allafrica.com
@allafrica Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:06:17
Kabul Now Swings Her Free Hand After Removal of a Rusty Wire Snare
[Independent (Kampala)] Uganda is endowed with 10 National Parks, 12 Wildlife Reserves, five (05) Community Wildlife Management areas and 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries all under the management of Uganda Wildlife Authority.
read moreallafrica.com
@allafrica Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:20:59
U.S Ambassador Calls for Ending Silence Around Gender-Based Violence in Uganda
[Nile Post] This uniquely Ugandan artwork, "The Elephant in the Room", reminds us of the role the creative arts play in raising awareness, challenging norms, jumpstarting conversations, and inspiring action. Thank you, Reagan for using your talent to illuminate the "elephant in the room" and enrich this event
read moreallafrica.com
@allafrica Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:03:50
MP Fox Odoi Advocates Legalizing Prostitution
[Nile Post] West Budama North East MP Fox Odoi has sparked a heated debate after advocating for the legalisation of prostitution in Uganda. Odoi suggests that prostitution should be regulated, promoted, and taxed to generate government revenue.
read moreallafrica.com
@allafrica Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:03:19
Opposition MPs Question Besigye Arrest in Kenya
[Independent (Kampala)] Kampala -- "A section of Opposition Members of Parliament are seeking explanations over the controversial arrest of former presidential candidate, Dr. Kizza Besigye in Nairobi, Kenya.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:12:28
Authorities urged to embrace rights defenders as development allies
Nicholas Opiyo, Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda, emphasized the crucial role of Human Rights Defenders in driving economic development during the one-day 6th Human Rights Convention held in Kampala. In his opening remarks on Wednesday, Opiyo highlighted that Human Rights Defenders are invaluable development partners, not security threats. He underscored their peaceful nature and deep love for the country. “We want to point to those in authority that human rights defenders are your partners, not your nemesis. We also wanted to make a point that human rights is a critical and central value for the promotion of peaceful societies,” Mr Opiyo said. The Convention, an annual event, brings together over 250 participants from diverse sectors, including civil society, government, […] The post Authorities urged to embrace rights defenders as development allies first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read morematookerepublic.com
@matookerepublic Wed, 27 Nov 2024 08:15:47
Kampala Parents School teachers’ strike resolved as Sudhir Ruparelia intervenes
A standoff at Kampala Parents School that led to a sit-down strike by teachers has been resolved following a meeting chaired by Ruparelia Group Chairman Sudhir Ruparelia. The discussions, which involved the school’s management, teachers, and the parents’ association, addressed key grievances and reached agreements to restore harmony. The strike, which began last Friday, was […] The post Kampala Parents School teachers’ strike resolved as Sudhir Ruparelia intervenes first appeared on Matooke Republic.
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 07:05:03
USAID launcges innovation prize to commercialize agricultural research
William Popp, the US ambassador to Uganda, has said that USAID’s new innovation prize will commercialize agricultural research in 2025. This was at the event to celebrate the 62nd anniversary of USAID in Uganda at Kampala Serena hotel. This development comes as the United States continues to build on the longstanding partnerships within Uganda since 1962. Some of these include Makerere University and the National Agricultural Research Organization (Naro) in promoting agricultural research. “For decades, we have supported cutting-edge agricultural innovations and technologies from crop varieties to disease reduction. However, we have observed a gap in moving great ideas to markets. Ultimately, we want to see research move off the shelf and into the hands of end users like farmers and the private sector, because we believe that promoting an innovative ecosystem that enhances commercialization of agriculture research products will increase economic opportunities and incomes at the household level,” Popp stated. Popp highlighted that the launch of the competition has set prizes for the best ideas that link research to markets, which includes harnessing digital tools that can help improve yields. Among the attendees was Daniele Nyirandutiye, the mission director for USAID/Uganda, and key government officials such as Health minister Jane Ruth Aceng, Local Government minister Raphael Magyezi and Betty Amongi Akena, the minister of Gender. Looking at the history in regards to the formation of USAID, Nyirandutiye noted that the organization was formed on November 3, 1961, by the then President John F. Kennedy who established the United States Agency for International Development through the 1961 Foreign Assistance Act. “The newly-established agency consolidated disparate foreign assistance agencies under one umbrella with the objective of driving long-term economic and social