His nomination, which took place on Tuesday afternoon, marks the beginning of a campaign grounded in promises of responsive leadership, infrastructural revival, and equitable access to government programmes.

Baite, the son of renowned Busoga political figure Baite Munobwa, hails from Ivukula Town Council and brings with him a blend of technical expertise and generational political legacy.

His entry into the race has been met with considerable enthusiasm, particularly among constituents eager for change from what many describe as years of marginalisation and unfulfilled promises.

Addressing a crowd of supporters shortly after his nomination, Baite spoke with conviction about the growing disconnect between the people of Bukono and their current representative. He criticised what he described as a pattern of transactional politics, where constituents are pacified with handouts rather than empowered through sustainable development.

“There is a widening gap between leaders and the people,” Baite said. “Many residents have been reduced to recipients of stipends for survival. We must correct that and rebuild trust in leadership through tangible service delivery.”

At the heart of his campaign is a commitment to fighting poverty, which continues to affect more than half the population in the constituency.

Baite also highlighted the acute need for access to clean water and affirmed that he had successfully lobbied for a piped water project. In the education sector, he pledged to establish global partnerships to elevate the quality of learning and improve performance in schools across Bukono.

A strong advocate of the Parish Development Model (PDM), Baite expressed concern over what he called the politicisation of the initiative. He said access to PDM funds should not be based on political allegiance, and pledged to champion broader access to ensure all qualifying residents benefit.

The PDM, a flagship government programme aimed at transforming subsistence households into income-generating entities, was recently endorsed by President Yoweri Museveni during a tour of Busoga. While addressing residents in Namutumba District in January 2025, the president urged beneficiaries to “guard the programme” and invest in productive ventures that could guarantee long-term returns.

Baite’s campaign also enjoys the quiet but influential backing of his father, Baite Munobwa, whose long-standing service in Busoga kingdom affairs and national politics remains a source of credibility. That connection is seen by many as an asset in consolidating local support ahead of the high-stakes NRM primaries scheduled for July 16, 2025.

The Bukono Constituency, which comprises three town councils — Nangonde, Ivukula, and Kibale — and four sub-counties — Nangonde, Ivukula, Kibale, and Nabweyo — is poised for a competitive race.

The contest for the NRM flag has drawn notable names, including the incumbent Member of Parliament and State Minister for Lands, Hon. Persis Namuganza, as well as Hajji Siraj Kirya Gusongoire and Emmanuel Maganda Katoko.

“This is not politics as usual,” one supporter remarked after the nomination ceremony. “People are tired of being spoken at. Baite speaks with us, and more importantly, he listens.”

As the primaries approach, all eyes will be on Bukono to see whether Baite’s message of inclusion, service, and disciplined leadership will translate into political momentum strong enough to unseat an entrenched incumbent.

For now, the campaign trail in Namutumba has grown more spirited, and expectations among the electorate are rising.

The post Can Baite Unseat Namuganza? Bukono Boils As Paul Baite’s Entry Stirs Political Earthquake appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

In a statement issued Wednesday, Mr. Kyeswa made a clarion call to party delegates, urging them to rally behind a vision of reform, transparency, and inclusivity. Framing his campaign as a return to the movement’s founding values, he described the current moment as one of “moral reckoning” for the NRM.

“This is not just an election—it is our generational duty,” Mr. Kyeswa wrote. “Every sunrise brings us closer to victory. Every step we take moves us toward reclaiming the NRM we believe in—a party rooted in the people, guided by its cadres, and responsive to the grassroots.”

While he refrained from naming his opponents, Mr. Kyeswa’s message implicitly criticised the current leadership for drifting from the party’s original ethos. He condemned what he termed as “the old ways” that have stifled participation and marginalised loyal members, particularly in the Central Region.

“We will not be defined by the old ways. We will not be silenced by doubt. Together, we will rebuild an NRM that listens, that delivers, and that stands strong—because its foundation is the people,” he added.

