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.

Journalist Arnold Freeman Musamali: "Minister Nameere Should Think Twice Before Suing the Struggling Coffee Supplier After Public Shaming at Anti-Corruption Rally"

Masaka City — In a stunning twist that has ignited fierce public debate, State Minister for Local Government and Masaka City Woman MP Justine Nameere Nsubuga has filed a defamation lawsuit against a local coffee supplier just days after the woman publicly confronted her over an unpaid debt of approximately UGX 150–156 million for coffee seedlings.

The dramatic confrontation unfolded on Monday, July 27, 2026, during the launch of the Ministry of Local Government’s “Expose the Corrupt” campaign in Masaka City, led by Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi. What was meant to be a platform for residents to air grievances about corruption and poor service delivery turned personal when Cissy Nanyange, a coffee seller and supplier from Masaka, stood up and accused Nameere of failing to pay for seedlings she supplied during the 2025/2026 election campaigns.

Nanyange claimed she delivered coffee seedlings worth between UGX 152 million and UGX 156 million that were distributed as part of Nameere’s campaign activities and to other senior NRM leaders in the area. Despite repeated attempts to recover her money—including phone calls that she said went unanswered—she remained unpaid. The public accusation briefly disrupted the rally and drew murmurs from the gathered crowd.

Nameere denied cheating the woman. She later stated that she had petitioned President Yoweri Museveni for the seedlings, but that NRM Masaka City Chairman Rogers Bulegeya had mishandled the delivery and payments. She claimed she rejected certain arrangements to avoid being drawn into corruption. Minister Balaam intervened, mediating a follow-up meeting and assuring Nanyange that efforts would be made to resolve the matter, including seeking financial support from the President to ensure payment. Reports indicate the dispute over the money has since been addressed, with assurances that the supplier would be paid.

Yet the matter did not end there. Nameere has now sued Nanyange for defamation over the public claims. The lawsuit has drawn sharp criticism, particularly given Nameere’s public image as a champion of women and a vocal anti-corruption advocate who represents the women of Masaka City in Parliament.

Journalist Arnold Freeman Musamali captured the prevailing sentiment in a widely shared opinion that has fueled online discussion: “Minister Justine Nameere, the fact that you claim to be fighting for women and represent women of Masaka city in parliament… And you picked coffee from this woman directly. You would have helped the woman get payment instead of trying to show her your power. Also there is no reason for suing.”

Critics argue that suing a local supplier—especially a woman from her own constituency who supplied goods for campaign-related activities—undermines Nameere’s stated commitment to empowering women and fighting graft. They contend that as the elected Woman MP, her priority should have been facilitating payment rather than escalating the dispute into court after the public embarrassment. Some observers have described the legal action as an unnecessary display of power against a citizen who simply demanded what she was owed.

Supporters of the minister counter that public accusations of this nature, if inaccurate or exaggerated in targeting her personally rather than the broader party structures involved, damage her reputation and anti-corruption credentials. Nameere has previously positioned herself as a strong voice against misconduct and has a track record of defending her name in court, including a successful defamation suit against a media house that resulted in a substantial payout.

The episode highlights the complex intersection of politics, campaign logistics, and accountability in Uganda’s grassroots politics. Coffee seedlings are a common tool in agricultural support and political outreach in coffee-growing regions like Greater Masaka. When such distributions occur during election periods, questions of who ultimately bears financial responsibility often become contentious.

As the defamation case proceeds, many in Masaka and beyond are watching closely. For a minister who rose to prominence partly on a platform of representing ordinary women and rooting out corruption, the optics of pursuing legal action against a coffee supplier who supplied her campaign and then sought payment remain deeply uncomfortable for some of her constituents.

Whether the courts will view Nanyange’s public claims as defamatory or as a legitimate cry for payment remains to be determined. What is already clear is that the incident has left a bitter aftertaste in a city that expected its Woman MP to stand firmly with the women she represents—starting with those who literally supplied the coffee.

Bugisu Sub-region eats big as M7 elevates David Gonyi to Major General

KAMPALA — Bugisu Sub-region is celebrating a major boost in representation at the highest levels of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces after President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni promoted Brig Gen David Robert Gonyi to the rank of Major General.

The elevation was announced on Monday, 28 July 2026, in an official press release from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs’ Department of Defence Public Information.

According to the statement, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF promoted 301 General, Senior and Junior Officers. In the same exercise, 83 officers who had been serving in acting capacities were confirmed in their substantive ranks, while 89 Second Lieutenants on probationary ranks were confirmed as full Lieutenants.

Among the most senior officers elevated were six Brigadier Generals moved up to Major General. They are:

Ag Maj Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga (confirmed as Major General)

Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba

Brig Gen Chris Musinguzi Bagonza

Brig Gen Michael Nyarwa

Brig Gen Richard Karemire

Brig Gen David Robert Gonyi.

Gonyi, a son of Bugisu (with strong ties to Sironko District), has been serving as Chief of Staff of the UPDF Air Force. He is also one of the UPDF’s representatives in the 12th Parliament. His promotion is being widely hailed in eastern Uganda as a significant recognition of talent and long service from the sub-region.

The Ministry said the promotions and confirmations “strengthen leadership across all levels of the Force and ensure continuity in fulfilling the UPDF’s constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uganda.”

Col Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, signed the statement on behalf of the Ministry and the Force, extending congratulations to all the elevated officers.

For many in Bugisu, Gonyi’s rise to Major General is more than a personal achievement. It is seen as a proud moment for the sub-region’s contribution to national security and a signal that officers from eastern Uganda continue to rise through the ranks on merit.

The full list of the remaining 295 officers promoted or confirmed has not yet been publicly detailed beyond the six most senior names. Further announcements and formal decoration ceremonies are expected in the coming days.