development assistance efforts. This was in response to a changing world that included a wave of newly independent countries in Africa. For the United States, President Kennedy posited that it was our moral, economic, and political obligation as good neighbour but as a nation that had also benefited from the generosity from abroad in building our own economic growth. It was also in recognition of the interdependence of nations. The new agency was tasked to partner with countries to achieve economic growth and democratic and political stability.” she noted. Nyirandutiye noted that USAID has had a hand in the improvement of Uganda’s health sector through partnerships with government, local leaders and organisations to address some of the country’s most profound health challenges. “One such organization is the Palliative Care Association of Uganda. USAID was one of its early funders in an effort to expand access to medication for HIV/Aids patients. While our support helped the organization grow, it was the association that did the important work of advocating for incorporating palliative care into HIV/Aids care and treatment. Today, the organization provides services in over 300 health facilities and has secured funding from other donors.” she added. ebenezernsubuga405@gmail.com {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 07:12:24
WWF boosts campaign to rid national parks of invasive plants
Sixty per cent of Queen Elizabeth national park land is covered by invasive plant species, which wherever they grow, do suffocate growth and multiplication of the indigenous plant species that most herbivorous animals in the wild rely on as food. Invasive plants are now proving to be a bigger threat to much of this protected area than poaching, which is an age-old phenomenon. However, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has for almost a year now been on a campaign to save a range of national parks from the ever-growing danger of invasive species. During a recent tour of the Queen Elizabeth national park, Happy Ali, a communications officer at WWF, said WWF had injected money into a campaign, where the invasive species would be removed from the different parks where they have been sighted. Manpower has been deployed from the parks’ surrounding communities to do the work, which has created employment. He said many animals had left those areas taken up by the invasive plant species. Warden Joseph Arinaitwe, the in-charge of Ecological Monitoring and Research at Queen Elizabeth national park, said the problem of invasive species has grown exponentially over the last 20 years. “After a thorough study, we learnt that the animals were moving farther away from places where people used to see them frequently. The thing about the invasive species is the fact that most of them have thorns. Few animals like thorny places. So, they wander off to new feeding grounds, which we noted have of late been gardens of the neighbouring human communities, leading to more human-animal conflicts,” Arinaitwe said. He said herbivorous animals migrate and destroy people’s gardens, but then the carnivorous animals follow them and eat people’s livestock or harm people. Then people retaliate by killing all these different animals which are supposed to be conserved for future generations. Some of the commonest invasive species are Dichrostachys cinerea (sickle bush), Lantana camara, Opuntia vulgaris, Carpalis tormentosa and congress weed. They suck out the nutrients from the soil a lot more, hence starving the indigenous plants. jovi@observer.ug {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 07:23:04
Police stops issuing private gun licences
The inspector general of police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba, has suspended private firearm licensing in Uganda, a move reportedly aimed at tightening oversight and preventing firearms from falling into the wrong hands. Sources indicate the decision comes amidst growing concerns about misuse under previous administrations. “When the IGP assumed office, he suspended private gun licensing, citing concerns that many firearms were being used to commit atrocities,” said a source familiar with the matter. The review process will examine licensing guidelines and procedures to enhance accountability and security. STRICTER MEASURES AND WITHDRAWALS The suspension has already led to the withdrawal of firearms from several individuals, including three legislators accused of inappropriate conduct. “Police aim to reduce the number of firearms in civilian hands,” the source noted. Starting December 1, 2024, firearm license renewals will resume, but many applications are expected to be denied as part of the broader effort to curtail firearm circulation among civilians. The Uganda Police Force (UPF) faces financial challenges stemming from this policy. The ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) had projected Shs 30 billion in non-tax revenue for the UPF in the last financial year. This target included income from gun licensing, firearm certificate renewals, and other police services. With over 1,000 pending firearm license applications now stalled, the suspension has significantly reduced this revenue stream. A HISTORY OF EVOLVING GUN POLICIES This is not the first time private gun licensing has been suspended in Uganda. Following General Kale