The statement has been widely interpreted as a rallying cry for party renewal, particularly among disaffected youth wings, historical cadres, and local council leaders who have long voiced concern about exclusion from the party’s central decision-making structures.

Mr. Kyeswa also addressed growing voter apathy within party ranks, warning that the NRM risks losing its political vitality unless internal democracy is revitalised.

“Your vote is your voice. Your voice is your power. Do not let anyone steal it. Do not let anyone silence it,” he urged delegates.

Observers say the race for NRM Vice Chairperson for Central Region is shaping up to be a litmus test for the party’s internal cohesion and its ability to re-engage with its base ahead of the 2026 general elections. The Central Region, once a bastion of NRM strength, has seen growing electoral pressure in recent years.

Sources within the party say Mr. Kyeswa’s message has begun resonating with influential blocs, including youth mobilisation teams and veteran party members who feel disillusioned by the perceived centralisation of power.

While the race is expected to attract seasoned politicians, Mr. Kyeswa is presenting himself as the face of generational transition, promising a new style of leadership grounded in openness, accessibility, and principled service.

“The time is now. The mission is clear. Let us move forward—united, bold, and unstoppable,” he concluded.

As campaigns heat up, all eyes remain on how candidates will navigate internal tensions and whether Mr. Kyeswa’s message of reform will translate into broad delegate support.

The post Top Story! Youth, Cadres Rally Behind Hakim Kyeswa’s Bid to Rebuild NRM From the Ground Up appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Filed on June 20 before the Constitutional Court, the petition raises two critical concerns: the expanded jurisdiction of military courts over civilians, and structural malapportionment in Uganda’s electoral framework, which the petitioner argues undermines the legitimacy of the Parliament that passed the law.

At the core of the suit is Section 3 of the new amendment, which grants military courts the power to try civilians in certain circumstances.

Dr. Ssemugenyi contends that this provision offends the Constitution, specifically Article 28(1), which guarantees every citizen the right to a fair hearing before an independent and impartial civilian court.

He further invokes Article 44(c), which prohibits derogation from the right to a fair hearing even during times of emergency, as well as Articles 119, 120, and 126, which enshrine prosecutorial independence and judicial impartiality.

“This petition is not political, it is constitutional. It is a quiet but resolute appeal to protect the rule of law, justice, and civilian oversight in Uganda,” Dr. Ssemugenyi stated in a statement shared with UG EXCLUSIVE.

He argues that the UPDF (Amendment) Act is not only unconstitutional but also amounts to a legislative reversal of previous Supreme Court rulings, thereby breaching the principle of separation of powers.

Electoral Imbalance Questioned

Beyond the content of the law, the petition raises broader questions about the constitutional validity of the Parliament itself. Dr. Ssemugenyi challenges Uganda’s current constituency structure, citing Article 63(3) of the Constitution, which requires near-equal population distribution across constituencies.

Based on Uganda’s projected population of 51.4 million and 353 constituencies, the average population per Member of Parliament should be around 70,000.

However, the petition highlights stark population discrepancies, with some constituencies, primarily opposition strongholds, hosting more than double the average, while others, mostly aligned with the ruling NRM party, fall significantly below the threshold.

According to Dr. Ssemugenyi, this malapportionment allows for an artificial parliamentary majority that does not reflect the principle of equal suffrage, thereby enabling contentious laws to be passed without genuine national consensus.

“The skewed constituency sizes breach constitutional requirements and subvert democratic representation,” he argues.

He is seeking declarations from the Court that:

• The UPDF (Amendment) Act, 2025, is unconstitutional and void.
• Military trials for civilians are inconsistent with constitutional guarantees.
• Uganda’s current constituency demarcation violates the Constitution and enables unfair legislative outcomes.

Legal scholars say the petition raises foundational constitutional questions that could reshape both Uganda’s civil-military dynamics and the legitimacy of its legislative processes.

A constitutional law lecturer at Makerere University, speaking anonymously, said, “If the Court rules in favour of the petitioner, it could lead to a major recalibration of how Uganda balances security interests with constitutional safeguards.”

