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Census Report Sparks Confusion over Population Figures in Uganda

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UBOS Boss

The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) recently released the final report from the nationwide census, but it has raised more questions than answers. Following the release, many Ugandans began scrutinizing the figures and expressing concerns over unexpected changes in population numbers. Several tribes, in particular, showed surprising results, leading to widespread confusion and doubt about the accuracy of the data.

One key observation was that while some ethnic groups saw their populations increase significantly, others experienced sharp declines. The previous census report indicated that the Buganda people remained the most populous ethnic group, followed by the Banyankole and the Basoga. However, the latest numbers brought unexpected revelations regarding other tribes.

The Acholi tribe, which had 2,131,443 members according to the 2014 census, now appears to have dropped to 1,941,913 people—a decrease of nearly 190,000. Similarly, the Gisu population fell from 2,390,975 in 2014 to 2,096,149 in the latest census.

In contrast, the Bakiga tribe showed a dramatic rise from 1,470,884 people to an astounding 2,947,886, nearly doubling their population. Similarly, the Langi population increased significantly, jumping from 1,647,382 to 2,703,277.

These discrepancies led to immediate action from UBOS. In response to the public outcry, the report was swiftly removed from their website. Many were left questioning the accuracy of the census results and the reliability of the data presented.

UBOS officials, including spokesperson Betty Nawoova, have since offered explanations for the errors. According to Nawoova, mistakes were made in how some of the population figures were recorded and allocated to different tribes. She explained that in 2014, some tribes were mistakenly given figures that did not belong to them.

“For example, the Bakiga were initially reported to have a population of 1,470,884, but those figures actually belonged to the Acholi tribe. Similarly, the Langi were reported as having 1,647,382 people, which should have been the Gisu’s population count,” Nawoova explained.

UBOS has provided corrected figures, which are as follows:

Acholi tribe: 1,941,913

Bagishu tribe: 2,096,149

Bakiga tribe: An increase of 556,862 members, not the nearly one million as previously reported.

Langi tribe: 2,703,277

Nawoova admitted that these errors were embarrassing but emphasized that mistakes can happen, and UBOS is committed to ensuring that the correct data is shared with the public. Despite the confusion, UBOS has affirmed that Uganda’s total population now stands at 45,905,417.

While UBOS continues to address concerns, many Ugandans are still questioning how such significant errors occurred in the first place and whether the updated figures truly reflect the country’s demographics.

In Uganda, there seems to be a growing concern regarding the practice of hiring unqualified or inexperienced individuals, particularly in various organizations, including government offices like UBOS (Uganda Bureau of Statistics). This issue is often attributed to nepotism or favoritism, where jobs are given based on personal connections, such as tribal affiliations or family lineage, rather than on merit and qualifications.

Such practices not only undermine the professionalism of these institutions but also lead to inefficiencies, errors, and poor service delivery. Hiring decisions should be based on qualifications, competence, and experience to ensure the effective functioning of organizations and foster public trust in these institutions.

Uganda Police Force Under Fire: Another Death in Custody Rocks Masindi

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Shocking news coming to our desk indicate that, a suspect has died in police custody in Masindi, Uganda, sparking outrage and calls for investigation. This incident is the latest in a string of similar cases that have plagued the Uganda Police Force.

And this incident happens in Masindi this time, it’s the Masindi police under fire after a 37-year-old man died while in custody for allegedly stealing Shs980,000. The man, identified as Patrick Mujuni, was arrested on Sunday and found dead in his cell just a few days later.

His brother claims Mujuni was healthy when arrested and suspects foul play, alleging “severe torture” at the hands of the police. Understandably, the family is demanding answers, urging the Professional Standards Unit to investigate the Masindi police.

While the police have not released many details, the Albertine region spokesperson Julius Allan Hakiza confirmed an investigation into the cause of death is underway. In a statement, he added to inform that the cause of this death in custody was not yet established by press time as he was waiting for the investigation report.

“We are informed about the death of a suspect in custody identified as Patrick Mujuni who was detained on Sunday and he died from custody days after. We are yet to establish the cause of his death as Investigations are ongoing into the matter and we are waiting for the report” Julius Allan Hakiza stated.

