Category: Uganda News
20 Year Old KIU Student Voniter Nassanga Declares 2026 Presidential Bid, Calls for Youth Leadership
Share on XShare on FacebookShare on WhatsApp Kampala In a political statement that has captured national attention, Voniter Nassanga, a 20-year-old Kampala International University student, has formally submitted nomination papers to contest Uganda’s presidency. Her campaign centers on advocating for vulnerable mothers and children and calls on President Yoweri Museveni to give the youth an opportunity to lead. A Platform Rooted in Compassion Nassanga emphasizes the struggles faced by single mothers and their children often victims of irresponsible fatherhood as a key driving force behind her bid. She positions herself as a voice for the marginalized and a champion of generational change. “Uganda’s leadership must open the door for young people our time is now.” Voniter Nassanga Youth Engagement in Public Discourse Her announcement aligns with a growing wave of youth political participation in Uganda. Student organizations have recently taken stronger stances on issues from anti-corruption to social welfare, signaling a shift in civic engagement among the younger generation. A Political Terrain Dominated by Experience Uganda’s presidential race is historically dominated by veteran leaders. With strict nomination rules including an age requirement of 35–75 years Nassanga’s candidacy challenges conventional norms and opens a debate about inclusivity in governance. Public Reaction Online and offline reactions to her bid have been mixed. While many applaud her courage and compassion-driven platform, others question her readiness to govern in a political landscape shaped by decades of entrenched leadership. As the 2026 elections approach, Nassanga’s campaign will test whether youthful ambition and fresh ideas can break through Uganda’s political establishment.
Uganda Cranes Secure Crucial 2–0 Victory Over Niger to Advance in CHAN 2024
The Uganda Cranes delivered a commanding performance to beat Niger 2–0 at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, securing their place in the knockout stages of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024). The opening goal came in the first half from Allan Okello, who calmly finished off a well-worked team move to give Uganda the lead. The Cranes continued to press and dominate possession, frustrating the visitors’ attempts to respond. In the second half, substitute Ivan Ahimbisibwe sealed the victory with a clinical finish, sending the home crowd into celebration. Uganda’s defense remained solid throughout, keeping a clean sheet for the second consecutive match. This win lifts Uganda to 6 points in Group C, placing them in a strong position to advance to the quarterfinals. Head coach Morley Byekwaso praised the team’s effort and spirit: “The players showed great character and composure. The support from the fans was fantastic and really motivated us to push for the win.” Uganda now awaits their quarterfinal opponent as the CHAN 2024 tournament intensifies. Fans will be hoping the Cranes carry this momentum forward in the knockout stages.
Platinum Credit Heathens Begin Title Defense with Mixed Fortunes
