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Nujoma dies at 95

Sam Nujoma, the first president of independent Namibia has passed away at the age of 95 in Windhoek. This has been confirmed by the country’s current leader, President Nangolo Mbumba. Nujoma, a pivotal figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence from South African rule, died after spending three weeks hospitalized with an illness.

President Mbumba announced Nujoma’s death with “utmost sorrow and sadness” and praised him as a revolutionary leader who inspired Namibians to reclaim their land. “Our founding father lived a long and consequential life during which he exceptionally served the people of his beloved country,” he stated.

Nujoma played a crucial role in founding the South West Peoples’ Organisation (SWAPO) in the 1960s, which became a central force in Namibia’s liberation movement. He led the nation to independence in 1990 and served as president until 2005 before stepping down as president of the ruling SWAPO party in 2007 after 47 years of leadership.

Tributes have poured in from Namibians who remembered Nujoma fondly as the “father of the nation.” A visibly emotional President Mbumba visited Nujoma’s home to offer condolences to his family including his wife, Kovambo Theopoldine Katjimune who is 91 years old.

Under Nujoma’s guidance, Namibia achieved peace and stability post-independence. His national reconciliation policy played a significant role in encouraging the white community to stay in the country ensuring they remained integral to the economy. He was also a staunch advocate for women’s and children’s rights.

Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, set to be inaugurated as president in March, lauded Nujoma’s “visionary leadership and dedication to liberation and nation-building” as foundational for Namibia’s current unity and freedom.

Condolences have also come from across Africa, with African Union Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat recognizing Nujoma as “the epitome of courage.” South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed Nujoma as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” who not only advanced Namibia’s fight against colonialism but also contributed significantly to the struggle for democracy in South Africa.

Kenya’s President William Ruto described Nujoma as a “visionary leader” committed to the liberation and development of his nation.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced as Namibia mourns the loss of its founding leader and national icon.

Over 150 Female Prisoners Raped and Killed Amid Jailbreak

Over 150 female prisoners in Democratic Republic of Congo’s eastern city of Goma were raped and burned to death during a jailbreak last week. This shocking revelation was confirmed by a spokesperson of the United Nations Human Rights Office, Seif Magango, in an interview with journalist.

According to reports, 165 female inmates were sexually assaulted by escaping male prisoners most tragically losing their lives in a fire set during the chaos of the escape. Magango noted that only between nine and 13 women managed to survive the blaze but all had also been victims of rape.

While the UN has not independently verified these details, Magango stated that the account provided by a judicial source in the DRC is considered credible. The mass escape occurred on January 27, coinciding with intense fighting between the M23 rebel alliance and Congolese government forces over control of Goma. More than 4,000 detainees reportedly fled the Muzenze prison during the incident which has left the facility “completely empty” and in ruins.

DRC communications minister, Patrick Muyaya condemned the horrific acts of violence against the female inmates, calling the situation a “barbaric crime.” He emphasized that the government denounces such acts with the utmost severity.

This tragedy is part of a broader pattern of conflict-related sexual violence that has plagued the DRC for decades. The UN’s Human Rights Office has recently reported other incidents of sexual violence, including allegations that Congolese troops raped 52 women in South Kivu, with some cases involving gang rape.

The international community is calling for urgent action in response to this latest wave of violence. Meanwhile, the M23 rebel group claiming to have captured Goma, has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire following clashes that have reportedly left nearly 3,000 people dead.

As the DRC faces ongoing turmoil, the need for a comprehensive strategy to address sexual violence and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations remains paramount.

Investigate poorly performing schools,says Byaruhanga

The Bushenyi Ishaka municipality mayor, Richard Byaruhanga has taken a bold step to address the issue of schools in the area consistently failing to score grade ones in national exams. During the official release of the 2024 PLE results at Tuzza Hotel in Bushenyi town, Byaruhanga directed the education department to institute a committee to investigate these poorly performing schools.

According to Byaruhanga, there are seven schools that have consistently failed to score grade ones in the annual national exams. The mayor believes that establishing the reasons behind this trend is crucial in addressing the issue at its root. Byaruhanga emphasized the need for leaders to take a closer look into the matter and find solutions to ensure that all schools in the area are given an equal chance to excel.

