News Archives - Page 19 of 131 - Kazo FM

Uganda Launches Clinical Trial for Ebola Vaccine Amid New Outbreak

Written by kazofm.admin on February 4, 2025. Posted in National, News.

Uganda has initiated a clinical trial for a vaccine against the Sudan strain of Ebola following the recent outbreak that resulted in the death of a nurse in Kampala. The trial commenced just four days after Uganda reported the nurse’s death with health workers and individuals exposed to the virus being prioritized for vaccination.

The outbreak has already confirmed two additional cases involving relatives of the first victim. This marks the sixth occurrence of the Sudan strain in Uganda, a variant for which there is currently no licensed vaccine available. Of the five other known Ebola strains, only one has an approved vaccination.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the urgency of the situation, with WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noting, “This vaccination trial was initiated with record speed.” A system for candidate vaccines had been established during a previous outbreak of the Sudan Ebola virus in Uganda in 2022, facilitating swift action this time around.

The vaccination strategy employs a “ring” approach where initial doses are administered to all contacts of confirmed Ebola cases including secondary contacts. The first group targeted for vaccination includes 40 individuals directly related to the health worker who succumbed to the virus.

Ebola is transmitted between humans through body fluids with key symptoms including fever, vomiting, bleeding and diarrhea. Uganda has faced eight previous outbreaks of the Sudan strain, with five occurring within its borders and three in Sudan.

In contrast, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has experienced over a dozen Ebola epidemics with the most severe outbreak resulting in 2,280 deaths in 2020. The ongoing efforts in Uganda underscore the need for rapid responses and effective vaccination strategies to combat the spread of this deadly virus.

Tensions Escalate as Kagame Downplays Rwandan Involvement in DRC Conflict

Written by kazofm.admin on February 4, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

Rwandan President, Paul Kagame has expressed uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst a spiraling conflict involving the M23 armed group. As fighting escalates, more than 900 fatalities have been reported in Goma fueled by the violent clashes between M23 and Congolese forces.

Kagame, a commander-in-chief of the Rwandan Defence Forces, stated, “I don’t know” when asked about Rwandan troop involvement and further emphasized, “There are many things I don’t know.” However, he acknowledged that the situation in Congo poses concerns for Rwanda, asserting, “If you want to ask me, is there a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda?… I’d say 100%.”

This statement comes amid accusations from the international community suggesting that Rwanda is providing support to the M23 rebels who claim to have captured Goma just last week. According to UN assessments, as many as 4,000 Rwandan soldiers may be assisting the M23, significantly outnumbering the rebel group itself.

M23 spokesperson Victor Tesongo refuted claims of Rwandan support labeling such assertions as a “manipulation of public opinion” and claiming that Rwanda is focused on combating the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) which he alleges poses a security threat to Rwanda by teaming up with the Congolese government.

DRC Communications Minister, Patrick Muyaya countered Kagame’s denial citing numerous confirmations of Rwanda’s military presence by UN officials and regional leaders. “Kagame is the only voice denying this,” he remarked, reflecting the widespread consensus on the matter.

When confronted with comparisons to Russian President Vladimir Putin who has been accused of backing separatist forces in Ukraine, Kagame stated, “There will be so many stories,” and added, “I may be called anything – what can I do about it?” He reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to protect itself from external threats, stating, “Nobody… is going to do it for us.”

The conflict has resulted in significant violence with reports indicating at least 16 casualties in Rwanda due to shelling from the ongoing fighting in Goma. DRC President Félix Tshisekedi has vowed a “vigorous and coordinated response” against the M23 describing the group as Rwanda’s “puppet” in the conflict.

As the M23 vows to expand its control beyond Goma and into other territories including the South Kivu province and even Kinshasa, tensions remain high in a region already fraught with instability. The potential repercussions of this continuing conflict threaten to further destabilize both nations and the surrounding areas.

13 year-old girl seeks assistance away from cruel dad

Written by kazofm.admin on February 3, 2025. Posted in News.

Stakeholders advocating for children’s rights in Kazo District are currently investigating a disturbing case involving a 13-year-old girl from AKatooma, Kyampangara Sub County who has allegedly faced severe torture and neglect at the hands of her father, Moses Nuwamanya, 36.

The victim spoke to Kazo FM detailing a harrowing life that has been marked by burdened deprivation since her mother divorced her father eight years ago. After the separation, her mother remarried and moved to Kampala leaving the girl in the care of her maternal grandmother.

The girl was later picked and taken into the custody of her 36-year-old father who is reportedly a serial substance abuser who uses toxic drugs such as cigarette smoking, alcohol and marijuana.

According to the victim, her father’s substance abuse frequently leads to violent outbursts during the night. She described instances where he physically assaulted her and expressed fear for her safety in his home. “He beats me every night, and even the neighbors are concerned about why he treats me this way,” she recounted.