Kayihura’s tenure as IGP, his successor, Martins Okoth Ochola, temporarily banned civilian firearm licenses in 2018, seizing illegal firearms nationwide. However, Ochola lifted the ban within a year, allowing individuals to acquire firearms under strict criteria. As of September 2022, the number of civilian-owned firearms in Uganda had risen from approximately 3,000 in 2016 to over 5,000. Byakagaba’s recent suspension could signal a return to stricter policies aimed at reversing this trend. REQUIREMENTS FOR ACQUIRING A FIREARM Under Uganda’s Firearms Act of 1970, individuals can obtain a firearm certificate to purchase, possess and use firearms, provided they meet specific conditions. Applicants must be at least 25 years old, have a sound mind and demonstrate temperate habits. Additionally, they must justify a legitimate need to own a firearm, prove competence in handling the weapon, and ensure safe custody with adequate security measures approved by the local police. The application process begins with purchasing Police Form 98 for Shs 50,000, available at the revenue police office. After completing the form, applicants submit it to the inspector general of police through the commissioner of police in charge of private security and firearms. Licenses must be periodically renewed, with renewal applications costing Shs 100,000. GUN VIOLENCE Despite regulatory frameworks, illegal firearms possession and gun violence remain significant concerns in Uganda. Recent high-profile cases of the latter illustrate the challenges. In November 2023, Molly Katanga was charged with the murder of her husband, Henry Katanga, who was shot in their Mbuya home. She faces charges alongside her two daughters and others involved in the incident. Another alarming case involved Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul, a foreign service officer, who reportedly drew a pistol during a leadership dispute in Lira earlier this month. The act provoked outrage among local clan leaders. Illegal firearms trafficking has also been highlighted. In September 2023, Rasul Akasa, known as Ndale, was sentenced to nine years and eight months by the Fourth Infantry Division Court Martial for illegal possession of a sub-machine gun (SMG) and an AK-47 rifle. Akasa had acquired the firearms through dubious deals linked to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Similarly, Kisoro Grade One Magistrate Bob Simplex Asiimwe sentenced Sadiki Gashendure and Silvani Uwirangiye to six years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm after crossing into Uganda from the DRC. POLICE EFFORTS TO CURB ILLEGAL FIREARMS The Uganda Police Force has intensified efforts to combat illegal firearm possession. In 2022, 378 illicit firearms were destroyed, recovered from regions such as Karamoja, Northern Uganda, and Kampala Metropolitan. These weapons, often tied to violent crimes such as murder and robbery, underscore the persistent challenge of ensuring public safety. Uganda’s firearm regulatory system aims to balance responsible ownership with stringent measures to deter misuse. However, the prevalence of illegal arms and gun-related violence remains a pressing issue, requiring sustained efforts in enforcement and public education to foster peace and security. POLICE CLARIFIES FIREARM LICENSING SUSPENSION The suspension of private firearm licensing in Uganda is not an outright halt but a move to introduce stricter measures to ensure responsible gun ownership, according to police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke. Speaking in an interview, Rusoke emphasized that the adjustments aim to enhance the integrity of the licensing process. “The process has not been stopped; we are implementing stricter measures to ensure that only eligible individuals are granted licenses,” Rusoke said. He highlighted that firearm holders are bound by a specific disciplinary framework. “Licenses can be withdrawn if individuals fail to meet the necessary disciplinary requirements. This is to ensure the safety and security of the public,” he added. OVERHAUL OF LICENSING PROCEDURES Rusoke noted that Uganda’s firearm licensing procedures have evolved. “Initially, obtaining a license required minimal scrutiny. However, we have realized the need for a more thorough evaluation process. The public must understand that firearm acquisition and licensing are governed by a robust regulatory framework,” he explained. The licensing process now involves multiple layers of scrutiny to prevent misuse. “Applicants must complete Form 98, which is then reviewed by various security entities, including the district security committee, the Internal Security Organization, and the Private Security Firearms Unit. The final approvals come from the inspector general of police and the Minister of Internal Affairs,” Rusoke outlined. CONTINUOUS ADAPTATION TO CURRENT NEEDS Rusoke further stated that Uganda’s firearm policies are continuously updated to address emerging security challenges. “There are ongoing efforts to amend laws and policies to align with current trends and societal needs. This ensures that the licensing process remains relevant and effective,” he said. Additionally, firearm applicants must undergo rigorous training facilitated by the directorate of Human Resource Development before receiving their licenses. “The training ensures that