Minister Balaam orders for arrest & interdiction of Mbarara Town Clerk, Officials Over Shs928m Loss

The Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has ordered the immediate interdiction of Mbarara City Town Clerk Justine Barekye and several senior officials over allegations of causing government losses exceeding Shs928 million through the mismanagement of property tax and irregular payments to a road contractor.

The directive was issued on Tuesday during the minister’s meeting with local leaders and stakeholders at Mbarara City Hall to assess government service delivery and address corruption allegations.

The affected officials include Deputy Town Clerk Simon Ejua, former City Engineer William Byaruhanga, Trade Officer Allan Karekye, Natural Resources Officer Niwagaba, the Community Development Officer, and several other officials. They have been directed to step aside to allow investigations by the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit.

Barugahara said preliminary investigations indicate that the officials are implicated in the alleged loss of Shs712 million through the mismanagement of property tax collections. He said investigations are at an advanced stage and are awaiting guidance from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The minister also alleged that the town clerk irregularly authorised a payment of Shs216 million to a contractor for works on Conel Ndahendekire Road. According to him, the road project had initially been estimated to cost Shs1.59 billion, but the additional payment allegedly resulted in a further loss of Shs216 million to the government.

Barugahara further ordered the immediate interdiction of former Assistant Commercial Officer Donati Mutahi, accusing him of previously misappropriating Emyooga funds intended for beneficiaries. He alleged that Mutahi was prosecuted, entered a plea bargain, refunded the money and later returned to public service, where he was promoted to the position of Revenue Officer.

    “A person who has stolen development funds from the people should not come back to office. He should be interdicted immediately and face the law,” Barugahara said.

The minister also directed the interdiction of James Agaba, the Principal Commercial Officer currently serving in Fort Portal, alleging that he was implicated in the same Emyooga fund misappropriation case and similarly entered a plea bargain after agreeing to compensate the affected beneficiaries.

Barugahara criticised what he described as the recycling of public officers accused of corruption from one local government to another.

 “We can’t recycle a thief from here to another district. If someone has stolen public money, transferring them elsewhere does not change their conduct,” he said.

He also cited former Mbarara District Chief Administrative Officer David Muhwezi, who currently serves in the same position in Ntoroko District, alleging that he had previously been implicated in land-related disputes before being transferred. The minister said such transfers reflected weaknesses in accountability within the public service.

He warned that the government would not tolerate financial mismanagement and revealed that a forensic engineering audit had been ordered to establish the full extent of the alleged losses.

During his visit, Barugahara also inspected Katete Bridge, which was rehabilitated by the UPDF Engineering Brigade at a cost of Shs366 million.

He said he would engage the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) to institute a forensic audit into the bridge project, citing indications that the cost of the rehabilitation works may have been inflated.

The minister also ordered the arrest of former City Engineer William Byaruhanga, who supervised the temporary works on the bridge, to facilitate investigations.

However, Barugahara cleared Mbarara City Mayor Robert Kakyebezi of any wrongdoing, saying investigators had not found evidence linking him to the documents or transactions under investigation.

He said inquiries into the alleged financial mismanagement had so far not established the mayor’s involvement and that investigations would continue focusing on the officials directly implicated.

Mukula Hails Museveni’s Backing of Former Rival Otunnu for UN Top Job as “Leadership Rooted in Forgiveness”

Kampala — Captain Mike Mukula, the former National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda, has warmly praised President Yoweri Museveni’s decision to endorse Ambassador Olara Otunnu as Uganda’s candidate for United Nations Secretary-General, describing it as a powerful act of statesmanship grounded in forgiveness, reconciliation and national unity.

In a statement released Tuesday, Mukula said the President’s support for the veteran diplomat and former opposition figure demonstrated “leadership rooted in forgiveness, reconciliation, and national unity.”

“Great nations are built when past differences give way to a shared future. Reconciliation reflects both Christian values and statesmanship,” Mukula said. “May God continue to bless and guide him with wisdom as Uganda pursues peace, cohesion, and prosperity for all.”

The remarks come a day after Museveni formally presented Otunnu to diplomats at State House, Entebbe, urging members of the UN Security Council and the international community to back the Ugandan nominee. Former Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda has been tasked with leading the lobbying effort abroad.

Otunnu, 75, is a seasoned diplomat with deep roots in Ugandan and international affairs. He served as Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 1980 to 1985, briefly as Foreign Minister in 1985–86, and later as UN Under-Secretary-General and Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict from 1997 to 2005. He also headed the International Peace Academy and contested the 2011 presidential election as the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) candidate, finishing a distant fourth.

The two men share a long and sometimes complex history. Both were students at Makerere University, and Otunnu later served in the short-lived governments that preceded Museveni’s National Resistance Army (NRA) takeover in 1986. For years they stood on opposite sides of Uganda’s political divide. Mukula’s statement frames the current endorsement as a deliberate closing of that chapter in favour of a larger national and continental interest.

Supporters of the nomination point to Otunnu’s extensive UN experience, his work on children in conflict, and Uganda’s own narrative of post-conflict recovery. Critics, including opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) and human rights activists, have questioned the timing, arguing that domestic concerns over prolonged detentions and political freedoms undermine Uganda’s moral claim to lead the world body.

Mukula, a long-time NRM stalwart, former State Minister for Health and one-time personal pilot to Museveni, positioned the decision within a broader Christian and pan-African ethic of reconciliation. By publicly celebrating the move, the Eastern Region party leader added a prominent NRM voice to the government’s campaign to present Otunnu as a unifying figure capable of bridging Uganda’s past divisions on the global stage.

As the race to succeed António Guterres intensifies, Uganda’s nomination of a former opposition presidential candidate by the long-serving incumbent has already drawn regional and international attention. Whether the gesture of reconciliation celebrated by Mukula will translate into meaningful diplomatic momentum remains to be seen. For now, the statement underscores a rare moment of political convergence in a country more often defined by its enduring rivalries.

Masaka NRM Leaders Demand Museveni Sack Nameere Over ‘Belittling Buganda’

Masaka — A group of National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders from Greater Masaka have petitioned President Yoweri Museveni to remove State Minister for Local Government Justine Nameere from cabinet, accusing her of repeatedly belittling Buganda and undermining the region’s cultural and political interests.

The appeal, which surfaced publicly on Monday, marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the outspoken minister and sections of the ruling party’s local leadership in a region long considered an opposition stronghold. Nameere, who also serves as Woman Member of Parliament for Masaka City, has drawn both praise and criticism for her confrontational style since her elevation to cabinet in May 2026.

According to local party figures, the leaders accuse Nameere of making remarks and taking positions that demean Buganda’s institutions, culture, and people. They claim her approach has strained relations within NRM structures in Masaka and risked alienating voters who remain sensitive to issues of regional identity and respect for the Kabaka and the Buganda Kingdom.

One circulating video clip shows an agitated NRM supporter in yellow party colours speaking passionately alongside other leaders, reflecting the depth of frustration among some grassroots cadres. The petition calls on Museveni to “contain” or outright sack the minister, arguing that her continued presence in government is damaging the party’s recovery efforts in the area.

