kfm.co.ug
@kfm Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:12:10
Drug abuse: Over 900 children incarcerated
The government of Uganda confirmed that a total of 934 children are currently incarcerated in prisons across the country, as of November 18, 2024. Drug and substance abuse is one of the primary factors contributing to this alarming figure. The majority of these incarcerated children, aged between 18 and 30, are housed in seven government remand homes, including the Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Centre. According to Fred Ngabirano, the Commissioner of Youth and Children Affairs, Naguru Remand Home has the highest population, with 206 boys and 18 girls. Kampiringisa follows closely with 204 boys and 8 girls. “Are those children who are in these remand homes, do they come with visible signs of being on drugs? and my incharges were saying […] The post Drug abuse: Over 900 children incarcerated first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:27:38
My husband held in military jail in Kampala – Byanyima
The executive director of Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Winnie Byanyima on Wednesday asked Uganda’s military to release her husband, Dr Kizza Besigye from military detention in Kampala where he’s reportedly being held after he went missing in Nairobi Kenya where he had gone to attend a book launch by Kenya’s former Minister for Justice, Martha Karua. The four-time presidential contender is said to have gone missing in Kenyan on Saturday. “I request the government of Uganda to release my husband Dr Kizza Besigye from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while he was in Nairobi for Hon Martha Karua’s book launch. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military […] The post My husband held in military jail in Kampala – Byanyima first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:15:07
Buganda secures coffee export deal with Asia
Last week, Buganda kingdom, through its coffee export enterprise, Mwanyi Terimba Limited, finalized an agreement to export coffee to the Asian market, particularly China. This milestone was confirmed by Daniel Ddamulira, chairperson of Mwanyi Terimba Limited’s board. The agreement follows closely on the heels of the rationalization of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) under the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The government, citing the high administrative costs of semi-autonomous agencies, merged UCDA’s functions into the ministry of Agriculture. This move is part of broader efforts to streamline service delivery and reduce fiscal pressure on the national treasury. PARTNERSHIP WITH UCDA BOOSTS BUGANDA’S COFFEE INDUSTRY Prior to the UCDA rationalization, Buganda kingdom had signed a memorandum of understanding with the authority to collaborate on increasing Uganda’s coffee exports to 20 million bags annually. UCDA supported this vision by providing 10 million coffee seedlings, which were distributed across the kingdom to bolster coffee farming efforts. “It is true; we have secured a market in Asia, particularly China, to export Ugandan coffee beans. We signed an agreement with China Communication Construction Company (CCC), a state-owned enterprise, to supply coffee,” Ddamulira confirmed. REGULATORY APPROVAL AND COMPLIANCE The export agreement received formal clearance on November 14, 2024, through a letter from Dr Paul Mwambu, commissioner for Crop Inspection and Certification at Uganda’s National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO). The certification verified that Mwanyi Terimba Limited met all export standards as per the Plant Protection and Health Act 2016 and associated regulations. “This approval, based on a comprehensive sanitary and phytosanitary systems (SPS) audit, confirms Mwanyi Terimba Limited’s compliance with international export requirements. The registration certificate is valid for one year, subject to renewal and periodic inspections to ensure continued adherence to standards,” the commissioner noted. EXPANDING MARKETS AND PROCESSING CAPACITY Ddamulira revealed that Mwanyi Terimba Limited is advancing plans to establish a coffee processing and value-addition facility in Buganda Kingdom. The company, which has already been exporting to markets such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Sudan, views China as a key addition to its growing portfolio. “Our coffee export operations are consistent with the recent changes following UCDA’s rationalization. We will supply coffee based on demand and contractual terms with our international partners,” Ddamulira stated. Although the establishment of the processing factory is in its final stages, specific timelines for its completion remain undetermined. MWANYI TERIMBA CAMPAIGN: A GRASSROOTS REVIVAL OF COFFEE FARMING Mwanyi Terimba Limited stems from the Mwanyi Terimba campaign, an initiative launched by Buganda kingdom to reinvigorate coffee farming within the region. The campaign emphasized distributing coffee seedlings, supervising farmers, and reintroducing cooperatives to enhance productivity and value addition. Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga recounted the origins of the company in an interview, highlighting the kabaka’s directive to establish Mwanyi Terimba Limited to enable the kingdom’s direct participation in the coffee export market. “The company is still young but has made significant strides. It now exports coffee to China, the UAE, Russia, and other countries. Our goal is to promote coffee farming, add value, and ensure Buganda plays a key role in Uganda’s coffee economy,” Katikkiro Mayiga stated. Mwanyi Terimba Limited’s strategic partnerships and market expansions position it as a major player in Uganda’s coffee industry, reflecting Buganda kingdom’s commitment to revitalizing agriculture and boosting economic opportunities for its people. {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:23:46
