Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Manifesto Implementation has encouraged women across Uganda to become more involved in the upcoming electoral processes. With both party primary elections and the 2026 general elections on the horizon, Kamuntu emphasized the crucial role women play in shaping the country’s future by ensuring their perspectives are heard.

Prof. Kamuntu recently held meetings with women in Rugarama sub-county and Shuuku Town Council within Sheema South constituency to discuss their engagement in both political participation and local development initiatives.

Addressing the women at gatherings held at Rugarama Church of Uganda and Ryakasinga Community Hall, Kamuntu highlighted key government programs designed to empower communities and individuals. He specifically drew attention to the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Program (UWEP) explaining how these initiatives can provide opportunities for women to improve their livelihoods and participate in economic growth. The meetings aimed to raise awareness about these programs and empower women to actively engage with and benefit from local development opportunities.

The meetings provided a platform for the women to voice their concerns and frustrations. During the discussions, women from both Rugarama and Shuuku Town Council expressed significant dissatisfaction regarding several pressing issues affecting their communities. They highlighted the persistent lack of access to clean water, the poor state of local road networks, and the inadequacy of healthcare services.

A particularly poignant point of frustration raised by the women was their disappointment over the failure to receive clean water despite having reportedly paid UGX100,000 to town council officials. This highlights a critical challenge in the effective delivery of essential services and underscores the need for accountability and transparency in local governance.

Prof. Kamuntu’s engagement with these women serves as a reminder of the importance of both encouraging political participation and addressing the tangible challenges faced by communities at the grassroots level. His message underscores the belief that women’s active involvement in elections and their ability to articulate their needs are vital for fostering inclusive and effective governance in Uganda.

Kyabahura 1 Model Primary School in Kazo Town Council, Kazo District bids farewell to its long-serving Headteacher, Gaston Bwesigye Katungye. The event which was held on Saturday May 2 brought together a diverse gathering of staff members, parents, pupils and headteachers, teachers, community leaders, politicians, businessmen and well-wishers to honor Mr. Katungye’s significant contributions.

The main celebrant of the farewell mass, Rev. Fr. Deo Mugisha, the Parish Priest of Kazo Catholic Parish commended the Kyabahura 1 Model Primary School community for their decision to officially recognize and celebrate the efforts of their outgoing Headmaster with such a fitting tribute.

During the Mass, Rev. Fr. Mugisha offered words of encouragement and guidance to the assembled teachers and all who attended the function. He urged them to serve diligently emphasizing the importance of preparing for a fulfilling retirement. The Priest also issued a strong challenge to teachers who “cheat learners” by skipping lessons stressing that such a habit is a detrimental gesture not only to the students but also to the nation as a whole.

Katungye retires after an impressive 37 years of dedicated service as both a classroom teacher and a headteacher. His long and impactful career was in schools including Kashwa P/S, Kinoni P/S, Rwebitakuri p/s, Rwemengo P/S, Kyabwayera P/S, Ibaare P/S and St. Paul’s Kyabahura P/S where he served on two separate occasions. He is retiring this year having reached the mandatory retirement age of 60.

In his address, the retiring Headteacher expressed his gratitude to all the staff and concerned bodies he had worked with throughout his career acknowledging their support in making his work easier.

Mary Kabagambe, the Chairperson School Management Committee lauded Katungye for his “service above self.” She specifically highlighted his “great job in reviving the glory of the Kyabahura 1 Model P/S,” which she noted had begun to deteriorate. Kabagambe extended her best wishes to the outgoing headteacher in his retirement.

Mackline Namanya, Senior Education Officer also spoke at the event praising Katungye for “transforming the school quantitatively and qualitatively.” She pointed to the increase in the number of pupils achieving Grade Ones during his tenure as a key factor that has boosted enrollment at the school.

The outpouring appreciation to Katungye was evident in the numerous gifts he received from all the attendees presented as a token of love and a fond farewell. The ceremony at Kyabahura 1 Model Primary School served as a fitting tribute to a dedicated educator who has left a lasting impact on the school and the community.

Kazo District Chairman LCV aspirant, Naboth Nandeeba has today morning held a meeting with Nkungu boda boda riders to discuss issues related to the development of their area and their business. The meeting took place at Nkungu Trading Centre, where Nandeeba advised the riders to adopt the habit of saving a small portion of their daily earnings for future investment.

During the meeting, Abaho Jordan, a member of the Nkungu boda boda stage appreciated Nandeeba’s advice noting that it would help them increase their household income and improve their livelihoods.

However, Andrew Mugume the chairman of Nkungu boda boda stage raised concern about theft within the area. He urged district leaders to look into this issue emphasizing that theft negatively impacts their earnings and hampers their economic growth.