The young girl also revealed that she has been deprived of fundamental rights including access to education, adequate food and clothing. The emotional and psychological toll of her situation has prompted her to seek help from local stakeholders expressing her worries about returning to her father’s home out of fear for her well-being.

The local authorities and child protection advocates are now focused on gathering more information and assessing the situation to ensure the girl’s safety and well-being.

The investigation aims to shed light on this distressing case and to determine the necessary actions to protect the rights of the child and prevent further abuse.

As the community looks on, the plight of the young girl serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges of child protection and the critical need for urgent intervention in Kazo District.

Father Arrested for Trying to Kill 5-Year-Old Son

Written by kazofm.admin on February 3, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

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.

UPDF LAUNCHES TAREHE SITA ACTIVITIES IN NTUNGAMO DISTRICT

Written by kazofm.admin on February 3, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

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.

Border Security Between Uganda and the DRC Remains Stable

Written by kazofm.admin on February 2, 2025. Posted in News.

The security situation along the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border is currently calm, with all local activities proceeding without interruption.

Major Tabaro Kicoonco, the Information Officer for the UPDF Second Infantry Division, reported that tourism, agriculture, and local trade on the Ugandan side are not affected by the ongoing conflict in Eastern DRC. Additionally, he noted that numerous heavy trucks en route to Goma are currently parked at Nyakabande in Kisoro, awaiting a stabilization of the situation in the DRC.

Maj. Tabaro assured the public that Ugandan security forces remain vigilant, actively monitoring the border to prevent potential infiltration by suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) criminals and former combatants who might attempt to disguise themselves as refugees.

He emphasized that district and local security committees are conducting ongoing security awareness campaigns along the border to keep the community informed and prepared.

However, Maj. Tabaro also raised concerns about reports of suspected Ugandans who escaped from Munzenze prison in Goma. These individuals, some of whom were serving short- and long-term sentences, may be linked to ADF activities. Their escape coincided with the M23 rebels taking control of Goma, heightening the need for public vigilance.

He urged citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious individuals believed to be ADF criminals to government security officials, thereby helping to ensure the safety and security of the region.

M23 rebels take control of Goma City, the Capital of North Kivu province in DR-Congo

Written by kazofm.admin on January 27, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

The M23 rebel group announced early on Monday January 27 that it had captured the city of Goma, the largest in eastern Congo leading to widespread panic among its 2 million residents and prompted a swift condemnation from the Congolese government which labeled the advance as a “declaration of war.”

The rebels issued a statement urging Goma’s residents to remain calm while calling on Congolese military personnel to assemble at the central stadium. The rebel offensive is the latest escalation in one of Africa’s longest-running conflicts, which threatens to displace even more civilians in a region already plagued by instability.

According to a United Nations report, over one-third of North Kivu province’s population is currently displaced and the capture of Goma is likely to exacerbate this humanitarian crisis. As the situation unfolded, UN peacekeepers began processing members of the Congolese military who had surrendered on the city’s outskirts.

Congolese government spokesman, Patrick Muyaya released a video statement calling for civilian protection while acknowledging the precarious situation. He stated, “We are in a war situation where the news is changing.”

During an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, the special representative for Congo conveyed that with Goma’s airport shut down and roads blocked, “we are trapped.” The UN’s presence in the region has been severely tested with significant casualties among peacekeepers in recent days.

Tensions escalated over the weekend as Congo severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda which it accuses of backing the M23 rebels. Rwanda, however, denies these claims although international experts have corroborated evidence of support. The on-going violence has already led to the deaths of at least 13 peacekeepers prompting urgent calls for a ceasefire from the international community including the United States and France.

In the backdrop, hundreds of Goma residents are fleeing as heavy gunfire echoes across the city. Many are seeking refuge in camps or attempting to cross into Rwanda for safety. Displaced individuals from the Kanyaruchinya camp reported chaotic scenes as they fled from perceived threats of violence.

“I heard that there are bombs in Goma too, so now we don’t know where to go,” lamented Adèle Shimiye, a displaced person anxious about their safety.

The situation remains fluid with fears that if the M23 rebels advance further into Goma, the humanitarian impact on civilians could be catastrophic. U.N. deputy humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya warned that hostilities spilling into the densely populated urban center could lead to devastating consequences for vulnerable populations.

As the Congolese army continues to resist the M23 offensive with support from allied forces including U.N. peacekeepers, the conflict raises grim reminders of previous confrontations, particularly Goma’s turbulent history including the M23’s prior capture in 2012. With tensions at a breaking point, residents like Bahati Jackson choose to remain, saying, “If we’re going to die, it’s better to die here.”

Police investigates the death of 24 year old woman

Written by kazofm.admin on January 27, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

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 launch solar-powered water System

Written by kazofm.admin on January 24, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

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.

man arrested for defiling a 4 year old

Written by kazofm.admin on January 22, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

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.