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@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 04:52:40
KIU to launch Uganda’s first private cancer institute in 2025
As Kampala International University (KIU) approaches its 25th anniversary next year, the institution announced plans to establish Uganda’s first private cancer institute. The revelation was made by Dr Al Haji Hassan Basajjabalaba, chairman of the Board of Trustees, during KIU’s 30th graduation ceremony. “Next year, we shall be celebrating 25 years, and our graduation will take place in Ishaka, Bushenyi district. At the same time, we will launch the first private cancer institute in Uganda,” Basajjabalaba declared. In addition to the cancer institute, the facility will include a heart institute and provide training in neurosurgery, aiming to reduce Uganda’s reliance on medical services abroad. The ambitious project is projected to cost $60 million. Basajjabalaba revealed that the European Union has pledged to contribute 30% of the funding, leaving the university to source the remaining 70%. “We need about $60 million, and we have been promised that 30% will come from the European Union. We will work to secure the rest,” he said. KIU graduated 2,276 students in various disciplines during the ceremony, with 1,016 male and 1,260 female graduands. Basajjabalaba commended the graduates on reaching this milestone and encouraged them to reflect on their achievements while cherishing the moment. He emphasized the importance of their graduation as a stepping stone to greater accomplishments. The minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, who served as the guest of honor, praised the government’s policy of liberalizing the education sector. He highlighted that when the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came to power, Makerere University was the only university serving a population of about 14 million Ugandans. “The government recognized the need for more educational institutions and took deliberate steps to allow the establishment of both public and private universities,” Baryomunsi said. Today, Uganda boasts over 50 universities, many of which are privately owned. Baryomunsi attributed this expansion to the government’s commitment to increasing access to higher education. Addressing the graduands, he urged them to face the transition into the workforce with confidence despite the challenges of unemployment. He assured them that the government is actively working to create job opportunities for young people. The dual celebration of KIU’s 25th anniversary and the launch of the cancer institute is set to be a significant milestone, underscoring the university’s commitment to improving healthcare and education in Uganda. Prof. Muhammed Ngoma, the vice-chancellor of Kampala International University (KIU), emphasized the university’s growing focus on research and innovation during his remarks at the institution’s 30th graduation ceremony. He highlighted the establishment of the KIU RICE (Research, Innovation, Consultancy, and Extension) Centre as a major milestone in the university’s efforts to enhance graduate competitiveness in the evolving job market. “The establishment of this centre will provide significant opportunities for KIU graduates, enabling them to stand out and become highly competitive, not only in the job market but also by creating their own job opportunities,” Prof Ngoma said. {loadposition inarticle}
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@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:12:13
Oil vs environment: Wildlife displaced by oil projects in Buliisa
Uganda’s oil and gas industry is advancing, but its development in the green belts of the Albertine graben has sparked environmental concerns. The Observer has learned that oil exploration and drilling in the Kingfisher and Tilenga projects, located in Kikuube and Buliisa districts, have disrupted migratory pathways and habitats for wildlife in the region. The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project site in Kikuube was once home to snakes, antelopes and other animals. Similarly, the Tilenga project, situated within Murchison Falls national park, is a critical sanctuary for elephants, antelopes, chimpanzees and the endangered shoebill stork. Fishermen around Lake Albert, near the Kingfisher project, report that breeding grounds have been affected, forcing fish to migrate to other areas. Uganda has worked to ensure the sustainable development of its oil resources since the 2006 discovery of oil. Measures like the National Oil and Gas Policy (2008) and strategic environmental assessments (2013) aim to mitigate the environmental and social effects of oil activities. However, oil spills, drilling byproducts, and infrastructure expansion continue to threaten ecosystems. To address these risks, the government has sanctioned detailed environmental and social impact assessments for projects such as EACOP. Vincent Birungi, an environmentalist with the EACOP project, highlighted ongoing efforts to mitigate environmental damage. “We follow a mitigation hierarchy: avoiding impacts where possible, minimizing those we can’t avoid, and offsetting residual damage,” he said. Birungi explained that wildlife encountered during development is relocated to Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve to prevent harm. “We’ve handled animals like night adders, Boomslang snakes and other species, ensuring they’re safely