By Bazio Doreen

Adjumani District is preparing for another round of development investments under the second phase of the Development Response to Displacement Impacts Project (DRDIP II), but concerns over financial accountability, incomplete infrastructure and weak community management are raising questions about whether lessons from the first phase will translate into better results.

The concerns emerged on Friday, November 6^th, 2026, when a delegation from the World Bank, Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Ministry of Local Government and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) visited the district headquarters to assess its preparedness for DRDIP II.

The meeting brought together district political and technical leaders, representatives from UNHCR Adjumani, OPM Adjumani and the Resident District Commissioner’s office, among other stakeholders.

DRDIP II is a five-year Government of Uganda programme implemented through OPM, with US$328 million in World Bank financing. It targets approximately three million people, including one million refugees, in refugee-hosting and transit communities.

The programme seeks to address the social, economic and environmental pressures associated with displacement through investments in community infrastructure, essential services, livelihoods and environmental restoration. It also seeks to strengthen peaceful coexistence between refugees and host communities.

For Adjumani, a major refugee-hosting district, the stakes are high.

What did Shs 57 billion deliver?

Presenting the district’s performance under DRDIP I, District Desk Officer Gulam Abubaker reported that Adjumani implemented 386 sub-projects valued at UGX 57,070,801,129/= benefiting 139,263 people.

The investments included: 60 classrooms, 1,080 desks and 264 latrine stances. These interventions improved the classroom-to-pupil ratio from 1:110 in 2019 to 1:72 in 2023, the desk-to-pupil ratio from 1:7 to 1:5 and the latrine-to-pupil ratio from 1:79 to 1:60 respectively.

Other education investments included two science laboratories, ten dormitories, three examination halls and 14 teachers’ houses.

At Alere Secondary School, the science laboratory intervention was followed by the school attaining fourth position in science performance among 22 secondary schools in the district. The dormitories also supported increased enrolment at Mungula and Maaji Secondary Schools.

In the health sector, DRDIP I supported five outpatient departments, three general wards, one maternity ward, one drug store and an Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

At Adjumani Mission Health Centre III, admissions reportedly increased from 171 to 532 following the construction of a general ward, while Maaji Health Centre II registered a reported 30 per cent increase in health-seeking behavior after the construction of an outpatient department.

The project also constructed 144 kilometers of roads, one bridge and two markets, alongside 12 water taps, 4.3 kilometers of water pipelines and a 60,000-litre water tank.

Environmental and livelihood interventions included 1,043 acres of woodlots, 30 acres of ecosystem restoration, 35 acres of irrigation, 26 solar installations in institutions and 3,038 improved cook stoves.

Under the livelihoods component, 47 Village Revolving Funds (VRFs), 107 Common Interest Groups (CIGs) and four Special Interest Groups (SIGs) received support. Collectively, the groups generated UGX 8.5 million in revenue, including UGX 4.7 million in profit.

While these figures demonstrate the scale of investment, the district’s own assessment identified gaps that could undermine the sustainability of the achievements.

Three components, different development priorities

Adjumani began preparations for DRDIP II on March 17, 2026, identifying proposed investments across the program’s three components.

Under Component One, covering community infrastructure and social services, the district identified 98 proposed sub-projects costed at UGX 135.3 million.

Component Two focuses on environmental and natural resource management, with Adjumani earmarking 4,400 acres for ecosystem restoration.

Component Three targets livelihoods and economic opportunities. Proposed interventions include 30,000 chicks, 11,250 acres of soya and simsim, 1,800 acres of maize, 720 acres each of coffee and cocoa, support to 50 business groups, 36 demonstration plots, 11 tractors, 11 value-addition groups and 11 micro-scale irrigation groups.

The proposals are intended to improve community services, restore degraded environments, increase agricultural productivity and strengthen economic opportunities for refugees and host communities.

However, the scale of the proposed investments raises questions about how beneficiary selection, financial management, technical support and market access will be handled to ensure that the interventions produce lasting results.

Accountability and sustainability concerns

During the assessment, district leaders and development partners raised concerns about weaknesses experienced under DRDIP I.

Participants reported that some beneficiary groups received project funds and subsequently became inactive or disappeared, while others lacked formal registration and adequate financial management capacity.

Failure to follow procurement procedures, sometimes influenced by local political interference, was also identified as a challenge.

The meeting further highlighted groups that had been identified but never received support, discrepancies in beneficiary information recorded in the project system and difficulties monitoring community bank accounts.

Participants called for stronger beneficiary verification, formal registration and financial literacy training before funds are disbursed.