Nameere has dismissed earlier similar complaints as products of jealousy over her rapid rise and close working relationship with the President. A former journalist and lawyer, she first gained national attention as a television host before entering elective politics. She won the Masaka City Woman MP seat after a contentious recount and was appointed State Minister for Local Government shortly afterwards — a move widely interpreted as a strong endorsement from Museveni.

The President has previously defended her publicly, describing her as “cantankerous” and “famous for quarrelling,” qualities he said made her useful in holding officials to account. In March 2026 he met NRM leaders in Masaka at a gathering organised by Nameere and praised her initiative while urging leaders to focus on service delivery rather than internal squabbles.

Yet frictions have persisted. Nameere has clashed with local officials and party colleagues on issues ranging from corruption allegations to election processes. In one recent incident captured on video, Minister Balaam Barugahara had to intervene when she was confronted on stage in Masaka during an anti-corruption-related engagement.

Greater Masaka remains politically sensitive territory for the NRM. The region has historically leaned towards the opposition, and the party has invested heavily in trying to expand its support base. Local leaders argue that Nameere’s style — while effective at mobilising some supporters — has instead deepened divisions and given ammunition to critics who claim the NRM does not respect Buganda.

As of Tuesday morning, State House had not issued an official response to the latest petition. Nameere herself had not publicly commented on the specific demand for her removal.

The development adds another layer of intrigue to Uganda’s ruling party dynamics ahead of the next political cycle. Museveni has repeatedly emphasised unity and delivery over internal fights, but the Masaka petition shows that personal and regional grievances continue to surface even among his own cadres.

Whether the President will act on the call remains unclear. What is certain is that Justine Nameere’s high-profile, no-holds-barred approach has made her both a polarising figure and a test case for how far the NRM is prepared to tolerate internal dissent in Buganda.

Mbale City Senior Public Relations Officer Kutosi Confirms: Kadodi Sculpture at Mbale’s Sleeping Baby Roundabout Cost Sh95m

Fellow members of Sironko Family and the wider public following the circulating story titled “Exposé: Sh98 Million Kadodi Sculpture at Mbale’s Sleeping Baby Roundabout Sparks Outrage Over Value for Money”,

I take this opportunity, once again, to address the concerns raised about the Kadodi cultural sculpture at the Sleeping Baby roundabout off Tororo Road in Mbale City.

The funding for the sculptures came from the United Nations Capital Development Fund through the Ministry of Local Government. It was allocated to three cities: Mbale, Gulu and Arua. The total cost for the Mbale installation was 95 million Uganda shillings (some reports have rounded it to 98 million).

The contract went through a proper procurement process. I served as the Focal Person for the project on behalf of Mbale City. Being the Focal Person does not mean the money was handed to me. The funds were paid directly to the contractor in accordance with the procurement and financial regulations.

I have already shared a few observations on this matter on the Bugisu Intellectual Forum. For the record and for the benefit of this group, I restate them here:

The project was part of a broader urban beautification and cultural promotion initiative under the UNCDF support.

The sculpture was intended to celebrate the Kadodi heritage and give the roundabout a distinctive identity that reflects our Bugisu culture.

All processes, from design to installation, followed the approved procurement guidelines.

I appreciate the public interest and the questions about value for money. Accountability is important, and I remain open to any further clarification that may be required through the proper channels.

Let us continue the conversation constructively.

James Kutosi

Senior Public Relations Officer, Mbale City

What You Need To Know: 

Exposé: Sh98 Million Kadodi Sculpture at Mbale’s Sleeping Baby Roundabout Sparks Outrage Over Value for Money

MBALE — A Kadodi cultural sculpture installed at the Sleeping Baby roundabout off Tororo Road in Mbale City has ignited sharp public criticism after reports emerged that the project cost 98 million Ugandan shillings under the supervision of the city’s Senior Public Relations Officer, Mr. James Kutosi.

The sculpture, depicting elements of the traditional Bagisu Kadodi dance, was intended as a cultural landmark and tourist attraction celebrating the heritage of the Bamasaba people. Kadodi is a vibrant drumming and dance performance closely tied to the Imbalu circumcision ceremonies that define much of the region’s cultural identity. Similar installations have appeared at other roundabouts in the city as part of efforts to brand Mbale as a cultural destination.

According to information circulating widely on social media and local online platforms, the sculpture at the Sleeping Baby roundabout carried a price tag of Sh98 million. The figure has drawn immediate skepticism from residents, civil society voices, and online commentators who question whether the expenditure represents value for public funds.

Critics have pointed to the relatively modest scale of the installation and asked how such a sum was justified. Many have called for full disclosure of the procurement process, the identity of the contractor or artists involved, the breakdown of costs (materials, labour, transport, installation, and any related fees), and the technical specifications approved by city authorities. Some residents have described the amount as excessive for a single roadside sculpture, especially in a city facing competing demands for road maintenance, drainage, street lighting, and basic services.

Mr. James Kutosi, Mbale City’s Senior Public Relations Officer, is named in circulating reports as the official who supervised the project. Kutosi has previously spoken publicly on city matters, including revenue collection, recruitment exercises, and infrastructure concerns. At the time of writing, no detailed official statement from the Mbale City leadership or from Kutosi specifically addressing the Sh98 million figure, the procurement process, or the final audit of the sculpture project had been widely published.

The controversy touches on broader concerns about transparency in local government spending. Uganda’s Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) guidelines require competitive bidding, clear documentation, and value-for-money assessments for public projects. Residents and accountability advocates have urged the city to release the relevant tender documents, evaluation reports, and completion certificates so the public can assess whether proper procedures were followed.

Local voices on social media have mixed cultural pride with fiscal caution. While many welcome visible symbols of Bagisu identity in public spaces, they insist that cultural projects should not become vehicles for inflated costs. “We love our Kadodi and we want to see our culture celebrated,” one resident posted, “but 98 million for one sculpture needs explanation. Show us the receipts.”

The Sleeping Baby roundabout itself is a notable landmark on the Tororo Road corridor, a busy approach into Mbale. The decision to site a Kadodi sculpture there was presumably aimed at giving visitors an immediate cultural impression of the city. Whether the final product justifies the reported cost remains the central question now confronting city officials.

As pressure mounts, calls for an independent review or audit of the expenditure are growing. City authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive public accounting of the project. Until they do, the Sh98 million Kadodi sculpture risks becoming a symbol not of cultural celebration, but of unresolved questions about how public money is spent in Mbale City.

PROFILE : WHO IS MOSES WAMBOGO ?

Moses Wambogo is a Ugandan National, Civil Servant in the government of the republic of Uganda, Former Commissioner in the office of the President, Businessman and seasoned politician. He is the current Mbale District National Resistance Movement (NRM) chairman.

Wambogo who hails from the Elgon region, in the Eastern part of Uganda is in mid 30s, and runs several businesses across the country under his company; Wambogo Technical services & Group of Companies, where he is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Wambogo comes from a prominent family of the late James Wapakhabulo Wambogo, the former Uganda’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Second Deputy Prime Minister and former Speaker of Parliament, the National assembly.