The meeting aimed to foster development and address challenges faced by boda boda riders in Nkungu with community members hopeful that their concerns will be addressed to boost local economic activities.

Leaders of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in Kazo district have revealed that the ongoing Local Council (LCI) flagbearer nominations and the organization of village party structures is going on smoothly.

The NRM Registrar for Kazo district, Joseph Nuwagaba confirmed to Kazofm that the nomination process has gone on smoothly. He revealed that the candidates are now free to begin campaigning as per the schedule. “The nomination process went smoothly and candidates are now permitted to campaign,” Nuwagaba Joseph stated.

Nkaija Wilson, the district NRM chairman emphasized the importance of a peaceful electoral process. “This is the beginning of the electoral journey and it will shape the outcome. We call for peace and transparency throughout,” he urged.

According to the NRM roadmap, campaigns for LC 1 flag bearers and village party structures are set to commence on May 1st, 2025. The elections for these positions will take place on May 6th, 2025.

Furthermore, the district conference to elect district leaders is scheduled for May 25th, 2025. Nominations for aspiring Members of Parliament, LCV Chairperson and District Councilors will be conducted on July 17th, 2025. The election of MP flag bearers is slated for July 16th.

The National Delegates Conference where leaders of the Central Executive Committee and the presidential flag bearer will be elected is planned for August 20th, 2025.

As the party moves forward with these key electoral processes, district leaders remain hopeful for a peaceful and successful election season.

The Grade One Magistrate’s Court in Kazo district has remanded Airet Birungi, 27 to Rugongi Prison in Kiruhura District until May 22, 2025 on charges of money laundering and theft of household property.

His Worship Joshua Ndajano presided over the court session and read charges to Birungi including but not limited to her involvement in multiple thefts at her workplaces such as alleged stealing of UGX 12 million in a recent incident in Kazo District.

According to police reports, Birungi originates from Rushoroza, Rwoburunga Kiyanga in Mitooma District has wondered often seeking daily employment as a maid across different parts of the country. Once employed, she allegedly stole money and property from her employers before leaving the jobs.

The suspect was initially detained at Kazo Police Station but escaped from custody only to be apprehended at Kazo market earlier today.

The court has ordered her continued detention as investigations continue. The community awaits further updates on her case as authorities work to bring clarity to her activities and the series of thefts linked to her.

The community of Rukungiri and the broader Kigezi region gathered today Wednesday April 30 to bid farewell to the late Benon Bitwiire,74, affectionately known as Uncle Ben, a revered mathematician, educator and gallant educationist whose legacy has left an indelible mark on countless students and the region at large.

During the funeral service held at Rwenshekye Rubanga in Buyanja subcounty, mourners listened attentively as the North Kigezi Diocesan Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe, delivered a heartfelt message. He reflected on the mysterious nature of death, describing it as an enigma known only to God. The prelate urged mourners to find hope and salvation in Jesus Christ emphasizing that faith is the ultimate answer to life’s uncertainties. “Death is a mystery (omubonano) and only Jesus Christ holds the key,” he stated.

Benon Bitwiire’s wife, Jessica Kyoshabire Bitwiire shared touching memories of her husband’s dedication to education and integrity. She highlighted that his impact extended beyond the classroom noting that he lived a life characterized by humility, compassion and unwavering empathy. The couple shared 45 years of marriage filled with love, laughter and companionship, blessed with six children and eleven grandchildren.

Family members, friends and colleagues paid tribute to Uncle Ben’s exemplary character. Daughter-in-law Hon. Natukunda Medius Kaharata, the Rukungiri District Woman MP described him as a dedicated teacher who served with passion and perfection. She expressed gratitude for the support the family received during this difficult time.

The late Uncle Ben’s children, led by Akampumuza Benson and Thiona Natukunda, described him as a peace-loving, kind and generous man who nurtured and educated them to become what they are today. They expressed profound appreciation for his sacrifices and teachings.

Rubabo County legislator Hon. Namanya Naboth called for unity and social-economic development. He urged political leaders and the public to desist from divisive politics of identity emphasizing that Uganda’s progress depends on unity and collective efforts. “We need to focus on transformation rather than politics of bickering,” he said.

The late Benon Bitwiire leaves behind his wife, five children and eleven grandchildren. His life and legacy as a passionate educator and committed family man continue to inspire many in the Kigezi region and beyond.

Police in Buhweju District have arrested 42-year-old Nshemerirwe Shallon in connection with the alleged murder of her husband, Bainomugisha Patrick following a domestic brawl on the night of April 13, 2025.

