Residents in Bushenyi district who are living with HIV/AIDS are increasingly living under uncertainty following the announcement by the US President Donald Trump regarding the suspension of USAID funds. This has led to reports of some healthcare facilities selling antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) to patients.

Nobert Gumisiriza, the coordinator of Bushenyi District HIV/AIDS Network Forum confirmed that his office has received multiple complaints about this troubling trend. He condemned the practice emphasizing that despite the suspension of USAID funding, supplies of ARVs should still be provided to facilities at no cost. “There is no justification for selling these life-saving drugs,” Gumisiriza stated.

Reports indicate that some facilities have been charging patients up to UgShs10,000 per tin of ARVs whereby each patient is required to take three tins depending on their distance from care centers and individual health needs.

Henry Barekye, the HIV/AIDS focal person for Bushenyi district, also corroborated the complaints and revealed that investigations indicated that certain facilities were charging patients for medications. “This practice is illegal and goes against the government’s commitment to provide free drug supplies,” Barekye noted.

In response to these violations, the health department has instructed the facilities involved to cease these practices immediately. Authorities are reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that all individuals living with HIV/AIDS receive their medications free of charge as mandated by health policies. The situation remains a concern for community health leaders who are looking forward to protect the rights and health of patients in the district.

Mbarara Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Catherine Kamwine has strongly cautioned residents against using their national identification cards as collateral for loans from money lenders.

This was during a meeting held at the RCC’s office in Mbarara City where national IDs were handed back to their rightful owners from money lenders. Kamwine urged citizens to explore government initiatives such as Emyooga, the Parish Development Model and the Youth Livelihood Programme instead of turning to high-interest money lenders.

“People should not risk their national IDs for short-term loans,” Kamwine stated. “There are safer and more sustainable options available through government projects.”

The RCC also addressed money lenders directly advising them to seek alternative forms of collateral and refrain from withholding national IDs from borrowers.

Supporting Kamwine’s stance, Elly Tubwine, the Regional Internal Security Officer for Mbarara condemned the practice of money lenders demanding original IDs as collateral. He warned that those found involved in such illegal activities would face arrest.

This press conference comes in response to numerous complaints received by the RCC’s office regarding money lenders who have been holding onto people’s national IDs leaving them in vulnerable situations. The officials’ actions reflect a growing concern over the safety and rights of citizens in financial transactions, and the importance of safeguarding personal identification documents from predatory practices.

Local leaders and community members from Nkungu Subcounty, Kazo District convened yesterday at the Subcounty headquarters to address the rising issue of theft in the area. The meeting was chaired by the LC III Chairperson, Dan Muramuzi was prompted by growing concerns about theft-related incidents that have plagued the community for some time.

“We have seen an alarming increase in theft in our subcounty and it’s about time we took a decisive action,” Muramuzi stated. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and collaboration to tackle the problem head-on.

The Officer in Charge of Nkungu Subcounty, Mugisha Habibu echoed this sentiment highlighting the critical role of LC I chairmen in monitoring local activities particularly concerning animal traders. “The LC I chairmen are on the frontline for this issue as they are the first to permit animal trading in our community. Their vigilance is essential,” Habibu noted.

The district Councilor for Nkungu sub county, Hon. Seith Byaruhanga also revealed that implementing new measures could significantly reduce theft cases. “If our community members adhere to the outlined procedures, we can effectively reduce theft and restore safety and trust in Nkungu,” he said.

Attendee Dinnah Ahikiriza shared her commitment to the meeting’s outcomes, promising to implement the suggested measures within her community. “I believe that by working together and following through on today’s discussions we can make a tangible difference in combating theft,” Ahikiriza affirmed.

The meeting ended on a positive note with participants expressing hope that increased collaboration and community engagement would lead to a safer environment for all residents of Nkungu Subcounty.

Residents of Kazo district have been encouraged to demonstrate patriotism and unity during a recent National Resistance Movement (NRM) conference held at the Burunga sub-county headquarters. The call to action was made by Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Gershom Mushabe.

Mushabe emphasized the importance of patriotism in fostering a cohesive community that works in the best interest of the nation. He urged attendees to embrace these values as a means of strengthening their local and national identity.

During the conference, NRM chairperson for Kazo district, Wilson Nkeija implored the people of Burunga to collaborate in addressing and fighting against theft that has been affecting their neighborhoods. “Working together is essential to ensure safety and security in our communities,” Nkeija stated.

The Chairperson LCIII for Burunga sub-county, Samuel Tumuheirwe Rumari, called on local politicians to actively mobilize support for the NRM particularly in promoting the party’s president.

The Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Ntungamo district, Rosemary Atuhaire urged local leaders to take proactive steps in ensuring that communities have access to clean and safe water.

Atuhaire highlighted the critical role that clean water plays in reducing disease outbreaks and enhancing productivity within communities. “Access to clean water is a fundamental right and crucial for the overall health of our population,” she stated.

Elijah Atuhaire, the District Secretary for Finance encouraged district councilors to work collaboratively with both the government and local communities to improve water accessibility. “We must bridge the gap between policy and practice by engaging with our communities,” he emphasized.

The District Water Officer, Prosper Butubuura echoed the call for community involvement stressing the importance of resident education on maintaining water sources. He noted that proper care and management are vital for ensuring the longevity and sustainability of these resources.

Councilor Muhumuza Denis Savimbi from Itojo Sub-county reinforced this message and urged leaders and community members alike to collaborate in protecting local water sources. “It is our collective responsibility to safeguard the water resources that sustain us,” Savimbi said.