individuals are well-prepared and aware of their responsibilities as firearm holders,” Rusoke noted. The police’s stance underscores a commitment to tightening oversight of firearm ownership in Uganda, reflecting broader efforts to enhance public safety amid growing concerns over gun-related incidents. BALANCING SECURITY AND CIVIL RIGHTS The suspension highlights the challenges of balancing national security with civilian rights to firearm ownership. While the initiative seeks to curb the misuse of firearms, critics may question its impact on law-abiding citizens and the revenue shortfall for the Uganda Police Force. As the review process unfolds, the outcomes will likely shape the future of firearm ownership in Uganda, setting a precedent for tighter regulation in the region. geofreyserugo1992@gmail.com {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:52:30
Will GIS technology assist KCCA curb illegal structures?
The issue of illegal structures has become a growing problem in Kampala majorly resulting from poor urban planning. Just recently, a letter from Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) addressed to Ham Enterprises went viral on the X platform directing Ham Enterprises to stop the illegal construction which was being done on the Jugula, Nakivubo channel. This is among the many illegal structures that continue to mushroom in Kampala each day that passes which results into issues such as overcrowding, poor sanitation and collapsing of buildings. However, KCCA has of late started to use the Geographic Information System (GIS) and according to Flavia Zabali Musisi physical planner at KCCA, they are now able to map and monitor urban developments in real- time, identifying illegal structures and areas in need of intervention. This was at an interaction between various stakeholders at Statistics House. Musisi said this approach involves collecting data on illegal structures through field surveys, which are then integrated into a centralized GIS database. The GIS department has developed specific forms and protocols for field staff to ensure that data collection is systematic and comprehensive, enabling them to gather information on the location, size and nature of these illegal developments. “This system not only aids in the immediate identification of violations but also supports long-term planning by providing insights into patterns of illegal construction across the city,” she noted. Musisi went ahead and stated that this year the authority has been able to identify over 449 illegal structures within the city using GIS and they have gone ahead to demolish some of them. Musisi highlighted on the several challenges faced by the authority which hinder the effective implementation GIS. One of the primary issues is the delay in plan approvals, which she said often leads to frustration among developers and encourages them to proceed with construction without the necessary permits. “This situation creates a cycle of illegal developments that complicates enforcement efforts,” she stated. Additionally, she mentioned about corruption and the integrity of enforcement teams, which affects the effectiveness of GIS in Kampala. “Some individuals may be tempted to accept bribes in exchange for overlooking illegal constructions” she pointed out. Musisi advocated for the continuous sensitization and education among the community and stakeholders to foster a culture of compliance and understanding of the importance of adhering to planning regulations. This was during the commemoration of the World GIS day at the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (Ubos). Last week on Wednesday, under the theme “Mapping minds, shaping the world,” the event was part of the Africa Statistics week celebrations. While giving his remarks, Dr Vincent Fred Ssenono, the acting deputy executive director of Ubos, emphasized the transformative potential of GIS technology in urban planning and community engagement, particularly in the context of Kampala. He articulated the importance of making GIS tools accessible to young people and local communities. “We need to localize these tools so that people can contribute data that can be used by different agencies,” Ssenono said. He noted that while many people have access to GIS on their phones, there is a need to empower them to use these tools effectively to solve local issues. Geoffrey Katerega from Humanitarian OpenStreet Map team, pointed out that the effectiveness of GIS tools lies in their ability to localize data and solutions, making them relevant to the specific needs of the community. “One of the ways to adopt GIS is to make sure that map data is open and available and can be used by different people without struggling,” he said He stressed that for GIS to be truly impactful, it must be accessible and usable by local populations, allowing them to contribute valuable data. In all, it remains to be seen whether GIS is the magic bullet to curb illegal structures. devonssuubi@gmail.com {loadposition inarticle}
read moreallafrica.com
@allafrica Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:07:53
Four People Missing After Canoe Capsizes in River Nile
[Nile Post] Locals and police in Kamdini, Oyam District, are searching for four people who went missing after a canoe capsized while crossing from Oyam to Kiryandongo on November 24, 2024.