Sadly, this isn’t an isolated incident. Cases of deaths in Uganda Police Force custody are tragically common in Uganda, raising serious questions about police conduct and the safety of detainees.

Tragedy: Soldier Kills Boss Over Pay Dispute, Then Himself

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In a shocking incident in Uganda, a soldier James Tolit Opio, allegedly shot and killed his boss, an Indian national, over a pay dispute before turning the gun on himself. This happened today Friday as the soldier felt it was enough of his boss working for free.

While at a construction site in Namasale Town Council, Amolatar District, the gruesome act happened and thus sending shockwaves through the community. The soldier, identified as Private James Tolit Opio, 38, was assigned to guard the site of Royal Velko Joint Venture Ltd, a company contracted for a water pipe system project.

Opio reportedly complained to his fellow guards about insufficient allowances. He then confronted his boss, 41-year-old Thirumalesh Itikala, the site engineer and manager, shooting him in the chest while Itikala was on the phone.

It is reported that after this, he then fled the scene but tragically took his own life shortly after. Both men were pronounced dead at Amolatar Health Center IV. Police are investigating the incident, urging better communication and problem solving in the workplace.

This tragic event shows the critical need for open dialogue between employers and employees, particularly in high-stress environments. Remember, this is not the first time such is happening, as many bosses have lost their lives due to their guards due to payment disputes.

German Investor Christian Arndt Conned of Millions in a Tricky Gold Scam

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A German investor Christian Arndt is claiming that he was scammed out of $1.5 million in a sophisticated gold scheme involving forged documents, a prominent lawyer, and even a member of Uganda’s First Family. This came in as a shocker but hey, it is true the unsuspecting investor was scammed in Uganda.

Christian Arndt, a former Tullow Oil employee, alleges he was lured into a series of fraudulent gold deals that left him broke and fearing for his safety. He claims a web of con artists, including lawyer Peters K Musoke, orchestrated the scam, using fake export permits and promises of massive gold shipments from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Arndt continues to say that he was initially introduced to the scheme through a friend and was enticed by the promise of large gold consignments. He claims he even met with a member of Uganda’s First Family, who reassured him about the legitimacy of the deals.

However, after numerous delays, forged documents, and escalating demands for money, Christian Arndt realised he had been duped. He later on embarked on the journey of getting justice and recover his hard earned cash that was put in the hands of the greedy Ugandans.

This is not the first case of its kind in Uganda, as many investors have been dupped by Ugandans a case in point in SK Mbuga who was even sent to jail in Dubai because of the same. There is a growing problem of gold scams in Uganda, particularly those targeting foreign investors.

These sophisticated gold scam schemes often involve high-ranking officials and exploit the country’s reputation as a regional gold trading hub. Christian Arndt has reported the alleged scam to Uganda’s State House Anti-Corruption Unit and is seeking justice for the financial and emotional distress he has endured.

Kasaija Dissolves Uganda Investment Authority Board

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The Minister of Finance Matia Kasaija has dissolved the board of directors of Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), Chimp Corps report.

The Minister earlier this week wrote to the UIA, informing the board that he had terminated its term of office.

A new board is now being set up to run the investment authority, according to informed officials.

Both Matia and his junior in charge of Investment, Evelyne Anite, were not available for comment on Tuesday evening. Aides said they were attending a meeting.

The UIA board chairman, Morris Rwakakamba today announced on X platform that his tenure had come to an end.

“Today marks the end of my tenure as Chairman of Uganda Investment Authority. I am so thankful to President Museveni for the opportunity to serve and Ministers of Finance, Board and staff of ⁦UIA for the support,” said Rwakakamba.

Rwakamba joined the UIA Board six years ago, first as a member and Chairman of the Board’s Investment Promotion and Public Relations Committee (IPPRC).

In June 2021 when the then Chairman, Dr. Emely Kugonza, left to join parliament, President Yoweri replaced him (Kugonza) with Rwakakamba, a role he played till today (three years and three months).
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UIA said in a statement that despite Rwakakamba taking the reins at UIA amidst the COVID-19 pandemic which disrupted business, investments, and people’s way of life, he, in concert with the management and staff, not only ensure business continuity but also superintended various initiatives to “bring business, investments and the economy back”.

