kazofm.admin, Author at Kazo FM - 97.8

Border Security Between Uganda and the DRC Remains Stable

Written by kazofm.admin on February 2, 2025. Posted in News.

The security situation along the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border is currently calm, with all local activities proceeding without interruption.

Major Tabaro Kicoonco, the Information Officer for the UPDF Second Infantry Division, reported that tourism, agriculture, and local trade on the Ugandan side are not affected by the ongoing conflict in Eastern DRC. Additionally, he noted that numerous heavy trucks en route to Goma are currently parked at Nyakabande in Kisoro, awaiting a stabilization of the situation in the DRC.

Maj. Tabaro assured the public that Ugandan security forces remain vigilant, actively monitoring the border to prevent potential infiltration by suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) criminals and former combatants who might attempt to disguise themselves as refugees.

He emphasized that district and local security committees are conducting ongoing security awareness campaigns along the border to keep the community informed and prepared.

However, Maj. Tabaro also raised concerns about reports of suspected Ugandans who escaped from Munzenze prison in Goma. These individuals, some of whom were serving short- and long-term sentences, may be linked to ADF activities. Their escape coincided with the M23 rebels taking control of Goma, heightening the need for public vigilance.

He urged citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious individuals believed to be ADF criminals to government security officials, thereby helping to ensure the safety and security of the region.

M23 rebels take control of Goma City, the Capital of North Kivu province in DR-Congo

Written by kazofm.admin on January 27, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

The M23 rebel group announced early on Monday January 27 that it had captured the city of Goma, the largest in eastern Congo leading to widespread panic among its 2 million residents and prompted a swift condemnation from the Congolese government which labeled the advance as a “declaration of war.”

The rebels issued a statement urging Goma’s residents to remain calm while calling on Congolese military personnel to assemble at the central stadium. The rebel offensive is the latest escalation in one of Africa’s longest-running conflicts, which threatens to displace even more civilians in a region already plagued by instability.

According to a United Nations report, over one-third of North Kivu province’s population is currently displaced and the capture of Goma is likely to exacerbate this humanitarian crisis. As the situation unfolded, UN peacekeepers began processing members of the Congolese military who had surrendered on the city’s outskirts.

Congolese government spokesman, Patrick Muyaya released a video statement calling for civilian protection while acknowledging the precarious situation. He stated, “We are in a war situation where the news is changing.”

During an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, the special representative for Congo conveyed that with Goma’s airport shut down and roads blocked, “we are trapped.” The UN’s presence in the region has been severely tested with significant casualties among peacekeepers in recent days.

Tensions escalated over the weekend as Congo severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda which it accuses of backing the M23 rebels. Rwanda, however, denies these claims although international experts have corroborated evidence of support. The on-going violence has already led to the deaths of at least 13 peacekeepers prompting urgent calls for a ceasefire from the international community including the United States and France.

In the backdrop, hundreds of Goma residents are fleeing as heavy gunfire echoes across the city. Many are seeking refuge in camps or attempting to cross into Rwanda for safety. Displaced individuals from the Kanyaruchinya camp reported chaotic scenes as they fled from perceived threats of violence.

“I heard that there are bombs in Goma too, so now we don’t know where to go,” lamented Adèle Shimiye, a displaced person anxious about their safety.

The situation remains fluid with fears that if the M23 rebels advance further into Goma, the humanitarian impact on civilians could be catastrophic. U.N. deputy humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya warned that hostilities spilling into the densely populated urban center could lead to devastating consequences for vulnerable populations.

As the Congolese army continues to resist the M23 offensive with support from allied forces including U.N. peacekeepers, the conflict raises grim reminders of previous confrontations, particularly Goma’s turbulent history including the M23’s prior capture in 2012. With tensions at a breaking point, residents like Bahati Jackson choose to remain, saying, “If we’re going to die, it’s better to die here.”

Police investigates the death of 24 year old woman

Written by kazofm.admin on January 27, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Police in Bushenyi district are investigating circumstances surrounding the death of a 24-year-old woman, Janet Tunyumize.

