Afande Lameck Kigozi, a senior police official, has urged for the consideration of legalizing or establishing a legal framework for sex work to mitigate the persistent confrontations and rights violations faced by sex workers in Uganda. His remarks came during the commemoration of the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, organized by the Network of Key Population Service Organisations (UNESO).

The event, held under the theme “End Violence Against Sex Workers,” brought together advocates, law enforcement officials, and sex worker representatives to address the growing violence, discrimination, and exploitation affecting sex workers.

Afande Kigozi emphasized the necessity of a legislative framework to regulate the sector, noting that the criminalization of sex work has fostered conflict between sex workers and law enforcement.

“We need legislation to legalize this kind of business in our country. Without doing things legally, confrontations will persist. Regulations should have been passed yesterday rather than today,” Kigozi said. He added that police would strive to minimize confrontations but stressed that decriminalization is key to resolving the issue holistically.

Kigozi also encouraged sex workers to report rights violations to Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) or other relevant authorities without fear of reprisal, reaffirming the police’s commitment to addressing their grievances.

Currently, prostitution is illegal though in reality it is happening and several people at the event, including Stella Nassuuna, Advocacy Officer at UNESO, highlighted the urgent need to repeal laws that criminalize sex work. Nassuuna called for policy reviews to ensure marginalized groups, including sex workers, are not left behind.

“It’s time for policymakers to review existing laws critically to ensure they protect every Ugandan, not just a select few,”Nassuuna said, citing problematic clauses in the Sexual Offenses Bill that disproportionately target sex workers. She urged collaboration between civil society organizations (CSOs) and sex worker advocacy groups to drive evidence-based policy reforms.

According to UNESO’s 2023–2024 Human Rights Situation Report, sex workers in Uganda continue to face systemic abuses, including torture, discrimination, and violations of property and life rights. The report verified 214 human rights violations out of 237 reported cases, underscoring the precarious environment sex workers operate in.

Lindah Alice Nambalirwa, a human rights defender from the Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum (HRAPF), emphasized the need for law enforcement training on the rights of sex workers. “Many officers are unaware that sex workers have rights. Education within the police force is critical to reducing these violations,” she said.

The commemoration served as a platform for sex workers to voice their struggles. They condemned mistreatment by junior officers, local council defense units, and army personnel who often stigmatize them as immoral. Representatives reiterated that decriminalization would reduce stigma, enhance access to legal protections, and create safer working conditions.

“Sex workers deserve to live free from violence and discrimination,” a representative from the movement said. “Criminalization fuels stigma and abuse while denying us justice.”

As Uganda grapples with the complex issue of sex work, stakeholders agree that a rights-based approach is crucial. Advocates and police officials alike have called for immediate reforms to create a legal environment that prioritizes the safety, dignity, and rights of sex workers while addressing societal concerns.

Plascon’s highly anticipated Paint and Win “Ku Ground Edition” promotion has officially come to an end, leaving smiles on the faces of participants nationwide. The final prize giveaway took place on December 10, 2024, at Busiki General Stores Limited in Jinja City, where Gilbert Wamulongo proudly received the keys to a brand-new tuk-tuk tricycle.

This year’s promotion, which kicked off on October 1, 2024, rewarded close to 60 lucky winners with millions in cash prizes and 10 brand-new motorcycles. As the excitement soared, Plascon went a step further by introducing the ultimate prize – a tuk-tuk tricycle – exclusively for cash prize winners who missed out on motorcycles.

Gilbert Wamulongo, the week 10 grand prize winner, could not contain his joy as Kansai Plascon’s Managing Director, Mr. Santosh Gumte, officially handed over the tuk-tuk. “I never imagined this day would come. I thank Plascon for making my dream a reality,” Gilbert said, reflecting the excitement of thousands of participants who engaged in the promotion.

Mr. Gumte shared his enthusiasm for the overwhelming participation: “We are truly excited to celebrate Gilbert’s win today in Jinja. The Ku Ground Paint and Win promotion has once again proven our commitment to giving back to our communities. This tuk-tuk is not just a prize but a symbol of empowerment, creating opportunities for livelihood improvement.”

Throughout the 10-week campaign, participants entered the draws by scratching unique codes found on coupons given to customers after buying Plascon paint worth 100,000 shillings or more and sending them via SMS to 7197. Weekly live draws aired every Monday on NBS TV, Sanyuka TV, and Bukedde TV, keeping the country tuned in.

With the “Ku Ground Edition” now concluded, Plascon reaffirms its dedication to rewarding loyalty while transforming lives. As winners like Gilbert drive away with new opportunities, Kansai Plascon continues to color dreams and build brighter futures.

The Government of Uganda has allocated more than UGX 350 billion to improve road infrastructure in Wakiso District as part of the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) development initiative.

This investment will focus on constructing key roads that will enhance transportation and connectivity in the region.