According to Greater Bushenyi Police Spokesperson SSP Martial Tumusiime, Nshemerirwe confessed to killing her husband during an argument that escalated at around 9:00pm. Reports indicate that she struck Bainomugisha on the head with a shovel, resulting in his death. The suspect cited ongoing domestic violence and frustration over her husband’s failure to provide for their children’s school fees as motives for the incident.

Following the alleged murder, Bainomugisha is accused of digging a pit in their bedroom, wrapping Patrick’s body in bedsheets and burying it there.

She was apprehended on April 14, 2025, in Mbarara City while attempting to flee the scene and is now in custody at Buhweju Central Police Station.

SSP Tumusiime stated that police are currently awaiting a court order to exhume the body from the home for further investigation.

The West Ankole Civil Society Forum(WASCoF) has launched the “Real Father” project specifically targeting fathers aged 25 years and below as a way of combating gender-based violence. The initiative was officially inaugurated during a five-day workshop for trainers held at Tuzza Hotel bringing together participants from six districts in the Ankole sub region.

Annet Mugisha, the Woman Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District, expressed her concerns about the government’s focus on promoting the rights and welfare of the girl child often at the expense of the boy child. “It’s crucial for parents to contribute to the upbringing of responsible citizens. Unfortunately, many fathers today are relinquishing their responsibilities leaving the burden solely on women,” Mugisha stated.

Nicholas Bashongoka, the Community Development Officer (CDO) from Buhweju District highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence in his district and praised the initiative behind the “Real Father” project. He emphasized that the training will empower leaders particularly CDOs to guide young fathers on fostering harmony within their families.

Appolo Lee Kakonge, Chief Executive Director of West Ankole Civil Society Forum underscored that the workshop aims to equip CDOs with the necessary knowledge to address and mitigate incidents of gender-based violence that are rampant in the region. The selected districts for this initiative include Buhweju, Rwampara, Mitooma, Bushenyi, and Sheema.

The workshop was attended by CDOs, opinion leaders, gender officers and other stakeholders who are expected to pass on the knowledge and skills they acquire to leaders at the subcounty level. This collaborative effort aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for families ultimately reducing the rates of gender-based violence in the region.

Authorities in Rubirizi District are investigating the tragic death of Muhirwe Gerald,25 who reportedly drowned after escaping from police constables who were leading him to a police station on April 18.

The Greater Bushenyi Region Police Spokesperson, SSP Martial Tumusiime confirmed the ongoing investigations, “We are conducting investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding Gerald’s escape and death.”

Muhirwe was being transported to Rubirizi Police Station on charges including threatening violence against his family members—specifically his parents and brothers. He was at the time of arrest found in possession of opium.

He escaped while being escorted by Police Constables Mutabaazi John Mary and Okaka. He escaped while crossing the Kyambura Bridge in Kirugu Sub County.

A search effort was launched following his escape and on April 23 local residents discovered Gerald’s body in the river at approximately.

A postmortem carried out by Rugazi Health Centre IV revealed that drowning was the cause of Muhirwe’s death.

Police have meticulously documented the crime scene and are in the process of recording statements from witnesses. The post-mortem report indicated that his body was found with a ring and two rubber bangles which may assist in the investigation.

Gerald’s past raised concerns; he had a history of drug addiction and had previously threatened to kill family members. Notably, he had also recently been released from prison on similar charges, raising questions about his mental health and the circumstances leading to his escape.

The Resident District Commissioner for Kazo District, Capt.(Rtd) Yahaya Kakooza has urged all those intending to bear the National Resistance Movement flag for Local Council I (LCI) village party structures to prioritize peace and security throughout the election season.The exercise which kicked off on Thursday April 24 with nominations set to run until April 30.

Capt. Kakooza emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful political environment and warned that individuals engaging in negative politics or defaming fellow candidates would face disqualification. “It is crucial that we promote peace during this election cycle as disqualification awaits anyone who undermines the integrity of the process,” he stated.

Addy Begumanya, the NRM District Administrative Secretary revealed that candidates who seek to contest for the LCI Chairperson seat will need to pay a non-refundable fee of UGXShs10,000 while those vying for positions within the village structure will not incur any costs.

Earnest Kagyegura, the NRM Registrar for Kazo Sub County expressed concerns regarding the registration process. He encouraged all interested individuals to register promptly to ensure their participation in the elections.

According to the NRM road map, campaigns for LCI flag bearers and village party structures will commence on May 1 with elections scheduled for May 6 while the district conference for electing district leaders will be held on May 25.

As the nomination process unfolds, local leaders and potential candidates are expected to uphold the values of the NRM and ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.