“In the financial year 2021/22, his first year as Chairman, licensed investments stood at 395, up from 256 in the previous year (2019/2020). Planned investments rose to $1,864,931,126 billion, up from $830,604,485 million in the previous year, while planned direct jobs upped to 43,442, from 25,762 the previous year,” said UIA today.

ChimpReports understands that two board members – Angelo Izama and Beatrice Mpairwe – whose contracts were recently renewed, also had their new terms of office terminated by Kasaija.

“The two (Angelo and Mpairwe) had just been reappointed to serve another term but a letter came from Kasaija saying they had to go,” said a source, adding, “The last few months have been turbulent for the authority – in their (Finance Ministry) wisdom, this is what they have decided.”
UIA board members (Source: UIA Website/October 1, 2024)

Clashes

UIA’s Investment Code grants the Minister of Finance powers to dissolve the board.

However, in his letter, Kasaija did not provide reasons for his decision.

Nevertheless, the dissolution of the board comes amid a clash between Anite and UIA Executive Director Robert Mukiza.

The duo clashed over counter accusations of corruption.

On her part, Anite accused Mukiza of authorising and benefiting from Shs 545m honoraria granted to UIA officials who supervised construction works at Namanve Industrial Park.

Anite said the honoraria was drawn from a loan secured by the government for the park’s development.

In his defence, Mukiza said the UIA staff were enumerated for their ‘additional responsibilities’ during the supervision of the infrastructure works following the termination of the Owner’s Engineer (OE) on August 29, 2022.

Mukiza said the honoraria was approved by the UIA board.

The UIA ED also told President Museveni that Anite had a ‘personal interest’ in the acquisition of land for the establishment of a solid waste water treatment plant, SME park and campsite in Namanve.

Anite denied the accusations, saying meetings held with the UIA Management and the Board of Directors agreed on actions to be taken on acquisition of the land and nominated a team to negotiate its purchase.

Observers have warned that these dramatic scenes covered widely by the media threaten to tarnish Uganda’s investment climate.

In May 2024, UIA’s Deputy Director General, Paul Kyalimpa, resigned to “undertake professional training for more than one year, that requires intense concentration and dedication.”

TRAGEDY – Soldier Shoots Self Dead Over a Guest House Attendant

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A soldier shot himself dead in Kaabong, Uganda, after a heated argument with a colleague over a guest house attendant. The incident occurred at the Korimong Guest House where Pte David Wabule, stationed at the nearby Longoromit Battalion Headquarters, found his lover with a fellow soldier.

The woman in question is identified as Lucky Auma, who worked at the guest house. The shooting events unfolded later on in a very ugly manner that sparked a lot of question sin the neighborhood. Here is how it went down.

Pte David Wabule reportedly enraged by the sight of Auma and found her standing with Pte Ngabirano Gerald Akampulira, he consequently confiscated Akampulira’s phone and went off. He returned to the guest house after a few minutes armed with an AK-47 rifle and opened fire, aiming for Auma his wife and two other colleagues who had sought refuge in a separate room.

Thankfully, he missed on his targets, and within a twist of events, Wabule instead turned the gun on himself, and unalived himself. Military officials have launched an investigation into the incident. Maj Isaac Oware, spokesperson for the 3rd Division, confirmed the recovery of the weapon and expressed regret over the “misconduct”.

Local police are also conducting inquiries, with Auma and two other soldiers currently in custody.

Commemorating the 24th Anniversary of the Passing of Ssekweyama

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Anthony Ssekweyama

Today, October 1, 2024, marks 24 years since the Democratic Party of Uganda lost one of its most promising and beloved figures, Wagaba Anthony Ssekweyama, in a tragic accident. His untimely death on this same day in 2000 left the country, especially the supporters of the Democratic Party, in a state of deep sorrow.

Wagaba Anthony Ssekweyama, who served as the spokesperson for the Democratic Party (DP), tragically lost his life in a fatal road accident near his home in Nakungube, along Nsangi-Masaka Road. It was around lunchtime, at approximately 2:00 PM, when his car, a Mark II that he was personally driving, was involved in a collision with a Lorry Isuzu. The accident took his life instantly, leaving a void in the hearts of many Ugandans.