By press time, neither the Ministry of Defence nor the Attorney General’s Chambers had commented on the matter. However, civil society organisations have welcomed the petition as a vital step toward reclaiming constitutional order and democratic accountability.

The post UPDF Act ‘Void from Start,’ Says Legal Expert in Game-Changing Court Filing appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The just-concluded youth council elections have sent a clear message to the nation: the National Resistance Movement (NRM) remains the dominant political force in Uganda, especially among the youth.

With an overwhelming 81% victory at the village level, the results have exposed the weakening grip of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and reaffirmed that the so-called “NUP wave” of 2021 will not be repeated in 2026.

Since the last general elections, where NRM’s support in Buganda faced an unexpected challenge, political parties have been strategizing—opposition groups hoping to seize power, and the NRM working to consolidate its gains.

However, the latest youth council elections have revealed a harsh reality for NUP: their influence is fading, even among the very demographic they claim to champion.

NUP’s Failed Youth Appeal

NUP built its brand on the promise of representing the youth, yet in these elections, they failed to secure even 20% of the votes. This is a stunning indictment of their disconnect from young Ugandans. Many youths are now realizing that NUP’s leadership has little to offer beyond rhetoric.

After being used for protests and political agitation, some find themselves abandoned—either politically sidelined or left to languish in prison. Meanwhile, the NRM has focused on delivering tangible programs that empower young people economically.

Government Programs Winning Hearts and Minds

Initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) have been a game-changer, directly addressing poverty and unemployment.

Unlike NUP’s empty promises, these programs provide real opportunities for the youth to improve their livelihoods. It is no surprise, then, that young people are choosing to engage with government initiatives rather than follow opposition leaders who offer nothing but chaos.

NRM Dominance Even in Opposition Strongholds

The most telling sign of NRM’s resurgence is its performance in traditional opposition strongholds. In Kampala, Mukono, and Wakiso—areas once considered NUP bastions—NRM won with nearly 90% of the vote. If the youth at the grassroots, who play a crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes, are overwhelmingly supporting NRM, then the 2026 general elections are already tilting in favor of the ruling party.

The 2021 Wave Will Not Be Repeated

The 2021 election was a wake-up call for NRM, but the party has since recalibrated its strategy, reconnected with the youth, and delivered results. The opposition’s momentum has stalled, and NUP’s failure to make inroads in these youth elections proves that their influence was a temporary protest vote rather than a sustained movement.

As we approach 2026, NRM leaders must capitalize on this momentum. The party should continue engaging the youth, expanding poverty-alleviation programs, and countering opposition propaganda with facts. The message from the villages is clear: Ugandan youth trust the NRM, and that trust will translate into another decisive victory in the next elections.

The writer is the Head of Digital Media, Office of the National Chairman, NRM.
Email: hakimkim255gmail.com
Contact: 0781009000

The post OP-ED: NRM’s 81% Victory in Youth Councils Proves NUP Wave is Over appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Themed “The Art and Science of Emo3onal Connec3ons In a Competitive World,” the one-day summit brings together leading voices in marketing, communications, and business strategy to explore how emotional intelligence, storytelling, and cultural relevance shape branding in today’s saturated and fast-paced market.

Structured as a one-day learning and networking experience, the event is designed to explore how emotional intelligence, cultural resonance, and strategic storytelling can help brands build stronger connections with their audiences and navigate an increasingly fragmented marketplace.

Speaking at a recent press briefing in Kampala, Daniel Ochieng, Learning and Development Consultant and event host, described the summit as a timely platform for both reflection and reimagination.

“This gathering is not just about marketing; it’s about brand purpose, leadership, and how organisations must evolve to meet the emotional and cultural expectations of multi-generational consumers. We are calling on business leaders and marketing professionals to join us in shaping the future of branding in Uganda,” he said.

