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.

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.

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.

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.