According to Martial Tumusiime, the Greater Bushenyi Region Police Spokesperson, the incident occurred on January 25, 2025 in the evening hours. The matter was reported by William Ssenge, an officer attached to Bushenyi Police Station who rushed the deceased to Bushenyi Medical Centre in Bwatoogo cell, Central Division, Bushenyi Municipality.

The deceased had spent the previous night at William Ssenge’s residence. The two got into a misunderstanding the following morning. The deceased moved out and went to Bushenyi town before returning to the boyfriend’s residence where she was later found unconscious and vomiting a strong-smelly substance that seemed to be a poison.

Ssenge immediately rushed Tunyumize to the hospital for medical attention, but unfortunately, she passed away.

The deceased’s body has been conveyed to Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Ishaka for a postmortem examination. During treatment, Tunyumize revealed to the medical staff that she had taken poison but did not provide any reasons.

As the police investigation continues, the community is in shock and mourning the loss of the young woman. The incident has raised concerns about the rising rate of mental health issues and domestic violence in the region.

Ntungamo district launch solar-powered water System

Written by kazofm.admin on January 24, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Ntungamo District authorities have in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Environment launched the construction of a solar-powered water system in Mugyera Parish, Ngoma Sub-county. The launch ceremony held in Kabingo Village marked the handover of the construction site to Nexus Green, the contractor slated to carry out the project.

Samuel Muchunguzi Rwakigooba, the Ntungamo District LCV Chairperson reiterated the district’s commitment to improving access to clean and safe drinking water for local residents. “We aim to extend similar water projects throughout Ngoma Sub-county where many households face persistent water challenges that hinder both daily life and agricultural productivity,” Rwakigooba stated.

The chairperson expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Water and Environment and development partners for their financial contributions to the initiative, as well as to local landowners who willingly donated land for the project.

District Water Officer, Prosper Butubuura elaborated on the project scope which includes the construction of a pump house, a security room, solar-powered pumps, fencing and a 1.3-kilometer transmission and distribution line culminating in a reservoir tank. This comprehensive water system is set to benefit Kabingo, Rwabashegi, and Muzeire villages, along with essential institutions like Burama Primary School.

Brian Ssemakula, a representative from the Ministry of Water and Environment underscored the project’s vital goal of providing clean water which in turn is expected to significantly reduce health-related diseases within the community.

Local Council III Councillor, Moses Beine voiced appreciation for the government’s prioritization of the area highlighting the dire situation where residents rely on muddy water sources shared with livestock — an issue that intensifies during the dry season. “This project brings hope and relief to our people,” he remarked.

Emphasizing the government’s substantial investment in water infrastructure, Ntungamo District Chief Administrative Officer Mathius Ndifuna urged community members to protect the new facilities and collaborate closely with contractors to ensure the project’s timely completion.

The launch event drew attendance from local leaders, clergymen and enthusiastic community members all of whom expressed optimism that the new water system would transform daily life by providing easy access to clean water.

man arrested for defiling a 4 year old

Written by kazofm.admin on January 22, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Police in Rubirizi district have arrested a 25-year-old man on allegations of defiling a four-year-old child.

According to Martial Tumusiime, the Greater Bushenyi region police spokesperson, the incident occurred on Tuesday January 21 at approximately 11:00 am in Nyabubare Village 11, Kyabakara Parish. The suspect identified as Robert Tindyebwa, 25, a local peasant and resident of the same address has been taken into custody.

The victim, a four-year-old girl who is the daughter of Godfrey Kamukama, 35, was left at home while her parents attended to their work in the garden. The suspect allegedly lured the girl to a coffee plantation where he committed the act of defilement.

A witness, Akandwanaho, reportedly spotted the suspect in the process and immediately informed the victim’s mother. Upon receiving the information, the mother rushed to the scene and found the suspect in the middle of committing the act.

In light of this incident, the police urge everyone to be vigilant and ensure the safety of children particularly in their absence.

Mayor Kakyebezi faces impeachment

Written by kazofm.admin on January 21, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Mbarara City Councilors have threatened to impeach the City Mayor, Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi due to his failure to convene an extraordinary meeting during which they intended to seek clarification from the outgoing city town clerk, Assy Abireebe Tumwesigire. This discontent follows a series of letters sent by the councilors in which they allege disregard by both the town clerk and the mayor and the speaker.