The prioritized roads for construction in Wakiso District include:

• Bukasa-Ssentema-Kakiri Road-Stretching over 12 kilometers, this road will connect critical areas within the district.
• Naggalabi-Naasozi-Kitemu Road: Spanning more than 7 kilometers, this route will provide improved access between major localities.
• Nansana-Wamala-Katooke-Jjinjakalooli Road: Measuring over 8 kilometers, this road is vital for Nansana Municipality’s transport network.

Other roads within Nansana Municipality will also be constructed, contributing to a more efficient and reliable transportation system in the district.

According to Mayanja William, the Wakiso District Procurement Officer, preparations for the project are nearing completion.

He confirmed that construction is scheduled to commence in January 2025.

The World Bank has already disbursed over USD 3 billion (approximately UGX 11 trillion) to Uganda for road infrastructure development in the GKMA, which includes Wakiso, Mpigi, Mukono, and Kampala districts.

Ssalongo Kiwanuka Achilles, the GKMA Deputy Director of Operations and Labour, stated that contractors for the projects have been selected, and the Solicitor General’s directive is awaited to begin the work.

Once approved, paving and construction activities will commence immediately.

Importance of the Project

• This massive investment in road infrastructure is expected to:
• Reduce traffic congestion in Wakiso and neighboring districts.
• Improve access to essential services and economic opportunities.
• Enhance the quality of life for residents by providing safer and more efficient roads.

The allocation of over UGX 350 billion for road construction in Wakiso District marks a significant step towards modernizing the district’s infrastructure.

With work set to begin in January 2025, the project promises to bring transformative changes to the region, fostering economic growth and improved mobility for residents.

Stay updated on this and other developments in Wakiso District as the project progresses.

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court of Uganda made a significant ruling that soldiers convicted in military courts cannot appeal their cases in civilian courts. This decision, which emphasizes the unique jurisdiction of military courts, also temporarily applies to civilians. Here’s what you need to know about the ruling and its implications;

The Supreme Court ruling clarified that soldiers who lose cases in military courts cannot seek redress in civilian courts. The court based its decision on Uganda’s People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act, which governs military affairs. According to the ruling, civilian courts do not have the authority to review decisions made by military courts.

A five-judge panel of the Supreme Court emphasized that the UPDF Court Martial Appeal Court Regulations were not designed to give civilian courts jurisdiction over military court decisions. The UPDF Act is the “mother law” for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, and only the military courts have the power to hear appeals from military trials.

Judiciary spokesperson James Ereemye Mawanda explained that the ruling would temporarily apply to civilians who are tried by military courts. For now, anyone convicted by the Court Martial can only appeal to the General Court Martial or the Court Martial Appeals Court, not the civilian Court of Appeal.

While the Supreme Court has not yet made a final decision on whether civilians can be tried in military courts, the matter remains under consideration. Ereemye noted that the judiciary will wait for the court’s final ruling on this matter.

The Debate over Civilian Trials in Military Courts

The issue of whether civilians should be tried in military courts has been contentious for some time. In 2021, Uganda’s Constitutional Court ruled that it is unconstitutional for military courts to try civilians. This decision was based on the argument that military courts are part of the executive branch, not the judiciary.

Justice Kenneth Kakuru, who led the ruling, stated that the General Court Martial does not qualify as a “competent court” under the Constitution. He argued that military law under the UPDF Act should not apply to civilians and must be interpreted to exclude matters that fall under civil courts.

Attorney General’s Response

The Attorney General, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, disagreed with the Constitutional Court’s decision and appealed to the Supreme Court. Kiwanuka argued that military courts should have jurisdiction over civilians who violate military-related laws. He suggested that civilians could avoid being tried in military courts by simply not engaging in illegal military activities, such as possessing firearms or aiding in military offenses.

Kiwanuka also defended the impartiality of military courts, saying there was no evidence to suggest that they treat civilians unfairly. He emphasized that military courts are obligated to act impartially in all cases.

The issue of military courts has gained attention recently due to high-profile cases, such as the arraignment of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and his ally Obeid Lutale. Both men face charges of unlawful possession of ammunition after being apprehended in Kenya and handed over to Ugandan authorities. These cases highlight the ongoing debate over whether civilians should be tried by military courts.

What’s Next for Military Courts in Uganda?

The Supreme Court’s ruling solidifies the jurisdiction of military courts within Uganda’s legal system. However, the question of whether civilians can be tried in military courts remains unresolved. The outcome of the Supreme Court’s decision on this issue could have significant consequences for both military and civilian defendants in the future.

For now, the ruling affirms that military courts operate independently from civilian courts. However, the question of fairness and constitutional alignment is likely to continue to spark debate as Uganda navigates the complex relationship between its military and legal systems.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has firmly defended the trial of civilians in military courts, highlighting their role in stabilizing Uganda by swiftly addressing gun-related crimes. In a recent statement, Museveni referred to the military court martial as an “eyokyeero” (reinforcement) that supports civilian courts in handling cases involving firearms.

Museveni explained that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government enacted the law in 2005 to combat rampant criminal and terrorist activities involving firearms. He noted that such crimes posed a significant threat to public safety, necessitating swift and decisive action.

