The Deputy Commander of the Special Forces Command (DCSFC), Brig

Gen. Asaph Mweteise Nyakikuru, has revealed that the Uganda

People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Peace keeping troops in Somalia, the

Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, have been able to

perform exceptionally because of professionalism and the trust the

soldiers have in the Commander-In-Chief (CIC), H.E Yoweri Kaguta

Museveni and the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi

Kainerugaba.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni continues to express frustration

about those failing to implement the government policy of free education

across the country, calling upon leaders at all levels to ensure that the

program is fully implemented.

“I don’t want to use force on this matter. Discuss the issue of free

education in government schools, including the technical schools. If we

need to add more money to the government schools, we shall do it,”

President Museveni said.

The President made the remarks today, while commissioning the

Greater Mubende Presidential Zonal Skilling Hub in Kibuye-Vuga

Village, Kitenga Sub County, Mubende District.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has emphasized the urgent need to prioritize household income generation, describing it as a cornerstone of national development.

During a leaders meeting held at Mwanzi Parish, Mirembe Maria Catholic Parish in Kasanda District yesterday, President Museveni reminded Ugandans that, just as spiritual teachings guide priorities, “Seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you”, the nation must apply the same principle by seeking household income first.

The meeting was part of the ongoing Presidential performance assessment tour on wealth creation and Parish Development Model (PDM) in Greater Mubende.

The Jonam Cultural Institution (Kaal Ker Kwaro Jonam) KKKJ has distanced itself from claims that it has endorsed certain political aspirants ahead of the 2026 general elections.

According to Mr. Silvious Okwong, the Deputy Prime Minister of Kaal Ker Kwaro Jonam, the institution only blesses candidates with what he termed as "good luck" but does not take sides in political contests.

"I want to make it categorically clear that, we do not endorse any person that this is our candidate, we do the jonam thing that we give you 'Lam' (Blessings) go ahead and do your thing."

Mr. Okwong warned politicians against dragging the institution's name into politics and cautioned them against raising public expectations on sensitive issues such as land in Palango, fishing operations, and matters related to Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). He noted that while such issues may seem minor, they carry significant weight.

"The Palango issues and the Fisheries issues are something if you are going to trade on trade very carefully... do not say that I will finish it, those are serious issues."

He further urged the Jonam community to elect leaders who are truthful, consult the people regularly, and refrain from making unrealistic promises.

"If I go there am going to do these, yet the roles of Memebers of Parliament and Local Council Five are very clear. Perhaps you are supposed to and lobby for us" Okwong sates.

Meanwhile, Phiona Atimango, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Pakwach, called on aspiring leaders to speak facts and avoid misleading the public. She emphasized that presidential directives and executive orders should not be used as campaign tools, but rather addressed through formal government channels.

"Much as you are out there in to the community in this political error, go and state the facts... if you give them wrong informations how do expect the responsible people to go and clarify those facts" she said.

Over 154 herds of cattle were on Sunday, 6th July 2025 successfully loaded and transported from holding grounds in Madi Okollo to Karuma, as part of the ongoing Operation Harmony to peacefully evict Balaalo herders.

According to security officials, the cattle were transported using five trucks, with only 39 herds remaining at the site pending transit.

The 65-day operation, now in its second week, was ordered by the President and is being implemented under the supervision of the District Security Committee and local leaders.

West Nile Police Public Relations Officer, Asea Collins, confirmed that similar "operations are underway in other parts of West Nile and North West Nile to enhance the safety of both residents and the herding communities."

Local leaders and stakeholders in the greater Nebbi have expressed concern over the growing trend of commercializing politics, saying the practice undermines citizens' right to freely choose legitimate and capable leaders.

They argue that lump sum payments given to voters by political aspirants distort democratic processes and encourage short-term interests over long-term leadership quality.
Innocent Onega Geoffrey, the Mayor of Paidha Town Council, said some politicians are openly persuading voters with money, urging intensified civic education to help citizens elect leaders of integrity.

"There are people who are now publicly preaching and praising the rich 'Wubol Kwir No Juma Gimiyu Iwu Bim', It's happening now in Paidha," Onega reveals.

Okurulal Pastore, a resident of Nebbi Municipality, advised voters to evaluate candidates based on leadership skills, character, and behavior rather than financial incentives.

"You have to carefully choose the person you want to become a leader, that's very very important. You see the UPC, we voted the right person that even now, the country talks of it." Okurulal strongly interjected.

Savior Rwothomio Kakunda, Nebbi District Youth Council Chairperson, cautioned young people, who make up about 75% of Uganda's population, not to allow politicians to buy their votes. He urged them to choose leaders committed to improving service delivery.

"Right now, all minds and everything are tuned to money...As NRM carders we are supposed to be interested in improved service delivery... The challenge is now, people who think they have money and who think that money can pull others, that's where we need to reorganize ourselves and put away money issues and look at what we call service delivery for our people." Kakunda implores.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Stephen Olama known as Terminator, encouraged voters to take the money if offered but remain firm in voting for the leaders they truly believe in.

"Let them give you their money, you eat. Let them play with your stomach but not your Brain." Olama tells the locals in the greater Nebbi.

TotalEnergies EP Uganda on Monday hosted its inaugural Tilenga Project Agri-Business Forum under the theme "Empowering Farmers and Enabling Linkages: An Agriculture Value Chain Networking Forum."

The forum, held at Buliisa District headquarters, brought together over 200 farmer groups. It aimed to bridge knowledge gaps, promote entrepreneurship, and strengthen sustainable agricultural value chain linkages across Uganda.

Since its inception, the Tilenga Project has supported over 10,000 households across Buliisa, Hoima, Kikuube, Nwoya, and Pakwach districts through livelihood restoration programs. These include the provision of improved seeds, livestock breeds, and training, alongside the establishment of demonstration farms and farmer groups.

Over 20,000 bags of cassava cuttings and 25,000 kilograms of maize seeds have been distributed under these initiatives, helping farmers access markets and improve productivity.

Divan Ogen, a member of Dikiri Ber Farmers Group in Pajabar Central Cell, Pakwach Town Council, said they grow groundnuts, tomatoes, and practice apiculture. He noted the group's activities have enhanced food security and improved members' livelihoods.

"In that group, we are producing organically made G.nuts, and the mission of this group is to improve the livelihoods of the youths and food security of the community of Pajabar Central Village and Pakwach District at large," Ogen said.

Sunday Ayao from Got Apwoyo Sub-county, Nwoya District, shared that her group received 15 kilograms of groundnut seeds and harvested 27 bags. From this, they replanted 5 bags and recently harvested 40 bags.

"Macalo wan group, dong watye ki cuk, wai ki store ma mwa ka iciri ibi nongu kukunu" Ayao reveals.

George Stephen Mwait, CEO of Yola Uganda, based in Wakiso District, said his organization focuses on the cassava value chain. He highlighted challenges farmers face with post-harvest losses and limited market access, despite high production.

"They produce a lot that they cannot consume, so we are off taking and adding value," Stephen states.

Godfrey Lukwako, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at TotalEnergies, speaking on behalf of the General Manager, said the forum was long overdue. He emphasized the company's commitment to promoting value addition and securing ready markets for farmers.

"We already feel we are at the point where we have to take it to the next level, and that is to ensure that we can think about value addition, and farmers have access to markets beyond their home districts, to regional markets, and several others," Lukwago says.

Benjamin Aijuka, Programs Manager at the East Africa Grain Council, expressed concern that while 80% of Ugandans rely on agriculture, the sector contributes only 20% to GDP. He urged a shift from subsistence to structured, market-led agriculture.

"The Agribusiness Forum that Total Energies and its partners have organized is one of the responses that enables our commitments to empower our partnerships and potential structured Agribusinesses to be able to deliver an inclusive growth and long-term sustainability," Aijuka states.