They also questioned the practice of transferring funds directly to community groups where members lack adequate financial management skills, recommending a review of the approach to strengthen oversight while maintaining community ownership.

The district called for greater involvement of its procurement unit in awarding contracts, improved coordination between OPM and district authorities, and clear communication whenever implementing partners are engaged through memoranda of understanding.

Contractor performance was another concern, particularly companies taking on several sub-projects but failing to complete them within agreed timelines.

The nearly completed abattoir under DRDIP I, reportedly standing at 90 per cent completion, was identified for follow-up.

Participants also demanded that equipment for previously constructed infrastructure be put to use, inactive project bank accounts be closed and mismanaged funds recovered.

Adjumani Resident District Commissioner, Toko Swaib, specifically called for the recovery of mismanaged funds in Maaji Settlement.

Other recommendations included: prioritizing persons with disabilities, linking supported business groups to the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) for product certification, and strengthening risk management and market access.

OPM promises stronger safeguards

Eng. Francis Okello, Civil Engineer for DRDIP II at OPM Kampala, said contracts for the new phase were expected to be awarded in February 2027.

He said five per cent of the funding allocated to each sub-project would be reserved for operation and maintenance to support the functionality and sustainability of completed investments.

Okello added that infrastructure designs would incorporate sustainability measures and beneficiary groups would undergo capacity-building before funds are disbursed.

Key project personnel would also receive training on implementation policies and expectations.

He said OPM was working on operational funding and Project Implementation Funding Frameworks (IPFs), which were expected to be shared with benefiting districts before the end of November 2026.

On contractor accountability, Okello said contractors who failed to deliver under DRDIP I had been blacklisted and would not be considered for new contracts.

OPM would also write to the Permanent Secretary to the Treasury regarding unspent project balances that had been swept back into the Treasury.

The district’s Chief Administrative Officer was tasked with writing to the Permanent Secretary, OPM, seeking support to fully equip the ICU constructed under DRDIP I.

Okello further said the CAO and District Desk Officer should profile previous woodlot beneficiaries to explore opportunities for carbon financing. He added that a risk management plan was already in place.

World Bank stresses peaceful coexistence and inclusion

Davina Roselyn Vusia, Forced Displacement Specialist at the World Bank, said peaceful coexistence between refugees and host communities should remain central to DRDIP II because addressing displacement-related development challenges is the program’s primary purpose.

She urged the district to prioritize beneficiary groups from the first phase that remain active, strengthen project data and information management, and support refugees to access land for productive activities.

Koma Stephen, Commissioner for District Inspection at the Ministry of Local Government, called for clear roles and responsibilities among implementing stakeholders to improve coordination and accountability.

He encouraged refugees to participate in environmental restoration, particularly tree planting and fruit growing, noting the pressure on natural resources caused by demand for firewood in settlements.

Stephen also called for greater utilization of community-based organizations and refugee-led organizations, while urging groups to avoid forged documents and practices that could undermine donor confidence.

Francesco Rubino, FAO Project Coordinator, emphasized the need to fast-track IPFs, harmonize DRDIP II with other government programmes and clarify activities that districts can implement directly and those requiring external technical support.

He also highlighted market access and private-sector participation as essential to ensuring that supported livelihood groups become economically sustainable.

The accountability test ahead

With contracts expected in February 2027, Adjumani has an opportunity to address the shortcomings of DRDIP I before the next phase moves into implementation.

However, several questions remain important for public accountability: Will previously supported groups be assessed to establish which are still functional? Will incomplete projects and unused equipment be addressed before new investments are undertaken? How will beneficiary selection, procurement and financial management be monitored? And will refugees and host communities have a meaningful role in deciding and overseeing projects that affect their livelihoods?

The district’s preparedness will also depend on adequate operational funding. Abubaker disclosed that limited operational resources had prevented the district from cascading project orientation to sub-counties, a gap that could affect community awareness and participation if not addressed.

Ultimately, DRDIP II must move beyond counting approved projects, funds disbursed and infrastructure constructed. Its success should be measured by whether schools, health facilities, roads and livelihood enterprises remain functional, whether public resources reach intended beneficiaries and whether refugees and host communities experience lasting improvements in their lives.

For Adjumani, the next phase is not simply another opportunity to spend development funds. It is an opportunity to demonstrate that lessons from a UGX 57 billion investment can produce stronger accountability, inclusive development and more sustainable results.

END

By Onzima Allan

For the 20 students of St. James Secondary School in Dzaipi Sub-county, Adjumani District, the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations represent more than a final test of what they have learnt over the years. They carry the hopes of families, the expectations of teachers and the possibility of opening doors to university and other opportunities.