In early days, Wambogo went to schools in Mbale for his primary and secondary. He later went to Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) for his University education before joining businesses and government.

Wambogo is the chairman of lower central zone, under Bugisu Cooperative Union (BCU) Board, one of the outstanding cooperatives in the country. He is also a member of the executive committee of the Masaba cooperative Union (MCU) in Mbale.

Hon. Godfrey Wakooli Matembu Hails Supporters: Here Is The Heartfelt Appreciation from Bugisu Parliamentary Committee

Your Excellency, On behalf of the people of Bugisu and the Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus, allow me to express our deepest gratitude for honouring our rich cultural heritage through your representative. We sincerely thank you for accepting to send the message of Your Excellency to the Bamasaba people. It was a powerful demonstration of your love, respect, and commitment to our people.

We also thank the Rt. Hon. Speaker for graciously accepting to deliver Your Excellency's message.

Your presence reaffirmed that the Bamasaba remain an important part of the Ugandan family. We are truly grateful for your continued affection and support.

Your Excellency, we humbly apologize for the unfortunate events that unfolded during the ceremony. What happened was never intentional and was not directed at our distinguished guests. The programme extended beyond the scheduled time, and by the time the imbalu candidates approached the moment of facing the knife, our cultural customs had taken over.

In Bamasaba tradition, once that sacred moment arrives—typically around 2:00 p.m.—the candidates enter a state of complete commitment to the ritual. At that point, no one can stand in their way. To those unfamiliar with our culture, their actions may appear aggressive, but they are not acts of violence or disrespect. It is a deeply rooted cultural practice that has similarly surprised other distinguished guests in previous circumcision seasons.

The Bamasaba are a peaceful, hospitable, and welcoming people. As the African proverb says, "A river does not forget its source." Our culture is our source, and while we cherish it, we equally cherish and respect our national leaders and all our visitors.

We have learnt valuable lessons from this year's experience. Going forward, the organisers have resolved that all official speeches shall conclude by 12:00 noon to allow our guests ample time to witness the colourful cultural celebrations without any discomfort or misunderstanding.

Your Excellency, we regret that the circumstances prevented many from fully receiving your important message. Please accept our sincere apology and our assurance that the incident does not reflect the character or intentions of the Bamasaba people.

Thank you once again for your unwavering love, support, and leadership. May God continue to bless you and bless our motherland Uganda.

Hon Wakooli Godfrey Matembu.

Mp Butiru county, Manafwa District

Chairperson Bugisu parliamebtary caucus

Exposé: Sh98 Million Kadodi Sculpture at Mbale’s Sleeping Baby Roundabout Sparks Outrage Over Value for Money

MBALE — A Kadodi cultural sculpture installed at the Sleeping Baby roundabout off Tororo Road in Mbale City has ignited sharp public criticism after reports emerged that the project cost 98 million Ugandan shillings under the supervision of the city’s Senior Public Relations Officer, Mr. James Kutosi.

The sculpture, depicting elements of the traditional Bagisu Kadodi dance, was intended as a cultural landmark and tourist attraction celebrating the heritage of the Bamasaba people. Kadodi is a vibrant drumming and dance performance closely tied to the Imbalu circumcision ceremonies that define much of the region’s cultural identity. Similar installations have appeared at other roundabouts in the city as part of efforts to brand Mbale as a cultural destination.

According to information circulating widely on social media and local online platforms, the sculpture at the Sleeping Baby roundabout carried a price tag of Sh98 million. The figure has drawn immediate skepticism from residents, civil society voices, and online commentators who question whether the expenditure represents value for public funds.

Critics have pointed to the relatively modest scale of the installation and asked how such a sum was justified. Many have called for full disclosure of the procurement process, the identity of the contractor or artists involved, the breakdown of costs (materials, labour, transport, installation, and any related fees), and the technical specifications approved by city authorities. Some residents have described the amount as excessive for a single roadside sculpture, especially in a city facing competing demands for road maintenance, drainage, street lighting, and basic services.

Mr. James Kutosi, Mbale City’s Senior Public Relations Officer, is named in circulating reports as the official who supervised the project. Kutosi has previously spoken publicly on city matters, including revenue collection, recruitment exercises, and infrastructure concerns. At the time of writing, no detailed official statement from the Mbale City leadership or from Kutosi specifically addressing the Sh98 million figure, the procurement process, or the final audit of the sculpture project had been widely published.

The controversy touches on broader concerns about transparency in local government spending. Uganda’s Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) guidelines require competitive bidding, clear documentation, and value-for-money assessments for public projects. Residents and accountability advocates have urged the city to release the relevant tender documents, evaluation reports, and completion certificates so the public can assess whether proper procedures were followed.

Local voices on social media have mixed cultural pride with fiscal caution. While many welcome visible symbols of Bagisu identity in public spaces, they insist that cultural projects should not become vehicles for inflated costs. “We love our Kadodi and we want to see our culture celebrated,” one resident posted, “but 98 million for one sculpture needs explanation. Show us the receipts.”

The Sleeping Baby roundabout itself is a notable landmark on the Tororo Road corridor, a busy approach into Mbale. The decision to site a Kadodi sculpture there was presumably aimed at giving visitors an immediate cultural impression of the city. Whether the final product justifies the reported cost remains the central question now confronting city officials.

As pressure mounts, calls for an independent review or audit of the expenditure are growing. City authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive public accounting of the project. Until they do, the Sh98 million Kadodi sculpture risks becoming a symbol not of cultural celebration, but of unresolved questions about how public money is spent in Mbale City.

Explosive WhatsApp Leaks: Umukuka Mudoma Erupts as Journalist Musamali Arnold Freeman Exposes Alleged Diversion of Shs50m Imbalu Funds

Mbale — A firestorm of outrage has engulfed Bugisu’s cultural leadership after investigative journalist Musamali Arnold Freeman of Freeman News UG released WhatsApp messages that appear to corroborate claims of massive financial irregularity surrounding government support for the 2026 Imbalu launch.

The messages, circulating widely on social media and local platforms in recent days, have left Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma fuming. Sources close to the cultural institution say the Umukuka is seething over what he views as a deliberate “explosion” of his office’s handling of funds, with the journalist squarely in his crosshairs.

What you Need to Know: 

According to multiple reports from the Imbalu organising committee — which includes LC5 chairpersons from across the Bugisu sub-region — the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development released Shs50 million to Umukuka Mudoma’s office to support preparations for the traditional circumcision launch at Mutoto Cultural Grounds. Only Shs16 million reportedly reached the committee, leaving a shortfall of approximately Shs34 million unaccounted for.

Committee members further alleged that revenue from exhibition spaces allocated to businesses during the celebrations was not remitted to the organisers. Some of the missing funds, according to sources, were redirected toward a high-profile pre-launch dinner at the upscale Mt. Elgon Hotel — an event that itself became a public relations disaster when the vast majority of invited MPs and LC5 chairpersons boycotted it, with only one legislator turning up.

Freeman’s reporting, which has relentlessly tracked the money trail and the resulting disarray, appears to have struck a raw nerve. The released WhatsApp exchanges — said to involve discussions around fund allocation, sponsor approaches, and internal directives — have intensified public pressure and left Mudoma’s office scrambling for damage control.