The meeting brought together district councillors and development partners who strategized on improving safe water coverage in Ntungamo. The discussions focused on enhancing community engagement and implementing sustainable practices to ensure that all residents have access to clean drinking water.

John Muhumuza a resident of Kicuzi Parish,Kicuzi subcounty in Ibanda district has been sentenced to 10 days of community service by the Ibanda Grade One Magistrate’s Court after pleading guilty to threatening his mother’s life. The incident occurred on January 31st and the charge contravenes section 77(a) of the Penal Code Act which carries a potential prison sentence of up to four years.

Muhumuza avoided a lengthy custodial sentence due to his guilty plea which saved the court time and resources. Magistrate Vastine Kembabazi, in delivering the sentence noted Muhumuza’s cooperation and the fact that he is a first-time offender.

The court has ordered Muhumuza to work five hours daily at Kicuzi Health Centre III for the duration of his sentence. He is also required to write an apology letter to his mother, Grace Nsheka and have it endorsed by the LC I chairperson and submit a copy to the court by February 28th.

Kembabazi issued a stern warning stating that failure to comply with the sentence will result in his arrest and an 18-month jail term at Nyabuhikye Prison.

According to the prosecution, led by Emmanuel Tian, Muhumuza had gone to his mother’s house on January 31st while intoxicated and threatened her. Nsheka fled to her house and locked herself inside and later reported the incident to the police the following morning. Muhumuza was subsequently arrested and charged. Prior to sentencing, Muhumuza had pleaded for leniency, requesting the court to consider an agreement committing him to refrain from future threats.

Police in Bushenyi District are currently investigating a suspected murder case involving a 57-year-old man identified as David Tugume whose lifeless body was discovered on February 17, 2025.

Martial Tumusiime, the greater Bushenyi region police spokesperson confirmed the incident that occurred in Kakimba village, Kiyanga Parish, Kiyanga sub-county. The police received a report of the incident which took place on February 16, 2025.

Tugume wife, Lenonsia Kamayangi reported that her husband informed his family that he was going to the national park with a friend, Kombozo to fish. He packed items including a panga, maize flour, cassava flour and a saucepan and left the house on February 16, 2025. The deceased was found dead approximately 300 meters from his residence the following day.

A team of detectives from the Mitooma district police headquarters led by D/AIP Samuel Muhinda, along with the district scene of crimes officer visited the scene and recorded statements from witnesses.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the body showed no physical injuries but there was evidence of a struggle at the crime scene. The police also noted that the deceased’s neck was broken.

The police are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of death and identify any suspects. The case is ongoing and the police are appealing to the public for any information that may assist in the investigation.

Police in Bushenyi district have initiated an investigation into the death of a 40-year-old woman, identified as Kembabazi Jenifer, whose body was discovered in a forest in the Ruhumuro sub-county on February 17, 2025.

According to police spokesperson Martial Tumusiime, the incident occurred at an unknown time in Ekikorijo village, Nyeibingo parish, Ruhumuro sub-county. Tumusiime confirmed that four children had gone to collect firewood from Bakyindaho Solomon’s eucalyptus forest when they stumbled upon the lifeless body of a female adult.

It is alleged that Kembabazi had left her home in Nyakatete village on February 16, 2025 telling her husband, Kasasira Yonoka that she was heading to her parents’ home in Kayanga to check on her crops. Kasasira who reported to police that his wife was missing was later informed that her lifeless body had been discovered in the eucalyptus forest.

Preliminary investigations by the police suggest that the deceased had a weaving needle and a knife found near her body which may have been used in the assault. Scene of crime officers also discovered semen droplets on the deceased’s thighs indicating that she may have been raped. A sniffer dog was introduced to the scene, but it lost the scent after traveling a distance of one kilometer.

“The body was taken to Kyabugimbi Health Centre IV for post-mortem and our investigations are ongoing,” said Tumusiime. “We appeal to anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and assist us in bringing justice to the family of the deceased.”

People of Ntuura, Nsiika and Bwengure parishes in Kagongi Subcounty Mbarara district have been rendered homeless. This follows a devastating hailstorm that wreaked havoc in Kagongi Sub County leaving behind a trail of destruction.

Over 362 households have been rendered homeless, critical infrastructure and gardens have been severely damaged.

The affected structures include Bwengure Health Center II where a portion of the building was struck by a falling tree, Ntuura Parish headquarters, Ntuura Christian School, and Nsiika Christian Union Vision Primary School.

The extent of the damage was assessed during a monitoring and inspection program led by Member of Parliament for Kashari North, Basil Bataringaya Rwankwene. The program was initiated in response to urgent pleas from the affected communities.

During his visit, Hon. Bataringaya assured the affected families and institutions that a comprehensive report compiled by village and sub-county leaders will be promptly delivered to the Office of the Prime Minister for urgent action.

Hon. Bataringaya emphasized the immediate needs of the affected population, including food relief, quick-maturing bean and maize seeds for planting. He also requested the Office of the Prime Minister to provide building materials such as cement and iron sheets along with essential beddings like blankets and bed sheets to assist families whose homes were destroyed.

The LCIII Chairperson for Kagongi Sub County, Evarist Twine, highlighted the need for government support for private schools specifically Ntuura Christian School and Nsiika Christian Union Vision Primary School to supplement their efforts in educating Ugandan children.

The Chairperson of LCIII Ntuura Parish, Gumisiriza Kamiiri, expressed gratitude for the swift response from Hon. Bataringaya who offered comfort and advised residents planning to construct houses to consult with qualified technical professionals. The community hopes for a swift and effective response from the government to address the widespread devastation caused by the hailstorm.