Pennina Aheebwa, Director of Economic and National Content Monitoring at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, said the oil sector can indirectly create jobs through agriculture, tourism, transport, and other sectors that support economic growth.

"As the Uganda petroleum of Uganda we have done several studies to try and identify and define those linkages in different sectors, and so for local leaders who are here, the opportunities are not only in Agriculture but there are also in other linkages like, housing, tourism, and transport among others," Aheebwa advised the locals.

TotalEnergies E&P Uganda has awarded full scholarships to 100 students to pursue nursing and midwifery studies at St. Mary’s Nursing School in Lacor, Gulu.

The beneficiaries were drawn from six districts within the Albertine Graben that are affected by oil and gas activities, namely Hoima, Kikuube, Pakwach, Masindi, Buliisa, and Nwoya.

According to officials, the top 15 performers were selected from Hoima, Kikuube, Pakwach, and Masindi. In contrast, 20 students each were selected from Buliisa and Nwoya due to their proximity with the oil and gas projects and higher impact levels.

Martin Opio, Manager for Corporate Social Responsibility at TotalEnergies EP Uganda, said the one-time scholarship program was introduced as part of the company’s health sector support following its centenary celebrations last year.

"This scholarship is a one-way scholarship, not going to be annual next year, it's not going to be there like other scholarships, it's an onetime appreciation to train nurses and midwives. But it also depends on how much the stakeholders can lobby, it's not written in stone, it can be changed." Martin says.

He added that a strict selection process was followed, prioritizing high-performing students from vulnerable households who passed their National  Examinations and pre-entry exams, and are natives of the listed districts.

"We wanted to prioritize students who come from homes that could not send their children to school if they are not supported, so... And at least we make sure the Local Council ones to confirms the status of that family in terms of their vulnerabilities," Matin reveals.

Gilbert Ochan, a parent from Fualwonga Parish in Pakwach District, emotionally knelt down while deliberating on behalf of parents of selected students, thanked TotalEnergies, revealing that his daughter, Hope, achieved top grades despite financial struggles and family hardships, including his wife’s mental illness and frequent hospitalizations in Butabika.

"If everyone is supposed to tell their story, they are heartbreaking. This girl was at home; she should be in Senior Five doing BCM. There was no money to cater for that. Now we are happy she is willing to go to Lacor Nursing school," Gilbert deliberates.

Another beneficiary, Brian Ocungirwoth from Pakwach Town Council, said he lost his father in primary six and has since relied on the support of well-wishers. His mother, a charcoal vendor in Pakwach Town Market, has struggled to support his education.

"Even during my Primaries, I was being helped by the school because my father had a stroke when I was in Primary Six, I have my brothers who are peasant farmers, and my mother is a charcoal seller," Ocungirwoth states.

However, local leaders in the region are calling for more involvement in the selection process. This follows concerns that the manager of Corporate Social Responsibility for TotalEnergies, Mr. Opio, revealed that some selected students in Nwoya District declined the offer despite meeting all the set criteria.

Meanwhile, Pennina Aheebwa, Director of Economic and National Content Monitoring at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, urged communities to embrace all opportunities offered by TotalEnergies and its partners in any sector, including health, agriculture, tourism, transport, among others. She made the remarks on Tuesday, 8th July 2025, during the Agribusiness Forum held in Buliisa District.

"You may not have obtained a job in oil and gas, or having a contract, but there are other ways you can benefit from the oil and gas sector. So we want us to take these initiatives very, very seriously." Pennina advised.

The End.

Financial institutions and agricultural NGOs have advised farmers in West Nile and Bunyoro sub-regions to treat farming as a serious business by attaching monetary value and setting clear targets for their day-to-day activities.

Speaking at the recent Agribusiness Forum on Tuesday, 8th July, 2025, in Bulisa District, the Branch Manager of Centenary Bank in Buliisa, Samuel Bwete, emphasized that even small-scale farmers cultivating less than five hectares should track their production with clear financial goals to contribute meaningfully to individual and national economic growth.

He says, "Most of our things have to be quantified in real money. When we say Uganda has become the best coffee producer, it has a monetary value. So, if we can't define the monetary value of im doing on my farm, then I don't have it."

Statistics from the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization indicate Uganda can feed over 200 million people. While 80% of the country’s land is arable, only 35% is under cultivation. Agriculture accounts for 24% of Uganda’s GDP, 35% of export earnings, and employs 68% of the workforce, according to UBOS.

In a joint meeting held on March 12th, 2025, in Pakwach District, institutions, including Nyaravur Farmers SACCO and other cooperatives in the district, encouraged farmers to overcome fears of agricultural financing and only seek loans that they can repay.

"Other farmers have fear that if I go to the bank, where do I begin, so don't be afraid that reaching the banks is hard. We are here to serve you," a Nyaravur Farmers SACCO employee told the local farmers.

Joseph Bemba of Sasakawa Global 2000, an NGO supporting smallholder farmers, urged farmers to adopt what he called a “safe approach” by producing with the market in mind. He advised them to “produce to sell,” rather than “sell what they produce.”

"To summarize it, we say, produce to sell but don't produce and sell, because when you produce and sell, that is when you start struggling. Am I selling to, who wants it?  We are stuck here with everything," Bemba explains.

Sam Ayesiga from Volcano Ventures, which serves eight districts in Bunyoro, dealing in certified Organic  Agricultural Products, called on farmers to obtain Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) certification under the National Agricultural Organic Movement of Uganda. He noted that PGS is affordable and helps farmers address market challenges related to pricing, quality, and standards.

"We are all doing small-scale, so you can't get to the market yourself,  it's very expensive, that's why you will need a middleman. And I mentioned that they do a good job but to the disadvantage of the farmer." Ayesiga stated.

Wycliff Katulinde, Production Officer of Buliisa District, highlighted that West Nile and Bunyoro are well-positioned for agricultural enterprises such as fishing, poultry, apiculture, horticulture, and citrus. He added that "these ventures  are compatible with the Parish Development Model agenda, also they are the same enterprises that we are supporting, for example, we have the local poultry, Bees, Piggery, etc."

Youths in the West Nile region are calling for a minimum of 20% representation in local government structures, citing serious underrepresentation in key decision-making positions.

Despite making up 73% of Uganda’s population and accounting for 22 million voters, youth currently occupy just 0.9% of seats in Parliament—only 5 out of 529. At the local government level (LC II and above), only two youth councilors are elected per council, often with limited influence within party structures.

Nebbi District Youth Councillor, Savior Rwothomio Kakunda, says youth are systematically sidelined in leadership, starting from LC I to district councils. At the LC5 level, only two youth representatives are allowed, which he argues undermines meaningful participation in governance.

"I want to encourage the young people and who ever thinks they are going to be taking advantage of our numbers for their political gains to now start waking up. We do not want see leadership where young are being used as tools for politicalmobilization and then abandoned,  and that is what is happening."

In Koboko District, Gift Peter criticized the current system of electing National Youth MPs through limited electoral colleges. He says this forces aspirants to spend large sums on campaigns, discouraging competent youth and encouraging co-option, which ultimately affects service delivery.

"The Bigger the Population, the bigger the representation and I call up on the government to come up with law reforms to create more spaces for youth MPS because electoral areas is very vast it requires alot of demands so when somebody goes through to Parliament,  he or she will not focus on service he or she will focus on him or herself. "  Peter criticizes.

From Yumbe District, Raheem Siyasa expressed concern over youth exclusion from local government budget conferences, limiting their input in planning and implementation of youth-focused programs.

"Among us here how many have been attending Budget conferenceses, who are representing us in these budget conferences and who are making for us the decisions on the funds allocated for youths," she asks.