The timing could hardly have been worse. The allegations surfaced just days before the official Imbalu launch, throwing preparations into chaos. Organisers publicly appealed for support from well-wishers and development partners to salvage the event, warning that critical logistics, performances, and community mobilisation risked being compromised.

Mudoma’s response has been marked by visible anger rather than detailed public accountability. While a spokesperson earlier described the funds as having been “strategically distributed to maximise impact across related activities,” no comprehensive breakdown has been provided. Attempts by journalists, including Freeman, to obtain clearer answers have met limited success. Behind the scenes, sources indicate the cultural leader is particularly incensed at Freeman for what he sees as an aggressive exposé that has damaged his standing among the Bamasaba.

The controversy has deepened existing fractures within Bugisu’s cultural politics. Rival factions have long contested control of the Imbalu ceremonies and Mutoto grounds. Mudoma, recognised as Umukuka III of the gazetted Bugisu Cultural Institution, faced open hostility at the launch itself. Reports indicated he was barred from addressing the crowds at the sacred grounds and later organised an after-party at the cultural offices in Maluku that reportedly drew few attendees. Earlier, there were even claims he might launch the event virtually over fears of public backlash.

For many in Bugisu, the Imbalu is far more than a cultural spectacle. It is a defining rite of passage that affirms identity, courage, and communal bonds. Government funding for such events is intended to bolster heritage, tourism, and social cohesion in the Mt. Elgon region. Allegations that public money intended for the launch was partially diverted have therefore struck at the heart of trust in cultural leadership.

Local leaders and cultural enthusiasts have called for a full audit and transparent reporting on the Shs50 million. Social media has been flooded with demands for accountability, with many praising Freeman’s dogged reporting while others caution against personalising institutional failures.

As of now, the Umukuka’s office has not issued a comprehensive rebuttal to the specific claims in the leaked messages or the broader allegations of diversion. Freeman continues to stand by his reporting, framing it as a matter of public interest and the proper stewardship of resources meant for one of Bugisu’s most sacred traditions.

The episode leaves the Bamasaba community grappling with uncomfortable questions: how public funds for cultural preservation are managed, who holds cultural leaders to account, and whether the Imbalu season can proceed with the unity and dignity it demands when trust has been so publicly eroded.

This story is developing.

Bugisu Caucus Chair Wakooli to Table Motion for World-Class Development of Historic Mutoto Cultural Grounds as Tourism Hub and Centre for All Masaba Traditional Events

By Our Reporter: 

MBALE — Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus Chairperson and Butiru County MP Hon. Godfrey Matembu Wakooli has announced plans to move a motion on the floor of Parliament seeking the full development of the historic Mutoto Cultural Grounds in Mbale City.

The site, he said, should be transformed into a modern centre for all traditional events across Masaba land and a premier cultural tourism attraction.

Hon. Wakooli made the remarks yesterday during the official launch of the 2026 Imbalu circumcision season at the Mutoto Cultural Grounds, the traditional starting point of the Bamasaaba rite of passage. The ceremony, which drew thousands of Bamasaaba from Uganda and their Bukusu kin from Kenya, marked the formal opening of the biennial Imbalu season that will spread across the 26 clans of Bugisu until December.

Speaking amid the colourful celebrations that featured traditional music, dance, processions, and the initiation of the first candidates, Wakooli stressed that Mutoto holds deep spiritual and historical significance for the Bamasaaba people. According to oral history, the grounds are linked to the origins of Imbalu among the descendants of Masaba, and circumcision ceremonies traditionally begin there before moving to other parts of the region.

“Mutoto is not just a piece of land; it is the heartbeat of our cultural identity,” Wakooli said. “It is time government recognises its potential and develops it properly so that it can host all our traditional events in a dignified, organised manner while also attracting tourists from across the world.”

The Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus chairperson outlined a vision for the site that includes permanent infrastructure such as modern amphitheatres or open-air stages suitable for cultural performances, proper sanitation and water facilities, access roads, parking, exhibition spaces for artisans, a cultural museum or interpretation centre, and amenities that would allow the grounds to function year-round as a tourism destination rather than only during Imbalu seasons.

He argued that developing Mutoto would serve dual purposes: preserving and promoting Bamasaaba heritage for future generations and creating economic opportunities through cultural tourism in the Bugisu sub-region. The area already draws large crowds every two years for Imbalu, and leaders believe proper investment could turn the site into a major attraction similar to other developed cultural centres in Uganda and the region.

The call comes as the 2026 Imbalu season officially kicked off with the traditional ceremonies at Mutoto. Organisers reported strong turnout, with security teams having inspected the grounds earlier to ensure a peaceful event. The Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus had earlier contributed UGX 25 million towards the launch preparations, underscoring the legislators’ commitment to cultural activities.

Wakooli indicated that the motion would seek government funding and partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, and local governments in the Bugisu districts. He expressed confidence that fellow MPs from the sub-region and beyond would support the initiative once tabled.

Cultural leaders and district chairpersons present at the launch welcomed the proposal. They noted that while Mutoto remains the sacred starting point for Imbalu, the grounds currently lack adequate facilities to handle large numbers of participants and visitors comfortably and safely over extended periods.

The development push aligns with broader efforts to strengthen cultural institutions and promote heritage tourism as a driver of local economic growth. If successful, the motion could pave the way for Mutoto to host not only Imbalu but also other Bamasaaba traditional ceremonies, festivals, educational programmes, and tourist activities throughout the year.

As the 2026 Imbalu season gathers momentum across Masaba land, attention will now turn to Parliament, where Hon. Wakooli is expected to formally move the motion in the coming weeks. For the Bamasaaba, the prospect of fully developed Mutoto Cultural Grounds represents both a recognition of their rich heritage and a tangible investment in the future of their cultural and economic landscape.

Snubbed at Sacred Grounds: Bumutoto Imbalu Committee Bars Umukuka Mudoma from Addressing Throngs at 2026 Launch in Mutoto

MBALE — In a dramatic escalation of long-simmering cultural leadership disputes, the Bumutoto Imbalu organizing committee on Saturday refused Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma the opportunity to address the massive congregation gathered for the official launch of the 2026 Imbalu circumcision season at the historic Mutoto Cultural Grounds.

Thousands of Bamasaba from across the seven districts of the Bugisu sub-region and beyond thronged the sacred site near Mbale City for the high-stakes ceremony that traditionally marks the start of the even-year initiation rite. Five boys from the BaMutoto clan underwent the public circumcision that formally opens the season, which will now spread across the 26 clans until December. Organizers had anticipated crowds exceeding 50,000, drawn by the vibrant kadodi dances, traditional music, feasting, and the profound cultural significance of the event that transforms boys into men.

Yet the absence of a formal address by Umukuka III HRH Sir Jude Mike Mudoma, the government-gazetted cultural leader of Bugisu, cast a long shadow over the celebrations.

 Sources close to the event confirmed that the organizing committee, spearheaded by Bugisu’s Local Council Five chairpersons under the leadership of Manafwa District LCV Chairperson Hosea Kigai Kimono, firmly denied Mudoma the platform to speak to the gathering.