Meanwhile, Silverio Byarufu Mukobi, the town clerk of Bushenyi Ishaka municipality, attributed the outstanding performance of the schools in the area to supportive parents and foundation bodies. He urged parents to prioritize providing lunch for their children at school citing that it was a crucial factor in achieving remarkable success.

Dan Mugyenyi, the education officer of Bushenyi Ishaka municipality, announced that the area led the country with a remarkable 99.3% success rate. The municipality had 814 candidates who scored Division I, 662 in Division II, 54 in Division III, and 21 in Division IV out of a total of 1561 candidates.

The three top-performing schools in the area, Kyeitembe primary, Ishaka Junior and Parental Care Primary School were awarded certificates for their outstanding performance.

Lifeless bodies fill streets in Goma

Nearly 3,000 people have been killed in the eastern city of Goma after a violent takeover by rebel forces, revealed the United Nations. The city has been engulfed in fierce fighting between the Congolese army and the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), a rebel coalition that includes the M23 armed group.

Vivian van de Perre, the deputy head of the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo reported that “so far, 2,000 bodies have been collected from the streets of Goma with an additional 900 remaining in local hospitals’ mortuaries.” She emphasized the need for urgent action noting, “There are still many decomposing bodies in certain areas,” and warned that the death toll may continue to rise.

In the wake of the humanitarian crisis, the AFC announced a ceasefire on seeking to address the conflict’s toll on civilians, which they attributed to the Congolese government—referred to by the rebels as the “Kinshasa regime.” However, the government dismissed this ceasefire declaration as a “false communication,” and reports of intense fighting persist particularly in the neighboring South Kivu province.

The Democratic Republic of Congo, home to more than 100 million people has been plagued by violence for decades rooted in ethnic tensions and battles over valuable land and mineral resources. This turmoil has contributed to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

Both Congo and the United States have accused Rwanda of providing support to the M23, which primarily consists of ethnic Tutsis who have been at odds with the Congolese government for over a decade. Rwanda’s government denies these allegations but admits to deploying troops and missile systems in eastern Congo citing national security concerns. President Paul Kagame told journalists on Monday that he was uncertain about the presence of Rwandan forces in Congo but maintained that his country would do what is necessary to protect itself.

Since its revival in 2022, the M23 has reinvigorated its rebellion against the Congolese government seizing significant territory in North Kivu which borders both Rwanda and Uganda. The region is rich in rare minerals like coltan, essential for manufacturing electronics such as smartphones and computers.

As the conflict continues, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can bring stability and peace to the war-torn region.

Namirembe diocese Bishop, Clerics visit South Ankole diocese

The South Ankole Diocese has successfully hosted a delegation of 40 clerics and parishioners from the Namirembe Diocese in a 4-day benchmarking visit. The visit, which concluded today, aimed to share knowledge and best practices in various projects initiated by the South Ankole Diocese.

According to the Bishop of South Ankole Diocese, Rt. Rev. Nathan Ahimbisibwe, the visit provided an opportunity for both dioceses to learn from each other and exchange ideas on development and gospel-related projects. The delegation toured several projects, including a four-storeyed Mother’s Union Complex, coffee plantations, banana plantations, an irrigation scheme and a fish pond project.

The visiting team, led by Bishop Rt. Rev. Moses Banja expressed appreciation for the innovative projects, particularly the coffee and banana plantation initiatives in Kibatsi Archdeaconry which have transformed households and improved livelihoods. Bishop Banja pledged to strengthen collaboration between the two dioceses and thanked Bishop Ahimbisibwe and his wife, Maama Lillian for their hospitality.

Mama Lillian Ahimbisibwe revealed plans to skill mothers in traditional weaving and crafts to generate income at the household level. The Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Can. Arthur Twinamatsiko attributed the success of the coffee plantation project to unity and commitment among the community.

The Archdeacon of Kibatsi Archdeaconry, Ven. Rev. Azaria Mwebembezi highlighted the achievements of the Archdeaconry, including the coffee project and announced plans to roll out water harvesting tanks and sanitation programs to improve the welfare of parishioners.