In Pakwach District, Emmanuel Uvuru, Deputy Speaker of Pokwero Sub-county, accused some youth chairpersons of neglecting their responsibilities, leaving councilors overwhelmed. He recommended induction training for new youth leaders to enhance accountability.

"You find the councilors are now acting as the youths Chairperson which is wrong, that's why any allocations made for youths can not meet the target because there are no one to request for" Uvuru emphasized.

James Uyullu, LC5 Chairperson of Zombo District, attributed the low representation to limited youth interest in leadership and government programs. He urged young people to get organized, respect authority, and actively participate in community development as a pathway to leadership.

"The number can help when they come together seriously, engaging in all activities and also respect elders. Most of the youths when they look at us as the leaders instead of coming to us to get what is needed of them instead they start insulting you from a distance." Uyullu reports.

Ronald Ofoyrwoth, Executive Director of Nebbi NGO Forum, supported the demand for increased youth inclusion, pointing out that while women are allocated 30% representation, youth have significantly less. He encouraged the youth to pursue education and leadership training to enhance their governance participation.

"Their Participation should be increased which is not a bad idea. But one thing I would advise let them embrace like education,  they must have skills if am told they are going to be involved. " Ofoyrwoth emphasized.

Patrick Ulwor, Senior Community Development Officer for Pakwach District, advised youth leaders to engage early in the planning and budgeting processes. He emphasized that early involvement helps ensure youth priorities are considered by councils and presented at the national level.

"How do you involved yourself in the planning , how do you bring issues of youths clearly in the planning up to approval do not start urging with the technical people." Ulwor told the youths.

Police in Nebbi Municipality have launched an investigation into a fatal road accident that occurred near Akaba Bridge in Alala Sub-County, Nebbi District, along the Nebbi–Pakwach Highway, on July 22nd, 2025 around evening hours.

Police reports that the fatal incident involved multiple vehicles, including a white Howo Truck with registration numbers T602 EBP / T875 EBR, driven by Ulomi Daniel, a 43-year-old Tanzanian national residing in Tanzania. Also involved was a white omnibus vehicle bearing registration number 6782AA25, whose driver remains unidentified; a white fuel tanker with registration numbers ZE 9596 / KBR 369A, driven by Noor Abdi Yusuf, a Somali national based in Kenya; and several motorcycles. Among the motorcycles was one with registration number 6782AA25, ridden by a yet-to-be-identified male who died at the scene, along with two numberless motorcycles whose riders' particulars are also unknown.

SP Asea Collins, the Westnile Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the report, stating that "the crash is suspected to have been caused by brake failure on the Howo truck. The truck was descending a slope toward Nebbi when the driver reportedly lost control and collided with other vehicles and motorcycles."

The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the mortuary at Nebbi District Hospital. The driver of the Howo truck, identified as Ulomi Daniel, a Tanzanian national, is currently in police custody.

By the time of this report, the damaged vehicles had been towed to Nebbi Police Station, except for the loaded Howo truck, which remains at the scene under police guard. Police urge motorists to ensure their vehicles are in good mechanical condition to prevent similar tragedies.

Former 2021 parliamentary candidate Shaban Ofoy has been declared the NRM flag bearer for the LC5 chairperson seat in the forthcoming 2026-2031 general elections, after securing a landslide victory in the LC5 party primaries.

Ofoy polled 25,222 votes (56%), defeating Fred Gibril Oryekwun who polled 10,173 votes (25%), Richard Oryeda with 6,005 votes (13%), and Denis Olore who managed 3,649 votes (8%). The District NRM Registrar, Gipatho Gloria, announced that a total of approximately 45,049 votes were cast in the election.

"I therefore, declare Ofoy Shaban as who has polled the highest number of votes, 25,222, as dully elected NRM flag bearer flag for Pakwach District Chairperson, 2026-2031." He announces.

Speaking after his victory, Ofoy described the results as a true reflection of the people's will, urging his fellow contestants to rally behind him and unite in the party’s campaign for the general elections to ensure NRM retains leadership in the district.

"I believe the results are true reflection of views of the people of Pakwach District. I dully accept it." Ofoy, states.

However, third-placed candidate Richard Oryeda expressed dissatisfaction, citing electoral irregularities. He alleged that his supporters were chased away from polling stations, prompting him to walk out of the tally center in protest, exchanging words with the party’s district leadership saying "we can still go for independence."

In the general elections, Ofoy will face candidates from other political parties vying for the district chairperson seat in term of 2026-2031.

The primaries witnessed low voter turnout across most parts of the district, compared to the recently concluded NRM parliamentary primaries.

However, Panyimur Sub-county registered a higher turnout, being home to leading candidates Ofoy and Oryeda. There were isolated cases of indiscipline and attempts to breach electoral guidelines, particularly regarding voter eligibility.

Despite these challenges, electoral officials reported that voting proceeded peacefully in most parts of the district after addressing the incidents.

Meanwhile, elections for directly elected councilors in Pakwach Town Council and the sub-counties of Panyimur, Dei, and Wadlai were suspended due to electoral irregularities. The district registrar stated that results from the affected areas will be announced after thorough investigations. "I think they miscalculated the figures." She says.

End.

Community of Pacego Primary School in Panyangu Sub-County, Pakwach District, on Thursday, 24th July 2025 sang and danced to the installation of a 4,500-watt solar power system, donated by the Deposit Protection Fund (DPF) of Uganda, valued at UGX 32 million.

The solar system includes 36 bulbs and security lights capable of operating for 12 hours, with additional provisions to charge laptops, phones, and a small inkjet printer. The service provider will offer maintenance and servicing for 12 months under the warranty agreement.

Pacego Primary School is among the top-performing schools in the 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations in Pakwach District, registering one first grade, 39 second grades, and 11 third grades.

School Management Committee Chairperson, Felix Rubanga, expressed optimism that the solar facility will enhance the learners' reading culture, especially during early morning and evening study sessions.

"As you know the supply of electricity, it is not stable. Since you have installed this solar systems, it boost the readings because we have some learners who preps here at night hours it will help them very much and we are sure of power Supply anytime we need it." Rubanga stated.

Headteacher Florence Yokani noted that the installation will provide a stable power supply, improving both learning conditions and the security of school facilities.

"In fact I have stated receiving requests from secondary students to start revising from the school." She says.

Representing the learners, Head Girl Pricila Afoyorwoth, aged 14, said the solar lights have brightened classrooms, facilitating better learning for pupils and other community learners.

District Education Officer Obedling Johnson Thombu urged the school administration to utilize the solar system to introduce digital learning, while advising strict regulation of external learners accessing the facilities.

"Were as we should not stop any school going child from using this facilities, but should be highly regulated especially for the secondary students. If you are going to allow, allow it under strict rules. So that our children are not thought bad manners in secondary schools."

Patrick Ezaga, DPF's Director of Communications, delivering remarks on behalf of CEO Dr. Julia Clare Olima Oyet, said the donation is part of DPF’s Corporate Social Responsibility. He noted that many classrooms across the country remain dark during cloudy days and evenings, depriving learners of opportunities to revise and explore technology. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the facilities for tangible ripple effects.

"It is our desire that in a few years when we return to assess the impact of this intervention, we shall all be proud to have achieved all the above. Indeed, it will be a badge of honour for the DPF for this project to achieve the outcomes stated." Ezaga told the school administrations.

The Government of Uganda has commissioned the $20 million Nyagak III Hydropower Plant in Zombo District, marking a significant milestone in providing clean and reliable electricity to Zombo, Nebbi, Pakwach Districts, and the greater West Nile region.