translocated instead of releasing them into communities,” he added. INFRASTRUCTURE AND WASTEAs Uganda gears up for its first oil production in 2025, critical infrastructure such as central processing facilities—responsible for separating oil, gas and water—is being constructed. Efforts are also underway to minimize waste, with projects tracking their waste from generation to disposal sites like Luwero Industries.Birungi emphasized that contractors conduct ecological surveys before starting operations to minimize biodiversity impacts. “If a habitat needs more time for species to hatch, mature, or reproduce, we delay work to protect them,” he noted.While the government and developers stress their commitment to international environmental standards, concerns remain about the long-term impact of Uganda’s oil and gas projects on the region’s biodiversity. As oil development progresses, the challenge will be balancing economic benefits with the preservation of the Albertine graben’s rich ecosystems.Stakeholders are also addressing the delicate balance between development and environmental preservation. These projects, including the Kingfisher and Tilenga developments, involve drilling dozens of wells, with operations impacting both ecosystems and local communities. Bashir Hangi, Uganda Wildlife Authority’s (UWA) head of Communication, acknowledged the disruption caused to wildlife in areas near development sites. He noted that while some animals have fled due to noise and human activity, UWA has established measures, including low-noise generators and strict development guidelines, to mitigate these impacts. “Animals fear continuous movement and noise, but we expect them to return once the developments are complete,” he said.INNOVATIONSEnvironmental concerns surrounding oil spills and waste management have prompted the adoption of advanced technologies. The Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) emphasized horizontal drilling to minimize surface disruption, with well pads designed to drill multiple wells from a single site. Drilled waste is managed through sophisticated facilities, such as the HBP Waste Management Facility, which processes both solid and liquid waste to prevent environmental contamination.“All solid waste contaminated with oil undergoes thermodesorption at 600 degrees Celsius to separate oil and water, leaving inert solids that are safely stored in engineered landfills,” explained Andrew Miwanda, a landfill engineer. Efforts are also underway to explore the repurposing of treated waste in collaboration with researchers and institutions, aiming for sustainable solutions that minimize the need for additional landfills.NOISE AND AIR POLLUTIONTo reduce the impact on local communities and ecosystems, oil projects have incorporated soundproof generators and yellow lighting, which are less disruptive to both humans and wildlife. At the Kingfisher project, junior engineer Anita Komugisha highlighted the use of silent generators and air filtration systems that minimize both noise and emissions. “We are committed to ensuring our operations do not disturb the community or the environment,” she said. {loadposition inarticle}
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@observer Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:40:52
Government vows to cut internet, device costs
In a push to bolster Uganda’s digital economy, the government has pledged to revise the cost of internet services and digital devices, addressing a major barrier to digital accessibility. Dr Aminah Zawedde, the permanent secretary for the ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), announced during last week’s Children’s day celebrations at the Golf Course hotel in the capital Kampala. The initiative seeks to make technology more affordable and accessible, particularly for children, as part of broader efforts to drive sustainable digital transformation.As of January 2024, Uganda has 13 million internet users, trailing regional neighbors like Tanzania (21 million), Kenya (22 million), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (28 million). Despite progress, high costs for internet services and devices remain a significant challenge, limiting digital access for many Ugandans. Dr Zawedde underscored the importance of affordability in achieving a truly inclusive digital economy. “Access to technology is not a privilege but a necessity and a right,” she stated, highlighting the need to ensure that children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, can access digital tools essential for education and economic participation.Dr Zawedde emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing these costs as a cornerstone of its strategy for sustainable digitization. “For us to digitize sustainably, we must be able to operate online, and the only way to do that is by leveraging devices,” she said, noting that affordability and accessibility are critical to fostering equitable technological growth. She also stressed that safeguarding children’s rights and well-being is a shared responsibility between the government and parents, calling for concerted efforts to bridge the digital divide, particularly for marginalized communities. The government’s plans to make digital tools more accessible aim not only to increase Uganda’s competitiveness in the region but also to prepare its youngest citizens to thrive in the demands of a digitally-driven 21st century.As Uganda advances its digital transformation, Zawedde