read morematookerepublic.com
@matookerepublic Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:15:53
Police arrest over 100 suspects in citywide crime crackdown
Police in Kampala Metropolitan Area have conducted an intelligence-led operation across various parts of the capital on Tuesday. These targeted crackdowns focused on areas known for criminal activities such as marijuana trade, smoking, burglaries, and theft. In Kitintale, Port Bell, Luzira, Kifuufu, and Gulf areas, police arrested 19 suspects linked to illegal activities. Additional operations […] The post Police arrest over 100 suspects in citywide crime crackdown first appeared on Matooke Republic.
read morematookerepublic.com
@matookerepublic Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:42:25
Speke Resort Munyonyo announces attractive festive Escape Packages
As the world gears up for the long Christmas and New Year’s festivities, Speke Resort Munyonyo, the biggest resort in the country, is giving individuals, friends, and families an opportunity to enjoy a better experience this season. The lakeside resort, owned by business mogul Sudhir Ruparelia, has announced Festive Escape Packages, where individuals, friends, and […] The post Speke Resort Munyonyo announces attractive festive Escape Packages first appeared on Matooke Republic.
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:55:37
Deaths by suicide rampant among refugees – Report
A recent study has shed light on the troubling mental health crisis within Uganda’s refugee communities. Refugees are significantly more likely to experience suicidal thoughts compared to Ugandan nationals, with a report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) revealing stark disparities. The report, published on November 15, 2024, showed 41 suicides among refugees between January and October, along with over 130 attempted suicides and 13 cases of repeated attempts. In comparison, only seven suicides were reported among Ugandan nationals during the same period, with 44 attempted suicides and three repeated attempts.These figures shine a bright light on the challenges faced by refugees, particularly in Uganda, which is Africa’s largest host for refugees and asylum seekers. Dr Paul Waluya, a mental health expert, attributes the elevated suicide rates among refugees to their traumatic experiences and the stress of adapting to new environments after displacement. “Refugees often endure depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder due to the violence, loss and upheaval they’ve experienced. This, combined with the challenges of starting over in an unfamiliar setting, can lead to feelings of isolation and hopelessness,” he explained.Dr Waluya pointed to the lack of adequate mental health support in refugee camps as a significant contributor to the crisis. Overwhelmed by trauma and without sufficient resources, many refugees find themselves without hope. “The scarcity of mental health professionals and services in these settings exacerbates their emotional distress, leaving individuals vulnerable to severe outcomes, including suicidal behaviour,” he said.The report also highlighted broader trends in Uganda, with 238 suicide cases reported among refugees and nationals combined by October 2024. While overall attempted suicides saw a slight decline compared to 2023, men accounted for 85 per cent of all suicide cases, driven largely by family disagreements and financial pressures. Dr Waluya explained that men are less likely to express emotions or seek help, which often leads to more severe outcomes. “Men tend to internalize struggles and use more lethal methods when attempting suicide, which increases their risk of death,” he said.ADDRESSING THE CRISISDr Waluya called for greater collaboration between the government and non-governmental organizations to provide resources, advocacy and support for vulnerable communities. He emphasized the importance of addressing misinformation about mental health, noting that reliance on unverified information can hinder effective treatment and intervention. “Accessible, accurate information is critical for creating campaigns and resources that meet the needs of at-risk populations,” he added. Renowned clinical psychologist Kay Redfield Jamison, in her book Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide, underscores the importance of timely intervention. She advocates for therapy, medication and compassionate care as critical tools in suicide prevention. “Treatment is not a cure-all, but it often makes a critical difference,” Jamison writes. She also highlights the life-saving role of connection and empathy in supporting individuals in crisis.The findings of the UNHCR report serve as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to prioritize mental health within refugee communities. By enhancing access to care, training healthcare providers to recognize warning signs, and promoting public awareness, Uganda can take significant steps toward addressing this growing crisis and fostering hope among its most vulnerable populations. {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:14:33