As the 2026 UACE examination season begins, eight girls and 12 boys from the school are preparing to take on the examinations, with the majority drawn from science classes. Their preparations have been supported by teachers and school administrators, but the candidates now face the responsibility of translating years of classroom instruction into results.

The national examination briefing took place on November 6^th, with written UACE papers scheduled to begin on November 9^th and run until December 5^th, 2026.

At St. James, Head Teacher Amale Savior said the examination process begins with the briefing of candidates and involves the contribution of several stakeholders to ensure that the exercise is conducted smoothly.

He urged candidates at St. James and other schools to play their part by remaining disciplined, confident and focused throughout the examination period.

One of the candidates, Kenyi Baptist Alau, expressed readiness for the examinations and encouraged fellow candidates to remain confident in their preparation.

For learners still in the lower classes, the moment also carries a sense of expectation. Eriyo Petrua, a student at the school, wished the candidates, particularly those in Senior Six, success, expressing hope that their efforts would produce positive results.

A growing examination cohort, greater responsibility

The 20 candidates at St. James are part of a much larger national cohort. According to the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), 203,875 candidates registered for the 2026 UACE examinations, up from 166,400 in 2025, representing a 22.5 per cent increase. In Adjumani, 813 students are set to sit for the exams up from 132 in 2022.

The growing number of candidates reflects the increasing demand for advanced-level education and the importance of ensuring that learners are adequately prepared, supported and assessed fairly.

At school level, Deputy Head Teacher in charge of Academics, Emmanuel Odong, said teachers had done their part by equipping learners with the knowledge and skills required for the examinations. He urged candidates to apply what they had been taught rather than allow anxiety to undermine their preparation.

However, the responsibility of schools does not end when candidates leave the examination room. Odong also raised concerns about what happens to learners during school holidays, when some may be exposed to risks that affect their education, health and future.

He urged students to use the holiday productively by helping their parents, participating in community activities, reading and acquiring practical vocational skills.

He cautioned learners against idleness and negative peer influence, including drug abuse, theft and early sexual relationships. He also expressed concern about early pregnancies and HIV among school-going children in the district, calling on both girls and boys to make responsible decisions and protect their wellbeing.

The risks that follow learners home

Odong’s concerns reflect a wider national challenge. Teenage pregnancy and child marriage continue to threaten the education and future prospects of many adolescent girls in Uganda.

The Ministry of Health’s 2024/25 annual report on multi-sectoral efforts to end teenage pregnancy and child marriage estimates that approximately 1,000 teenage girls become pregnant every day in Uganda. The report also indicates that 34 per cent of girls marry before the age of 18.

The 2024 National Population and Housing Census further found that 6.5 per cent of girls aged 10 – 19 nationally had begun childbearing. The figure was also 6.5 per cent in the West Nile region, while the Madi sub-region recorded 3.8 per cent.

These figures provide important regional context, although they do not establish the prevalence of teenage pregnancy among students at St. James Secondary School or in Adjumani District specifically.

HIV also remains a concern among young people. Preliminary findings from Uganda’s 2025 Population-based HIV Impact Assessment, released by the Ministry of Health in October 2026, put HIV prevalence among young people aged 15 – 24 at 1.5 per cent, with prevalence higher among young women at 2.0 per cent compared with 1.0 per cent among young men. Among girls aged 15–19, prevalence was estimated at 1.3 per cent.

The statistics underline why learner protection cannot be treated as a responsibility that belongs to schools alone. They point to the need for sustained guidance, access to accurate health information and supportive environments in which young people can make informed decisions.

Parents and schools must remain involved

As candidates prepare to complete their final examinations and other learners head into the holiday, Odong called on parents and guardians to take an active role in guiding their children.

He urged families to monitor their children’s activities, offer counselling and maintain communication with them, rather than leave them without direction during the long break.

He also encouraged parents and guardians to ensure that learners return to school when the new term begins, warning that the holiday should not become an opportunity for children to disengage from education.

The call raises an important question for parents, schools and education stakeholders: how can the progress made in classrooms be protected when learners are outside the school environment?

For schools, this means making guidance and counselling a continuous part of learner support, including preparing students for the risks they may encounter during holidays. For parents, it means creating time to listen to, guide and supervise their children. Community leaders and relevant service providers also have a role in ensuring that young people can access appropriate information and support.

The examination period may determine the next academic step for the 20 candidates at St. James, but their long-term success will depend on more than the grades they obtain.