The decision stems from deep divisions within the Bamasaba cultural leadership. Rival factions, including one associated with Umukuka IV Joram Khambo Mayatsa of the Inzu Ya Masaba Cultural Institution, have contested Mudoma’s authority for years. 

In a bid to avert potential clashes and ensure a peaceful launch, a meeting chaired by Gender, Labour and Social Development Minister Gen. Henry Tumukunde earlier assigned organizational control to the district chairpersons rather than any single cultural institution.

“We are fully in charge of organising this year’s Imbalu ceremony, and we call upon all Bamasaba to cooperate with us and make this cultural event colourful, peaceful and successful,” Kimono stated when the committee was unveiled. The committee’s general secretary, Namisindwa LCV Chairperson Emma Bwayo, emphasized that the arrangement promoted accountability and transparency amid the leadership wrangles.

Mudoma, who has previously launched Imbalu organizing boards and inspected preparations at Mutoto, had been vocal about his role in the cultural institution. Reports in the lead-up to the event indicated he was unhappy at being sidelined from presiding over the launch. Some community voices and youths had even publicly opposed his involvement, citing ongoing disputes. Funding controversies also fueled tensions, with LC5 chairpersons expressing dissatisfaction over how resources allocated for the launch had been handled.

Despite the snub, Mudoma was sighted at the grounds on the day of the launch, according to multiple local reports and social media updates, though he did not deliver an official address. The ceremony itself proceeded with traditional rituals, including the confirmation of the date through ancestral bird omens earlier in July, and proceeded under heightened security concerns that had been raised for weeks.

The Imbalu tradition, dating back centuries among the Bagisu people of the Mount Elgon slopes, remains one of Uganda’s most enduring cultural practices. Candidates, typically aged 16 and above, undergo elaborate preparations involving family consultations, millet storage, and strict observance of peace norms during the season. This year, organizers projected more than 10,000 boys could face the knife across the region, building on the roughly 6,000 circumcised in 2024.

Drama of another kind briefly interrupted proceedings when traditional circumcisers protested the organizers’ failure to provide a bull for slaughter a longstanding customary gift before they begin their work—highlighting additional logistical and cultural frictions on the ground.

As the 2026 Imbalu season now rolls out to the wider Bugisu community, the exclusion of the gazetted Umukuka from addressing the Mutoto congregation underscores the unresolved fractures within Bamasaba cultural governance. Community leaders and elders have repeatedly called for unity, warning that prolonged rivalry risks undermining the very heritage the ceremony seeks to preserve. 

For many who journeyed to Mutoto, the focus remained on the initiates’ courage and the continuity of a rite that defines manhood, identity, and belonging for the Bamasaba people—even as questions linger over who holds the rightful voice at the sacred grounds.

See Video-Speaker Oboth-Oboth Whisked Away as Imbalu Men with Huge Sticks Storm VIP & Overpower Security in Mutoto

Chaos erupted at the traditional Imbalu launch ceremony on Saturday afternoon when traditional Kadodi dancers and Imbalu candidates, armed with large sticks and drums, charged the VIP section, forcing Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth-Oboth to be hurriedly whisked away by security.

The Speaker, who was the chief guest representing President Yoweri Museveni, had just begun reading the presidential message when the situation turned hostile. A large group of revelers escorting the circumcision candidates broke through security lines and surged toward the raised platform where Oboth-Oboth and other dignitaries were seated. Security personnel struggled to hold back the crowd before extracting the Speaker from the grounds.

Eyewitnesses and organisers said the disruption stemmed from delays in the programme. It was time for the candidates to proceed to the nearby swamp for the sacred Khuwakha Litosi ritual  the traditional mudding ceremony that prepares boys for circumcision and links them to ancestral spirits. Instead, the prolonged speeches, including the Speaker’s address, held up the spiritual pathway.

“The Speaker’s speech came at a time when the candidates were supposed to be taken to the swamp for mudding,” said Emma Bwayo, secretary of the organising committee and Namisindwa District chairperson. He described the overall event as successful despite the incident.

Video:https://youtu.be/BEPvzX5NhlU?si=HZvPEZ5NH-CUdnYT

Joshua Mafabi, father of one of the candidates, confirmed that traditional dancers escorting the boys “tore through a VIP section and charged towards the Speaker. His security rescued him.”

This year’s Imbalu launch was organised by district chairpersons rather than a single cultural institution because of ongoing wrangles among parallel claimants to the Bamasaba cultural leadership. District leaders from across Bugisu, Members of Parliament from the sub-region, and the Kenyan Ambassador to Uganda were among those present.

Some locals attributed the unrest to deeper cultural sensitivities, claiming the presence of government officials who are not believed to have undergone traditional circumcision angered the ancestral spirits. Similar disruptions have occurred at Mutoto before; in 2022, Kadodi dancers also stormed the VIP area after organisers placed a tent across the spiritual path.

About 11 candidates from the BaMutoto clan underwent circumcision to officially open the 2026 Imbalu season. The rite, practiced every even year among the Bamasaba (Bagisu) on the slopes of Mount Elgon and in parts of western Kenya, marks the transition of boys aged 16 and above into manhood. Organisers expect more than 10,000 boys to be circumcised across Bugisu’s 26 clans by the end of the season. In 2024, the figure stood at approximately.

The Imbalu tradition is believed to date back to at least 1804, though oral history places its origins much earlier. The ceremony involves days of Kadodi drumming, dancing, feasting, and processions before the actual cutting.

Despite the dramatic interruption, organisers insisted the core cultural purpose of the day was fulfilled. The candidates completed their initiation, and the season was officially declared open. Speaker Oboth-Oboth’s early departure, however, became the defining image of the 2026 launch at Mutoto.

Snubbed at the Table: Only One MP Attends Umukuka Mudoma’s Pre-Imbalu Dinner as Majority, Including LC5s, Boycott the Event

MBALE — In a stark display of the deepening rift within Bugisu’s cultural and political leadership, only one Member of Parliament from the entire sub-region showed up at a high-profile dinner hosted by Umukuka III Jude Mike Mudoma on Friday evening, as fellow MPs, district LC5 chairpersons, and local leaders largely stayed away.

The exclusive dinner, held at Mount Elgon Hotel in Mbale City on the eve of the official launch of the 2026 Imbalu circumcision season, was intended as a unifying prelude to one of the Bagisu people’s most sacred traditional rites. Instead, it underscored months of simmering tensions over authority, funding, and the very legitimacy of the cultural institution’s leadership.

According to reports from the event, the sparsely attended gathering still drew other cultural dignitaries. Among those present were His Highness Papa Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng, the Emorimor of the Iteso Cultural Union, and His Majesty Isabaruuli Constantine Mwogezi Butamanya of the Buruuli Chiefdom, alongside officials from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. The ministry’s delegation, led by Assistant Commissioner for Family Affairs Lucy Otto, participated in the royal dinner marking the start of Imbalu-related activities. State Minister for Labour and Industrial Relations Simon Mulongo was expected to join later for the main launch.