Study reveals drug resistance in key malaria treatment for Ugandan kids
A new study has identified partial resistance to artemisinin, a key malaria drug, in some Ugandan children with severe malaria. Conducted in Jinja between 2021 and 2022, the research highlights potential challenges in treating life-threatening malaria cases in children. WHAT THE STUDY FOUND The researchers focused on children aged six months to 12 years who were treated with intravenous artesunate, followed by oral artemether/lumefantrine. Of the 100 children studied, 11 showed signs of artemisinin partial resistance. This was linked to a genetic mutation known as Pfkelch13 A675V, found in eight children, according to the study published by JAMA Network Open, a monthly open-access medical journal published by the American Medical Association. Children with this mutation took longer to clear parasites from their blood compared to those without it. On average, parasite clearance time for children with A675V was about five hours, compared to three hours in others. Two children with another variation, C469Y, cleared parasites quickly and did not show resistance. Despite these findings, the drug regimen was generally effective in most cases. However, two children required extended artesunate treatment—one with the A675V mutation and another without it. RELAPSES RAISE QUESTIONS Thirteen children experienced a return of malaria symptoms within 28 days after treatment. Genetic testing revealed that in 10 percent of these cases, the parasite strains matched those from the original infection. This suggests that the initial treatment may not have fully eliminated the infection in some children, regardless of their genetic profile. IMPLICATIONS FOR MALARIA TREATMENT This is one of the first studies to document artemisinin resistance in severe malaria cases in Uganda. While artemisinin resistance has been noted before in uncomplicated malaria, its presence in severe cases could complicate treatment guidelines. The study calls for further research to confirm these findings and explore alternative treatment options. Malaria remains a major health threat in Uganda, particularly for young children, and effective treatment is critical to reducing deaths. THE BIGGER PICTURE Malaria caused more than 600,000 deaths worldwide in 2022, with most fatalities in Africa. Uganda is among the countries hardest hit. Ensuring that treatments remain effective is crucial in the fight against the disease. This study raises important questions about the long term reliability of artemisinin-based treatments, especially for severe cases. The researchers emphasized the need for ongoing monitoring of drug resistance and possibly updating treatment guidelines to ensure better outcomes for children with severe malaria. {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:28:28
Land in Busoga rented for just Shs 40,000 a year
The loss of land productivity and indigenous seed varieties are among the major challenges facing farmers in Uganda, according to Dr Theresa Auma, executive director of the Land and Equity Movement in Uganda (LEMU). Speaking at the launch of the national campaign “Keep Our Land, Keep Our Seed,” Dr. Auma highlighted how land sales, poor agricultural practices, and economic pressures are eroding the country’s agricultural foundation. LAND SALES AND LOSS OF PRODUCTIVITY “Many Ugandans are selling their land at low prices due to poverty, often to buy boda-bodas. These boda-bodas are later stolen or involved in accidents, leaving families without both income and land,” Auma explained. In regions such as Busoga, the land is rented out cheaply, often for as little as Shs 200,000 for five years, during which the landowners lose access and control, further diminishing food production. “Most of the boda-bodas you see on the roads are plots of land sold. People have moved away from farming because land productivity has declined, reducing the variety of food crops they can grow to sell,” she added. This highlights a grim crisis and reality in the eastern sub-region. It means land is rented at Shs 40,000 a year, which leaves farmers powerless and unproductive. CAMPAIGN FOR LAND AND SEED PRESERVATION The campaign, launched to address these challenges, advocates for the retention of land and indigenous seeds. It emphasizes establishing seed banks at the parish level to preserve local plant varieties, such as vegetables, fruits and bananas, which are increasingly disappearing. “These seed banks will be accessible at the village level, ensuring farmers can plant diverse crops critical for nutrition and resilience against food shortages,” Auma said. The initiative also calls