As they sit for their final examinations, their teachers hope to see the years of preparation reflected in their results. For the younger learners watching them, their journey offers a reminder of what education can make possible.

Yet, beyond the examination papers and eventual results, the bigger responsibility remains: ensuring that every learner has the support, protection and opportunity needed to complete their education and build a future.

END.

By Allan Onzima

For many adolescents and young people in refugee-hosting communities, accessing sexual and reproductive health services can be complicated by limited facilities, inadequate privacy and the fear of being judged when seeking sensitive health information.

At Mungula Health Centre IV in Adjumani District, efforts are underway to address some of these barriers through the construction of a UGX 43 million Adolescent-Friendly One Stop Centre designed to give young people a safe, private and welcoming environment to access essential health services.

Train a Girl Child Uganda (TAGU), together with its partners, has handed over the construction site to a contractor, marking the beginning of a three-month project expected to strengthen access to adolescent-friendly Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services for young people in refugee and host communities.

The centre is being established under the Girls in Crisis – Deepening Impact (GiC-DI) project, with support from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Judith Neilson Foundation through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program.

Once completed, the facility is expected to provide adolescents and young people with access to SRHR information, counselling, referrals and related services in an environment that respects their privacy and dignity.

The intervention comes amid longstanding infrastructure challenges at Mungula Health Centre IV, which have affected the facility’s ability to provide some services in an appropriate environment.

Janet Mundua, Executive Director of TAGU, outlined the project’s objectives and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that sexual and reproductive health services are accessible to adolescents and young people in both refugee and host communities.

She emphasised that access to SRHR services should not be limited by where young people live or their circumstances, noting that TAGU would continue working with partners to strengthen service delivery.

Dr. Atia Joseph Idoru, the In-Charge of Mungula Health Centre IV, welcomed the intervention, describing it as an important response to infrastructure challenges that the facility has experienced over the years.

He expressed optimism that the support from TAGU would help address the long-standing infrastructure gap and improve the environment in which adolescents and young people receive health services.

His remarks highlighted the importance of appropriate infrastructure in delivering quality healthcare, particularly services that require confidentiality and sensitivity.

Funding constraints heighten the need for partnerships

The intervention comes at a time when humanitarian operations are facing significant funding constraints, placing additional pressure on organisations and institutions supporting refugee and host communities.

Angua Christine, Assistant Field Officer for UNHCR in Adjumani, acknowledged the growing resource challenges, noting that humanitarian needs remain high even as available funding becomes increasingly limited.

She said the support provided through the initiative was particularly important at a time when resources are scarce and competing emergencies require attention.

Her remarks highlighted the growing importance of partnerships in sustaining essential services for vulnerable communities, especially adolescents who require consistent access to health information and support.

Twebaze Penelope, Assistant Settlement Commander for Mungula Refugee Settlement, commended TAGU and its partners for the initiative and pledged continued support from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM).

She assured stakeholders that the settlement leadership would support the project from groundbreaking through construction to completion, including monitoring to ensure that the work meets the intended standards.

Beyond the construction: Will young people benefit?

The UGX 43 million investment represents an important step towards improving adolescent-friendly healthcare infrastructure in Mungula. However, the centre’s long-term impact will depend on more than the completion of the building.

Its effectiveness will also rely on the availability of qualified health workers, consistent supplies, appropriate referral systems and services that adolescents can access without fear of stigma or discrimination.

For young people, particularly girls, the availability of confidential counselling and reliable SRHR information can help them make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.

The project is expected to be completed within three months, with stakeholders committing to continued collaboration and monitoring throughout implementation.

For Mungula Health Centre IV, the intervention offers an opportunity to address a longstanding infrastructure challenge. For adolescents and young people in the surrounding refugee and host communities, it presents the prospect of accessing essential health services in a space designed with their specific needs in mind.

Ultimately, the success of the initiative will be measured not simply by the completion of the UGX 43 million facility, but by whether young people feel safe, respected and confident enough to use the services it is intended to provide.

END.

By Bazio Doreen.

For a trader operating in Adjumani Town Council, paying local taxes comes with an expectation that the money will translate into cleaner streets, better public infrastructure, improved services and a more functional local government.

But when garbage collection is irregular, public infrastructure remains inadequate and essential services fall short of expectations, residents may begin questioning what they are getting in return for their contributions.

This relationship between taxation and service delivery took centre stage during a fiscal decentralization and Integrated Revenue Administration System (IRAS) training organized by the Local Government Finance Commission (LGFC) at Adjumani District Headquarters.

