; it is a moral judgment — a sermon from those who still believe that Africans are primitive, unpatriotic, and incapable of protecting their own citizens unless they follow the example of the Western world. Flawed premise built on colonial assumptions At the heart of the BBC’s argument is an astonishing idea that Uganda’s possession of a highly trained, protective military unit is somehow sinister. That premise would be laughable if it were not so offensive. Every serious nation maintains an elite military unit. Britain has the SAS and SBS; the United States has Delta Force and the Navy SEALs; France has the GIGN; and Israel has Sayeret Matkal. Why, then, is Uganda’s Special Forces Command (SFC) treated as an anomaly? The answer is simple, though uncomfortable: the BBC still struggles to accept the emergence of a confident and capable African nation defining its own security priorities without seeking approval from former imperial powers. Uganda is not a colony to be examined, managed, or “secured” by outsiders. It is a sovereign republic whose Constitution entrusts the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), including the SFC, with the duty of protecting national sovereignty and ensuring regional stability. Facts the BBC refused to tell The BBC’s narrative conveniently ignores the SFC’s proven history of discipline, courage, and regional leadership. Far from being a “private army,” the SFC operates as an integral component of the UPDF, constitutionally empowered to execute counter-terrorism missions, special operations, and the protection of key national leaders' duties identical to those performed by elite forces worldwide. Consider just a few examples: In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)underOperation Shujaa, the SFC, working alongside the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), successfully weakened the ADF/ISCAP terrorist network responsible for massacres in eastern Congo. This mission was formally requested by the DRC government; it was an international counter-terrorism effort, not an act of intrusion. In Somaliafor nearly two decades, Ugandan forces, often spearheaded by SFC units, have held the frontlines of the African Union Mission (AMISOM, now ATMIS) against Al-Shabaab. Many of these brave soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice, bringing stability to a region the world had long neglected. In South Sudanduring the crises of 2013 and 2016, Ugandan troops, including the SFC, evacuated thousands of civilians and secured vital infrastructure, preventing the total collapse of Juba. To this day, the UPDF remains in South Sudan, helping that fragile nation restore and maintain security. Regional Anti-LRA Operations The SFC took part in joint African Union missions that dismantled Joseph Kony’s terror network and rescued abducted women and children across the Central African Republic. These are the true stories of Uganda’s Special Forces Command; disciplined professionals advancing African security, not marauders haunting colonial imaginations. When Africa defends itself, it is called “militarization.” The BBC’s editorial framing reveals a persistent double standard:When Western powers project force across the globe, it is described as “counter-terrorism.”But when an African nation acts decisively to protect its citizens, it becomes “militarization.” This bias is not analytical; it is a historical echo from a time when Africans were expected to be defended, not to defend themselves. That mindset continues to shape much of the Western media’s perspective whenever an African government dares to act independently. Uganda, however, is no longer a pupil in the imperial classroom. We do not need the BBC’s moral instruction to understand how to protect our homeland. SFC: A Symbol of Sovereignty, Not Subservience The SFC’s existence is no secret. Its structure and mandate are public. Its men and women are well-trained, disciplined, and battle-tested. They stand as a symbol of the modern Ugandan state: confident, capable, and self-reliant. To reduce Uganda’s security institutions to caricatures of tyranny is to erase decades of national institution-building and sacrifice. It is also an insult to the families of soldiers who have died in Somalia, Congo, and elsewhere, not in pursuit of conquest, but in the service of peace. Uganda’s security forces are accountable to Ugandan law, Ugandan institutions, and the Ugandan people, not to the lingering nostalgia of colonial powers. A Call for Journalism Beyond Empire If the BBC wishes to remain relevant in Africa, it must abandon the posture of a colonial lecturer. True journalism requires context, balance, and humility, not the lazy reflex that assumes any African in uniform must be a villain. The world has moved on. The empire has fallen. Uganda has not only learned to stand on its own feet but has also helped other nations do the same. The Special Forces Command embodies that spirit of self-determination; a force forged in the real challenges of African security, not the fantasies of colonial nostalgia. It deserves respect, not vilification. Uganda will never apologize for defending itself and it will never again seek permission from former imperial rulers to stand tall as a sovereign African power. The writer is the Acting Executive Director, Uganda Media Centre.