Yet the near-total absence of Bugisu’s elected representatives and local government leaders spoke volumes. Sources close to the organisers confirmed that only a single MP from the sub-region — which covers districts including Mbale, Sironko, Manafwa, Bududa, Namisindwa, Bulambuli and parts of neighbouring areas — made an appearance. LC5 chairpersons and other local leaders who had been expected to lend official weight to the occasion stayed away.

The boycott comes against a backdrop of escalating disputes. In recent months, a section of Bugisu MPs has been accused by the Bugisu Cultural Institution (Bukuka) of attempting to strip the Umukuka of his traditional role in presiding over Imbalu ceremonies. Clan leaders, known as Bebikuka, have petitioned President Yoweri Museveni, warning that such moves threaten cultural heritage protected under the Constitution and the Institution of Traditional or Cultural Leaders Act.

LC5 chairpersons have also voiced frustration over the handling of funds allocated for Imbalu preparations, including claims that only a fraction of expected resources reached the ground. Parallel leadership challenges within the cultural institution have further complicated matters, with the government earlier declaring the 2026 Imbalu launch a “neutral cultural event” to be overseen by district leaders rather than any rival Umukuka faction, in a bid to preserve peace and unity.

Today’s official launch at Mutoto Cultural Grounds in Mbale City is expected to feature the traditional circumcision of selected candidates from the BaMutoto clan, after which the rite will spread across the 26 Bamasaba clans. Reports circulating Saturday morning indicated that Umukuka Mudoma himself would not preside over or attend the main ceremony, consistent with the government’s neutral stance.

Despite the political cold shoulder, Mudoma has maintained a defiant posture in previous public statements, insisting on fulfilling his mandate and restoring unity among the Bamasaba. Supporters argue that the low turnout at the dinner reflects political manoeuvring rather than a rejection of the culture itself, pointing to the presence of visiting cultural leaders and ministry officials as evidence of broader recognition.

Critics within the region counter that the Umukuka’s leadership style, decisions on institutional structures, and handling of preparations have alienated key stakeholders whose cooperation is essential for a successful and peaceful Imbalu season.

As thousands of Bagisu and visitors converge on Mutoto for the launch, the empty chairs at Friday’s dinner serve as a potent symbol of unresolved fractures. Whether the isolation of the cultural leader will affect the vibrancy of the season ahead — or force a reckoning among political and traditional authorities — remains one of the most closely watched questions in Bugisu today.

The 2026 Imbalu season, occurring once every two years in traditional cycles, is expected to draw participants and spectators from across Uganda and the diaspora, underscoring both the enduring power of the rite and the urgent need for reconciliation among those who claim to steward it.

Amb. Nekesa Barbara Oundo Champions Historic NRM Sweep as Party Clinches 77.8% in Bukedi Region in the Just Concluded LC1 elections

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has delivered a decisive performance in the Local Council I (LC1) chairperson elections across the Bukedi sub-region, capturing 1,936 out of 2,506 village seats — a commanding 77.3 percent share — according to provisional results released by the party.

NRM National Treasurer and Bukedi Sub-region Team Leader, Ambassador Nekesa Barbara Oundo, hailed the outcome as a clear endorsement of the ruling party’s grassroots mobilisation strategy and the confidence communities place in its leadership.

“The people of Bukedi have spoken loudly and clearly,” Ambassador Oundo said. “This sweeping victory reflects the hard work of our structures, the unity of our cadres, and the trust ordinary Ugandans have in the NRM’s track record of peace, development and service delivery. We thank the people of Bukedi for standing with us.”

The results show strong NRM majorities in all six districts of the sub-region:

Butebo: 228 out of 269 villages (85.1%)

Butaleja: 359 out of 443 villages (81.0%)

Pallisa: 401 out of 498 villages (80.5%)

Budaka: 257 out of 323 villages (79.6%)

Busia: 411 out of 568 villages (72.4%)

Kibuku: 280 out of 405 villages (69.1%)

Independents accounted for 526 seats (21.0%), while other candidates took a marginal share of the remainder.

Ambassador Oundo, who spearheaded intensive mobilisation efforts in the weeks leading up to the July 28 polls, attributed the strong showing to sustained engagement with local leaders, Members of Parliament, district officials and village-level structures. Party officials noted that hundreds of NRM flag bearers were returned unopposed in the sub-region, further underscoring organisational strength at the grassroots.

Political observers say the LC1 results reinforce the NRM’s long-standing dominance in Bukedi, a region where village leadership plays a central role in community mobilisation, local governance and the delivery of government programmes such as the Parish Development Model.

Ambassador Oundo expressed gratitude to the voters and called for continued unity as the party consolidates its structures ahead of subsequent electoral stages.

“This is not just a victory for the NRM; it is a victory for the people of Bukedi who chose continuity, stability and progress,” she said. “We remain committed to working with every village leader to transform lives and deliver on the promises of our manifesto.”

The LC1 elections form a critical foundation of Uganda’s decentralised governance system, with newly elected chairpersons expected to play key roles in community coordination and the implementation of national development initiatives.

Minister Odria, PS Amina Zawedde Tours UICT Nakawa, Pledge Push for Innovation Commercialization

Kampala, Uganda — In a high-profile orientation and familiarization visit today, Hon. Alioni Yorke Odria, State Minister for ICT in Charge of National Guidance, was hosted by the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) at its Nakawa campus. The visit underscored the government’s renewed focus on strengthening ICT education, infrastructure, and the commercialization of homegrown innovations as pillars of Uganda’s digital transformation agenda.

Accompanied by Permanent Secretary Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Hon. Odria conducted an extensive tour of the institute’s ongoing infrastructure projects and cutting-edge learning facilities. The Minister inspected renovation works underway at the Administration Block, the Library, and the Accounts Office—projects aimed at modernizing the campus environment and improving service delivery for students and staff.

The highlight of the visit came as the Minister experienced immersive learning first-hand at UICT’s Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Lab. There, he engaged with interactive simulations designed to enhance practical training in technology and related fields. He also toured the Electronics and Electricals Laboratory and the institute’s smart classrooms, which are equipped to support modern, technology-driven pedagogy.

The tour concluded at the National ICT Innovation Hub, UICT’s dedicated incubation centre for technology and ICT startups. The Hub serves as a critical platform for nurturing student and innovator ideas into viable products and services.

Addressing the team at the conclusion of the visit, Hon. Odria reaffirmed his commitment to championing the commercialization of innovations emerging from institutions such as UICT. He emphasized that turning research and prototypes into market-ready solutions is essential for accelerating Uganda’s digital economy and creating sustainable opportunities for young people.

“This visit has given me a clear picture of the progress and potential at UICT,” the Minister noted. “The infrastructure upgrades and specialized facilities we have seen today, especially the Innovation Hub, position the institute as a key driver of the skills and solutions our country needs. I am committed to supporting efforts that move innovations from the lab to the market.”

UICT leadership expressed appreciation for the Minister’s engagement, describing the visit as an important opportunity to align the institute’s development priorities with national ICT policy goals. Officials highlighted that continued government support for both physical infrastructure and innovation ecosystems will be vital as the institute expands its role in producing industry-ready graduates and fostering tech entrepreneurship.