The Commission challenged political and technical leaders to address weaknesses in revenue mobilization, eliminate collection leakages and strengthen accountability for public resources amid concerns over the district’s failure to meet its own-source revenue targets.

The engagement brought together heads of departments, newly elected Local Council III chairpersons, Sub-County Assistant Chief Administrative Officers (SACAOs), Account Assistants and members of the District Executive Committee.

Discussions exposed a significant gap between the district’s revenue ambitions and actual collections, raising questions about whether Adjumani is fully exploiting its available revenue sources and whether existing collection systems are delivering the expected results.

Revenue collections remain below expectations

Figures presented during the training show that although Adjumani’s local revenue collections have increased in absolute terms over the past three financial years, the district continues to fall short of its annual targets.

In FY 2023/2024, the district collected UGX 412 million against a target of UGX 2.04 billion, representing 20 per cent performance.

Collections improved to UGX 1.018 billion in FY 2024/2025 against a target of UGX 2.07 billion, translating into 49 per cent performance.

However, in FY 2025/2026, the district collected UGX 1.082 billion against a target of UGX 2.64 billion, representing 41 per cent.

For FY 2026/2027, the district is targeting UGX 2.64 billion, although first-quarter collections stood at just UGX 65.86 million.

The figures point to a revenue administration challenge that goes beyond setting ambitious targets. They raise questions about the identification of taxable economic activities, the efficiency of collection mechanisms, enforcement and the capacity of revenue officers to monitor potential revenue sources.

Unzia Martine, Chairperson of the LGFC, said Adjumani was added to the Commission’s support supervision programme because of its relatively low revenue performance despite having been engaged three times previously to review its local revenue mobilization.

She argued that the district should be collecting more revenue than some local governments with smaller revenue bases.

However, her concern was not limited to the amount collected. She questioned whether residents could identify the services supported by their tax contributions.

“Do taxpayers, especially in Town Council, feel value for the money they pay? Do they get adequate access to electricity? Is their garbage collected on time? These are things that can motivate people to pay taxes on time,” Martine said.

Her remarks highlighted an important relationship between local taxation and public trust: residents are more likely to comply with their tax obligations when they can see how their contributions improve their communities.

Martine also observed that political leaders establish a social contract with the public through their election manifestos and must therefore be accountable for translating their promises into tangible services.

She revealed that political leaders would be incorporated into IRAS performance monitoring to reinforce their oversight responsibilities in local revenue administration.

Revenue leakages and inadequate facilitation.

Fred Andema, Senior Manager for Revenue and Research at the LGFC, identified weaknesses in the district’s revenue collection structures as some of the factors that could be contributing to poor performance.

He observed that Adjumani may not have exhausted its available revenue base, suggesting that the district needs to identify untapped sources and improve the administration of existing ones.

One of the concerns he raised was the inadequate facilitation of Parish Chiefs, who play an important role in revenue mobilization at the local level.

According to Andema, failure to provide these officers with the necessary resources and motivation can create opportunities for revenue leakages and weaken collection efforts.

“We need to also motivate the people collecting this local revenue. Parish Chiefs should be facilitated and motivated. At least 10 per cent of revenues collected should be allocated for this purpose,” he said.

He further challenged the district to move beyond preparing annual revenue enhancement plans as routine administrative requirements, urging officials to implement, monitor and periodically review them.

Andema also called for the revival of property tax collection through the functionalization of the district’s property valuation board, whose previous term expired in FY 2023/2024.

The Commission recommended a broader revenue improvement approach centered on assessing revenue potential, expanding the tax base, reducing leakages, improving compliance, enforcing taxes fairly and making realistic forecasts.

These proposals raise important questions about the district’s capacity to translate existing revenue opportunities into actual collections and whether the officers responsible for mobilization have the necessary resources to do their work.

Leaders challenged to lead by example.

The responsibility for improving local revenue performance also drew attention from district political and technical leaders.

Hon. AA Rokani Moses Simba, District Speaker, called for collective responsibility and equal enforcement of revenue obligations, warning against allowing personal relationships to interfere with revenue assessment and collection.

“Do not say this is my brother and so I can’t assess him for the local revenue payment. We need to work together to improve our district’s financial capacity,” he said.

Simba urged political leaders and revenue officers to spend more time in communities identifying revenue opportunities and following up on collections instead of relying heavily on meetings.

His remarks highlighted the need for fairness and consistency in enforcing local revenue obligations, particularly where personal relationships and political influence could undermine compliance.

Leku Samuel, Chief Finance Officer, acknowledged operational challenges affecting revenue administration, particularly delays in remittances to lower local governments.