The visit has sparked excitement among the clergy and parishioners with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn from each other. As the two dioceses continue to foster their networking ties, they are expected to share more development and gospel-related information ultimately changing lives and fighting household poverty.

Other speakers at the event included Rev. Edmond Mwesigye, Father’s Union leader Mwesigye Nelson Raare, and Deborah Tusiime, Mother’s Union Coordinator. The visit has been hailed as a great success with both dioceses looking forward to continued collaboration and knowledge sharing.

No Ebola at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, says Dr.Twesigye

Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital has come out to refute the circulating social media concerns about the outbreak of Ebola at the health facility. This follows the admission of two suspected cases, which raised alarm in the community. A 15-year-old boy and a 19-year-old girl were hospitalized over the weekend displaying symptoms like bloody diarrhea, fever and headaches. Tragically, the boy passed away before test results ruled out Ebola amplifying public anxiety.

Dr. Deus Twesigye, the acting hospital director, addressed the community’s concerns stating that there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola at the facility. He emphasized the importance of vigilance, urging the public not to become complacent.

Despite recent concerns, the hospital is also battling an ongoing Mpox outbreak with 18 active cases still under treatment. Authorities have reported a total of 88 registered Mpox cases, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and adherence to health guidelines.

While an Ebola vaccine is available in Uganda, Dr. Twesigye revealed that Mbarara has not yet initiated vaccination efforts. This has intensified calls for increased public health measures as officials urge residents to remain cautious in the face of both Mpox and the potential for Ebola outbreak.

Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and stress the need for the public to follow safety protocols to prevent further spread of both diseases.

Leaders, head teachers meet

Kazo district leadership convened a significant workshop today at St. John’s C.O.U, bringing together headteachers from government primary schools to discuss educational progress and challenges in the area. The annual workshop, a customary event held at the start of Term One serves as a platform for headteachers to collaborate with district leaders on critical educational matters.

In an interview with Kazo FM, John Bosco Tumwesigye, the Inspector of Schools for Kazo District emphasized the importance of this meeting noting that it allows for open dialogue about initiatives and improvements within the education sector.

A highlight of the workshop was the election of a new committee for the Kazo Headteachers Association. Tumushabe Paddy was elected as the new chairman, who vowed to work closely with the Kazo District Education Department to enhance educational outcomes and support for schools in the district.

LCV Chairman Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda urged headteachers to be understanding regarding school fees. He discouraged the practice of sending children home for non-payment of fees, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in education and the need to keep children in school regardless of financial challenges.

As the workshop concluded, the district leaders and headteachers reaffirmed their commitment to fostering an educational environment that supports all students in Kazo highlighting the community’s collaborative efforts to address ongoing challenges within the educational system.

Road works launched amidst community dissatisfaction

Works on Ekitobero-Kashanyarazi Karugangama Circular Road in Nyamitanga, Mbarara City South Division have officially been launched amidst community dissatisfaction as residents demanded for a tarmac road. The project is worth Ugx Shs.11.8 million.

Crowds in Ekitobero expressed their frustrations chanting for a tarmacked roadway. They highlighted the adverse conditions created by dust during the dry season and mud during wet periods both of which have detrimental effects on their businesses.

The event was officiated by Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) for Mbarara City South Division, Robert Kanusu and attended by several notable figures including Mbarara City Mayor, Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi, Deputy City Town Clerk Ejeu Simon and City Engineer William Bananuka along with other local council leaders.

Kanusu acknowledged the long-standing neglect of routine maintenance on the road but assured attendees that the newly-launched project would adhere to the established Bills of Quantities (BOQs) ensuring proper execution and value for taxpayers’ money.

Kakyebezi encouraged the community to embrace the road improvements to bolster income-generating activities and enhance household incomes. He appealed for unity, urging residents to set aside divisive politics and focus on the transformative opportunities provided by local government initiatives.

Regarding financial matters, Kakyebezi addressed questions about the Ug Shs 134 million budget balance left from the Katete Bridge project. He confirmed that this amount has been sanctioned by the city council to construct a temporary bridge at Kanyeite, which will link Nyakaizi Kakoba to Karugangama Katete. He noted that any major bridge project in the city must receive approval from the Ministry of Works and Transport which has already conducted assessments of the Kanyeite Bridge.