At the time of his passing, Ssekweyama was widely regarded as the future of the Democratic Party. He was on the path to becoming the party’s President General, a position that many Ugandans, particularly those in the Buganda region, firmly believed he was destined for. His charismatic leadership, dedication to his party, and the overwhelming support from citizens made him a frontrunner for the presidency of Uganda which didn’t happen.

The day of his death was a moment of collective grief, not only for his family and friends but also for the entire nation. His supporters, who had placed their hopes and trust in him, were devastated. His potential to lead the country into a new era of democratic governance was cut short, leaving many to wonder what might have been had he lived.

As we reflect on the 24th anniversary of his death, Wagaba Anthony Ssekweyama’s legacy continues to resonate. His commitment to democracy, his vision for a better Uganda, and his enduring impact on the Democratic Party remain cherished by those who knew him and those who still draw inspiration from his life.

Today, we honor his memory and acknowledge the profound loss felt by his family, the Democratic Party, and Uganda as a whole.

Ambulance Swept Away by Floods on Mukwano Road

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Ambulance Swept Away by Floods

An unfortunate incident occurred on Sunday night as an ambulance belonging to the Ministry of Health was carried away by heavy floods along Mukwano Road in Kampala. The vehicle, registration number UG 6738M, was swept away into a drainage ditch following the heavy downpour that affected various parts of the city.

Eyewitness Accounts of the Incident

According to eyewitnesses at the scene, the ambulance was driven by a lone driver at the time of the incident. While attempting to navigate the road, the floods became too strong, pushing the vehicle off course and into a nearby ditch. The driver tried to maintain control of the vehicle, but the force of the water was overwhelming. Fortunately, no passengers were on board at the time.

“The water came in so fast and strong, and before we knew it, the ambulance was being swept into the ditch,” said one witness. “It was scary to watch, but we are thankful that only the driver was inside, and no one was seriously hurt.”

The Impact of Heavy Rainfall in Kampala

Sunday night’s rainstorm was intense, leading to severe flooding in several low-lying areas of the city. Roads like Mukwano Road, which are prone to flooding, quickly became impassable, creating a dangerous situation for drivers. The incident with the Ministry of Health ambulance is just one of many examples of the challenges posed by the city’s poor drainage infrastructure during heavy rains.

Kampala has been struggling with flooding issues for years, especially during the rainy season. Blocked drains, poor urban planning, and inadequate flood management systems have led to waterlogging in various neighborhoods, damaging property, causing traffic disruptions, and posing a threat to public safety.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Local authorities and good Samaritans at the scene acted quickly, but the high level of water made it difficult to retrieve the ambulance immediately. Efforts are currently underway to safely remove the stranded vehicle from the ditch and assess the extent of the damage. Officials from the Ministry of Health are also on-site to evaluate the situation.

“We are doing everything we can to recover the ambulance. Thankfully, the driver escaped without any serious injuries. It could have been worse if the ambulance was carrying patients or other passengers,” said one official from the Ministry of Health.

A Call for Improved Infrastructure

The incident has reignited the conversation around Kampala’s need for better flood management and drainage systems. With increasing frequency and intensity of rainstorms, many residents are calling on the government to prioritize infrastructure improvements to mitigate the risks posed by such floods.

Mukwano Road, in particular, has been highlighted as a high-risk area during rainy seasons, with several similar incidents having occurred in the past. Local leaders and environmental activists have urged the city’s authorities to take immediate action to prevent future occurrences.

The stranding of the Ministry of Health’s ambulance on Mukwano Road is a reminder of the dangers posed by heavy rains and flooding in Kampala. While no lives were lost, the incident underscores the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades to ensure the safety of road users, especially during extreme weather conditions.

As rescue efforts continue to retrieve the ambulance, it is hoped that this incident will prompt swift action to address the city’s drainage issues, preventing further accidents and keeping residents safe during the rainy season.

 

Poverty and School Dropouts Fuel Shocking Surge in Gender-Based Violence in Katakwi District

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A shocking new study has revealed a disturbing trend in Katakwi District, Uganda, where gender-based violence (GBV) is spiraling out of control. The culprit? Poverty and school dropouts, which experts say are creating a perfect storm for violence against women and girls.