He attributed some of these delays to bureaucratic approval processes involving different stakeholders.

He also revealed that government plans to establish a dedicated department for revenue collection, although further details about its structure and implementation were not provided during the engagement.

Leku urged district stakeholders to embrace technology and strengthen collaboration in improving the use of IRAS.

“We need to appreciate technology and help others to improve our IRAS performance. I urge those directly involved in revenue mobilization to use resourceful persons amongst us,” he said.

Ocen James Andrew, Chief Administrative Officer, expressed optimism that the district would register improved performance during the current financial year.

He attributed part of his optimism to the arrival of a new Deputy Chief Administrative Officer from Oyam District, which he observed had been performing better than Adjumani.

Will the recommendations translate into results?

One of the key resolutions from the training was the establishment of a district task force to monitor local revenue performance and strengthen accountability among the different stakeholders involved in revenue administration.

The task force is expected to track collections, identify operational challenges and follow up on the implementation of agreed revenue enhancement measures.

The training also emphasized the use of IRAS dashboard reports as tools for monitoring revenue performance, identifying collection gaps and strengthening political and technical oversight.

The Local Government Finance Commission is a constitutional body established under Article 194 of the Constitution of Uganda, mandated to advise government on matters concerning the financing of local governments.

For Adjumani, however, the real test will be whether the recommendations translate into measurable improvements.

The district must demonstrate that it can identify and exploit available revenue sources, address weaknesses in collection systems, adequately facilitate revenue officers and ensure that enforcement is fair and transparent. Equally important is accountability for the money collected.

When residents pay taxes but cannot see improvements in waste management, local infrastructure and other essential services, confidence in the revenue system can weaken. Conversely, visible improvements in service delivery can strengthen public willingness to comply with tax obligations.

The proposed district task force therefore faces a responsibility that goes beyond tracking figures on an IRAS dashboard. It must help establish a revenue system that is efficient, transparent and responsive to taxpayers’ needs.

Ultimately, Adjumani’s success will not simply be determined by whether it reaches its UGX 2.64 billion target. It will also depend on whether residents can point to meaningful improvements in their communities and confidently say that the money they pay is making a difference.

END.

By Herbert Yiki

For the pupils of Mother Theresa Preparatory Primary School, a visit to Gift of Love Slovak Catholic Caritas Uganda was more than an opportunity to meet children living in difficult circumstances. It was a practical lesson in compassion, sharing and the responsibility to care for people who need support.

The pupils, accompanied by their teachers and school administrators, visited the charitable organization, which provides care and support to disadvantaged and vulnerable children.

The visit brought together staff from both institutions, community members and local leaders in a gathering that celebrated Christian values of love, charity and solidarity while drawing attention to the needs of vulnerable children.

Hon. Anyanzo John Ambayo, the LCV Chairperson of Adjumani District and Guest of Honor, commended the school for nurturing compassion among young learners, describing such initiatives as important in shaping responsible and caring members of society.

The school administration said the visit was intended to help pupils understand the importance of sharing with others and extending kindness to children facing difficult circumstances.

Asiku James, Educationist, also praised Gift of Love Slovak Catholic Caritas Uganda for its commitment to caring for disadvantaged children, noting that the centre was making a difference in their lives through love, support and care.

He challenged Adjumani District leadership to increase publicity about the facility so that more people could learn about its services and support its work.

His appeal highlighted the importance of community awareness in connecting vulnerable children with organizations and services that can improve their wellbeing.

A call for collective responsibility.

Catherine Riria, co-founder of Caritas Slovak Catholic Uganda – GOLD, called for stronger partnerships in addressing HIV/AIDS and supporting children experiencing hardship.

She made the appeal during the visit, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to ensure that vulnerable children are not left without the care and support they need.

Her message pointed to the broader social challenges affecting children and the importance of collaboration among charitable organizations, government institutions, communities and other development partners.

For organizations working with disadvantaged children, sustained support is essential to maintaining care services and creating opportunities for children to develop their potential.

Beyond care: Preparing children for the future.

In his remarks, Anyanzo acknowledged the work being done by Gift of Love Slovak Catholic Caritas Uganda and pledged support for the facility.

He also highlighted the importance of practical skills development, linking the work of the centre to the ATMS development agenda, which stands for Agro-industry, Tourism, Minerals, and Science, Technology and Innovation.

Anyanzo referred to a recent engagement in Gulu where district leaders were addressed by the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation on the importance of promoting practical skills as a foundation for development.

He emphasized the relevance of equipping learners with skills that can prepare them for productive and self-reliant futures.

