Author: Simon Mbago
In a determined effort to combat domestic violence, Busoga Kingdom has initiated a sensitization campaign to educate families on preventing human rights abuses against girls and women. The kingdom aims to foster peace in society by emphasizing the utilization of the cultural value system as a framework to address violence against victims. On December 11, 2023, the kingdom, through the Chief Prince (Isaabalingila), HRH Samuel Nkuutu Zilamuzaale, who is also the Hereditary chief of Bugweri Chiefdom, announced essential measures and strategies to combat violence, especially against young girls and women. Among these proactive methods, leaders were urged to support children’s…
As the festive season approaches, security officials in Jinja city convened on Saturday with village and parish leaders, clergy, and other stakeholders to devise strategies for addressing potential security threats during the upcoming festivities. The meeting, held at Jinja City Hall, tackled crucial issues aimed at ensuring the safety of residents in and around the city. Presiding over the gathering, Mr. Henry Kitambula, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) for South Division in Jinja, emphasized the importance of maximum security and the need for vigilance among city dwellers. He acknowledged that the festive period often attracts individuals with malicious intent,…
Jinja city experienced a vibrant spectacle on Saturday as a group of cyclists took to the streets for a vital ride known as “Critical Mass.” The gentle-paced ride, covering over 8 kilometers, served a dual purpose – raising awareness about the significance of bicycles on roads and advocating for safer cycling conditions in the country. The quarterly event, organized by Coop-Uganda, a nonprofit organization promoting access to education, healthcare, and income through the provision of bicycles, is part of a global movement where cyclists come together to assert their presence as non-motorized transport users and to underscore the benefits of…
Kamuli district’s National Unity Platform (NUP) finds itself embroiled in internal conflicts, with accusations of betrayal and corruption causing a rift among its leaders. The controversy revolves around Twahil Waiswa, the former mayoral race flag bearer in Kamuli municipality, who stands accused of pocketing UGX 80 million from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). In a media briefing held at the NUP offices in Kamuli municipality, party registrar Julius Amuvin stated that Waiswa had received the money, alleging secret meetings with NRM officials in Kamuli. The revelation came to light when foot soldiers became aware of Waiswa’s undisclosed agendas. Amuvin…
In the vast landscapes of Busoga, Bukedi, and Karamoja in Uganda, where the rhythms of life echo through communities, there’s an invisible struggle that often goes unnoticed—the battle for mental well-being. A recent report sheds light on the prevalence of mental health challenges in these regions, bringing attention to a silent crisis affecting millions. Derrick Kizza Mbuga, a seasoned mental health expert, is on a mission to demystify the misconceptions surrounding mental health in these communities. Despite the prevailing belief in magic and witchcraft as explanations for mental health issues, Mbuga urges locals to seek professional help rather than turning…
Busoga district local governments, in collaboration with non-profit organizations advocating for the well-being of Persons with Disabilities (PWD), successfully organized celebrations on Tuesday to mark the International Day of PWDs. This globally recognized occasion is dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of individuals living with disabilities. The significant commemoration held at Jinja city’s Busoga Square grounds attracted several stakeholders, including government authorities and civil society organizations, to celebrate and recognize the contributions of PWDs towards the development of societies. The annual event serves as a platform to advocate for rights and opportunities, accessibility, and the removal of barriers that…
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a pressing concern in the Busoga region and beyond, manifesting in various forms and impacting vulnerable groups such as women, girls with disabilities, older persons, refugees, and migrants. Of particular concern is Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), including rape and defilement, leading to unwanted pregnancies, pregnancy complications, and sexually transmitted infections like HIV/AIDS. To address this alarming trend, the Uganda Police, in collaboration with the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), is spearheading the 16 Days of Activism, an annual international initiative aimed at raising awareness and sensitizing communities to combat GBV effectively. The event, scheduled for December…
As International Human Rights Defenders Day is commemorated, State Minister for Agriculture, Animal, Industry, and Fisheries, Hon. Fredrick Bwino Kyakulaga, has lauded the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government as the foremost promoter and protector of people’s rights. Representing the Third Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda at the event organized by the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders Uganda (NCHRD-U), Hon. Bwino emphasized the government’s role in fostering peace, protection of human rights, and establishing institutions like the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC). The retired Major General highlighted the government’s efforts in investigating human rights abuses and the establishment of the…
Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Busoga are calling on the government to reduce taxes on electronic devices, such as computers and smartphones, to enhance their participation in the digital realm. The leaders of PWDs stressed this concern during a media briefing at Jinja City Hall, emphasizing the need for effective digital access to raise awareness and market products. The plea comes in anticipation of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 12, 2023, with the theme “The Role of Innovation in Disability Inclusion.” Ms. Elizabeth Kaynga, Executive Director of Integrated Disabled Women Activities (IDIWA), highlighted that disability inclusion…
Jinja: In a distressing turn of events, police in Buwenge, Jinja district, are currently holding two individuals—a village leader and a primary school teacher—on accusations of defiling minors. The alleged perpetrators, Godfrey Babalanda, the chairperson of Kabaganda village, and Eram Waiswa Nseko, a teacher at Blended Junior School, Kyerinda, are facing grave charges of sexual abuse. Babalanda, a 45-year-old married man with two wives, stands accused of defiling his own 15-year-old daughter. Shockingly, it is reported that he broke his daughter’s virginity on the verandah of their house and allegedly intended to make her his third spouse. The reprehensible act…