Defending men’s champions Platinum Credit Heathens began the 2025 Nile Special Uganda Rugby Sevens Series with a runner‑up finish and a challenging second round. In the season opener – the Kabaka Coronation 7s (Aug 2–3 at Kyadondo Rugby Club) – the Heathens reached the men’s final but were edged 17–5 by Walukuba Barbarians. Flanker Julius Oyuk actually drew first blood for Platinum Credit, scoring an early unconverted try to put Heathens up 5–0, but Walukuba turned the game around with three unanswered tries in the second half. The loss handed Heathens the silver medal. In the second leg – the Gulu 7s (Aug 9–10 at Pece Stadium, Gulu) – the Heathens struggled in pool play. They drew 5–5 with KCB Kobs and fell 12–10 to Kampala Eagles in Pool B, finishing third in the group and failing to advance to the cup quarterfinals. Thus far Heathens have collected series points but trail early leaders. Uganda Rugby Union notes that Platinum Credit Heathens were the 2024 series champions and head into 2025 as defending titleholders. Last year’s title was the club’s first since 2013, ending their long drought. The Heathens roster features several standout players. Flanker Julius Oyuk (a Ugandan international) scored in the Coronation final, and the team’s defense remains staunch. Off the pitch, the club benefits from a major sponsorship by Platinum Credit Uganda, which in 2023 unveiled a three‑year UGX 330 million deal to support the Heathens (hence the team’s “Platinum Credit” name). This backing covers player welfare, insurance and more, reinforcing the club’s stability and ambition. Looking ahead, the Heathens will aim to bounce back in upcoming rounds (the next stop is Rujumba 7s on Aug 23–24) as they defend their crown. The 2025 series will span seven legs across the country, and every match carries points toward the overall standings. As one rugby analyst notes, “Heathens RFC were 2024 champions and return in 2025 as defending champions,” putting a target on their backs early in the campaign. 2025 Nile Special Uganda 7s Series – Key Details Event (Stop) Dates (2025) Region / Venue Host Kabaka Coronation 7s Aug 2–3 (Central) Kyadondo Rugby Club, Kampala Buganda Kingdom Gulu 7s Aug 9–10 (North) Pece War Memorial Stadium, Gulu Gulu City Falcons Rest Weekend Aug 16–17 – – Rujumba 7s Aug 23–24 (Central) King’s Park (Stanbic Pirates), Bweyogerere Black Pirates Entebbe 7s Aug 30–31 (Central) Works Grounds, Entebbe Entebbe Mongers Kyabazinga 7s Sep 6–7 (East) Walukuba Rugby Stadium, Jinja Walukuba Barbarians Rest Weekend Sep 13–14 – – Kabale 7s Sep 20–21 (West) Kabale Rugby Club, Kabale Kigezi Silverbacks Buffaloes 7s Sep 27–28 (Central) (Central Uganda – Buffaloes RFC) Buffaloes RFC Men’s Standings After 1 Round Rank Team Points 1 Walukuba Barbarians 22 2 Platinum Credit Heathens 19 3 Toyota Buffaloes 17 4 Rhinos RFC 15 5 KCB Kobs 13 6 Entebbe Mongers 12 7 Stanbic Black Pirates 10 8 Rams RFC 8 9 Kampala Eagles 7 10 Elgon Wolves 5 11 Jinja Hippos 5 12 Gulu City Falcons 1 Women’s Standings After 1 Round Rank Team Points 1 Thunderbirds 22 2 Walukuba Titans 19 3 Avengers 17 4 She Wolves 15 5 Black Pearls 10 6 Nile Rapids 0 Note: Nile Rapids did not field a team at the Kabaka Coronation 7s; their series points are pending official review. The Nile Special 7s Series features pool play followed by knockout rounds at each stop. Teams earn series points based on their finish at each tournament, and the overall champions are the clubs with the highest total points across all seven legs. National broadcaster NBS Sport and the AfroMobile app televise and stream the events live.