BY OBED KATUREEBE

16 October 2025

UGANDA’S 2026 PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN: WHAT KEEPS MUSEVENI AHEAD OF HIS COMPETITORS

The campaign season is now in full swing, shaping up as a contest between continuity and various versions of “change.” As the media tries to give equal airtime to all candidates, naturally, some candidates dominate more than others. In this race, the headlines are primarily about the incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (NRM), Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine, NUP), Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) Gregory Mugisha Muntu (ANT) and Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC) are the top four contenders. The candidates have taken different approaches, as we have observed. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s selling point is continuity of long-term projects, infrastructure, security, and a narrative of steady development. He has positioned himself as the guarantor of stability and of ongoing investments in roads, health facilities, and youth support programmes. On the other hand, Robert Kyagulanyi, a second-time presidential candidate, who appeals mainly to urban youth, relying on his music style rallies to draw crowds, bases his campaign on attacking and criticizing President Museveni and his government. The running battles with security were his best-selling point, and with none at play so far, it is steadily becoming an uphill task for Kyagulanyi to address his crowds. He is a populist and offers fewer programmatic details than established technocratic alternatives. President Yoweri Museveni’s political record remains unmatched. His supporters see him as a symbol of security and progress, as his opponents call for leadership change, offering themselves as alternatives. As the 2026 elections draw closer, it is clear that Museveni is still the leading presidential candidate despite the political malignment from his opponents. But what is Museveni’s trick to stay the people’s favorite? Museveni’s rallies have drawn large, enthusiastic crowds, demonstrating not just political support but also renewed faith in his vision for Uganda’s continued progress. At every stop, the President has reminded Ugandans that transformation begins with the individual through hard work, enterprise, and patriotism. His warmth and humor during these rallies show a leader still in touch with the people, even after his long service. At several rallies in rural districts, President Museveni has taken time to speak directly with farmers about their challenges, from livestock management to access to markets. In some cases, he has stepped off the podium to talk to individuals and offer practical advice. These exchanges show him as a hands-on leader who understands agriculture from the grassroots level. He often uses storytelling rooted in village life, peppered with humor and local idioms that resonate deeply with rural audiences. He has recalled childhood memories of cattle keeping and family discipline, which are simple yet powerful tales that remind supporters that he shares their cultural background and values. In recent rallies targeting young voters, Museveni has taken selfies with students, danced briefly to popular songs, and engaged in lighthearted conversations about innovation and employment. These moments humanize him and project the image of an elder statesman who respects and relates to the younger generation’s aspirations. At women’s gatherings, Museveni has personally handed over startup funds, sewing machines, and agricultural inputs. His interactions, often accompanied by words of encouragement and laughter, show a leader who values women as key partners in national development rather than as political footnotes. A recurring highlight in his rallies is Museveni’s deliberate choice to address people in their native languages. Whether speaking Runyankore, Luganda, or Luo, he adapts his tone and vocabulary to connect emotionally with each audience, reinforcing a sense of shared identity and national belonging. Unlike typical campaign speeches, some of his rallies include question-and-answer sessions where locals directly express concerns about roads, schools, or healthcare. His patient and detailed responses underscore his image as a listener and problem-solver rather than a distant politician. These moments collectively paint a picture of Museveni as a leader grounded in Ugandan culture and community life, whose strength lies in direct interaction rather than formal speeches alone. A central theme in Museveni’s campaign has been economic transformation through industrialization and modernization of agriculture. At rallies, he has cited success stories from dairy cooperatives in the west to new factories in central Uganda as evidence that the country’s economy is steadily shifting from subsistence to value addition. He continues to emphasize the importance of the Parish Development Model and youth enterprise funds, calling them vehicles that will lift millions out of poverty and build a self-sustaining economy. The high turnout of young people at his rallies shows their recognition of Museveni’s focus on youth empowerment. His message to the youth is that Uganda’s future depends on their creativity and discipline, and his government will provide the foundation they need to succeed. He has held several engagements with young entrepreneurs, encouraging them to take advantage of programs in ICT, innovation hubs, and vocational training. In an era of regional and global instability, Museveni’s contribution and message of the importance of peace have been consistent everywhere he has gone. He reminds citizens that Uganda’s security, unity, and steady economic growth are hard-won achievements that must be protected. His vision for transformation is not about short-term politics but about long-term national progress built on stability. His supporters speak not only of the President’s achievements but also of his enduring drive to see Uganda fully industrialized and self-reliant. Each rally has become a stage for celebrating how far the country has come and a rallying point for how much further it can go under a leader whose mission remains unfinished, hence the theme, ‘Protecting the Gains’. President Museveni’s message often expands beyond Uganda’s borders, emphasizing African unity and self-reliance. Domestically, he calls for harmony among Ugandans regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation. His campaigns stress that unity and patriotism are key to preserving the nation’s progress. President Museveni’s rallies have reawakened confidence in Uganda’s transformation journey. His vision for a modern, prosperous, and peaceful nation continues to inspire millions. Through his message of discipline, unity, and empowerment, Museveni stands as a symbol of continuity and progress — guiding Uganda toward a brighter future.

By Carolyne Muyama

16 October 2025

NUP, WHAT ACCOUNTS FOR YOUR REVERSAL TOWARDS IPOD?

In September 2021, the IPOD secretariat extended an invitation to two political parties, the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), both of which secured parliamentary seats, to join the organization as they initiated the drafting of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that sought feedback from former members; following the expiration of the previous MoU. NUP chose not to join IPOD, as articulated in a written communication by David Lewis Rubongoya, the NUP Secretary-General, who explained that the platform had primarily been utilized to legitimize a repressive regime that shows little regard for democratic principles. Moreover, the regime exploits IPOD for its political advantage, deviating from its original purpose of enhancing Uganda’s multiparty democracy. Rubongoya further asserted that despite IPOD's decade-long existence, the democratic landscape in Uganda has deteriorated, worsening each year. He characterized the discussions within IPOD as mere gatherings for tea and photo opportunities, reflecting NUP's critical view of IPOD. A video exists featuring former NUP spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro within the corridors of a television station, where he asserts that Gen. Museveni wished for NUP's involvement in IPOD activities in order to capture a photograph with Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi. Nevertheless, this scenario seems improbable, likely only materializing when Gen. Museveni relinquishes power to Kyagulanyi.

SARAH NANTEZA

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