Leaders from Rwemikoma subcounty have voiced their growing concerns over insecurity in the area particularly regarding cattle theft. The issue was highlighted during a council meeting held at the subcounty headquarters to draw budget frameworks for the financial year 2025/2026.

Sam Aine Kakajara, the LCIII Chairman for Rwemikoma stated that the prevalence of cattle theft has become alarming, prompting significant discussions among local leaders.

Geoffrey Katungye, the subcounty chief, pointed to the involvement of local council leaders who reportedly issue acceptance letters to animal traders without proper scrutiny exacerbating the problem.“We are working closely with the district police to apprehend anyone selling unverified meat in restaurants,” said Katungye, emphasizing the need for tougher measures in the trade.

Elon Tugume, lady councilor for Rwemikoma, highlighted the insufficient number of police officers in the area as a contributing factor to the ongoing insecurity. She stressed that a stronger police presence is essential to address the issues effectively.

Responding to these concerns, the Resident District Commissioner for Kazo District, Rt. Capt. Yahaya Kakooza, confirmed plans to deploy additional police officers to curb cattle theft. He urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly to enhance security.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Kazo, Mushabe Garshom has called out the District authorities for their slow response in releasing funds earmarked for the renovation of Ngomba Health Centre Block 11 which suffered significant damage during a recent severe storm. The issue came to light during a visit to the area by local leaders, including Member of Parliament Hon. Dan Kimosho.

The storm not only wreaked havoc on public infrastructure but also claimed the life of a primary school student, Musimire Francis, whose home collapsed during the weather event.

Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda, the district chairperson confirmed that the council had already approved the renovation budge but delays from the technical team have hindered the necessary restoration efforts exacerbating the damage to the health centre.

In response to the devastation, MP Dan Kimosho expressed heartfelt condolences to the grieving family of Musimire and vowed to take immediate action to restore essential services at the Health Centre II. He has also reached out to the Minister for Disaster Preparedness to seek additional assistance for the affected community.

Residents of Ngomba, represented by their councillor Abel Futimukiza shared their sorrow over the loss of homes and gardens underscoring the deep impact the storm has had on their lives and livelihoods. The community continues to grapple with the aftermath as leaders press for urgent action to address the ongoing challenges.

Kashongi Farmers’ Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) has launched a new sustainability initiative aimed at enhancing environmental practices among its members. The initiative was unveiled during the SACCO’s 18th Annual General Meeting held yesterday at its headquarters in Kashongi Town Council,Kiruhura district

Brig. Gen. Freddy Joseph Onata, the Chief Executive Officer of Wazalendo SACCO Ltd who graced the event as the chief guest urged SACCO leaders to make strategic decisions that would facilitate significant growth within the organization. “It is essential to evaluate the outcomes of your actions and their impacts,” he stated. “To be a sustainable SACCO, you need to create a positive impact that encourages members to engage in productive activities.”

The delegates of Kashongi Farmers’ SACCO in a meeting yesterday

Brig. Gen. Onata emphasized the importance of mobilizing members to save their own money, highlighting that sustaining financial benefits within the cooperative is crucial. “Instead of surrendering interest payments to commercial lenders, let that interest serve your members,” he urged.

Charles Nateekateka, the Board Chairman, shared a positive outlook on the SACCO’s progress, noting that Kashongi Farmers SACCO has employed 51 staff members, 40 of whom hold university degrees. “This qualified team is well-positioned to drive the development of the SACCO,” he said.

Nateekateka also reported impressive financial figures from the last financial year revealing that the SACCO boasts nearly 20,000 members, UGX 2.6 billion in savings, UGX 1.3 billion in fixed savings, a share capital of UGX 2.9 billion, a loan portfolio of UGX 9.3 billion, and a profit of UGX 512 million. He encouraged the public to join the SACCO for shared growth and development.

In her remarks, Rose Twinamatsiko, the General Manager, elaborated on the purpose of the sustainability initiative. She highlighted the numerous challenges facing members in the Nyabushozi region, including drought, low rainfall, disease outbreaks and issues stemming from environmental degradation. “This initiative aims to help our members revive nature and address these pressing concerns,” she explained.

