BRIEF NEWS

  In a moving display of family and memory, Zari Hassan and her eldest son, Pinto Tlale, took a quiet break from their busy lives this week to visit a place that holds deep meaning for them: the grave of Ivan Ssemwanga. The pair traveled to Nakaliro village in Kayunga District, where the late businessman was laid to rest. Far away from the cameras and the bright lights of social media, the visit was a simple, human moment between a mother and her son as they honored the man who was once the center of their world. For Pinto, the visit was a chance to connect with his father’s roots. Standing side-by-side with his mother at the gravesite, the tall young man showed a quiet strength. It has been several years since Ivan passed away, but for Zari, ensuring her children remember where they come from is a top priority. "It’s important to show respect to those who came before us," a family friend noted. "Zari wants her boys to stay connected to their home and their father’s lega...

  HOIMA CITY – Under a bright sky and amid the cheers of local residents, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni officially opened the new Hoima City Stadium yesterday. The event was more than just a ribbon-cutting ceremony; it felt like the beginning of a new chapter for sports fans and families across Uganda. The stadium is a massive, modern structure that stands as a symbol of pride for the region. During his speech, the President described the facility as a "major national asset," explaining that it belongs to every Ugandan and will serve as a hub for talent, unity, and celebration for years to come. The timing of this opening is no accident. Uganda is preparing to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) —the biggest football tournament on the continent—alongside neighbors Kenya and Tanzania. President Museveni shared that the stadium was built in a very specific spot for a reason. To meet the high standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the stadium si...

Late yesterday evening, a very special delivery arrived that marks a major step toward the 2026 General Election. A heavy consignment of Presidential ballot papers was officially received by the Electoral Commission, signaling that the countdown to the polls is truly on. While "ballot papers" might just sound like stacks of printed sheets, for many, they represent the voice and the future of the nation. To ensure everyone feels confident in the process, the arrival wasn't a private affair. The Commission opened its doors to a diverse group of people to watch the boxes being unloaded and verified. Under the bright lights of the delivery site, several groups stood side-by-side to witness the event: Representatives of Candidates: Men and women sent by presidential hopefuls to keep a watchful eye on their interests. Political Parties: Officials from across the political spectrum ensuring the rules are followed. Observers: Independent groups whose only job is to make sure e...

  Traffic came to a standstill at the busy Busega Roundabout this morning following a collision between a large truck and a family-sized Toyota Noah. The accident involved a truck (registration UBL 481S ) and a silver Toyota Noah ( UA 180BM ). While the metal and glass on the road told a story of a heavy impact, the scene was quickly defined by the bravery of witnesses and the swift arrival of help.

JINJA – Drivers crossing the iconic Source of the Nile Bridge this week will notice a flurry of activity as maintenance crews begin a vital "spring cleaning" of one of Uganda’s most important landmarks. The maintenance team in Jinja has officially kicked off a routine exercise to wash the bridge structure and clear away built-up debris. While it might look like a simple cleaning job, officials say this work is essential for the long-term health of the bridge. The Source of the Nile Bridge is more than just a beautiful sight; it is a critical facility in our national road network, connecting trade and people across the region. Keeping it clean isn't just about looks—it’s about making sure our national infrastructure stays safe for everyone.

Kassanda, Uganda – Not even a heavy morning downpour could dampen the spirits of the people in Kassanda today. Despite the cold rain, thousands of National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporters gathered at the Bukuya Town Council Grounds, showing incredible energy as they waited for their leader. The weather was a challenge, but the supporters stayed in high spirits, braving the showers to ensure they didn't miss this important moment. The atmosphere turned electric when the NRM Presidential Flagbearer, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, finally arrived. The crowd and senior party leaders erupted in loud cheers, giving him a "triumphant welcome" as he stepped onto the grounds. The energy was high, and the excitement was felt by everyone present. After the warm welcome, the President got straight to work. He began sharing the details of his new Manifesto for 2026–2031. He is outlining his vision for the next five years, promising a chapter of continued progress for the country. This i...