In a recent letter dated January 15, 2025, the councilors demanded an extraordinary meeting before the now-transferred town clerk officially hands over responsibilities. Jessica Mwijuka, the councilor representing workers, voiced concerns that the council might lose a significant amount of money under unclear circumstances. Meanwhile, Byansi Muhammad, the councilor for Nyamityoobora expressed that they feel they have no choice but to pursue impeachment due to the mayor’s perceived undermining of the council.

In response to the growing tension, City Council Speaker, Bonny Tashobya Karusya urged the councilors to remain calm, noting that a regular council meeting has already been scheduled for Wednesday January 22 to address their concerns.

The Mayor, Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi confirmed receipt of the councilors’ letters and stated that he has formally instructed the city town clerk, in writing, to arrange the extraordinary council meeting.

Arteta needs support in the Winter transfer window-Ian Wright

Written by kazofm.admin on January 20, 2025. Posted in Sports.

Ian Wright has expressed concerns over Arsenal’s title aspirations following their disappointing draw against Aston Villa, where the Gunners squandered a two-goal lead at the Emirates Stadium. After a strong start to the match, Arsenal appeared in control but were stunned by two quick goals from Villa’s Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins leaving Arteta’s side to grapple with a precarious situation as they fell six points behind league leaders Liverpool who also have a match in hand.

Reflecting on the match, Wright emphasized the urgency for Mikel Arteta to receive support in the January transfer window. Arsenal’s bench during the game raised alarm bells for Wright revealing a lack of depth in attacking options. Key injuries to influential players such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus have hampered Arteta’s tactical flexibility leaving the team dependent on less experienced substitutes, including Nathan Butler-Oyedeji and Ismeal Kabia. Wright highlighted that even with Saka fit, the team urgently needed another forward to bolster their attacking threat.

“We have to buy some players. We have to,” Wright insisted, reinforcing that without reinforcements, Arsenal’s title chase could diminish rapidly. He noted that fatigue seemed to set in during the latter stages of the match suggesting the players were beginning to look exhausted after a challenging schedule that saw them play three matches within six days.

Arteta himself, while proud of his players’ performance against Villa, acknowledged the defensive frailties that ultimately cost them the win particularly in light of Saliba’s injury which necessitated a makeshift defense. Saliba’s absence was keenly felt as Arteta had to rely on adjusting players to unfamiliar positions. The result frustrated the Arsenal manager who lamented that the superb performance did not yield the result they desired.

Arteta candidly addressed the issues at hand recognizing the need for improvement in defense and the importance of securing results moving forward. He noted, “Nowhere near the standards of what we demand,” indicating a need for both tactical discipline and greater player availability.

With the January transfer window closing soon, the pressure is on Arsenal’s management to strengthen the squad. The message from Wright and other analysts is clear: to maintain their title ambitions, Arsenal must act swiftly to address the deficiencies that were so glaringly highlighted during the match against Villa. The coming weeks could prove pivotal for the Gunners’ campaign, as they seek to navigate both injuries and the demands of the Premier League title race.

Trump takes reigns today, what the world expects

Written by kazofm.admin on January 20, 2025. Posted in Opinion.

The outlook for Donald Trump’s second term as president is shaping up to be unprecedented in modern political history, reflecting his unique character, style and approach to governance. Having learned from his previous four years in office, Trump appears poised to implement a rapid and sweeping series of executive actions signaling his intent to fulfill campaign promises particularly in areas like immigration, energy policy, trade and education.

In the run-up to Inauguration Day, Trump’s strategy as discussed with a senior advisor, involved a clear show of authority from day one. This time he is expected to sign up to 100 executive orders, in stark contrast to his first term when only one order was signed on the inauguration day. Such a flurry could serve to demonstrate his commitment to change and to assert his power immediately.

Key areas for executive action include a substantial overhaul of immigration policies with Trump pledging the largest deportation initiative in U.S. history targeting undocumented migrants who number in the millions. His proposal includes controversial tactics such as potentially using military forces for enforcement.