The emphasis on practical skills adds another dimension to the work of organizations supporting vulnerable children: beyond providing immediate care, there is a need to create pathways through which children can acquire knowledge, develop abilities and participate meaningfully in society.

Turning compassion into sustained support.

The visit by Mother Theresa Preparatory Primary School offered an opportunity to demonstrate that supporting vulnerable children is a shared responsibility that extends beyond charitable organizations.

While the pupils brought a message of love and solidarity, the calls from community members and educationists highlighted the need for more sustained institutional and public support for facilities such as Gift of Love.

Improved publicity, stronger partnerships, community involvement and investment in practical skills development could help expand the opportunities available to children under the center’s care.

For the visiting pupils, the experience offered a lesson that cannot always be taught within classroom walls: that the wellbeing of others matters and that even small acts of kindness can contribute to a more caring society.

Ultimately, the challenge is to ensure that the spirit of giving demonstrated during the visit does not end with the event, but grows into sustained support that gives vulnerable children greater opportunities to live with dignity, develop their abilities and build independent futures.

END.

By Bazio Doreen

Adjumani District leaders have ordered a special audit into the alleged mismanagement of public funds in Ukusijoni Sub-county, following concerns raised by residents during a community accountability meeting.

The audit, expected to be completed within 14 days from Friday 30^th October 2026, will investigate the circumstances surrounding funds intended for the construction of an Askari house, routine road maintenance and a latrine.

The resolution was reached during a community Baraza held on Monday, November 2^nd, 2026, where district and sub-county leaders, technical officers, security personnel and residents reviewed the implementation of government programmes and development projects during the Financial Year 2025/2026.

The meeting also exposed concerns about outstanding Parish Development Model (PDM) funds, health infrastructure, maternal healthcare, school management, local revenue collection and community security.

While the district presented several development achievements, the discussions highlighted the gap between public investments and some of the concerns residents continue to face in accessing essential services.

PDM beneficiaries await UGX 120 million

One of the major issues requiring district intervention is the delayed disbursement of UGX 120 million under the Parish Development Model.

According to the sub-county performance report, UGX 380 million had already been disbursed to beneficiaries to support household enterprise development, while another UGX 120 million from the same allocation remained pending.

District leadership committed to following up on the outstanding funds to ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive the money.

Ukusijoni has 500 PDM beneficiaries, making the programme an important intervention in efforts to improve household incomes and support local economic development.

However, the outstanding disbursement raises questions about the pace of implementation and the ability of beneficiaries to access the resources intended to support their enterprises.

Health service concerns extend beyond infrastructure

Maternal healthcare emerged as another area requiring attention, with concerns raised over the availability and responsiveness of midwives during night duty.

Residents called for improvements to ensure that women arriving at health facilities in Labour receive timely assistance.

The district committed to engaging the relevant health authorities to follow up on the concerns.

At Ukusijoni Health Centre III, the performance report indicated a 15 per cent increase in facility deliveries and a four per cent reduction in malaria cases. The facility conducted 349 deliveries and attended to 15,586 outpatients during the reporting period.

Despite these reported improvements, the proposed renovation of the facility’s Outpatient Department block remains an outstanding priority.

The district resolved to follow up with the Ministry of Health on the proposed renovation.

At Maaji Health Centre II, leaders also committed to pursuing the proposed renovation of the general ward and staff quarters under the second phase of the Development Response to Displacement Impacts Project.

In October 2026, Ukusijoni Health Centre was among five facilities that received portable point-of-care ultrasound machines to improve antenatal care and facilitate early detection of pregnancy complications.

The challenge now is ensuring that investments in medical equipment are matched with adequate staffing, functional infrastructure and responsive services.

School management concerns trigger investigation

At Ukusijoni Primary School, allegations of resource mismanagement and abuse of office in the nursery section prompted the formation of a select committee to investigate the concerns.

The nursery section reportedly has three teachers receiving monthly payments ranging between UGX 150,000 and UGX 170,000, alongside parental contributions of UGX 35,000.

The committee, comprising the Local Council III Chairperson, Secretary for Social Services and Gombolola Internal Security Officer, is expected to investigate the allegations and report its findings.

The investigation will be important in establishing how the nursery section is managed, how parental contributions are utilized and whether the concerns raised reflect weaknesses in financial and administrative oversight.

The allegations have not yet been established as findings of wrongdoing.

Revenue shortfall raises questions about local financing

The sub-county’s financial performance report also revealed a significant gap in local revenue mobilization.