Donor funding cuts undermine orthopedic care for Ugandans
The National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) has raised an alarm over a steep decline in donor funding for assistive devices and rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities (PWDs). This funding shortfall threatens the sustainability of public orthopedic workshops, which are crucial for providing prosthetics, orthotics, and other essential assistive devices in Uganda. NUDIPU CEO Esther Kyozira voiced her concerns during a dissemination event for findings on the status of orthopedic workshops, held on Monday at Eureka hotel in Kampala. “The reduction in donor support has exacerbated the challenges faced by persons with disabilities. With Uganda’s commitment to disability inclusion and the 2030 Global Rehabilitation Agenda, it is imperative for the government to invest in assistive devices to ensure a dignified life for PWDs,” Kyozira said.A report titled “A Comprehensive Assessment of Uganda’s Orthopedic Workshops” revealed significant disparities between government and private orthopedic workshops across 12 districts, including Jinja, Kampala, Mbale, and Gulu. While private workshops are better resourced and equipped, government-run facilities are plagued by insufficient funding, inadequate infrastructure, and outdated equipment.The report highlighted the critical lack of skilled personnel and resources in government-operated workshops, leaving many unable to meet the growing demand for assistive devices. These challenges are compounded by the increasing number of Ugandans acquiring disabilities later in life and turning to unregulated online sources for help, often falling victim to fraud.CALL FOR INTERVENTIONDr Carolyne Maholo, a senior researcher and lecturer at Kyambogo University who led the study, emphasized the urgent need for government intervention. “Most assistive devices are supplied by NGOs whose funding has dramatically declined. Without government support, the sustainability of rehabilitation services is at risk,” Maholo noted.She cited the case of an NGO in Northern Uganda that has been supporting the orthopedic workshop at Gulu regional referral hospital but now faces funding constraints. The hospital lacks the resources to maintain these services once the NGO withdraws.Rehabilitation services in private facilities remain unaffordable for many, particularly those in rural areas with limited access to alternative options. Maholo called on the government to fulfill its disability inclusion commitments by allocating sufficient resources to sustain and expand orthopedic services.NUDIPU’s Kyozira urged stakeholders to act swiftly, reminding them of Uganda’s pledge at the 2022 Global Disability Summit to enhance disability services. “The time is now to prioritize investment in rehabilitation services and assistive devices, ensuring that every Ugandan living with a disability has access to the tools they need to lead a dignified life,” she said.KEY FINDINGSDespite a nationwide pool of approximately 6,000 rehabilitation professionals, the report highlights their heavy concentration in urban areas, leaving 60 per cent to 70 per cent of health facilities without rehabilitation services at lower levels of care.The most common conditions requiring rehabilitation include musculoskeletal disorders, neurological impairments, and mental health challenges. Children with developmental disorders are particularly vulnerable, facing limited access to critical services. Overcrowding and inadequate facilities exacerbate the challenges, with some therapists forced to share limited working space. For instance, Lira regional referral hospital’s physiotherapy and occupational therapy units operate in a single shared space, while its 22-year-old orthopedic oven is stored on the veranda, exposing it to weather damage and theft risks.ACCESSIBILITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE GAPSMulago hospital, Uganda’s leading health facility, offers adequate space for rehabilitation services but still struggles with accessibility for people with mobility challenges. While ramps, wide doorways, and sufficient lighting were present in most facilities, accessible toilets, bathrooms and modified fittings like taps and switches remain scarce. Communication resources, including sign language