The 6.6 MW run-of-river hydroelectric plant is equipped with two 3.3 MW Horizontal Francis turbines. It is expected to generate approximately 36.27 GWh of electricity annually.

Nyagak III is a Public-Private Partnership project, with Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL) holding a 30% stake, while Genmax Nyagak Ltd, a consortium of Hydromax and Dott Services, owns 70%.

Engineer Isaac Arinaitwe, Chief Projects Officer at UEGCL, explained that the plant evacuates power to the national grid via Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited’s (UETCL) 80MVA 132kV Nebbi Substation. He acknowledged various bottlenecks that contributed to delays in the project’s completion.

"this project has been a good case of resilience we have to encounter a lot of challenges; we had a change of routes and change of result capacity and we still manage to get this far." Issac stated.

UEGCL Board Chairperson, Engineer Proscovia Margaret Njuki, described the project’s completion as a landmark achievement in the company’s strategic plans. Urging the local community to safeguard the facility for long-term benefits.

"As UEGCL, we take it this as huge landmark to our strategies because we have added 6.6MW today. Just to appeal to the resident around, that we own it with you. Please take a good care of it as we try to serve you with extra energy." Njuki says.

Zombo Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Festus Ayikobua, appealed to both local and national leaders to attract investors to the region. Emphasizing that establishing businesses will create job opportunities and reduce poverty among the local population.

"Now that we have power, can we move miles ahead to begin mobilizing investors to come in order to create jobs for our sons and daughters here." Festus said.

Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, revealed that the government has secured funding from the World Bank to support last-mile connections.

She noted that efforts are underway to extend low-voltage lines to ensure more households are connected to the grid with the lowest electricity tariffs, addressing West Nile’s electrification needs and spurring economic growth across the country.

"Power has been expensive because we have been using loan money to construct, transmit power on borrowed money. So government has continued to plan to put in money in power generation, power transition so that the end users tariff is not very high." The Minister said

The Deposit Protection Fund (DPF) has installed solar systems worth 72 million shillings in three rural schools across West Nile to improve access to reliable electricity.

The installations, with a combined capacity of 9,450 watts, were distributed to St. Jude Thaddeus Pacego Primary School in Pakwach District (4,500 watts worth UGX 32 million), Lutuka Primary School in Yumbe District (2,700 watts worth UGX 24 million), and Mission Hill Vocational School in Terego District (2,250 watts worth UGX 16 million).

The beneficiary institutions were selected in 2023 under DPF’s Corporate Social Responsibility program. The initiative aligns with the Fund’s thematic areas of clean energy, water and sanitation, waste and environmental management, academic performance, and financial literacy.

DPF Director of Communications, Patrick Ezaga, speaking on behalf of CEO Dr. Julia Clare Olima Oyet, said most rural schools in the region lack reliable electricity. He noted that the new installations will enable pupils in West Nile to compete favorably with learners across the country.

"The DPF is proud of be part of this transformational journey, bringing clean sustainable power to these vibrant communities for far too long some of our rural schools have operated with access to reliable electricity." Ezaga states. He adds that, "Many classrooms remain dark on cloudy days or during evening hours, and learners were deprived of opportunities to revise, explore technologies, or learning in safe and engaging environment."

The solar systems include security lights capable of running for up to 12 hours and facilities for charging laptops and mobile phones. They can also power small inkjet printers to help school administrators produce learning materials.

St. Jude Thaddeus Pacego Primary School Head Teacher, Florence Yokani, said the stable power supply will improve learning conditions and enhance the security of school facilities.

"We were in total darkness... People were breaking in to the facilities and they were stilling our properties, so with this solars provided, we are good to go." Yonika says.

Mission Hill Vocational School Principal, Charles Asiku, welcomed the initiative, noting that it is boosting the reading culture among learners in the area.

"This one has reorganize the lives of the learns as I talk now, they are now using the installed facilities for their studies." Asiku told Pakwach Fm on a telephone interview.

Pakwach District Education Officer, Obedling Johnson Thombu, urged teachers in the beneficiary schools to adopt modern teaching methods, including ICT and e-learning. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining the donated facilities to attain long term ripple effects.

"With the solar systems now, the schools can buy projects, laptops and we can project teaching and learning, and demonstrate lessons and I encourage our teachers to adapt because if our excuse have been lack of stable power, it has come." Obedling told the teachers posted in the institutions.

End.

The Presidential Awards Committee (PAC) on Wednesday, 20th, August 2025, visited Pakwach District Local Government to sensitize leaders on their role in identifying and vetting individuals for Uganda’s national honours and awards.

The honours, which include orders, medals, and declarations, recognize outstanding contributions in civil and military service, academia, culture, media, religion, industry, and sports, among others. Proposals are submitted by ministries, government agencies, corporate organizations, NGOs, and individuals to the Chancery, the custodian of the awards.

Hajjat Zeminah Malole, the Chancellor and Secretary of the PAC, urged district leaders to prioritize individuals who have made exceptional contributions in voluntary service, innovation, entrepreneurship, and uplifting vulnerable communities. She also emphasized recognizing citizens excelling in government programs such as Emyooga, the Parish Development Model (PDM), and UWEP.

"Why can't we get some person from Emyooga, and we say that because of your performance, we are forwarding your names for the national recognition, such that if they qualify, others can also get inspired." She advised.

Shaban Sentongo, the Herald for the Chancery of the President, adds that national honours inspire other citizens to make meaningful contributions, as the awards come with both national and international privileges.

"They are given first priority in accessing amenities. Once a medalist comes, he or she should immediately see the person in charge." Sentongo said.

The PAC team is touring the West Nile region to raise awareness and strengthen stakeholder involvement in selecting deserving citizens for recognition.

Pakwach District Deputy Chairperson, Pastor Gidaga, commended the committee for clarifying the role of local leaders in the process. He said the district has many potential medalists who deserve recognition for their contributions.

"This is really very critical, so let's work together and start nominating our people who have a significant impact on our society. They are there, it's just because we did not know that we also play a role in nominating these people." Pastore stated.

Resident of Obira Parish, Got Apwoyo Sub-county in Nwoya District are in somber moods, mourning the death two women, killed by herds of elephant.

The incident occurred at about 5:20 p.m., and the area Local Council One Chairperson of Obira South Village, Geoffrey Odaga Pacutho, identified the deceased as Scovia Ayiyorwoth, 26, a native of Parombo Sub-County, and Akumu Doreen, 46, from Akworo Sub-County, both in Nebbi District. The two women were returning home after collecting firewood when the tragedy struck. George explained that Ayiyorwoth had a baby strapped to her back but, during the struggle, managed to throw the child aside, allowing the baby to survive. He says "Fortunately she threw away the child from her back."

Maculata Mandhawun who had been collecting firewood with the victims, said the tragedy happened just a short distance from their home. Holding back tears, she explained that elephants had also destroyed her five-hectare cassava garden and that this was the second time her family had lost members to elephant attacks.

"This is a very disheartening issue to my family, this is the second time herds of elephant have killed my family members." She spoke with tears on her face.

Male Parish Councilor of Obira Parish, Opio Maka, expressed concern over the increasing destruction caused by wild animals. He noted that "many families have resorted to firewood collection for sale in nearby markets as farming and livelihoods become more difficult due to wildlife raids."

Local leaders and residents are now appealing to the government and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to establish ranger posts and extend the electric fence to reduce human-wildlife conflicts in the area. Walter Piwun, the LC2 Chairperson of Obira Parish, together with other residents such as Osaaga Kennedy, said residents have lost thier maize, cassava, cotton among other crops, stressing that urgent action is needed to save lives and protect livelihoods through "establishments of ranger posts and extention of electric fences in the area."