In a show of industry-wide support, the summit has attracted participation from key players in media, advertising, manufacturing, and digital communications.

Festo Mwebaze Syalhasha, CIM tutor at Datamine and Marketing Manager at Quality Chemical Industries Ltd, praised the summit’s relevance in a digitally connected, emotionally driven economy.

“We’re preparing marketers not just to sell products, but to connect with people in ways that are genuine and sustainable. This summit is a major leap forward,” he said.

The event is being held in partnership with Nation Media Group Uganda, whose Head of Marketing, Hajara Ddagire Batuuka, confirmed the group’s role as official media partner.

“As Nation Media Group, we are proud to support initiatives that contribute to thought leadership and sector innovation. This summit will spark vital conversations and elevate how brands engage with Ugandan audiences,” she said.

From the printing and branding space, Maud Mutungira, Marketing Manager, Commercial at Graphic Systems Uganda, expressed optimism about the opportunities the summit creates for creative innovation.

“This event speaks to the future of how we present, design, and deliver brand experiences. It’s an ecosystem moment,” she noted.

Corporate support has also come from Uganda Breweries Limited, represented at the briefing by Caroline Ampaire, Digital and Media Manager.

“We’ve learned over time that emotional connection with the consumer is what builds trust and loyalty. This summit gives us a stage to both reflect and retool our approaches,” she said.

From the creative advertising sector, Andy Radier, a Creative Director, emphasised the importance of deep, localised storytelling.

“Brands that win today are those that understand cultural nuance and use creativity to tap into emotion. This summit aligns with that mission,” he said.

In the youth marketing space, Laura Muhumuza, Country Manager at Buzz Group Africa, highlighted the summit’s role in bridging insight and impact.

“For youth-driven brands, it’s no longer about the loudest message—it’s about the most memorable feeling,” she stated. “We are excited to join a conversation that prioritises empathy and authenticity.”

Representing logistics and operations, Boniface Kipchirchir, Head of Operations at Stabex International Ltd, welcomed the summit’s inclusive agenda.

“Even in sectors like ours, how the brand is perceived emotionally matters. We see this event as a catalyst for business-wide brand alignment,” he said.

Among the summit’s highlights will be a keynote address from renowned global brand strategist Graham Robertson, founder of Beloved Brands.

Known for shaping strategy at companies like Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson, and the NFL, this marks his first-ever appearance in East Africa.

“I’m thrilled to bring fresh thinking on emotional branding to Kampala. The brands that win hearts are the ones that understand the emotional journey behind every purchase,” he said.

The main session will feature a high-level panel of brand leaders moderated by Johnpaul Okwi, Chartered Marketer and Sponsorships Manager at MTN Uganda.

The panel will explore how emotional relevance drives loyalty and growth. Speakers will include Catherine Ndungu (Uganda Breweries Ltd), Daniel Kayongo (Kansai Plascon), Charity Winnie Asiimwe (dfcu Bank), Rommel Jasi (Saladin Media), and Juliana Kagwa (Uganda Tourism Board).

With tickets available at UGX 150,000 (individuals) and UGX 2,000,000 (tables of 8), the summit promises to offer deep learning, peer networking, and access to curated resources from Beloved Brands. Payments can be made via Airtel Money Pay (4379648) or MTN MoMo Pay (303914) under Basewood Consult Uganda Ltd.

The Datamine Summit 2025 is more than a conference—it is a movement to redefine what it means to build a beloved brand in a competitive and emotionally complex market.

The post What Top CEOs, Creatives, and Marketers Are Doing on June 27 Will Blow Your Mind appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The summit, one of the continent’s premier platforms for global investment dialogue, will convene top-tier government officials, corporate leaders, and international investors to explore strategic investment opportunities across infrastructure, agribusiness, technology, and finance.

Organizers say this year’s edition will place special emphasis on East Africa.

Dr. Sudhir, whose personal fortune is estimated by Forbes at $1.2 billion, will share his entrepreneurial journey, from a young refugee in the UK with just £8,000 to becoming one of East Africa’s most influential tycoons. His address will focus on resilience, innovation, and the power of Africa-led development.

