As the devastating effects of flooding grip Ntoroko district, leaders are calling on the government to expedite the relocation of vulnerable residents living in flood-prone areas. During a parliamentary session yesterday, Rwemulikya Ibanda, the Member of Parliament for Ntoroko County, passionately urged the government to adhere to its previous commitments regarding land acquisition for the resettlement of affected communities.

The entire area of Ntoroko district, encompassing three sub-counties, remains submerged following the recent overflow of the River Semliki, which has caused significant destruction to homes, schools, and businesses. The flooding has displaced countless families, compelling residents to navigate the hazardous conditions without adequate shelter or resources.

In light of the current crisis, MP Ibanda reminded the government of its earlier promises to secure land for the relocation of families in Kanaala Sub-County specifically.

“While land was successfully purchased for residents in Kasese, those in Ntoroko have been left waiting. Our people are living in a terrible situation, and we need clarity on when this land will be made available,” Ibanda emphasized, highlighting the urgency of the matter.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja responded to Ibanda’s remarks during the plenary sitting, acknowledging the government’s challenges in procuring suitable land for resettlement. She explained that the delay has been primarily due to ongoing struggles to identify and secure adequate land parcels that can accommodate the displaced families.

“We understand the severity of the situation and the need for urgent action, but this process requires careful planning and resources,” Nabbanja stated.

The Prime Minister’s response came amidst inquiries from other legislators, including Edson Rugumayo, the Youth Representative for the Western Region. Rugumayo reiterated the necessity for immediate government interventions to save lives and preserve property in Ntoroko district, as families continue to face the consequences of the flooding.

Nabbanja assured the parliamentarians that the government is dedicated to resolving the land issue and is actively exploring options to expedite the process. The Prime Minister emphasized that the welfare of affected residents is a priority for the government and that a comprehensive plan for relocation would be implemented as soon as possible.

As the situation worsens, the residents of Ntoroko district find themselves in increasingly desperate circumstances, calling for immediate action from their leaders. The emphasis remains on the need for the government to facilitate the rapid acquisition of land for resettlement purposes to ensure that those displaced can live with dignity and safety.

Local leaders, alongside affected residents, continue to advocate for timely government action, as they urge officials to prioritize the safety and well-being of their communities amid the ongoing environmental challenges posed by flooding.

Recently, the National Teachers Bill 2024 was presented in the Ugandan parliament by the State Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Crysostom Muyingo.

This bill aims to address the deficiencies and gaps in the existing Education (Pre-Primary, Primary, and Post-Primary) Act of 2008. One notable proposal in this bill stipulates that all teachers at various levels of education must possess a degree.

In response to this development, teachers in Kiruhura District have shared their perspectives on the implications of the “No Degree, No Teaching” policy.

Mr. Nuwamanya Ronald, the head teacher at Rushere Model Primary School, expressed a positive outlook on the necessity of degrees for teachers. He believes that if all educators hold degrees, the education system in Uganda will significantly improve.

“This change would lead to enhanced research efforts, resulting in students acquiring well-researched knowledge,” he stated, emphasizing the potential benefits that could arise from a more qualified teaching workforce.

On the other hand, Nankunda Winnie, the head teacher of St. Mary’s Primary School in Rushere Town Council, raised concerns about the feasibility of this requirement. She acknowledged the government’s intentions but cautioned that the policy might not be practical.

“While this is not necessarily a bad idea, it could face significant obstacles,” she commented. She highlighted that many teachers may struggle to afford the tuition fees required to attain a degree, which could lead to a decrease in the number of qualified teachers within the system.

Other educators at Rushere Christian High School also contributed to the discussion, underscoring the varied opinions surrounding the proposed legislative changes.

Overall, the National Teachers Bill 2024 has sparked a crucial debate among educators, with some advocating for higher qualifications while others expressing legitimate concerns regarding accessibility and the potential impact on teacher availability.

The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Bushenyi District has ordered the arrest of Hope Mbabazi, a loans officer for the Nyabubare Parish Development Model Sacco.

She is accused of extorting money from beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model in Nyabubare Parish, Nyabubare Subcounty, Bushenyi District.

RDC Robert Atuhairwe reported that Mbabazi received 100,000 UGX from Scovia Kyomuhangi to expedite her application for funding.

However, after a period of waiting without receiving any assistance, Kyomuhangi became impatient and began to spread rumors that Mbabazi had failed to fulfill her end of the agreement, which was intended to help Kyomuhangi pay for school fees.

Atuhairwe highlighted that such corrupt practices have become increasingly common, even though many individuals have chosen to remain silent about the issue.

He stated that the arrest of Mbabazi should serve as a wake-up call to all members of the Parish Development Model committees involved in similar unethical activities.

Elly Muhwezi, the subcounty chief of Nyabubare, also cautioned members of the Parish Development Model committees against extorting money from beneficiaries.

He emphasized that authorities are prepared to take strong action against anyone involved in these practices.

In defense, Mbabazi confessed to having received the money from Kyomuhangi but claimed that she later returned it. She explained that the rumors about her failure to act on the funds caused significant distress.

Following the interrogation, the RDC instructed that Mbabazi be handed over to the Nyabubare Police Post to record a statement while investigations into the matter continue.

Residents of Nkungu Central Cell, located in Nkungu Parish of Nkungu Subcounty in Kazo District, were left reeling in shock and disbelief following the tragic death of a 5-year-old boy, identified as Matsiko Abel. He was the son of Kabagambe Guma.