Naguru, Kampala – Today marked an important day for Uganda’s Police Force. The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP), Mr. James Ocaya, officially launched the new Strategic Policing Plan at the Police Headquarters in Naguru. Think of this plan as a detailed roadmap for the next few years. It tells every police officer, from the most senior to the newest recruit, exactly where the force needs to go and how to get there. DIGP Ocaya was quick to thank the team from the Directorate of Research, Planning and Development, and everyone else who helped write the document. He emphasized that this plan is critical it provides the clear direction the police need to work more effectively. More importantly, he stressed the need for this planning to reach the grassroots. He wants to see planning processes strengthened right down to the lowest levels. This means that even a local police post should know how to use the strategy to make a real, positive difference in their community. The goal i...

  Ntoroko District, Uganda – Today brought a moment of hope for families in Ntoroko who have been suffering because of severe floods. The Prime Minister, the Honorable Robinah Nabbanja, personally visited the area to meet with the affected people.  The Prime Minister was joined by top technical staff, including Permanent Secretary Alex Kakooza, showing that the government is serious about helping. This important visit comes after a direct order from the President, telling the Premier to move these families away from the dangerous, flood-hit areas of the district. Living constantly under the threat of floods has been very difficult for the community. Prime Minister Nabbanja shared great news with the residents. She told them that the relocation exercise will be "fast-tracked"—meaning it will happen very quickly. She explained that suitable and safer locations have already been selected for them. This means the families will soon be able to start building new, safer lives, free...

  Kampala, Uganda – Today felt like a huge step forward for the heart of the city! At Bat Valley Primary School, local leaders and health heroes from the Central Division came together to look at the new roadmap for Kampala's future. The meeting was all about sharing the new Kampala Capital City Strategic Plan and the KCCA Client Charter & Service Delivery Standards that will guide the city from July 2025 all the way to June 2030. Imagine the city council (KCCA) sitting down with the people who know the neighborhoods best: the local community leaders (LCII) and the amazing health volunteers (Village Health Teams or VHTs) who are on the ground every day. A Shared Promise Everyone in the room made a heartfelt promise: to work together to build “A well-planned, inclusive & resilient capital city.” This means a cleaner, safer, more organized Kampala where everyone has a chance to thrive, even when faced with challenges. The city council expressed deep gratitude to everyone invo...

Luwero District, Uganda – A peaceful morning turned into chaos today, December 16, 2025, when a major bus accident happened on the Kampala–Gulu Highway at a place called Kakinzi. The accident involved a large Zawadi bus that was carrying sixty-five (65) people. Emergency teams, including the Uganda Red Cross and the Luwero District ambulance, rushed to the scene around 9:40 AM. When they arrived, they found a challenging situation: a large crowd had gathered, and heavy traffic made it hard for rescuers to reach the injured quickly. The Toll of the Accident In total, twelve people were injured in the crash. Thankfully, no lives were lost at the scene. Rescuers carefully checked every injured person: Three people had serious injuries (classified as "yellow"). They had bad injuries like broken arms, broken hip bones, deep cuts, and injuries to their chests. Nine people had minor injuries (classified as "green") and were stable. Rescuers quickly worked to stabilize the...

Tororo, Uganda – Police in Tororo District have arrested a man named Loketo Musa in connection with the murder of a Kenyan woman. The suspect, a resident of Malaba North Cell in Malaba Town Council, was caught with the help of a highly trained police dog named "Vegas." The incident began on the morning of December 8, 2025. Around 6:00 AM, residents of Malaba North Cell were shocked to find the lifeless body of a woman lying in a pool of blood. The victim was later identified as Rehema, a national from Bungoma, Kenya. How "Vegas" Solved the Puzzle When police arrived at the crime scene, they brought in the K-9 unit to help find the killer. Officer "Vegas," a police dog, was given the scent from the area where Rehema's body was found. Vegas immediately picked up a trail. The dog led officers through the corridors of several houses, tracking a scent for about 100 meters. The trail ended right at the door of Loketo Musa's bedroom. Arrest and Evidence A...

The Electoral Commission has announced a major change in the race for the Busiro East constituency. The Commission has disqualified Mr. Mathias Walukagga, who was the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate. Mr. Walukagga was hoping to run for re-election, but he is now out of the race. Why Was He Disqualified? The Electoral Commission stated that Mr. Walukagga failed to meet the minimum formal qualifications required. This means he did not have the necessary basic documents or educational papers needed to run for office under the law. In short: The rules say candidates must have certain qualifications, and the Commission found that Mr. Walukagga did not meet those essential requirements. This decision means the NUP will have to quickly find a new candidate, or the election for the Busiro East seat will proceed without Mr. Walukagga on the ballot.