South Division Mayor, Jomo Mugabi also stressed the community’s preference for a tarmacked road over a gravel one echoing concerns raised by residents. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the execution of the road works and called on the city engineer to provide accurate measurements of the road’s width to prevent potential corruption and misappropriation of funds.

The launch of this road project marks a critical step toward improving infrastructure in Mbarara City but the voices of the community highlight the need for ongoing dialogue and transparency to meet public needs effectively.

Pastor in Kazo killed by sons in cycle of domestic violence

Police in Kazo district are investigating a shocking case of alleged domestic violence in Meru Meru, Kataraza, Nkungu sub county that claimed the life of Rev. Mishach Kahembera, a prominent pastor in the United Pentecostal Church and a respected community leader.

Kahembera was reportedly killed by his two biological sons; Naboth Mugabe and Amos Nuwabiine at around 6:00am of Wednesday February 5. The duo are said to be still at large after taking off on a motorcycle following the incident.

Kahembera, 60, was a dedicated servant of the church, overseeing the United Pentecostal Churches activities in Kazo district and other parts of the country. His elder brother, Boaz Turyagyenda, a councillor for Kataraza Parish disclosed that Kahembera had been grappling with severe domestic issues, particularly following the tragic death of his wife, Rosset Tushabe in June last year.

The incident resulted into the arrest of Mary Busingye, her son Arthur Agaba and two suspects in the murder of Kahembera linking the death of Tushabe to the ongoing cycle of violence within the family.

Mugabe and Nuwabiine were later released while investigations were not yet concluded while Busingye and Agaba are still detained at Rugongi Prison in Kiruhura district.

“It is with a heavy heart that I recount the struggles my brother has faced,” Turyagyenda stated. “Domestic violence has plagued our family, leading to devastating consequences including the loss of his wife. We never anticipated that it would come to this,” he revealed.

Nabimanya Daphine, Kahembera’s stepdaughter shared her harrowing insights into the family’s turmoil lamenting about the recent death of her mother and expressed shock at the violence that has unfolded leading to the untimely death of her stepfather.

“This is a tragic end to a long history of violence in our family. We are overwhelmed by this loss and seek justice for our loved ones,” Daphine said.

Seth Byaruhanga, the district councillor for Nkungu Sub County condemned the violent incident highlighting on the urgent need for community intervention and support for families experiencing domestic challenges. “We must come together to address the issue of domestic violence in our communities and ensure that such tragedies end,” he emphasized.

As investigations into Rev. Kahembera’s death continue, community members are left grappling with the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, mourning the loss of a beloved religious leader while advocating for an end to domestic violence in their midst.

TAREHE SITA CELEBRATIONS: A SYMBOL OF COOPERATION BETWEEN PEOPLE AND ARMED FORCES

Residents of Kiruhura district have been urged to respect the occasion of Tarehe Sita as the country gears up to mark the 44th anniversary on February 6 and acknowledge the role played by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in serving the citizens.

Tarehe Sita, which translates to “6th Day” in Swahili, is observed annually to mark the day when 27 armed men and 15 unarmed commandos led by Gen.(rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni stormed Kabamba barracks on February 6th, 1981 marking the beginning of the liberation struggle that lasted five years in the jungles of Luwero.

In preparation for the celebrations, UPDF soldiers have been spotted cleaning the environment in a number of areas a gesture that Afande Apollo Mabati, Special Assistant Presidential Adviser on Citizen Veterans says symbolizes the cooperation between the army and the people.

Speaking to Kazo FM, Mabati emphasized the importance of the day saying that the UPDF’s community service is a demonstration of their commitment to serving the citizens.

Robert Rwakandare, Director of Political Mobilization in State House has stressed that every 6th of February is a significant day for Ugandans, as it reminds them that the army is a people’s army. He added that the UPDF’s efforts to clean and work for citizens on this day contributes to a peaceful and stable country.

Mr. Rwakandare also used the opportunity to caution Ugandans against tribalism and religionism particularly in political leadership and urged Ugandans to remain united.

This year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations will be hosted in the Greater Masaka region. The occasion is expected to bring together various stakeholders, including government officials, UPDF personnel and civilians to reflect on the country’s history and the role of the army in protecting and serving the nation.

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