A Defining Appearance Amid Personal Loss

Sudhir’s participation at the UK-Africa Business Forum falls just four months after the tragic loss of his only son, Rajiv Ruparelia, in a fatal accident on the Munyonyo-Entebbe Expressway on May 3.

Rajiv, 35, served as the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group and was widely seen as the heir to the multi-sector business empire.

In his eulogy during the burial on May 7, Dr. Sudhir described Rajiv as a “quick learner” and “compassionate leader,” vowing to carry forward the vision they had jointly built.

Sudhir’s decision to proceed with the London summit despite the tragedy has been described by close associates as “a mark of profound resilience and responsibility.”

Focus on Africa’s Investment Future

The 2025 UK-Africa Summit is organized in collaboration with the UK Commonwealth Trade Partnership (UCUK), the India Overseas Trust, and other global entities. It aims to deepen bilateral trade and foster economic transformation by connecting African governments and businesses to international financiers.

Panels at the summit will dissect investment opportunities under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). Target sectors include fintech, sustainable agriculture, real estate, and green energy.

Dr. Sudhir is expected to spotlight Uganda’s investment appeal and share insights into how the Ruparelia Group’s ventures—ranging from Speke Resort Munyonyo to the Pearl Business Park—are shaping Kampala’s modern skyline and generating thousands of jobs.

Also on the agenda will be his philanthropic initiatives through the Ruparelia Foundation, which has funded schools, hospitals, and scholarships for underprivileged communities.

Legacy of a Business Titan

Born in 1956, Sudhir fled Uganda during Idi Amin’s expulsion of Asians and worked as a taxi driver in the UK before returning in the late 1980s to launch Crane Forex Bureau, which would eventually evolve into a sprawling business empire. Today, his conglomerate spans finance, education, hospitality, construction, and philanthropy.

He also serves as Nepal’s honorary consul to Uganda, further cementing his role as a business diplomat and transnational figure in economic diplomacy.

Sudhir’s presence at the London summit positions Uganda firmly in the global investment spotlight, reinforcing the summit’s theme of “partnerships for prosperity.” His keynote is expected to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs while encouraging deeper UK-Africa economic collaboration.

The post Sudhir to Deliver Keynote Speech at UK-Africa Business Forum in London appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Scheduled for September 14–20, 2025, the prestigious event will bring together thousands of engineers, innovators, policymakers, educators, students, and researchers from across the continent. It will run under the theme “Leveraging Engineering Innovations and Technology to Accelerate Africa’s Socio–Economic Transformation.”

The Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) will organize the conference, with support from the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and other key stakeholders.

The week-long programme will feature keynote addresses, technical sessions, exhibitions, and public engagement activities aimed at promoting engineering and STEM across Africa.

Uganda Tourism Board CEO Juliana Kagwa said the event’s award to Uganda highlights the country’s rising stature in the global conference tourism space.

“Hosting this prestigious event aligns with our efforts to position Uganda as a leading destination for conferences and events. We are confident that attendees will experience the beauty and hospitality of Uganda while contributing to important discussions in engineering,” Kagwa said.

MICE Sector on the Rise

Uganda’s successful bid comes amid a sharp upturn in its MICE sector. According to the 2025 Tourism Statistical Abstract, the country hosted 491 MICE events in 2024, attracting 32,693 international delegates and over 69,700 domestic participants. These generated an estimated USD 27.6 million—accounting for 6.1% of total tourism earnings.

UTB now targets 980 MICE events annually by 2026, over 60,000 foreign delegates, and revenue of up to USD 50 million from this niche. Uganda also aims to attract at least 15 high-level global conferences every year and increase international MICE arrivals to 10% of all tourist traffic.

The upcoming UNESCO conference is being positioned as a strategic step towards these goals and is expected to spark additional high-impact engagements in engineering, innovation, and infrastructure.

