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Uganda’s Supreme Court has delivered a landmark ruling declaring that military courts lack the constitutional authority to try civilians, ending years of legal and political debate. The court found that the structure of military tribunals—where judges lack legal training, have no security of tenure, and operate under executive influence—violates fundamental principles of justice.

The National Drug Authority (NDA) has released its Annual Report for FY 2022/23, highlighting a stellar performance in healthcare regulation. Achieving a 95% impact performance rate, licensing over 14,700 drug outlets, and strengthening drug safety measures, the NDA’s efforts underscore its commitment to ensuring quality healthcare products in Uganda. The report also addresses challenges like stakeholder engagement gaps and outlines a strategic vision for future growth.

Major (Rtd) Gertrude Njuba’s story is one of remarkable courage and resilience. From evading death at a roadblock to playing a key role in the National Resistance Army (NRA), Njuba’s sacrifices during Uganda’s liberation struggle remain a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication. As Uganda marks its 39th Liberation Day, Njuba urges the youth to reflect on the peace they enjoy today, cautioning against taking it for granted. She reminds us that peace is fragile, hard-won, and worth safeguarding, as the lessons of history teach us to cherish every moment of stability.

Unpaid care work in Uganda, including cooking, cleaning, and caregiving, is overwhelmingly performed by women, who dedicate an average of 7 hours daily compared to 5 hours for men. Entrenched social norms, especially in rural areas, reinforce this imbalance, limiting women’s economic opportunities and perpetuating inequalities. While education and urbanization show promise in challenging these norms, the report emphasizes the urgent need for interventions like the POWER model to redistribute responsibilities, engage men as change agents, and improve infrastructure.

The 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) results from UNEB showcase a strong national pass rate of 91.8%, an improvement from 88.0% in 2023. Science led in year-over-year improvement, with an 8% rise in distinctions, while Mathematics saw modest gains but remains the most challenging subject. English maintained broad success, though fewer students reached distinction level. However, the results highlight persistent disparities between urban and rural schools and foundational gaps in subjects like Mathematics and Social Studies. Addressing these issues through targeted investments in teacher training, curriculum reform, and rural infrastructure will be crucial to sustaining and expanding educational progress.

The burial of former Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya turned into a dramatic standoff in Butale village, Masaka District, as political tensions and disagreements overshadowed the ceremony. While mourners gathered to honor his legacy, divisions between National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders and parliamentary representatives erupted over burial arrangements, leaving his grieving family caught in the middle.

Muhammad Ssegirinya’s life embodied the resilience and aspirations of Uganda’s underprivileged. Rising from humble beginnings in Masaka District, he became a symbol of defiance, grassroots empowerment, and compassionate leadership. From his bold protests to innovative community programs, his legacy resonates as a testament to unwavering dedication to justice and equality.

A new World Bank analysis warns that without urgent intervention, 20 of the world’s 26 poorest nations may remain trapped in poverty by 2050. The report highlights key obstacles such as conflict, climate vulnerability, and debt distress but also identifies unique opportunities, including rich mineral reserves and growing working-age populations. Success stories like Rwanda and Nepal show how effective policies and global support can lead to sustained economic growth.

A new report, Pathways to Prosperity for Adolescent Girls in Africa, highlights the immense potential of investing in adolescent girls, particularly in Uganda and across sub-Saharan Africa. With over half of African girls aged 15 to 19 out of school, married, or raising children, targeted interventions in education, health, and economic opportunities could generate over $2.4 trillion in economic gains by 2040. By addressing gender-based violence, reducing education costs, and equipping girls with market-aligned skills, policymakers have the chance to transform lives, communities, and economies. Investing in girls is not just a moral imperative but a key to Africa’s growth.