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.

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.

Police in Kazo District are investigating a chilling case of attempted murder involving a father and his five year old son. Kiiza Barnabus, a resident of Akagando Cell in Akatongole Parish, Migina Sub county is accused of allegedly attempting to kill his five-year-old son, Nuwasasira Ronald.

According to local residents, the incident occurred when Kiiza allegedly took his son to a secluded area and left him in a trench, hoping he would die. The child was discovered on Monday February 3 in a trench, showing signs of distress and in poor health condition. Residents have expressed their shock and concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

Kato Patrick, a police officer at Migina Police Station confirmed the incident and reported that a passerby found the boy and alerted authorities.

Following the report, police launched a search for Kiiza eventually locating him in his home village of Akagando. He was taken into custody and is currently being held at Migina Police Station as investigations continue.

Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and supportive, particularly for vulnerable children, while they work to gather more information and ensure the safety of Nuwasasira Ronald.

The case has raised alarm in the community, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support and intervention for individuals facing personal struggles that could lead to acts of violence against family members.

Hundreds of people in Ntungamo district gathered on Monday February 3 in Ntungamo Municipality to partake in the launch of Tarehe Sita activities organized by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 401 Brigade. The event was spearheaded by Brigade Commander Lt. Col. Gumizamu Kafureeka, alongside police and prison officials, as they led a procession through the municipal grounds and streets.

The gathering which featured a diverse group of participants including local leaders, civil servants, business owners and market vendors all of whom collaborated in cleaning and sanitizing the area. Lt Col Kafureeka emphasized the importance of Tarehe Sita celebrations highlighting the bond between the UPDF and the civilian population especially when deployed for operations.

“We appreciate the community’s support for the revolution,” said Kafureeka. “Your continuous cooperation with UPDF is crucial in our ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region,” he further said.

This year marks the 44th anniversary of Tarehe Sita which will be celebrated in the Greater Masaka region under the theme, “Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the Peoples’ Sacrifice in the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy for Socio-economic Transformation.” The term ‘Tarehe Sita’ means “the sixth day” in Swahili, referring to February 6, 1981, the day on which the fight against a government that arose from contested 1980 elections began with an attack on Kabamba military barracks.

During the event, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Ntungamo, Byarugaba Isaiah Kanyamahaane praised the UPDF for being a trustworthy army revered nationally. He commended the business community for their involvement in the cleanliness activities and urged them to continue these efforts within their respective areas of influence.

Senior Health Inspector, Jovat Tumushabe also expressed gratitude towards the UPDF and emphasized the vital partnership that has been cultivated between the forces and the local community.

The Tarehe Sita celebrations embody a historical legacy of struggle and a commitment to collective progress underscoring the harmonious relationship between Uganda’s military and its citizenry.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.