SRCC: Uganda’s World-Class Venue

The venue, Speke Resort Convention Centre (SRCC), is Uganda’s largest events facility and a major driver of the MICE strategy. Since its commissioning in January 2024, it has hosted several high-profile events, including: the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, 3rd G77 + China South Summit, Uganda–EU Business Forum, 2024 ITU Global Symposium for Regulators and recently the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2024).

Set on the shores of Lake Victoria, the centre boasts over 56,000 square metres of event space, a 4,400-seat auditorium, 476 guest rooms, and multiple recreational and meeting facilities. Its international-standard infrastructure, combined with proximity to Entebbe International Airport and Kampala, makes it ideal for hosting global conferences.

About UNESCO Africa Engineering Week

The UNESCO Africa Engineering Week is an annual platform for promoting the role of engineering in Africa’s sustainable development. It brings together governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.

Uganda’s hosting of the 2025 edition is expected to boost its innovation ecosystem, professional development platforms, and global visibility as a knowledge economy hub.

Preparations are now underway under the stewardship of UIPE, supported by UTB and other government agencies. Organizers expect a significant multiplier effect on tourism, education, infrastructure, and youth-focused initiatives.

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Polling began at 9:00 am across the country and is expected to close at 4:00 pm, as eligible voters aged 18 to 30—whose names appear on the SIG Youth Register—cast ballots to choose their local youth representatives.

This election follows the successful and largely peaceful voting exercises for Older Persons on June 16 and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) on June 17, according to the Electoral Commission (EC).

“This is a crucial moment for young people to step up, show up, and shape the future of our nation,” said EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, in a statement encouraging youth to participate actively and responsibly in the democratic process.

“Older Persons and PWD elections were peaceful with no major incidents. Youth, let’s keep calm during your village elections. Line up, vote, and promote unity,” Justice Byabakama added.

Zero Tolerance for Vigilantism

Amid rising political mobilisation across the country, Justice Byabakama issued a stern warning against the formation of illegal groups purporting to “guard votes,” saying such vigilante structures are “illegal and risky.”

“Forming vigilante groups like youth brigades is illegal. The Uganda Police Force is mandated to provide security during elections. Let’s avoid actions that cause tension,” he cautioned.

EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi while addresing the media

The EC reiterated that any form of violence, inflammatory speech, or misinformation—including fake news circulated online—will not be tolerated.

High Stakes for Youth Representation

Today’s Youth Elections are widely seen as pivotal in setting the tone for youth engagement in national politics, especially ahead of the 2026 general elections. With Uganda’s population being one of the youngest in the world, the influence of the youth vote is expected to be both significant and transformative.

In previous SIG elections, youth representation has been instrumental in surfacing grassroots concerns, particularly in areas such as employment, education, and access to public services. The ongoing vote is expected to elect thousands of youth leaders across villages, who will eventually feed into higher structures at parish, sub-county, district, and national levels.

The EC, under the 2025/26 roadmap, has prioritised inclusivity and civic participation across all Special Interest Groups. The Commission praised the active role played by cultural institutions, local councils, and civil society in mobilising voters during the earlier SIG elections.

Call for Calm and Patriotism

In a closing appeal, the Commission urged voters and candidates alike to uphold a spirit of peace, unity, and patriotism.

“Let the youth be the example. Peaceful elections today reflect our country’s maturity and commitment to inclusive governance,” Justice Byabakama noted.

Security remains tight at polling venues, with the Uganda Police Force and allied agencies deployed to ensure safety and compliance with electoral guidelines.

As Uganda wraps up the SIG village-level elections, attention will shift to the upcoming electoral stages—especially at the parish and district levels—where newly elected representatives are expected to continue advocating for the needs and voices of their constituencies.

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The announcement was made by URA Commissioner General John R. Musinguzi Rujoki during a high-level stakeholder engagement convened at Hotel Africana in Kampala on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

The meeting brought together customs officials, freight agents, and members of the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) to address persistent grievances over groupage cargo clearance inefficiencies.