The visit comes at a time when Uganda continues to prioritize digital transformation across education, public services, and the private sector. Stakeholders at UICT indicated that follow-up engagements are expected to focus on accelerating the commercialization pipeline and ensuring that renovated facilities and advanced labs deliver maximum impact for students and innovators.

Bugisu Caucus Boss Wakooli Petitions Museveni: “Back Imbalu!”

Your Excellency,

On behalf of many sons and daughters of Bugisu, I write with respect, loyalty, and hope. We remain grateful for your leadership and reaffirm our unwavering support for you and your Government. Our appeal is not born out of anger, but out of concern that our community often feels overlooked when matters of great cultural importance arise.

The Bamasaba say, “One finger cannot kill a louse.” National unity is built when every community feels seen, heard, and valued. Likewise, another African proverb reminds us that “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” Uganda grows stronger when every region walks together.

Your Excellency, we respectfully wonder why important occasions in Bugisu often struggle to receive timely government attention. Whether it is official participation, facilitation, or support, assistance frequently arrives late or remains uncertain. This leaves many of our people asking whether Bugisu occupies the same place in the national family as other regions.

We understand that, like every community, Bugisu has had individuals who may have disappointed Government in one way or another. However, the mistakes of a few should never become the burden of an entire people. As another African proverb teaches, “When one branch dries, the whole tree is not dead.” The actions of a few sons and daughters should not define the loyalty, patriotism, and aspirations of the entire Bamasaba community.

Our sacred Imbalu cultural celebrations commence on the first Saturday of August 2026. This is not merely a regional event; it is a treasured national cultural heritage that promotes unity, tourism, and the identity of Uganda. As I write, many members of our community remain uncertain about the level of Government support for this important occasion.

We have also received information regarding financial support reportedly released by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. We are told that the Permanent Secretary of that Ministry channelled the little support available to an individual who is not among the organisers. We respectfully ask what informed that decision, especially after the Honourable Minister, together with leaders and elders, resolved that the Imbalu Independent Committee be in charge of everything, including the handling of financial matters.

We respectfully appeal for transparency and coordination so that any Government support reaches the officially mandated organising structures and serves its intended purpose for the benefit of the entire community.

Your Excellency, our request is simple: let Bugisu feel that it belongs. Let our cultural institutions receive timely recognition and support. Let our people know that their loyalty and contribution to Uganda are appreciated.

We remain hopeful because we know your commitment to national unity. We believe that every child of Uganda deserves a place at the national table and that no community should feel forgotten.

May God continue to bless you, bless the Bamasaba, and bless the Republic of Uganda.

Hon. Wakooli Godfrey Matembu

Member of Parliament, Butiru County, Manafwa

Chairperson, Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus

For God and My Country.

Imbalu Launch in Disarray as Organisers Accuse Umukuka Mudoma’s Office of Withholding Funds & Discouraging Sponsors

Mbale, Uganda – Tensions have escalated just a day before the highly anticipated Imbalu cultural launch, with the organizing committee accusing the office of Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma of failing to account for funds meant to facilitate preparations for the event.

The committee, comprising all LC V chairpersons from the Bugisu sub-region and mandated to organize the annual Imbalu launch, has expressed frustration over what it describes as a lack of transparency in the management of financial resources.

According to the chairperson of the organizing committee, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development reportedly released Shs50 million to Umukuka's office to support preparations for the launch. However, the committee claims it received only Shs16 million, leaving a funding gap that has stalled several critical activities.

The committee further alleges that Umukuka's office was entrustedb with allocating exhibition spaces to members of the business community during the celebrations. It claims that despite the allocation of these spaces, no revenue generated from the exercise has been remitted to the organizing committee.

With only one day remaining before the official launch, committee members say several essential preparations remain incomplete due to inadequate funding, raising concerns over the smooth running of one of Bugisu's most significant cultural events.

The organizing committee has now appealed to well-wishers, development partners, and members of the public to offer financial and material support to ensure the success of the Imbalu launch.

Efforts to obtain a response from the office of Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma regarding the allegations were not immediately successful by the time of publication.

New Local Leaders Urged to Hit “Reset” on Decentralization as Uganda Eyes Ten-Fold Growth

KAMPALA/REGIONAL – Freshly elected district chairpersons, city and municipal mayors across Uganda have been challenged to seize a rare “reset button” on the country’s three-decade-old decentralization policy, turning campaign victories into tangible local economic transformation and stronger grassroots governance.

Speaking at the opening of regional engagement and feedback sessions with the newly elected cohort for the 2026–2031 term, Kitatta Ibrahim Almalik, Vice President of the Uganda Local Governments Association (ULGA) for the Central Region, congratulated the leaders on their electoral success and framed their mandate as a profound vote of confidence from citizens.

“Your victory is not just a personal achievement; it is a profound vote of confidence from the citizens of Uganda, who have entrusted you to lead them into a new era of development,” Almalik said. He stressed that the gatherings—organized jointly by ULGA and the Urban Authorities Association of Uganda (UAAU) with support from VNG International and the Sustainable Development Through Local Governance (SDLG) Programme—are far from passive workshops. Participants will dissect real-world challenges through group discussions, make formal commitments, and see those pledges documented and forwarded to the Ministry of Public Service, the Ministry of Local Government, and the Office of the President for tracking and follow-up.

Almalik traced the origins of Uganda’s decentralization model, launched in 1992 and enshrined in the 1995 Constitution as a homegrown system intended to transfer political, fiscal and administrative power closer to the people. The goal, he noted, was responsive, accountable service delivery and a stronger citizen voice. Yet three decades on, the policy has faced significant headwinds: competing national policies, “recentralization” tendencies, chronic underfunding of local government structures, institutional capacity gaps, and overlapping mandates that have often left local governments sidelined.

Despite these pressures, Almalik insisted decentralization remains “the dual-carriage highroad connecting our government to our people” and the essential engine for local economic development needed to propel Uganda toward its ambitious Ten-Fold Growth Strategy over the next decade.

With a new generation of leaders now in office, he described the current transition as a critical juncture. “This is our critical opportunity to review where we have come from, understand the hurdles we face, and collectively demand a recommitment to the supremacy of local governance,” he said. He called on the leaders to approach the sessions with open minds, constructive critique and shared passion, declaring that “the campaign trail is behind us. The hard work of governance, service delivery, and economic transformation begins today.”

Almalik expressed gratitude to VNG International Uganda and the SDLG Programme for enabling the timely regional interventions, as well as to technical experts, mentors and ministry representatives guiding the discussions. He also urged the new leaders to strengthen their associations by ensuring subscription payments and active participation in ULGA and UAAU activities.

The sessions aim to equip the 2026–2031 cohort to “run, not just walk” into their mandates, re-ignite local economic activity in districts, municipalities and cities, and restore decentralization as the foundation of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

“For Unity and Efficiency of Local Governments,” Almalik concluded, wishing participants highly productive deliberations.

Ministers Probe Uganda’s Media Future as Digital Challenges Take Centre Stage in Key Familiarisation Meeting

Kampala — In a significant step toward aligning government oversight with the realities of modern communication, the Minister of State for National Guidance, Hon. Alioni Yorke Odria, joined forces with the Minister of State for ICT, Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, and Permanent Secretary Dr. Aminah Zawedde for a high-level familiarisation engagement with the Media Council of Uganda.