Katakwi District now tops the list for GBV cases in the Teso and Karamoja regions, with a staggering 3,345 cases reported between April 2023 and March 2024. This alarming figure has sparked urgent calls for action from local leaders and human rights organisations.

Betty Angiro, a Senior Probation Officer in Katakwi, spoke to The Monitor about the factors driving this horrific trend. “Most of the cases are a result of rising school dropout rates and poverty, which often lead to forced marriages and subsequent GBV, largely due to financial insecurity,” she explained.

Adding another layer to the issue, Angiro pointed out that government poverty alleviation programmes, while well-intentioned, have inadvertently exacerbated the problem. “In many instances, men have assaulted women to take control of funds meant to empower them,” she added.

The link between poverty and GBV is further underscored by Soroti Member of Parliament, Jonathan Ebwala, who stated, “If we don’t get out of poverty, GBV will continue in the region.” He highlighted that Karamoja is the poorest district in the region, followed by Iteso and Bukeddi areas, painting a grim picture of the challenges faced by these communities.

This crisis isn’t just about physical violence; it’s also impacting the health and futures of young girls. The Center for Health, Human Rights, and Development (CEHURD) revealed that poor menstrual hygiene is contributing to school dropouts and increasing the risk of GBV. Girls forced to leave school due to period stigma often face limited prospects and become vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

In a nutshell, Katakwi District is facing a multi-faceted crisis where poverty, lack of education, and inadequate healthcare are fueling a horrifying surge in GBV. The situation demands immediate and comprehensive action to address the root causes and protect the most vulnerable members.

President Museveni Champions Local Milk Production at Royal Milk Factory Launch

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President Kaguta Musevenu

In a move set to bolster Uganda’s dairy sector, President Yoweri Museveni inaugurated the Royal Milk Enterprises Factory in Kampala, emphasizing the importance of local production for economic growth and food security.

The President’s visit, attended by government officials and dairy industry stakeholders, signals strong support for value addition and youth engagement in agriculture. The newly launched factory, collecting 200,000 litres of milk daily from across Uganda, embodies the nation’s ambition to transition from a primarily agricultural economy to one that embraces value-added processing.

President Museveni praised the company’s founders, the Kigoye family, for embracing commercial farming and investing in processing capabilities, stating, “Shifting focus from liquid milk to processed products for export is crucial. This is something you must take seriously.”

From Humble Beginnings to Export Ambitions

Royal Milk Enterprises, established in 1995 by Hajji Buruhan Kigoye, has steadily grown from its humble origins in Masindi District. The company’s commitment to expansion and modernization is evident in the new factory, which is poised to significantly enhance production capacity.

President Museveni acknowledged Uganda’s impressive milk production of 5 billion litres annually, emphasizing the vast potential for meeting international demand. He highlighted the economic advantages of processing liquid milk into powdered milk, making it lighter and less expensive for export.

Government Support and Private Sector Innovation

The President pledged government funding to support the company’s acquisition of an Ultra Heat Treatment (UHT) plant, a move that would double production capacity and create more jobs. This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to fostering growth in the dairy industry.

Mr Saleh Kigoye, Executive Director of Royal Milk Enterprises, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector. He highlighted the company’s role in bridging the gap between government initiatives, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), and practical application in the dairy sector.

The PDM, a government program providing loans to small-scale farmers, has played a significant role in boosting milk production.

A Model for Youth Engagement and Economic Transformation

The event also saw praise for the company’s role in empowering young entrepreneurs. H.E. Jan Sadek, the Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Uganda, commended Royal Milk Enterprises for embodying President Museveni’s vision for industrial transformation.

He highlighted the company’s leadership, stating, “Royal Milk is not just about milk; it’s about youths. The company is led by a dynamic team of young entrepreneurs who are creating jobs, driving innovation, and showing the world that Ugandan youth can achieve anything with the right vision.”

Summary:

The launch of the Royal Milk Enterprises Factory marks a significant step towards strengthening Uganda’s dairy industry. By championing local production, value addition, and youth engagement, President Museveni’s vision for a more prosperous and self-sufficient Uganda is being realized.

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