interpreters, braille materials and ICT tools, were also absent in both public and private facilities, limiting inclusivity. Outdated and poorly maintained equipment is a widespread issue. Public orthopedic workshops often rely on machinery that is no longer functional or lacks readily available spare parts.For instance, Arua’s workshop faces equipment breakdowns linked to power inconsistencies and limited technical expertise for maintenance. Many workshops depend on donations from civil society organizations to acquire new tools. However, as donor funding diminishes, facilities are increasingly compelled to improvise with locally available materials, such as using jerrycan cuttings to produce cervical collars and back support devices.GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENTThe report also revealed that orthopedic workshops are frequently excluded from government procurement lists, forcing them to rely on their limited resources to meet demands. Despite having trained personnel and equipment, the lack of essential supplies renders many workshops non-operational. Rehabilitation professionals expressed frustration over inadequate support, with one official noting the reliance on improvised materials to address critical cases in the absence of proper supplies.In workshops such as Lira and Soroti, production of assistive devices has significantly dwindled. Maholo, a senior researcher, emphasized that the diminishing donor support and exclusion from government budgets have left orthopedic workshops unable to meet rising demand. This persistent neglect threatens the sustainability of Uganda’s rehabilitation services, leaving vulnerable populations without access to life-changing support.STAFF SHORTAGES UNDERMINE REHABILITATION SERVICESThe report highlights significant staffing shortages in Uganda’s rehabilitation facilities, exacerbated by the newly approved government structure. Many workshops and sections operate with just one to three staff members, and some are left with only a single employee. This chronic understaffing has been worsened by personnel leaving for further studies or transitioning to other medical fields, leaving critical roles vacant.In Arua, for instance, the rehabilitation facility operates with only one physiotherapist after a colleague’s retirement, and the position remains unfilled. To address the gap, the facility has resorted to recruiting and paying interns from their own limited resources. However, the sole physiotherapist was on leave recovering from an accident at the time of the research, leaving operations reliant on temporary support. Soroti’s facility faces similar challenges, relying heavily on interns who work diligently in hopes of securing permanent roles. Meanwhile, Gulu’s ophthalmology unit has seen a decline in service quality due to staff transfers, and Arua continues to grapple with an acute shortage of ophthalmologists. These staffing gaps not only strain remaining personnel but also compromise the quality of care provided to patients.DONOR DEPENDENCEThe report underscores the unsus- tainability of relying heavily on donor support to fund assistive devices and rehabilitation services. Some facilities, driven by desperation, have resorted to using substandard products, raising concerns about the safety and efficacy of care. Private facilities, including prominent centers such as CORSU, CURE, and Katalemwa Cheshire Services, are also feeling the pinch as donor funding becomes increasingly scarce.Dr Moses Muhumuza, the medical director of CORSU hospital, emphasized the need for government-led solutions. CORSU, which operates with 30 per cent donor funding, faces limitations as most donors restrict their support to specific items and services. “The best orthopedic workshops should be government-led, not left to private entities,” Muhumuza noted. He highlighted that fabricating a single wheelchair locally costs approximately Shs 1 million, a price unaffordable for many Ugandans. Without government intervention or donor funding, private workshops cannot sustain full-fledged operations. Muhumuza called for tax waivers on machinery used in orthopedic workshops to reduce production costs. “Most spare parts for orthopedic devices are categorized as general machinery and taxed heavily. Applying for a tax waiver from the Uganda Revenue Authority is bureaucratic and often delays the release of urgently needed equipment,” he explained.RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A WAY FORWARD To address the gaps and improve rehabilitation services, the report recommends that the government prioritize sustained investment in orthopedic workshops, including upgrading infrastructure, recruiting skilled staff, and reducing reliance on donor support. Additionally, removing tax barriers on essential machinery could lower production costs and expand access to assistive devices.Despite a contested decline in disability prevalence from 12.5 per cent in 2016 to 5.7 per cent in the 2024 Uganda Bureau of Statistics census, the demand for quality rehabilitation services remains high. NUDIPU has challenged the new figures, underscoring the urgent need for robust and sustainable disability support systems. Without strategic government intervention, Uganda risks leaving many persons with disabilities underserved and unable to access essential care. {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:40:03