The meeting, held as part of the ministers’ ongoing familiarisation programme, offered a detailed overview of the Council’s statutory mandate and its critical role in shaping Uganda’s media environment. 

Officials from the Media Council briefed the ministerial team on core responsibilities that include media regulation, accreditation of journalists and foreign press, enforcement of professional standards, handling of public and institutional complaints, promotion of media ethics, and navigation of emerging issues in the rapidly evolving digital media landscape.

Established under the Press and Journalists Act, the Media Council serves as Uganda’s primary statutory body for media regulation. Its functions encompass promoting good ethical standards and discipline among journalists, arbitrating disputes between the public and the media as well as between the State and the media, exercising disciplinary control over journalists, editors and publishers, facilitating the flow of information, and classifying films and related content for public consumption. Accreditation remains a key pillar, requiring foreign media practitioners to obtain clearance before operating in the country.

The engagement comes at a time when traditional media coexists with and is increasingly challenged by digital platforms, social media, online news outlets and user-generated content. Discussions reportedly touched on the need to uphold professionalism and ethical reporting while adapting regulatory frameworks to address misinformation, online harms, content moderation, and the broader implications of digital transformation for national discourse and public trust.

Hon. Alioni Yorke Odria, who assumed the National Guidance portfolio following a recent cabinet reshuffle, and Hon. Joyce Ssebugwawo, the long-serving State Minister for ICT, brought complementary perspectives to the table. Dr. Aminah Zawedde, as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, provided continuity on the ministry’s broader priorities of effective communication, digital skills development and responsible information flow.

The familiarisation session underscores the ministry’s intent to strengthen collaboration with the Media Council as a “guardian of both press freedom and national discourse.” Previous interactions, including the swearing-in of new Council members, have emphasised the balance between media freedom and public responsibility — a theme that continues to define the relationship between government and the fourth estate in Uganda.

As the digital media landscape expands, the meeting signals a proactive approach by the new and continuing leadership to ensure that regulation keeps pace with technological change without stifling the free flow of information essential to democratic accountability and national development.

The engagement forms part of a wider series of introductory meetings designed to equip the ministers with a clear understanding of key institutions under or linked to the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, positioning them to provide informed policy direction in the months ahead.

Funds Furore: Umukuuka Mudoma Accused of Diverting UGX 50 Million Government Support for Imbalu Launch, gives Organisers Only 16m

Mbale, Uganda – Confusion and growing discontent have gripped organizers of the highly anticipated Imbalu Launch as allegations surface that cultural leader Umukuuka Mudoma received UGX 50 million in government support but channeled only a fraction to the main event preparations.

According to sources close to the organizing committee, the Umukuuka received the funds on Tuesday for the forthcoming Imbalu ceremony – a cornerstone cultural event for the Bamasaba in Mutoto Cultural Grounds.

However, only UGX 16 million reportedly reached the committee responsible for the launch, leaving a shortfall of UGX 34 million.

Stakeholders claim the balance has been redirected toward a high-profile dinner scheduled for Friday at the upscale Mt. Elgon Hotel. The development has sparked heated debates about transparency and accountability in the management of public resources earmarked for cultural preservation.

With the Imbalu Launch just days away, the timing of the revelations has amplified concerns. Organizers, who have been working tirelessly on logistics, cultural performances, and community mobilization, say the reduced funding threatens the scale and success of the event, which draws thousands of participants, tourists, and dignitaries annually.

“This is not just about money; it’s about honoring our traditions and the expectations of our people,” said one organizer who spoke on condition of anonymity due to fear of reprisal. “We expected full support for the launch, not a lavish dinner while core activities suffer.”

Government support for cultural events like Imbalu is often channeled through recognized cultural institutions to promote tourism, unity, and heritage. The latest episode raises broader questions about oversight mechanisms when funds are disbursed to individual leaders or institutions.

Attempts to reach Umukuuka Mudoma for comment were unsuccessful as of press time. A spokesperson for the cultural office acknowledged receipt of the funds but described the allocations as being “strategically distributed to maximize impact across related activities,” without providing a detailed breakdown.

Local leaders and cultural enthusiasts have called for a swift audit and transparent reporting on how the UGX 50 million was utilized. Some have taken to social media to voice their frustrations, with hashtags related to Imbalu and accountability trending locally.

The Imbalu ceremony is a vibrant rite of passage for young Bagisu men, symbolizing courage, identity, and community cohesion. The official launch typically features traditional dances, music, speeches, and planning for the circumcision season. Reduced funding could dampen what is expected to be a major celebration aimed at boosting cultural tourism in the Mt. Elgon region.

District officials in Mbale and surrounding areas expressed hope that the matter would be resolved amicably to avoid overshadowing the cultural significance of the event. One official noted that government remains committed to supporting cultural initiatives but emphasized the need for prudent financial management.

As preparations continue amid the uncertainty, all eyes remain on the Umukuuka’s office and the organizing committee. Organizers say they are exploring alternative funding sources to bridge the gap, while calls intensify for clearer guidelines on the disbursement and tracking of public funds for cultural programs.

This story is developing. Updates will follow as more details emerge.

Opinion: Questions Raises Over Directive to Interdict Mbale City Engineer

Concerns have emerged in Mbale City over a directive by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Mr Ben Kumumanya, ordering the Mbale City Town Clerk to interdict the Principal Civil Engineer, Eng. Edson Kasaata and three others, over alleged misconduct. 

The directive follows concerns raised during a meeting convened in Mbale by the Minister of local government, Balaam Barugahara on his efforts of fighting corruption and exposing the corrupt crack down targeting local government officials across the country.

In a letter addressed to the Town Clerk, the Permanent Secretary said Eng. Kasaata and other officials face allegations of gross negligence of duty, abuse of office, mismanagement of public resources and possible financial impropriety. 

The letter states that the alleged mismanagement of public resources affected service delivery in Mbale City and directed that administrative action be taken in accordance with the law.

However, sources familiar with the matter questioned the decision to interdict Eng. Kasaata, arguing that some of the projects under investigation were implemented when he was reportedly away from duty because of ill health.

According to the sources, the projects include the Nakaloke–Namagumba Road, the Doko–Namatala Road and bridge project valued at Shs180 million, and the Nankusi–Namakole Road project valued at Shs90 million. They claimed the projects were supervised under the Northern City Division but not by Kasaata the city engineer. 

Our sources further alleged that the city abattoir project, was implemented under the Industrial City Division but not under the supervision of the city engineer.

"At the time these projects were being implemented, Eng. Kasaata was seriously ill and spent long periods in and out of hospital. He is being blamed for activities that were outside his supervision," one source, who requested anonymity because they are not authorised to speak on the matter, said.

They appealed to Mr Balaam and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to continue investigating the matter to establish individuals responsible before disciplinary action is concluded.

Efforts to obtain a comment from the Ministry of Local Government, Mbale City authorities and Eng. Kasaata were unsuccessful by press time.