for action to empower landowners to resist pressures, leading to land loss, such as unfair rental agreements, land evictions, and sales driven by economic hardships. The campaign aims to help farming communities retain their land and control food systems to bolster resilience against climate-induced socioeconomic crises. THE IMPACT OF LAND GRABBING Preliminary studies conducted by LEMU in Busoga, Teso, Kumam, Lango and Karamoja reveal that land grabbing is widespread and takes various forms. Dr Auma urged civil society organizations (CSOs) to prioritize women’s land rights, sensitize communities on proper land use, and advocate for planting and preserving local food varieties. “Farming communities are losing their power over food production due to the decline of local food and seed varieties,” she noted. “LEMU considers the retention of land and control over food systems as key pillars for sustainable development.” ADVOCATING FOR INDIGENOUS PRACTICES Experts from various civil society organizations have urged a rethinking of approaches to women’s land rights, indigenous agricultural practices and biodiversity preservation. Speaking during a recent forum on land and seed retention, advocates emphasized the importance of empowering communities, supporting cultural institutions, and preserving local agricultural knowledge. Brian Womboka, programme manager for Food Alliance, encouraged communities to be selective in adopting modern agricultural practices and focus on protecting indigenous seeds and animal breeds known for their nutritional value. Muhammed Lunyago, a nutrition programme fellow at Makerere University, urged farming communities to share knowledge on preserving indigenous seeds and animal varieties. Jimmy Ochom, land rights coordinator at Oxfam Uganda, called on the government to regulate the land market and protect rural populations’ ability to retain land for food production. He also advocated for partnerships with local knowledge groups to build seed banks for indigenous seed preservation. Ritah Kemigisa, advocacy and communication associate at Uganda Community-Based Association for Women and Children Welfare (UCOBAC), called on civil society organizations (CSOs) to reevaluate the discourse surrounding patriarchy, widows and women’s land rights. “Strengthen the capacity of cultural institutions to equitably deliver justice. Communities need to be sensitized on critical issues such as land retention, proper land management, preservation of local seeds and foods, and alternatives to land fragmentation,” Kemigisa stated. Freda Orochi, head of programmes at the Food Rights Alliance (FRA), urged government and CSOs to advocate for policies that value indigenous breeds as vital components of biodiversity and cultural heritage. Stella Akutui, women’s land rights advocate at LANDnet Uganda, encouraged farmers and pastoralists to approach modern agricultural practices cautiously and prioritize reviving traditional methods. {loadposition inarticle}
read moreobserver.ug
@observer Tue, 19 Nov 2024 20:52:00
Where is Dr Kizza Besigye?
Dr Kizza Besigye, the four-time presidential candidate is missing. According to multiple sources, Besigye was last seen three days ago when he left his home at Kasangati in Wakiso district to check on a patient at one of the hospitals in Kampala. Another source said he was destined to travel to Kenya with somebody but neither of them can be traced. “He sent us a message indicating that he has arrived, but we have not heard from him since. His phone and that of the person he travelled with are off,” said one of the people close to Besigye.Another person who asked not to be named because they have not yet made the decision to go public said, they are still inquiring from the government of the United Kingdom and the United States whether he has arrived there. “We are still inquiring about his whereabouts and also discussing how to proceed,” the source said. Besigye last posted on his X page congratulating the Uganda Cranes for qualifying for the 2026 African Nations Cup four days ago. This is quite unusual as he rarely takes a day without posting something on social media. {loadposition inarticle}
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Tue, 19 Nov 2024 20:33:15
The rise of modern-day prophets
Patrick Kamara sits down with Pastor Vincent Museveni and Mr. Simon Ssenyonga, a lawyer, to delve into the intriguing world of modern-day prophets. This insightful discussion, originally aired on KFM Hot Seat, explores the reasons behind their increasing popularity. Listen to the show below; The post The rise of modern-day prophets first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read moresqoop.co.ug
@sqoop Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:39:34
Veekee James: The Ultimate Style Inspiration
Fashion Designer Veekee James has taken Nigeria’s fashion scene by storm, capturing audiences with her stunning designs and unique presence as a content creator. But its her personal fashion moments that will keep you glued to Ruth Erikan James, also known as Veekee James. Known for effortlessly blending boldness with sophistication, Veekee’s style is […] The post Veekee James: The Ultimate Style Inspiration first appeared on Sqoop - Get Uganda entertainment news, celebrity gossip, videos and photos.