According to locals, since 2013, at least eight people have lost their lives to wildlife attacks in the area. They say "UWA has only provided two million shillings for burial support per victim, but families have not received full compensation." The area LC1,Geoffrey Odaga Pacutho, stated.

By the time this report was filed at 2:00 p.m., the bodies of the two women were still at the scene, awaiting police documentation before being taken for postmortem at Pakwach Health Centre IV.

Efforts to obtain a comment from Warden Community Conservation Murchison Falls National Park , Uganda Wildlife Authority, Wilson Kagoro, were unsuccessful as he said he was "engaged in another activity" and unable to respond.

latest attack comes barely a month after an elephant stormed Jachan Okella Parents Primary School in Obira Parish, destroying a classroom wall and forcing pupils to study under a tamarind tree, leaving their lives at risk.

Pakwach District has officially received a new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Jessica Ongiertho, who assumed office yesterday in a handover ceremony at the district headquarters. She replaces Dalili R.K. Moses, who served the district for 26 months, starting on 3rd July 2023 to 25, August 2025.

Outgoing CAO Moses highlighted the need to address the district’s poverty rate, currently at 57% compared to the national average of 33%. He urged his successor to prioritize government programs such as Emyooga, the Parish Development Model, and small-scale irrigation, while ensuring completion of ongoing projects and improving funding for key services including roads, water, healthcare, and education.

"I hope today, as I hand over to Lady Jessica, I have made my contribution; I hope I am not leaving Pakwach worse than I found it," he comments.

Deputy CAO Florence Acen praised Moses for his leadership, noting that under his tenure the district performed well and attracted over UGX 190 million from the District Discretionary Grant. She called for continued efforts to sustain the progress.

In the last assessment we improved, we got a bonus of about 190 million, I think that was good enough, in this F/Y let us work very hard, if we can get more like 300 million that would be very good". She says.

During the handover, Ongiertho received instruments of office along with a detailed report outlining the district’s priorities for the 2025/26 financial year. She pledged to work closely with district leaders and civil servants to strengthen punctuality, teamwork, and quality service delivery.

"I believe in people working without being forced... So please know why you are here..." She told the district's staff.

In his remarks, newly posted Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Stephen Nsubuga Bewayo cautioned staff against absenteeism, urging transparency and diligence in service delivery. He stressed the need to use government programs to combat poverty, pointing out that Pakwach’s rate of 57% is significantly higher than his former duty station at 18%.

"We have a long way to go and we need to use some of these programs like Emyooga, PDM, and so on to ensure that our people get out of poverty." He stated.

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Election Disputes Tribunal has upheld Berochan Epiphany as the party flag bearer for Member of Parliament for Jonam County in the forthcoming 2026–2031 general elections.

The decision followed the dismissal of a petition filed by Robert Omito Steen, who came second in the July 17 NRM primaries with 15,189 votes. Omito alleged that the elections were marred by unlawful cancellation of results, security interference, bribery of officials, violence, as well as inflation and suppression of tallies.

He further accused the Pakwach District NRM Registrar, Gloria Gipatho, of partisanship, claiming she "received UGX 20 million from Berochan at his residence in Pumit on July 11, 2025, ahead of the polls."

Omito also alleged falsification of results in Panyimur Town Council, and alterations in Afwodha and Kimor in Pakwach Town Council, as well as in Jupungulu, Wadlai, Ragem, and Panyango Sub-counties.

In addition, he challenged the annulment of results from Alwi Sub-county, which he says "has about 13,000 registered voters." He argued that the decision aimed at "discarding votes from his stronghold," citing irregularities in Magudi West and Anyom Kango villages only.

However, both Berochan and Gipatho defended the conduct of the election, insisting it was "free and fair." Berochan reportedly won with 67 percent of the votes (27,089 votes) against Omito’s 36 percent (15,189 votes).

Gipatho stated that her decision to void Alwi Sub-county results was guided by "affidavits from the area registrar, Philip Oloya, Kennedy Okello, and other documents" indicating widespread violence, intimidation, and expulsion of Berochan and Innocent Oribi's agents by Omito’s supporters during campaigns and polling date.

Gipatho cited Regulation 12(f) as the legal basis for her action to overturn the Alwi Sub-County Results, stating that the outlined irregularities made the results from Alwi Sub-County "unreliable."

In its ruling, the tribunal noted that although the annulment of Alwi Sub-county results was "excluded wrongfully" the allegations of violence, intimidation, and bribery were "not proven."

It concluded that the irregularities did not substantially affect the election outcome and therefore dismissed Omito’s petition, confirming Berochan Epiphany as the duly elected NRM flag bearer for Jonam County.

Pakwach District Entomologist, Ronald Canpara, has advised farmers interested in modern apiary farming to show interest by first establishing their own hives and registering with the district to benefit from support programs.

Canpara explained that commitments and registration enable the agricultural office to identify genuine farmers when distributing inputs.

"You first need to show interest, even if it is one you should prove that you are a bee farmer, and then we register you so that we can have inputs like bee hives, we consider." He sated.

He was responding to concerns raised by the district councilor for Wadlai Sub-County and the district Production Committee Chairperson, Mweze Edward Pacutho, who accused production officers of favoring specific farmers in allocating bee hives.

"Since 2021, when I joined the council, I have been seeing the same beneficiaries getting  bee hives." Questioning if they are the ring leaders of their associations or the hives are for the individuals.

During the district Production Department’s annual review, the Entomology Office reported the procurement of 25 Kenya Top Bar (KTB) hives distributed to farmers in Wadlai, Panyango, and Pakwach Sub-counties.

The district also received 450 KTB hives and two sets of honey processing equipment from FIFOK and the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). Of these, 300 hives were allocated to Paten Community, a historic honey production hub, while 150 were distributed to farmers across the district.

Canpara said efforts are underway to restore Paten’s reputation as a leading honey-producing area.

"Paten used to be a center for honey production those days... unfortunately, they have declined, so we want to reorganize them so that that area becomes well known for Honey production. And that is we gave the Beehives and Honey processing equipment." Canpara responded as he advises those who develop an interest in beekeeping to go to the office.

Total Energies' Stakeholders Engagement Manager, Godfrey Lukwago, noted that since 2019, they have been putting interventions focusing on improving harvesting and honey post-harvest handling to enhance honey quality and marketability.

"We are with farmers together with the district local governments and other actors to ensure that quality is maintained.  Producing it is one thing and making it ready for the market is also another." Lukwago noted.

Meanwhile, John Odongtho, a member of Dikiri Ber Group in Pakwach Town Council, said his group "received KTB hives through CIDI and last season produced 60 liters of honey and beeswax, which they are now processing into candles."

Experts say modern hives such as KTB and Langstroth enhance honey production by allowing bees to build combs more efficiently and reducing bee mortality during harvesting, ensuring consistent yields.

According to a recent MAAIF report, agriculture employs over 70% of Ugandans, contributes nearly a quarter of the national GDP, and accounts for about 44% of export earnings.

Rotarians and friends of Rotary in Pakwach District on Sunday joined thousands across Uganda in the 2025 Rotary Cancer Run, raising about Sh1.9 million to support the construction and equipping of the national cancer centre at Nsambya Hospital.

The event attracted more than 20 participants in Pakwach, a turnout organizers hailed as a significant step in the district’s contribution to the fight against cancer.

Gipatho Gloria, the NRM election officer for Pakwach District, said she has participated in the run for four consecutive years since 2022. She described this year’s turnout as remarkable, noting it was the first time the district had officially organized the run.

"I have been running alone with my children... I encourage people to come, and we support the Cancer Institute." Gipatho notes.

Jonam Cultural Institution’s Minister for Information, Jerolum Omach, acknowledged the success of the event and urged more locals to take part in next year’s run to support cancer treatment and raise awareness about the disease.