highlighted both the opportunities and risks that technology brings, committing to safeguarding children while fostering their engagement in the digital world. “We are fostering safe environments where children and young people can learn, explore and innovate,” she stated, pointing to government investments in innovation hubs and programs aimed at equipping youth with tools to address local challenges.BALANCING OPPORTUNITY WITH SAFETY IN UGANDA’S DIGITAL LANDSCAPEDr Robin Nandy, UNICEF’s representative to Uganda, echoed these sentiments, describing children as not just the architects of the future but active participants in shaping the present. He emphasized the importance of providing digital tools for their personal and academic growth, noting that technology can transform lives and bridge educational gaps. “They are the architects of a better world, and their voices deserve to be heard,” Nandy said while expressing optimism that collaboration among stakeholders will narrow the digital divide hindering many children’s access to opportunities.While the digital world opens new horizons for learning and innovation, it also presents challenges, especially for vulnerable children. Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), emphasized the transformative role of ICTs in education, enabling students to access global knowledge and extend learning beyond traditional classrooms. However, he also cautioned against the potential dangers of the internet, such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and privacy risks.“The internet can expose children to dangers such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, exploitation, and privacy breaches,” Thembo warned. He called on schools, educators, and community leaders to integrate online safety into daily conversations and curricula to protect children from digital harm.The collective efforts of the government, stakeholders, and community leaders aim to ensure that technology serves as a tool for empowerment, growth, and creativity while minimizing its risks. These commitments reflect Uganda’s broader vision of fostering a digitally inclusive society where children can thrive safely and equitably. {loadposition inarticle}
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@kfm Wed, 27 Nov 2024 02:52:39
Man City give up three-goal lead in 3-3 draw with Feyenoord
BY REUTERS Manchester City squandered a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday after another calamitous performance from Pep Guardiola’s stuttering side who have suffered an alarming slump in form. Erling Haaland scored either side of an Ilkay Gundogan strike for the hosts, who looked poised for victory aftera five-game losing streak in all competitions. But defensive blunders in the dying minutes allowed Anis Hadj Moussa, Santiago Gimenez and David Hancko to score as City dropped to 15th in the Champions League table on eight points. “We lost a lot of games lately, we’re fragile and of course we needed a victory,” Guardiola said as his side threw away the lead, with the English […] The post Man City give up three-goal lead in 3-3 draw with Feyenoord first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@kfm Wed, 27 Nov 2024 04:21:02
Police block Besigye supporters from holding prayers in Rukungiri
By Ronald Kabanza A planned prayer session by the supporters of the opposition stalwart, Col (rtd) Dr Kizza Besigye, to pray for him and his friend Hajj Obeid Lutale Kamulegeya was thwarted by the police and army on Tuesday. The prayer session was supposed to take place at the district FDC offices at Republic Road in Rukungiri town. According to Mr Caleb Musimenta, the Rukungiri district Secretary for FDC, the police intervened and ordered them to vacate the area. Read more The post Police block Besigye supporters from holding prayers in Rukungiri first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@kfm Wed, 27 Nov 2024 03:39:26
Drake escalates dispute with Kendrick Lamar in court filings
BY REUTERS Drake has escalated his dispute with fellow rap superstar Kendrick Lamar, filing a pair of court notices warning of legal action against major music companies for what Drake called manipulative promotion of Lamar’s megahit “Not Like Us.” The record-breaking “diss” track “Not Like Us” released this year suggests Drake is a sex offender with lyrics such as, “Drake, I hear you like ’em young,” and references to a “certified pedophile” and a “predator.” Drake, using his given name Aubrey Drake Graham, filed a petition in Bexar County District Court in Texas on Monday serving notice to music giants iHeartMedia IHRT.O and Universal Music Group UMG.AS, accusing UMG of scheming to turn “Not Like Us” into a viral hit […] The post Drake escalates dispute with Kendrick Lamar in court filings first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@sqoop Tue, 26 Nov 2024 13:27:38
Socialite Don Nasser drugged, sexually abused minor – State
Kampala City businessman and socialite Nasser Nduhukire, also known as Don Nasser, introduced a minor to cocaine before sexually abusing her on several occasions, the State has indicated. In its evidence presented before Buganda Road Magistrate’s Court yesterday, the State indicated that Nduhukire and his co-accused, Promise Ateete, were former lovers who turned into friends. […] The post Socialite Don Nasser drugged, sexually abused minor – State first appeared on Sqoop - Get Uganda entertainment news, celebrity gossip, videos and photos.