read moresqoop.co.ug
@sqoop Tue, 19 Nov 2024 15:16:23
Key entertainment stakeholders want own ministry for culture, creatives
Stakeholders from Uganda’s creative sector, representatives from the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Creative Industries (UGAPAFOCI), and policy implementers convened in Kampala to review and discuss the Policy on Culture and Creative Industries. The organisers said the engagement at Britrish Council marked a pivotal step towards strengthening the creative economy, with the primary focus on advocating […] The post Key entertainment stakeholders want own ministry for culture, creatives first appeared on Sqoop - Get Uganda entertainment news, celebrity gossip, videos and photos.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Tue, 19 Nov 2024 15:23:34
NRM leaders sued over alleged failure to hold internal elections
A dispute has erupted within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party after a section of members filed a lawsuit against their leaders, alleging failure to hold internal elections, a critical requirement under both the NRM Constitution and the Ugandan Constitution. Civil Case Miscellaneous Cause No. 0230 of 2024, seen by KFM, was filed by members under the umbrella group “Revivalist Movement Representative.” The lawsuit names the NRM party, its Secretary-General, and the Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission as respondents. Addressing a press conference in Kampala on Tuesday, Isaac Rukanda, the leader of the Revivalist Movement, stated that internal elections are fundamental to NRM’s democratic framework. However, the party last conducted internal elections in 2016. The Revivalist Movement argues […] The post NRM leaders sued over alleged failure to hold internal elections first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Tue, 19 Nov 2024 15:36:14
Diddy’s lawyers say notes seizure violated his rights
BY REUTERS Sean “Diddy” Combs is due to appear in court on Tuesday for a hearing over how prosecutors came to possess his handwritten notes following a search of the jail cell where the rapper and producer is being held ahead of his sex trafficking trial. Lawyers for Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, wrote in a Monday court filing that the notes concerned defense witnesses and strategies, and were subject to attorney-client privilege, a legal doctrine that safeguards confidential communications between lawyers and their clients. The defense lawyers called the seizure of the notes a violation of Combs’ right to a fair trial and the protection against self-incrimination and unreasonable searches and seizures under the U.S. Constitution. Prosecutors with […] The post Diddy’s lawyers say notes seizure violated his rights first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read moresqoop.co.ug
@sqoop Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:32:33
iKon awards return with glamour
The iKON Awards have returned for their third edition that will be taking place next year in a promising night of glamour and celebration of excellence in Uganda’s film and television industry, organisers have said. During the launch by Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) and Sauti Plus, it was announced that the […] The post iKon awards return with glamour first appeared on Sqoop - Get Uganda entertainment news, celebrity gossip, videos and photos.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:36:24
Katanga trial stalls, widow remains behind bars
The murder trial of businessman Henry Katanga has been further delayed. For the second consecutive week, proceedings were postponed on Tuesday due to the unavailability of trial Judge Isaac Muwata, who is reportedly attending a training session. The hearing is now scheduled to resume on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Henry Katanga, 65, passed away at his home on November 2, 2023. His widow, Molly Katanga, was subsequently arrested and has been detained at Luzira Prison since February 2024. Two bail applications were denied, with the court citing promises of a swift trial. The Katanga murder case has been plagued by numerous adjournments. Recently, the trial was halted for two weeks to allow state prosecutors to organize their key expert witness. […] The post Katanga trial stalls, widow remains behind bars first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read morematookerepublic.com
@matookerepublic Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:49:33
EXPLAINER: What the new loan interest rate cap means for Ugandans
The government has introduced new rules to protect Ugandans from high-interest rates charged by moneylenders and microfinance institutions. Starting now, lenders can only charge a maximum of 2.8% per month or 33.6% per year on loans. Here’s what you need to know: Why Was This Law Introduced? The change comes after concerns that some moneylenders […] The post EXPLAINER: What the new loan interest rate cap means for Ugandans first appeared on Matooke Republic.