In energy policy, expect Trump to reverse restrictions placed by Joe Biden, including lifting limits on offshore drilling, undoing vehicle emission regulations and withdrawing from international climate agreements. His administration is expected to focus on “energy dominance” as a top priority leveraging natural resource extraction as a core theme.

Trade policies may see a return to Trump’s earlier aggressive stances with discussions of imposing 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, creating potential ripples through global supply chains. His track record suggests these tariffs could have both domestic and international ramifications raising concerns about the impact on consumer prices.

Education will also come under scrutiny with Trump signaling intentions to cut federal funding to institutions that promote certain ideological content specifically those related to critical race theory and transgender issues. This shift could reframe discussions on educational equity and rights for students.

On the international front, Trump desires swift resolutions to conflicts notably in Ukraine though the effectiveness and implications of such policies raise questions about their broader impact on global diplomacy.

Amid these sweeping proposals, it’s crucial to gauge whether Trump’s actions will align with his rhetoric. Many voters support his bold promises but may remain skeptical about his ability—or willingness—to fully realize those plans. The upcoming months will serve as a crucial barometer, revealing not only the pace of change but also the political landscape’s response to Trump’s leadership style and priorities.

Ultimately, the unfolding events of Trump’s second term promise to be deeply consequential shaping not just domestic policy but also the United States’ role on the global stage. As his administration embarks on this ambitious course, the interplay between bold rhetoric and tangible action will be pivotal in defining his legacy and the nation’s future.

Police in Rubirizi hunt for power line vandals

Written by kazofm.admin on January 20, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Police in Rubirizi District are on the lookout for unknown assailants responsible for vandalizing and stealing three-phase power lines in Katanda 1 Village, Katanda Sub County.

The incident occurred during the night of January 16-17, 2025 when the thieves dismantled and took 120 meters of electric wires from the power line, causing significant disruption to the local electricity supply.

Martial Tumusiime, the greater Bushenyi police spokesperson confirmed the vandalism and said that a team of electricians from the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) Katerera Branch visited the scene to assess the damage.

Christopher Ntegyereize, a 49-year-old peasant and resident of Kakindo A cell in Katanda Sub County, reported the incident to the police and expressed concern over the theft. He mentioned that efforts are underway to identify the suspects with the community rallying to provide information.

The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in their areas as they work to apprehend those behind this brazen act of vandalism. The theft of electric wires has raised concerns about safety and the potential for further disruptions to power services in the region.

Businessman arrested for kidnapping and torturing neighbour-Sheema

Written by kazofm.admin on January 20, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Police in Sheema district have arrested a 55-year-old businessman, Johnson Ahimbisibwe over alleged kidnapping of Brian Agaba, 40.

Agaba, a resident of Kitamba cell in Kibanga East parish, Kitagata sub-county in Sheema district was abducted from his home on January 14 at around 2:00 pm. He was bundled into a Toyota Wish vehicle, Reg.no UBA 105S driven by Andrew Twijukye, 37 and taken to an unknown location.

The case was reported on January 15, by Robert Nuwarimpa, the LC1 chairperson of Kitamba cell at Kashekuro police station. Police launched a search operation and found Agaba drowning in River Ntungwa on the border with Kanungu and Rukungiri districts. He was rescued by some boys who were grazing animals on the river sides and informed police from Nyamirama in Kanungu.

Agaba sustained multiple injuries on the head, hands and legs, was rushed to St. Annah Health centre before being transferred to Kitagata Hospital in Sheema district where he is currently undergoing treatment.

In a statement to police, Agaba revealed that the kidnapping stemmed from an ongoing land dispute between him and the suspect. He said his kidnappers tied his hands and legs with ropes, blindfolded him with a piece of cloth and subjected him to severe beating before throwing him into the river.

Martial Tumusiime, the greater Bushenyi region police spokesperson confirmed the incident and said that an investigation is ongoing. Ahimbisibwe has been arrested and will face charges related to kidnapping.

The incident has sparked concerns over the increasing cases of kidnappings in the region which are often linked to land disputes and other forms of conflict.

Author: kazofm.admin