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@matookerepublic Tue, 26 Nov 2024 13:44:46
INTERVIEW: Ikon Awards Producer Usama Mukwaya shares how they aim to transform Uganda’s film industry through authenticity, collaboration, and global reach
Usama Mukwaya, the producer of the Ikon Awards and Director of Operations at the Ikon Inspire Foundation, says they are on a mission to transform Uganda’s film and television industry. In this interview, he shares the inspiration behind the Ikon Awards, the strides they have made so far, and their vision for the future. Mukwaya […] The post INTERVIEW: Ikon Awards Producer Usama Mukwaya shares how they aim to transform Uganda’s film industry through authenticity, collaboration, and global reach first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:04:55
We should legalize prostitution and start collecting taxes from it — MP Fox Odoi
West Budama North East Member of Parliament (MP), Fox Odoi, has suggested that the government should legalize prostitution as a potential source of tax revenue. Odoi made the proposal during the consideration of the Sexual Offences Bill 2024, recently tabled by Soroti District Woman MP Anna Adeke. The Bill included a proposal to maintain prostitution […] The post We should legalize prostitution and start collecting taxes from it — MP Fox Odoi first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@kfm Tue, 26 Nov 2024 07:01:21
S.Africa opposition seeks to revive impeachment proceedings against Ramaphosa
BY REUTERS South African opposition party the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) brought a case to the country’s top court on Tuesday to try to revive impeachment proceedings against President Cyril Ramaphosa over the scandal dubbed “Farmgate” by local media. The scandal centred on the alleged theft of millions of dollars hidden in furniture on Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala game farm, which a former intelligence official revealed to police. An independent panel report found evidence Ramaphosa may have committed misconduct over the incident. But in late 2022 lawmakers from Ramaphosa’s African National Congress (ANC), which had a majority in the National Assembly at the time, voted to reject the report and prevented an impeachment committee from being set up to probe the […] The post S.Africa opposition seeks to revive impeachment proceedings against Ramaphosa first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@kfm Tue, 26 Nov 2024 07:52:29
Some public officials have fake academic qualifications – IGG Kamya
The Inspectorate of Government is concerned that many unqualified individuals continue to occupy public offices, particularly at the local government level, despite the recent audit of government payrolls by the Auditor General. Speaking to senior public accounting officers from various government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies on Monday, Inspector General of Government (IGG) Betty Kamya stated that her office’s investigations have confirmed that a significant number of these individuals possess fake academic qualifications. She emphasized the severity of the issue, noting that it has been brought to the attention of the President and that she anticipates a Cabinet response to address the problem. “We have been receiving so many complaints about the recruitment of human resource in government especially in district […] The post Some public officials have fake academic qualifications – IGG Kamya first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@allafrica Tue, 26 Nov 2024 06:51:50
President Museveni and VP Alupo to Grace Ministry of Foreign Affairs Diaspora Convention
[Nile Post] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has announced its inaugural Ugandan Diaspora Convention, slated for December 19-20, 2024, at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala.
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@matookerepublic Tue, 26 Nov 2024 07:00:59
Uganda Cranes defender Elio Capradossi signs for Italian Club AC Cittadella
Uganda Cranes defender Elio Capradossi has signed a short-term contract with Italian Serie B club AC Cittadella, marking his return to professional football. The composed center-back, known for his defensive poise, will play for the club until the end of the season. Capradossi, 27, has been without a club since leaving Serie C side AC […] The post Uganda Cranes defender Elio Capradossi signs for Italian Club AC Cittadella first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Tue, 26 Nov 2024 06:17:42
How a boda boda rider defrauded the late Bishop Kaggwa’s family of Shs600 million
Hassan Lutaaya, a boda boda rider from Kitaara, Entebbe Municipality, has been remanded to Luzira Prison until December 12, 2024, over allegations of defrauding Shs600 million from the family of the late Masaka Diocesan Bishop, John Baptist Kaggwa. Lutaaya appeared before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi on Monday, facing a charge of theft. Despite […] The post How a boda boda rider defrauded the late Bishop Kaggwa’s family of Shs600 million first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Tue, 26 Nov 2024 06:32:38
Shs500 million in counterfeit cash discovered in PostBank Mbale vault
Government-owned PostBank Uganda is at the center of a major counterfeit scandal after over Shs500 million in fake currency was discovered in its Mbale branch vaults. The incident has sparked concerns about internal controls within the institution, which serves thousands of public servants nationwide. The issue came to light when a customer was apprehended with […] The post Shs500 million in counterfeit cash discovered in PostBank Mbale vault first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@kfm Tue, 26 Nov 2024 02:43:44
Crested Cranes face test in Algeria
By Makhtum Muziransa Uganda are starting to look serious about the women’s international breaks. For the second break in a row, the Crested Cranes will be involved in an international friendly with a side headed to the 2025 Women Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in Morocco. After beating Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) 2-1 and 3-1 in two friendlies in Kinshasa last month, next on the agenda on November 27 and 30 is Algeria in Algiers. Read more The post Crested Cranes face test in Algeria first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@kfm Tue, 26 Nov 2024 03:00:29
‘No one will win a trade war,’ China says after Trump tariff threat
BY REUTERS Neither the United States nor China would win a trade war, the Chinese Embassy in Washington said on Monday, after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to slap an additional 10% tariff on all Chinese imports when he takes office on Jan. 20. “About the issue of US tariffs on China, China believes that China-US economic and trade cooperation is mutually beneficial in nature,” Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Liu Pengyu said in a statement. “No one will win a trade war or a tariff war,” Liu said. Trump said he would impose the tariffs until China stops the flow of illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the United States. In the statement, Liu said China had taken steps to combat drug […] The post ‘No one will win a trade war,’ China says after Trump tariff threat first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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