read moreallafrica.com
@allafrica Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:05:18
Nyege Nyege Festival 2024 Serves Unforgettable Showcase of Music, Art and Culture
[Nile Post] The four-day festival, which opened its doors to attendees on Thursday, attracted thousands of visitors from around the globe to experience a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and artistic expression.
read morematookerepublic.com
@matookerepublic Sun, 17 Nov 2024 23:03:00
Uganda Waragi Nyege Nyege 2024: A Vibrant Fusion of Music, Culture, and Economic Revival
The lush greens of Jinja Golf Course transformed this past weekend with the festival bliss of the annual Uganda Waragi Nyege Nyege. The four electrifying days from Thursday to Sunday saw the festival pulsate with energy from thousands of beating hearts, all united by a love for music, culture and uninhibited fun. A Global Stage, […] The post Uganda Waragi Nyege Nyege 2024: A Vibrant Fusion of Music, Culture, and Economic Revival first appeared on Matooke Republic.
read morematookerepublic.com
@matookerepublic Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:36:39
CAF announces finalists for the 2024 CAF Awards: Hakimi, Lookman, and Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams among contenders for African Player of the Year
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the list of five finalists in each men’s category for the prestigious CAF Awards 2024. The five players competing for the coveted title of African Player of the Year are Moroccan international and PSG right-back Achraf Hakimi, Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra (Brighton & Hove Albion), Serhou […] The post CAF announces finalists for the 2024 CAF Awards: Hakimi, Lookman, and Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams among contenders for African Player of the Year first appeared on Matooke Republic.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:02:31
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) in Cellular and Molecular Research
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is an intriguing neuropeptide with a wide range of potential biological impacts, primarily hypothesized in tissues, cells, and internal systems. Since its discovery, VIP has attracted attention in multiple research domains due to its potential roles in immune modulation, cellular signaling, and neuroprotection. The peptide’s diverse properties suggest its relevance in several areas, including immunology, neuroscience, and cell biology. Recent investigations suggest that VIP might influence cellular communication and gene expression in ways that could be harnessed in research and for understanding fundamental cellular processes. This article delves into VIP’s characteristics and explores its possible implications across scientific domains, highlighting how it might contribute to future developments in cellular and molecular biology. Introduction Vasoactive Intestinal […] The post Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) in Cellular and Molecular Research first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:07:41
Court of Appeal to hear 25 criminal appeals in Gulu
The Court of Appeal is set to hold a significant session at Gulu High Court from November 25 to 27, 2024, to hear 25 criminal appeals. A panel of esteemed justices, including Justice Fredrick Egonda-Ntende, Lady Justice Margaret Tibulya, and Justice Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, will preside over the three-day session. According to the cause list signed by Deputy Registrar Lillian Bucyana, the appeals primarily involve murder and defilement cases, with 12 appeals each. Additionally, one attempted murder appeal is scheduled for hearing. Of particular note, four appellants will challenge life sentences imposed for crimes ranging from attempted murder to aggravated defilement and murder. The session will officially commence with an opening address by Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera. This session […] The post Court of Appeal to hear 25 criminal appeals in Gulu first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read morekfm.co.ug
@kfm Tue, 19 Nov 2024 03:00:42
One final push for Uganda Cranes
By Andrew Mwanguhya A match ago, Uganda had all the power to end top of Group K of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. But after the 2-0 home defeat to a country they have never beaten, anywhere – South Africa, all the Cranes can do is finish strong. Uganda, who had already qualified before their game against South Africa, wrap their qualification campaign away to Congo Brazzaville, a country they have beaten five out of nine times, on Tuesday. Read more The post One final push for Uganda Cranes first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
read more