The launch of the sustainability initiative marks a significant step forward for Kashongi Farmers SACCO as it seeks to empower its members while promoting environmentally friendly practices in the community.

The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa has emphasized a crucial role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing Uganda’s education system. Speaking at the inaugural AI exhibition organized by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) at the Kamukuzi grounds, Tayebwa spotlighted the transformative impact of AI in sectors such as business and healthcare and urged educational institutions to incorporate AI-driven learning solutions to foster societal development.

During his address, Tayebwa challenged students to become proactive problem solvers, underscoring the importance of embracing responsible AI practices in their academic pursuits. “As we stand on the brink of an AI revolution, our students must harness this technology to drive positive change,” he stated.

However, Tayebwa also issued a cautionary note regarding the potential misuse of AI. He stressed the importance of using this powerful technology solely for educational purposes, warning that failure to do so could lead to harmful consequences. “We must ensure that AI is utilized responsibly to safeguard the integrity of our education system and promote a sustainable future,” he added.

The AI exhibition marks a pivotal step towards integrating advanced technologies in Uganda’s educational framework setting the stage for a new era of learning and innovation.

Police In Bushenyi district are investigating circumstances surrounding the mysterious death of Matthias Muller, a 46-year-old German national who passed away at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital on March 27, 2025.

Martial Tumusiime, the Greater Bushenyi police spokesperson confirmed the incident and identified Muller who traveled to Uganda for a visit. Reports indicate that he was in Uganda to reconnect with a friend he met during a music performance in Kigali, Rwanda in 2017.

Sad Mugisha Kadingidi, a 48-year-old DJ from Kyenzaza Cell in Rubirizi District reported the case to the police after inviting Muller to his home. Upon the German national’s arrival on March 18, 2025, Kadingidi noticed that Muller had developed a severe cough and was not taking any medication.

Concerned for his friend’s health, Kadingidi took Muller to St. Benjamin Diagnostic Centre in Kyenzaza for treatment. Unfortunately, Muller’s condition deteriorated, leading to his referral to Kampala International University Teaching Hospital.

At the hospital, he was diagnosed with lung cancer and, tragically, succumbed to the illness just days later. He was pronounced dead at approximately 7:30 AM on March 27.

Authorities are conducting an investigation to uncover the details surrounding Muller’s death and any further updates will be provided by the police as inquiries continue.

A house belonging to renowned gospel singer and politician, Levi Amarakutunga alias DJ Levi Nyamagoya was set on fire by unknown individuals in Kabujogyera Town Council, Kitagwenda district. Authorities suspect that the act may be an act of revenge linked to allegations surrounding ritual sacrifices.

Police are currently investigating the cause of the fire but are yet to confirm any details. The incident follows a recent court ruling in which the Grade One Magistrate for Kamwenge, Ahimbisibwe K. Innocent, remanded Amarakutunga along with four co-defendants to Katojo Government Prison until April 14, 2025. They face murder charges linked to the alleged ritual sacrifice of Nyamagoya’s niece, four-year-old Ainomugisha Tricia.

As the investigations unfold, the community remains on edge, grappling with the shocking allegations against a figure many had admired.

Kazo District Council has unveiled budget estimates totaling Shs25.16 billion for the fiscal year 2025/2026, as presented today by the Secretary for Finance, Hon. Ham Rubainika. Education has been allocated the largest share receiving 42.4% of the budget.

During a council session held at the Kan House Conference Hall in Kazo Town, Rubainika outlined strategies for effective budget implementation emphasizing increased household income and improved quality of life for residents of the district.

Councillors expressed their support for the education budget, citing the district’s strong performance in the 2024 results and a commitment to sustaining that success.

Additionally, the council resolved to collaborate with sub-counties to formulate bylaws regulating charcoal burning in the district. This initiative was introduced by District Chairperson Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda during his address to the council.