“The move was correct and useful, and it has contributed to the stabilisation of Uganda,” Museveni stated.

Overwhelmed Civilian Courts

The President pointed out that civilian courts are often burdened with a backlog of cases, ranging from murder to land disputes. This overload, he argued, makes them ill-equipped to swiftly address crimes committed by gun-wielding criminals.

“For stabilization, you need speed. These individuals, although not soldiers, voluntarily and with evil intentions acquired killing instruments that should be the monopoly of the Armed Forces,” Museveni emphasized.

Museveni defended the court martial system as a vital tool for ensuring efficiency and protecting public safety. He highlighted its role in removing dangerous individuals from society, noting that these detainees are provided with basic needs while in custody.

He stressed that the court martial operates under Uganda’s broader judicial framework, allowing superior courts to rectify any errors in judgment.

Success in the Karamoja Region

The President highlighted the court martial’s impact in the Karamoja region, where military courts have restored peace by addressing rampant violence. He revealed that thousands of armed youth were apprehended through military operations, and 900 out of 2,000 inmates at Kitalya Prison are Karamojong youths detained by military courts.

“The efficient and focused work of the military courts, supplemented by military operations, legally put away these confused youths from society for a given period,” Museveni said.

Museveni criticized civilian courts for granting bail or endlessly remanding suspects involved in serious crimes, describing such practices as “child play.” He credited the military courts with reducing violence in Karamoja and neighboring regions, adding that local leaders and elders have even requested pardons for some of the detained youth.

Referendum on Court Martial Trials

Museveni suggested that the use of military courts could be subjected to a public referendum in affected areas. He expressed confidence that citizens would overwhelmingly support the practice.

“If we were to have a referendum in the affected districts neighboring Karamoja, I am sure 100% would support the law,” he stated.

Enhancing Efficiency in Military Courts

The President commended the military courts for their contributions to national peace and directed the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) and other army officials to conduct an audit to improve their efficiency.

Ongoing Debate on Military Courts

Museveni’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about the appropriateness of trying civilians in military courts. Critics argue that the practice undermines Uganda’s justice system and violates the rights of the accused. However, the President insists that the court martial remains a vital tool for maintaining stability and ensuring swift justice.

By reinforcing the role of military courts in addressing gun-related crimes, Museveni has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding national security and promoting peace in Uganda.

The Inspire Africa Coffee Park in Ntungamo District has become a beacon of progress in Uganda’s coffee value addition sector. With an impressive government investment of $22 million, the factory is set to transform Uganda’s coffee industry, offering immense benefits to coffee farmers and the nation at large.

Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, recently toured the facility and expressed his optimism about its potential. Despite earlier criticism surrounding the project, Ssenyonyi praised the advanced technology being used and emphasized the importance of the factory’s success for Ugandans.

Commitment to Uganda’s Coffee Industry

Ssenyonyi highlighted the need for the factory to deliver on its promise of adding value to Uganda’s coffee. Speaking during the tour, he remarked:

“We have visited this Inspire Africa Coffee factory, and while much has been said about it, I want this project to succeed. I want production to take shape for the benefit of Ugandans who may not have the opportunity to raise these concerns directly.”

He also underscored the importance of creating a clear framework for government support of private entities like Inspire Africa Coffee Factory, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of taxpayers’ money.

Ssenyonyi stressed that public trust in government projects hinges on clear accountability. He called for transparency in how funds are allocated and utilized to eliminate skepticism.

“When you don’t account, you are seen as a thief. So, how much has the government invested in this project? It’s important for Ugandans to know. Additionally, how can we defend you when the government fails to meet its obligations?” Ssenyonyi said, urging for publicly accessible agreements like memorandums of understanding.

A Vision for the Private Sector

Nelson Tugume, the chairman of Inspire Africa Coffee Factory, supported Ssenyonyi’s call for accountability. Tugume emphasized the critical role of the private sector in driving economic growth, stating:

“Government must stop thinking they can run businesses. Instead, identify someone doing something and support them to do more.”

He reiterated that a private sector-led economy is the key to Uganda’s transformation and urged the government to empower entrepreneurs and companies through strategic partnerships.

The Inspire Africa Coffee Factory is expected to become fully operational by March 2025. Once functional, it aims to serve as a benchmark for coffee value addition in Uganda and across the East African region. Its success could inspire similar initiatives in other regions, bringing Uganda closer to its coffee value addition goals.

With advanced technology and government backing, the factory has the potential to uplift thousands of coffee farmers, enhance Uganda’s coffee exports, and strengthen the country’s position in the global coffee market.

The Inspire Africa Coffee Park represents a pivotal step in Uganda’s journey towards becoming a leader in coffee value addition. By fostering transparency, accountability, and private sector collaboration, the project could transform Uganda’s coffee industry and deliver long-term economic benefits.

For Uganda’s coffee farmers and the nation, the future looks promising as initiatives like this continue to take root and flourish.