"Jonam people who are from Kampala and other parts of the world, come and join us next year for the run," Omach said.

Chief organizer Beatrice Ayot Kerunga encouraged residents of Pakwach and the wider West Nile region to regularly check their health, citing rising cases of throat, prostate, Cervix Uteri, Kaposi Sarcoma, and breast cancers. She noted that many patients from the region are forced to travel to Mulago Hospital in Kampala, where long queues and limited resources remain a challenge.

"When you go to the cancer ward in Mulago, most people from Westnile are there, Pakwach inclusive, and because of long queues, one can wait months before seeing the doctor because they have a challenge with Doctors." Affirming the major challenges.

According to a report shared by Royce Gloria Androa, RC of Arua on August 14, 2025, Uganda records more than 35,900 new cancer cases annually, with over 24,600 deaths. By 2022, an estimated 77,000 Ugandans were living with cancer, reflecting a lifetime risk before age 75.

This year's Cancer Run is targeted to raise Shs 4 billion countrywide; however, it has collected Shs 3 billion, a steady rise from contributions of Sh1 billion in 2023 and Sh2.1 billion in 2024, which has set the pace for this year’s achievement.

Past district governor Steven Mwanje, the brains behind the Cancer Run notes that the aim is to have the cancer centre operational by 2027, adding that the main fundraising vehicle for the project is the Cancer Run. He stressed that if Rotarians and well-wishers continue supporting the initiative, the centre will be completed on time.

This year’s run was organised under the theme “Many cancers, one run."

An average of 940 babies undergo surgery for hydrocephalus each year in Uganda, according to the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Uganda (SHA-U).

The condition, which affects one to two children per 1,000 live births, has remained prevalent for the past six years. Hydrocephalus occurs when excess fluid builds up in the brain, often causing the head to grow abnormally large and placing pressure on the brain.

Jackline Ahimbisibwe Programs Officer at SHA-U, speaking during a nationwide media training under the Collective Action for Disability Rights (CADiR) Programme on September 3, 2025, highlighted common symptoms including rapid head growth, bulging soft spots, visible veins on the head, downward-looking eyes, severe headaches, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

She noted that most untreated cases result in death before the age of two, urging the public to avoid using stigmatizing language when referring to persons living with the condition.

"Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida are not caused by judgment from God, curses, or an unreal spirit or family, and the diseases are not the parents' fault. No one should be blamed." Ahimbisibwe stated.

The CADiR Programme, running from 2025 to 2029, aims to influence change at individual, organizational, and system levels.

According to the SHA-U Executive Director, Ritah Nansamba, the initiative "targets persons with disabilities, especially those with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, their families and caregivers, as well as community leaders and duty bearers in districts including Ntungamo, Mbarara, Soroti, Kamuli, Nebbi, Gulu, Mpigi, and Masaka."

Pakwach District Returning Officer has rejected nomination papers of two National Unity Platform (NUP) candidates seeking councilor positions in Pakwach District over alleged irregularities in endorsement signatures.

One of the affected candidates, Sam Udwokacen Muganga, who is vying to represent Panyimur Town Council, said the Returning Officer claimed the forms were signed by the wrong person. Muganga, the incumbent councilor under the NRM ticket, accused the officer of delaying to clarify the matter until late in the day around 4:30 PM, and advised them instead to contest as independents.

"All candidates for NUP were denied, she said She's not nominating them. She advises us to be nominated as independent. I also refused, saying my party is the National Unity Platform." Muganga reveals.

Another aspirant, Ashraf Iddi, also expressed dissatisfaction, saying they had followed all procedures and their details were already captured in the Electoral Commission's system, only waiting for final nomination.

"We were installed in the system, just waiting for the RO to affirm our nomination. We became disappointed today." He said.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Rwothomio, aspiring MP for Jonam Constituency, alleged the move was deliberate to frustrate NUP candidates. He urged colleagues to remain resilient and called on party leadership to pursue justice for the affected persons.

"We call upon our candidates to really work on their documents as early as possible, we are going to make sure those who were affected get their justice. This was not really right." Rwothomio told our reporter.

Efforts to get a comment from the District Returning Officer were unsuccessful as she said she was "still busy."

In the recently concluded local government nominations, most candidates in Pakwach District contested as independents rather than under political party tickets.

Shaban Ofoy, nominated under the NRM flag, noted that many independents were "NRM members who failed to secure victories in party primaries," reaffirming that Pakwach remains an NRM stronghold.

Health officials and stakeholders in Pakwach District voiced mixed reactions over the rising HIV prevalence among youths aged 10 to 24 years, with young girls most affected.

According to a report by District Biostatistician James Omito, HIV infections in this age group rose from 4,060 cases by July 2023/2024 to 6,044 cases by July 2024/2025, reflecting an increase of 1,984 cases within a year.

The report shows mixed trends among adolescents and youths aged 10 to 14 years, with infections declining from 173 in 2023 to 120 in 2024 in females and from 132 in 2023 to 82 in 2024 in males.

However, infections rose sharply among 15- to 19-year-olds, with female cases increasing from 1,193 in 2023 to 1,621 in 2024, and male cases from 1,040 to 1,477.

Among youths aged 20 to 24, female infections nearly doubled from 994 in 2023 to 1,977 in 2024, while male cases rose from 528 to 767.

Vincent Binega Jalusene, in charge of Pakia Health Centre II in Panyango Sub-County, warned that many people may not know their HIV status, posing further risks to the young population. He attributed the rising prevalence to poverty, transactional sex, cross-generational relationships, indiscipline, and unemployment, which he said make young girls more vulnerable.

"Parents think that, the moment these youths have reached S4 at least, they have reached somewhere where they can do something for themselves, which is not the case today. They become redundant at home and all they think about is marriage." Jalusene said.

Other health workers and cultural leaders called for stronger parental guidance, discipline, and sex education for the youth that make up over 55 percent of Pakwach District’s population of 226,600.

"Let's advocate to our children to start producing at least at the age of 20 years. And most of these affected youths are ones who have not gone to school."

The report further revealed that out of 7,168 facility deliveries recorded in 2024/25, 270 babies were born to HIV-positive mothers, up from 175 in 2023.

Pakwach District Chief Executive Officer, Jessica Ongiertho, says the situation places a heavy burden on government and society, urging collective action to address the vices.

"I am sure the politicians can say something, the religious and cutting leaders have their time, even we, the technocrats, when you go to the community, you can start from there. So we have a responsibility and the challenge is real." She stated.

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Police in Arua City are investigating the death of a 22-year-old Muni University student whose body was found hanging in a house in Ayibiri Cell, Onzivu Ward, Ayivu East Division.

The deceased has been identified as Munguleni Deogracious, a first-year student. Police said the incident is suspected to have occurred between 1000 hours and 1300 hours on September 22, 2025.

Police reports that, a juvenile identified as Letasi Fortunate saw the body through a window and alerted neighbors, who informed the Muni University Police Station.

The Officer-in-Charge, ASP Kamusiime Bruce, later notified Ayivu Division Police, who documented the scene for investigation under a case file Vide SD. Ref. 23/22/9/2025 and CRB 162/2025

Preliminary findings indicate that Munguleni had confided in a friend, Aguta Collins, that he was distressed over suspicions of his girlfriend’s infidelity (whom the Police identified as Fortunate), which reportedly drove him to heavy drinking.

West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Anguyo Jimmy Bayiga, urged "youth to avoid suicide, alcoholism, and substance abuse as ways of coping with stress."

He also advised "parents to take a more active role in positive parenting, rather than leaving the responsibility solely to teachers, to help nurture healthy and responsible young people."

The incident comes as the world marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month from September 7 to 13, and World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2025, under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide."