The horrifying incident occurred on the afternoon of August 8, 2024, when it is alleged that Jameson Bate, 36, the boy’s paternal uncle, brutally murdered Matsiko with a panga, a traditional machete commonly used in the region.

Eyewitnesses reported that after committing the crime, Bate went on to set fire to various household items, including mattresses, in what authorities believe was an attempt to destroy evidence or express his rage.

Witness accounts indicate that prior to the murder of Matsiko, Bate had physically assaulted his brother, Kabagambe, leaving him injured.

This outburst of violence has been attributed to Bate’s known short temper, particularly when he is under the influence of alcohol. Kabagambe and Bate are both sons of Kahwa Robert Kanyarushokye Matadiyo, who also resides in the same locality.

Geofrey Mushabe, the area chairperson, publicly condemned the heinous act, expressing deep sorrow for the family and the community as a whole.

He highlighted the ongoing struggles to manage Bate’s aggressive behavior and described the local leaders’ efforts to protect him from the increasingly angry mob that had gathered in response to the tragedy.

Mushabe confirmed that he had contacted the Nkungu Police Post, requesting immediate police intervention to prevent further violence and to ensure Bate’s safety.

As of the time of this report, local residents were anxiously waiting for police from Kazo Central Police Station to arrive.

Their mission was to retrieve both the body of young Matsiko and to take Bate into custody for questioning and further investigation into the horrific incident that has shaken the community to its core.

The loss of a child in such a violent manner has raised concerns among residents about safety and the ongoing issues of alcohol-related violence in the area.

Police in Kazo District are investigating conditions under which a man murdered his father. The deceased, Musinguzi Geoffrey, 63, a resident of Omubuzinga II village in Kyampangara Sub County, Kazo District was on Sunday August, 4 at around 7:00pm  murdered by his son Elias Gumisiriza, 31.

The residents of Omubuzinga II who were angry after realising that Musinguzi had been murdered. They picked up clubs, sticks, hunted for Gumisiriza accusing him of murdering his father and they ended his life.

Gumisiriza has been a drug addict and this is allegedly the cause of Musinguzi’s murder.

Kyampangara Sub County Councillor, Ham Rubeinika confirmed this incident revealing that he suspects that murdered his father under the influence of drugs. He cautioned people to stop the habit of taking the laws into their hands. He noted that residents were wrong and encouraged them to always rely on authorities in such circumstances.

The bodies of the deceased people were conveyed to Ruhoko Health Centre IV for post-mortem as investigations continue.

The Resident District Commissioner(RDC) Mbarara district, Turyabagyenyi Emmanuel Kateera, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the public servants of Mbarara District Local Government who have served diligently until retirement, as well as those who have transitioned to other organizations without complaints or regrets.

Turyabagyenyi conveyed his gratitude while officiating at a farewell party held for retired officers and those who have transferred their services at Bwindi Destination Hotel in Kamukuzi, Mbarara.

He encouraged the retired officers to reflect on their careers and recognize the legacy they have created for their successors to emulate in the pursuit of quality service delivery to the public.

The RDC cautioned heads of departments to mentor their subordinates rather than stifle them by monopolizing office tasks and resources. He emphasized that it is shameful for anyone to attempt to dominate office duties with the intention of restricting access to essential services and undermining human rights due to a lack of coordination and honesty.

Turyabagyenyi also urged local council leaders and district/sub-county levels to consider appointing retired public servants to commissions and boards to leverage their expertise.

Kagaba Allan Rukiri, the head of human resources, commended the retired public servants for appearing healthy and well-presented, which reflects their engagement in activities that generate income.

Moreover, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer of Mbarara District, Mrs. Tinks Betty Kamugisha, thanked the local leadership of Mbarara City, both the political wing and the technical team, for offering a warm welcome to public servants transitioning from the district.

Mbarara City MP Applauds President for Providing Free Foot and Mouth Disease(FMD) Vaccines, Launches Vaccination Program to Boost Livestock Farming

Member of Parliament for Mbarara City, Hon. Rita Atukwasa Bwahika, has appreciated the President of Uganda for providing free Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines to assist livestock keepers in Mbarara City.

Hon. Atukwasa informed the livestock farmers that the FMD vaccine is free and safe, urging them to hand over all their animals for vaccination to ensure the vaccine is put to good use by vaccinating all animals in the city.

Hon. Rita Atukwasa made these remarks while officially launching the FMD vaccination program in Mbarara City South Division, Mbarara, at Nyakayojo. She emphasized that the vaccine is provided free of charge and it is important for farmers to get mobilized and permit the veterinary team to access and administer the vaccine.

The Mbarara City Production Officer and City Veterinary Officer, Dr. Amanyire Moses, said the launch is meant to extend services and create awareness among the Mbarara City South Division residents. He explained that the launch was aimed at creating awareness and providing accurate information about the free FMD vaccination facilitated by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, where farmers only need to avail their animals and present their national identification cards for proper record-keeping.

Dr. Amanyire further explained that the FMD vaccination exercise is guided by government laws under the “Animal Disease Control Act,” and anyone who fails to bring their animals for vaccination will be handled and charged with sabotaging government programs.

The Mayor of Mbarara City South Division, Jomo Mugabi, requested the government to provide harsh punishments against known serial livestock thieves who are applying their own criminal tactics to steal and sabotage government programs aimed at fighting government policies.