Musinguzi said the authority’s decision was informed by widespread abuse of the groupage system, where intermediaries entrusted with consolidated cargo, commonly known as container leaders, have allegedly engaged in under-declaration and falsification of goods.

“Let us agree that the time has come to do away with container leaders. The level of under-declaration we are seeing is unacceptable and poses a significant risk to compliant traders and national revenue,” Musinguzi stated.

He urged traders to explore direct clearance as a fairer and more transparent option, assuring the business community of continued reforms to make self-declaration easier and more cost-effective.

Despite surpassing its collection target in the 2023/24 financial year—realising Shs 25.2 trillion against a target of Shs 24 trillion—URA estimates it still loses more than Shs 5 trillion annually due to smuggling, tax fraud, and illicit financial flows.

Musinguzi issued a stern warning to URA staff and clearing agents involved in unethical conduct, revealing that internal purges were already underway. “No one has a place in URA if they are engaging in fraud or colluding with smugglers. We are cleaning house,” he warned.

Hajj Asadu Kigozi Kisitu, Acting Commissioner for Customs, admitted to operational gaps within URA, noting that some customs officers have been part of rackets that delay cargo clearance or inflate charges.

“While some traders manipulate the system, we also acknowledge that some of our officers have not upheld the values we expect,” Kisitu said. “Both sides must change.”

He also took the opportunity to clarify the recently revised import duty on textiles. Under the current policy, T-shirts and similar garments now attract a tariff of USD 3.5 per kilogram or 35% of the customs value, whichever is higher. The adjustment, he said, is aimed at safeguarding Uganda’s textile industry and promoting local production.

The trader community, represented by KACITA Chairman Dr. Thaddeus Musoke Nagenda, welcomed the dialogue but demanded faster and more predictable customs procedures. “Many of our members’ shops are currently empty. The delays in clearing goods are hurting trade,” he said.

KACITA spokesperson Issa Sekitto echoed the sentiment, calling for sustained dialogue to mend relations between URA and business owners. “What we need is fairness, trust, and consistency,” he said.

An internal audit conducted by URA recently confirmed that groupage containers have been a major source of revenue leakage, leading to renewed enforcement measures and policy revisions.

Musinguzi concluded by reaffirming URA’s role as a facilitator of trade, not just a collector of taxes. “Our goal is a tax system that supports national development while allowing businesses to grow,” he said. “We can only achieve that through partnership and mutual accountability.”

The authority pledged to intensify taxpayer education, enhance transparency, and modernise customs operations to streamline cargo clearance and rebuild public confidence.

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Last week, Vcon officially handed over the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU)’s newly completed Faculty of Engineering and Technology, along with a 500-bed student hostel. The project was financed through a $13.5 million Islamic Development Bank loan guaranteed by the Ugandan government.

Assoc. Prof. Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, the Rector of IUIU, noted that the ninth faculty will contribute to introducing professional programs in civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.

He noted that the facility was completed in under two years through collaboration with Symbion Consulting Group and added that accreditation processes are underway, with the first intake of engineering students expected by August 2026.

Dr. Gyagenda also emphasized IUIU’s vision to become a leading centre for scientific and technological innovation in the region drawing students from over 25 countries, and continues to affirm its commitment to quality education and research.

Dr Sudhir Ruparelia the Chairman of Vcon Construction, noted that the project will enhance educational infrastructure in Eastern Uganda.

“I’m also in education so I have a special soft spot for education facilities. This is a good addition to Eastern Uganda. It will add value to Eastern Uganda and attract more and more students to the university,” he said.

Ambassador Nusura Tiperu, the representative of Uganda to Turkiye highlighted the government’s strategic shift towards “ATMs”: Agriculture, Technology & Innovation, and Mining.

“Commissioning this Engineering and Technology block fulfils one of the government’s priorities,” she said, noting state-of-the-art classrooms and labs being fitted before official commissioning by the President.

Related

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