Uganda Cranes Dominate Guinea 3-0 in CHAN 2024
Kampala, Uganda — August 8, 2025 The Uganda Cranes delivered an impressive performance against Guinea at the Mandela National Stadium, securing a resounding 3-0 victory in their Group C match of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. This win marks a crucial turnaround for Uganda, who were looking to bounce back after a challenging start to the tournament. From the first whistle, Uganda controlled the tempo of the game with confident passing and solid defensive organization. Their attacking play was fluid, creating numerous scoring opportunities that kept the Guinean defense on high alert. Reagan Mpande broke the deadlock with a perfectly timed header, sending the home crowd into jubilation and setting the tone for the rest of the match. The Cranes continued to press forward, showing tactical discipline and seizing every opportunity. Allan Okello’s calm conversion of a penalty after a video assistant referee (VAR) review underscored Uganda’s growing composure and ability to capitalize on crucial moments. His goal further lifted the spirits of the fans and players alike. Late in the match, substitute Ivan Ahimbisibwe put the finishing touches on a clinical display, expertly finishing a well-placed corner to seal Uganda’s victory. Dubbed “The Hunter” by fans for his relentless pursuit and precision, Ivan’s goal was a fitting end to Uganda’s dominant performance. The reaction on social media was immediate and enthusiastic. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) celebrated the Cranes’ “flying” performance, while the official CAF Instagram page highlighted Ivan’s crucial late goal. Fans shared clips of the goals and celebrated the team’s resurgence across platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter). Uganda’s coach praised his team’s resilience and strategic execution, stating, “The boys showed great character today. We adapted well after our previous match and took control when it mattered. Ivan’s contribution was vital, and we are motivated to keep this momentum.” Guinea’s coach acknowledged Uganda’s superiority but remained hopeful about their team’s prospects in the remaining fixtures. “Uganda deserved the win today,” he said. “We will analyze our performance and prepare for the challenges ahead.” With this victory, Uganda moves up the Group C standings, setting up an important clash with Niger in their next match. The Cranes’ performance sends a strong message that they are serious contenders in CHAN 2024, much to the delight of their passionate supporters. For fans eager to relive the excitement, match highlights and reaction clips continue to trend across social media, showcasing Uganda’s finest moments against Guinea. Watch the match highlights here
Police Ready to Offer Protection to NUP Members in Mubende, Conditional on Legal Compliance
Uganda Police National Unity Platform NUP Mubende Police protection Uganda Uganda politics 2025 Political events Uganda Mubende news Public order Uganda Political party fundraising Uganda law enforcement In a recent development, the Uganda Police Force in the Wamala Region has announced its readiness to provide protection to members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) in Mubende, contingent upon adherence to legal procedures. Background Earlier this week, a planned fundraising event by the NUP at their party offices in Kirungi Cell, Mubende Municipality, was blocked by the police. According to Wamala Region Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala, the event was halted because the organizers failed to inform the police and the Office of the Resident District Commissioner, as required by law. Kawala emphasized that such gatherings cannot proceed without proper authorization. Police Statement “If they want their fundraising event to take place, they should write to the Police, and we are ready to provide security. Kawala further stated, This statement indicates a willingness to facilitate NUP activities, provided they comply with legal requirements. NUP’s Response In contrast, NUP’s Mubende Chairperson, Pafuladito Kyeyune, expressed skepticism about the police’s intentions. Kunga Chairperson in Mubende Kyeyune Pafradito with registered Party members at NUP Mubende Office He described the directive to seek permission from the Inspector General of Police as a “delay tactic,” suggesting that authorities might not grant approval for such events. Kyeyune remains hopeful, asserting, “But it will all be well in a new Uganda.”
UPDF Officers Complete Human Security Planning Training to Strengthen Somalia Operations
Photo Credit: UPDF / ATMIS Kampala / Mogadishu The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has wrapped up an important Human Security Planning training for its officers serving in Somalia, aimed at improving how troops plan, coordinate, and work with communities in conflict-affected areas. The training, conducted at Sector One Headquarters in Mogadishu, was a five-day interactive workshop led by Brigadier General Joseph Ssemwanga, the Sector One Commander. The program focused on practical staff planning, teamwork, and civil-military coordination—ensuring that military operations align with the needs and safety of civilians. This initiative was supported by the United Kingdom Mission Support Team in Somalia (UKMST), whose expertise helped guide participants through real-life operational scenarios. Brig. Gen. Ssemwanga emphasized that such workshops are key for “mentoring, coordination, and effective planning” to achieve mission success. Colonel Ben Ramsey, Commander of the British Forces in Somalia, praised the UPDF’s commitment to stability in Somalia, noting that Uganda’s contribution to African Union missions for over 18 years has been central to weakening Al-Shabaab and restoring peace. Human Security Planning is not just about defeating threats—it’s about building trust, engaging with communities, and creating conditions for lasting stability. For the UPDF in Somalia, that means every operation considers civilian safety and long-term peacebuilding as much as battlefield objectives.