Uganda unveils forestry strategy to tackle carbon emissions
Uganda’s ambition to slash its carbon emissions took another key step when it launched the Alliance for Climate Forestry Compensation Strategy during the recently-concluded UN Climate Summit (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, according to a press statement from the ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. The new strategy is part of the Alliance for Climate Resilience (ACR), whose aim is to bring all those involved in the generation and supply of sustainable energy to address the country’s pressing challenges. The strategy also intends to drag down the cost of electricity. The Forestry Compensation Strategy is designed to guide Uganda in developing projects that generate carbon credits to offset greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector, especially emissions related to the country’s oil and gas projects currently under development. Carbon credits can also be sold on the international carbon market. Ruth Nankabirwa, the minister of Energy and Mineral Development, while speaking at the launch, reiterated the need for balancing energy development with environmental sustainability. She noted that Uganda is putting in place measures to address the emissions generated by oil and gas projects under development. “As we develop our energy projects, we must prepare for the greenhouse gas emissions they will generate. We have identified government and district forest reserves to offset these emissions,” she said. Michael Mugerwa, the general manager of the Uganda Refinery Holding Company, a subsidiary of the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), highlighted the strategy’s reliance on solutions that protect the environment. Key interventions include afforestation, reforestation, and revegetation (ARR) and reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+) projects. Mugerwa stated that these projects aim to achieve an initial carbon drawdown of up to 1,000,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions attributed to Uganda’s energy projects, the statement noted. A pre-feasibility study has already identified potential sites for carbon drawdown, the ministry said, targeting approximately 65,000 hectares of degraded land for reforestation and 220,000 hectares of threatened forests for protection under REDD+. The Alliance for Climate Resilience seeks to establish strategic partnerships across the public and private sectors to secure land and implement these projects effectively. Government ministries, agencies, development partners, private sector entities, and other stakeholders, all working together to advance climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts in Uganda’s energy sector, are part of a collaborative platform within ACR. The initiative builds on Uganda’s Energy Transition Plan, which was launched last year in Dubai, UAE during COP28. which provides a roadmap for sustainably developing the country’s energy resources. The launch of the Forestry Compensation Strategy underscores Uganda’s commitment to aligning energy development with climate resilience. By integrating nature-based solutions and fostering collaboration, the country aims to balance industrial growth with global environmental goals, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy practices. {loadposition inarticle}
read morematookerepublic.com
@matookerepublic Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:00:10
FUFA issues lifetime ban to referee Ali Kaddu in match-fixing scandal
The FUFA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has imposed a lifetime ban on referee Ali Kaddu following his involvement in a match-fixing and manipulation scheme. Kaddu’s ban comes as part of sweeping sanctions against 12 individuals, including nine match officials, two club administrators, and one player, linked to a scandal orchestrated by a foreign betting syndicate […] The post FUFA issues lifetime ban to referee Ali Kaddu in match-fixing scandal first appeared on Matooke Republic.
read more