According to the World Health Organization, Uganda’s suicide mortality rate stood at 6 per 100,000 in 2021, while police data shows suicide cases rose from 165 in 2023 to 218 in 2024.

END.

King (Ubimu) of Alur Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Philip Olarker Rauni III, narrowly survived a road accident along the Nebbi–Pakwach highway at Alwi Trading Center in Pakwach District, on his way to the Royal Palace at Atyak Winam.

The accident occurred as Ubimu Rauni III and his royal entourage were heading to 'Atyak Winam' for the royal blessing ceremony (goyu lau iwi) of the two vehicles offered to him by the Government of Uganda, which had been scheduled for today.

Rupiny David, the Communications Officer of Alur Kingdom (Ker Alur), explained that, “As the royal convoy slowed at a road hump, the driver of a speeding Fuso lorry lost control and rammed first into Ubimu Rauni III’s car, and then into the lead car.”

He added that, “The errant driver sped off, but the Director of Operations, Jimmy Cwinya’ai, who was in the third car, gave chase and apprehended him.”

Ubimu Rauni III and his entourage did not sustain any injuries and were safely evacuated to the Royal Palace in Atyak Winam, where he continued with his official duties.

The Police at Pakwach Central Police Station confirmed that the suspect has been arrested and detained, while the lorry has been impounded. The investigation into the accident is underway.

Police in Pakwach District are investigating a fatal accident that claimed three lives along the Pakwach-Nebbi-Arua Highway early today.

The crash occurred at about 1:40 a.m. in Nyapolo Village, Alwi Sub-county, involving a Muni University double-cabin pickup, registration number UBF 850H, and a Sino truck, registration number UAW 523Z, belonging to China 18th Railway Construction Company.

According to police, the university vehicle was traveling from Kampala to Arua on official duty when it collided with the truck, killing three occupants on the spot and leaving two others critically injured.

West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson SP Anguyo Jimmy Bayiga identified the deceased as the driver, Acidri Kennedy, the university’s sports officer, Opio Washington, and the chaplain, Rev. Acema Patrick.

Police said "the bodies were taken to Pakwach Health Center IV for postmortem, while the survivors, Oriba Bruno and Enayo Victor, are receiving treatment at the same facility."
End.

Ten female students of Panyango Secondary School are receiving treatment at Pakwach Health Center IV after lightning struck their dormitory on Sunday night, September 28, at around 10 p.m.

The survivors were initially rushed to Pakia Health Center II in Panyango Sub-county for first aid before being transferred to Pakwach Health Center IV for specialized care.

John Williams Opar, Angaba Village LC1 chairperson, in Padoch Parish, Panyango Sub-County, said on a telephone interview that his colleague, whose children are studying in the institution, called in Panic to inquire about his children this morning around 8AM.

"Someone from Wadlai called me to inquire about the accident because his children are studying in the school. So called someone close to the school and confirmed to me that it's true the incident happened. "

According to the school’s Director of Studies, Collins Kumakech, the incident affected a newly constructed girls’ dormitory. He explained that eight students were struck directly by the lightning, while two others collapsed from shock, bringing the total number of admissions to ten.

Kumakech issued a public notice to parents, assuring them that the students "were stable and expected to be discharged soon." However, during a hospital visit, some students were still bedridden, while others could move with support from their female teacher who is attending to the survivors.

Pakwach District Senior Probation and Welfare Officer, Cleration Acelle, urged schools and public institutions to install adequate lightning arrestors to prevent such tragedies. He further advised people to wear shoes during rainfall and to keep windows and doors closed while they are inside.

"During this Rainy season, people should be putting on shoes, especially these rubber-soled shoes, which can protect us, and when we are inside, we close the windows and doors. If they had closed the window, they would have been safe."

Health worker Betty Oaikani from Pakwach HCIII Mission cautioned the public to "switch off all electronic devices, including phones, radios, and televisions, among others" during thunderstorms.

She made the remarks last year in June when lightning incidents claimed lives in the district, including one fatality and two injuries in Pajobi South Cell, Pakwach Town Council.
End.

Key issues, including the Palango land conflict, operations of the Fisheries Protection Unit, rising youth unemployment, and poor road infrastructure, have topped the list of concerns raised by youths in Jonam Constituency ahead of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s campaign launch in the West Nile Sub-region.

President Museveni is scheduled to begin his campaign trail in the West Nile region this week, with planned stops in Pakwach District on July 7th, Nebbi on July 11th, and Zombo on July 13th, with additional stops in other districts to follow.  Youths across Pakwach District urged local leaders to address the President on critical concerns facing the young people in Jonam.

Ivan Lakisa, the Speaker of the West Nile Youth Parliament and resident of Pakwach Town Council, says many youths in Jonam have been rendered jobless following government restrictions on fishing activities on the River Nile, which had been the main source of livelihood for most young people.

"We would really love Muzee to work on the issues of Fishing and, if possible, withdraw the FPU from the River," Ivan said.

Cue in...//...We would really...//...Cue Out...the Young people.
[Cue in: Ivan Lakisa (English/Alur)]

Phillips Orombi from Panyimur Town Council called on the President to provide alternative sources of employment for youths affected by the fishing restrictions. He also highlighted the poor state of roads, particularly the Panyimur Ferry–Wadlai road to Arua and the Parombo–DRC link road, which he said hinders business and transport in the region.

"Last time the President promised the road from Panyimur Ferry up to Wadlai would be tarmac, but he has not finished, for us who use these roads are in bad condition," Phillips stated.

Maria Giramiya, the Female Youth Councilor for Panyango Sub-county, appealed to the President to intervene in the long-standing Palango land conflicts, which she said have contributed to food insecurity, school dropouts, and increased teenage pregnancies. Maria appeals to the President to come and give hope, extending Youth Skilling hubs across westnile to address the issues of unemployment.

"Our President should talk about youth Skilling centers to reduce the rate of unemployment and to empower the youths to generate money for themselves,  they should not mind about Palango, which can be given back to us," Maria emphasized.

Mbabazi Jovia, the Female Youth Representative from Dei Sub-county, urged the President to respond to the ongoing teachers’ industrial actions, saying they disrupt learning and affect the quality of education.

"Tomorrow as he comes for his campaign, let him address the community and give us the solution and Way forward because we are worried about the situation". Mbabazi said.

Omito Robert Steen appealed to the President to address concerns surrounding the "Wadlai Irrigation Scheme, the establishment of a District Hospital, Pakwach Municipality, and the elevation of Pakwach UCC to a degree-awarding university. He also urged the creation of regional science and technology institutes and industrial parks in Northern Uganda to help tackle youth unemployment."

This marks the second week of the presidential campaigns, with candidates traversing the country. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the NRM flag bearer, is the first candidate to launch his campaign in the West Nile region, Pakwach District.

Presidential candidate General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged to appoint a three-member team to investigate and resolve the long-standing Palango land dispute, an issue that local leaders of Pakwach District say is a thorn in their flesh and for the Jonam communities.

Speaking during the launch of his West Nile campaign in Pakwach District at Bar Omach Primary School Playground, Museveni said the matter requires thorough investigation, noting that he has heard many conflicting reports about the land.

Pakwach District NRM Chairperson, Ojinda Ronald Onencan, informed the President that the eviction of the Jonam community from Palango land which is on the Eastern side of the nile has deepened poverty among residents who depended on the area for farming.

"The people of Pakwach can not progress extensively in agriculture because of the land question, which is a very key issue. We therefore request you to make a declaration on." Ojinda states.

The Secretary for Jonam Cultural Institution, Kaal Ker Kwaro Jonam (KKKJ), Stanley Thopacu, Bright Ombidi III says they have been seeking the President’s intervention in the Palango land dispute, noting that Pakwach District has limited land along the riverside, forcing many residents to rely on farming across the river in Palango.

"We have been seeking the concern of the president to meet us and talk about it, because that land is our food basket, as you can see, our land is so narrow," Stanley said.

Former Minister of Finance who is now the NRM Vice Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Fred Jachan Omach, also emphasized to the President the need to provide a lasting solution, stating that the community has long awaited government intervention.

"Our land in the east of the Nile, the papers are already with you, Your Excellency. Kindly let them get a fair arrangement for that." Omach emphasized.

In his response, President Museveni assured the leaders that a "small commission of inquiry" would be appointed "to handle the issues" for appropriate action.

"I think what I will do is to appoint a committee of three people... so that they tell us the history of that land." The president is responsible.

Police in Adjumani District have launched investigations into the drowning of a 24-year-old man, identified as Musasizi Yusufu, an employee of Balaam Music Events, who drowned in River Nile on Saturday morning.

According to the police report, the incident occurred on 18th October 2025 at Sinyanya Landing Site in Adjumani District, shortly after Musasizi and his colleagues arrived from a President Museveni's campaign event in Obongi District.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been in the West Nile region since October 7th, traversing various districts as he campaigns for a seventh term in office.

It is alleged that deceased left his friends to bathe in the river, "removed his clothes and sandals, and swam" into deeper waters, mistakenly thinking the area was shallow. He was reportedly swept away by the strong current.

Divers from Obongi District later recovered his body about 200 meters downstream, and it was taken to Adjumani General Hospital for postmortem.

Police have opened a death investigation file under reference ADJ. DEF 53/2025, and scene of crime officers, together with a homicide team from Adjumani Central Police Station, have visited the site.

The North West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Asea Collins, confirmed the incident, saying inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the drowning.

The Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs and Vice Chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) for Western Uganda, Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi, has extended his condolences to the bereaved family of Musasizi Yusufu. Announcing the suspension of all the campaign mobilization activities until Monday, in Amuru, Lamwo, Omoro, and other districts where the NRM Presidential candidate General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to campaign.

“In his honor, we have suspended all mobilization activities today. He will be laid to rest in his ancestral home in Walugogo, Luuka District. We shall resume our mobilization on Monday in Amuru, Lamwo, Omoro, and other scheduled areas,” Balaam wrote on his X handle.

The Common Man’s Party (CMP) presidential candidate, Munyagwa Mubarak, has pledged to offer free education, meals, and medical care to all school-going children if elected president in the upcoming 2025/2026 elections.

Munyagwa made the promise on Saturday, October 18, 2025, while campaigning in Pakwach District, West Nile Region. Addressing supporters along the main highway and at the market square, he emphasized that children cannot study effectively on empty stomachs and promised free meals, medical treatment, and antenatal care for expectant mothers.

"In my government, kids will get free food at school, free medical, treatment and pregnant women will get free antenatal care."

The CMP candidate also criticized the current government for what he described as entrenched corruption, accusing officials of mismanaging public resources meant for education, healthcare, and national development.

"This government gas alot of money and money is just being stolen by few people. The money we have in our country can take care of pregnant women, take care of young babies." The presidential candidate Munyagwa told the supporters.

Meanwhile, CMP spokesperson Charles Mutasa Kafero said the party’s mission is to liberate Ugandans from poor infrastructure, drug shortages in hospitals, the weak education system, and rising unemployment.

"It has been a long time coming suffering with no drugs with poor roads, education and un employment. Today CMP has brought you a new leader and powerful messiah." Charles stated.

According to the 2025/2026 presidential campaign program, Munyagwa is scheduled to tour the West Nile sub-region, beginning with Pakwach, Nebbi, and Zombo districts before proceeding to other parts of the region.

The King of Alur, His Majesty Ubimu Philip Olarker Rauni III, has joined the people of Kenya and the wider Luo community in mourning the death of Raila Amolo Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya.

In a released press statement this afternoon by the Alur Kingdom Spoke person, David Rupiny, the Alur King said he learned with shock about Odinga’s passing on October 15th, 2025, in India.

He described the late Odinga as "a Kenyan nationalist, pan-Africanist, and a unifying leader who greatly contributed to the progress of Kenya, Africa, and the wider Luo community."

Ubimu Olarker said Odinga’s death is a great loss to the global Luo nation, urging all Luo people to honor his legacy by "promoting unity and shared prosperity across borders."

Odinga was laid to rest on Sunday, 19 October 2025, at his ancestral home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, located in the town of Bondo, Siaya County, in western Kenya. The burial was conducted with full state honours, including a 17-gun salute in recognition of his service and contribution to the nation.

63 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured in a fatal road accident that occurred early Wednesday morning, October 22, 2025, at around 12:15 a.m. in Kitaleba Village, Asili Farm, along the Kampala–Gulu highway in Kiryandongo District.

According to SP Julius Allan Hakiza, the Albertine Regional Police Spokesperson, the crash involved four vehicles: two passenger buses and two smaller vehicles, including a Nile Star Bus (UBF 614X), a Planet Bus (UAM 045V), a Toyota Surf (CGO 5132AB), and a Tata lorry (UBK 647C).

It's alleged that the Nile Star bus heading to Arua and the Planet bus from Adjumani towards Kampala collided head-on while both were overtaking other vehicles. The impact caused the Toyota Land Cruiser and Tata lorry to lose control and overturn, killing and injuring several occupants.

The injured victims were rushed to Kiryandongo General Hospital and nearby health facilities for treatment. At the same time, the bodies of the deceased were conveyed to the hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination.

SP Kananura Michael, the CLO/PRO Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, says investigations have been initiated, "strongly urging all motorists to exercise maximum caution on the roads, especially avoiding dangerous and careless overtaking, which has remained one of the leading causes of crashes in the country."

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has extended his condolences to the families affected by the tragic road accident in Kitaleeba Village, Kiryandongo District, which has so far claimed at least 63 lives and left several others injured. According to the

Speaking during a National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential campaign rally held at Padibe Boys Primary School playgrounds in Lamwo District, President Museveni announced immediate financial support for the victims and their families.

“I have instructed the State House Comptroller to provide Sh5 million to each family that lost a loved one in the accident to assist with burial arrangements. Additionally, those who sustained injuries will receive Sh1 million each to support their treatment,” the President said.

The devastating crash involved a passenger bus and has once again drawn national attention to road safety concerns.

President Museveni used the platform to caution motorists against reckless driving, emphasizing the need for greater responsibility on the roads.

The President's gesture was met with both grief and appreciation from the affected communities, as many begin the difficult process of mourning and recovery.

At least six candidates have been nominated for parliamentary seats in Pakwach District on the first day of the nomination exercise conducted by the District Electoral Commission.

Four of the candidates are contesting for the Woman Member of Parliament seat. Among them is the incumbent, Jane Avur Pacutho, who is seeking a third term under the NRM party ticket in the 2026–2031 general elections.

Her former NRM primary rival, Sara Bahkit, was also duly nominated to run as an independent candidate.

The District Speaker, Christine Manda, who currently serves as the District Female Workers’ Councillor, was equally nominated to contest as an independent candidate, despite her current ties to the ruling NRM party.

Another contender, Proscovia Atimango, also secured nomination for the same seat. She previously contested unsuccessfully in the 2021 general elections under the FDC party and is now standing as an independent candidate.

For the Jonam County parliamentary seat, only two candidates were nominated. These include Berucan Epiphany, the NRM flag bearer, and Marshall Alenyo O.O, who is running as an independent candidate.

Earlier, the District LC5 Chairperson, Robert Omito Steen, had withdrawn his intention to contest for the directly elected MP seat during President Museveni’s campaign visit to Pakwach District in the West Nile Sub-region.