During FY 2025/2026, Ukusijoni collected UGX 26.3 million against a projected target of UGX 76.3 million, representing approximately 34.5 per cent performance.

The sub-county received UGX 125.6 million during the financial year and utilized UGX 74.5 million, equivalent to approximately 59.3 per cent expenditure.

The figures point to challenges in both revenue mobilization and the utilization of available resources, issues that could affect the implementation of local development priorities.

In response, sub-county leadership committed to scaling up the use of the Integrated Revenue Administration System to improve revenue assessment, collection and accountability.

The district will also follow up on the assignment of a Parish Chief to Maaji to address administrative and coordination gaps.

Development achievements amid outstanding needs

The Baraza also reviewed government interventions across agriculture, infrastructure, education, water and sanitation, livestock and social protection.

Under the road maintenance programme, the sub-county received UGX 6.6 million for maintenance of 23.8 kilometers across five road sections. Payaru–Gbala Road was also rehabilitated.

In agriculture, five farmer groups received support under the National Oilseeds Project, 15,000 coffee seedlings were distributed and a soya bean demonstration garden established.

Three small-scale irrigation schemes were installed under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers Programme.

A total of 740 livestock farmers were trained, while six groups were profiled for participation in the beef value chain under the Uganda Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project. The fisheries sector registered 285 beneficiaries.

In social protection, Amazara Disability Group, a goat-rearing enterprise in Bikeri Parish, received support through the disability grant, while 32 beneficiaries received payments under the Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment programme.

In education, 45 candidates sat for the Primary Leaving Examination, registering a pass rate of 76 per cent. Two boreholes were also rehabilitated in Eribaku Village and at Gulinya Road Junction.

However, the development review also highlighted persistent social challenges, particularly teenage pregnancy, which stands at 20 per cent in the sub-county.

With a population of 66,655 spread across five parishes, the need for accessible health, education, water and livelihood services remains significant.

Security and administrative concerns

Community security also featured prominently, with residents raising concerns about increasing crime and the need for a police presence closer to the community.

Sub-county leadership committed to lobbying for land to establish a police post and making village, parish and sub-county security committees functional.

Leaders also agreed to convene a stakeholders’ meeting to address outstanding administrative boundary disputes that require peaceful resolution.

The proposed extension of electricity to the sub-county headquarters will also be followed up, including establishing the status of funds reportedly allocated for the connection. The facility currently relies on an existing solar power system.

Will the commitments translate into action?

The Ukusijoni Baraza ended with several commitments, but their value will ultimately depend on implementation and whether residents begin to see improvements in the services they rely on.

The 14-day special audit, follow-up on the outstanding UGX 120 million in PDM funds, investigations into school management concerns and action on maternal healthcare are among the immediate issues requiring attention.

A district-level PDM review meeting was also scheduled for Thursday, November 5, 2026, to assess programme implementation and address outstanding concerns.

For residents, the next important measure of accountability will not simply be the number of resolutions made at the Baraza, but whether responsible offices act on them and report back on the outcomes.

The meeting demonstrated the value of community participation in local governance. Sustained follow-up, transparent reporting and public access to the findings of the agreed investigations will be essential in ensuring that the commitments made translate into better service delivery in Ukusijoni.

END.

By Yiki Herbert.

For adolescent girls, managing menstruation should never come at the expense of their education, dignity or confidence. Yet, for many girls in underserved communities, including refugee settlements, access to menstrual hygiene products and appropriate support remains an important part of their everyday wellbeing.

At Alere Senior Secondary School in Alere Refugee Settlement, efforts to address this challenge received a boost following the distribution of hygiene pads by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Royal Danish Embassy in Uganda and AFRIpads, in partnership with Adjumani District Local Government.

The intervention was part of a follow-up engagement under the Women Uganda 2025+ campaign, aimed at highlighting the sustained impact of Danish support towards strengthening adolescent and youth Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) empowerment programmes.

Beyond the distribution of hygiene products, the visit focused on promoting gender equality, empowering young people and preventing teenage pregnancies through sustainable Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) and male engagement.

For girls in refugee-hosting communities such as Adjumani, access to menstrual hygiene products is an important aspect of creating a supportive learning environment where menstruation does not become an additional barrier to their education and participation in school activities.

Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy at Makerere University and Male Champion, highlighted the components of the hygiene kits distributed to the learners, drawing attention to the importance of providing appropriate menstrual hygiene supplies.

Lulu Henry Leku, the Assistant District Health Officer in charge of Maternal Health, said Adjumani faces additional demands on its public services because of its refugee-hosting responsibilities.

He noted that refugees account for approximately a quarter of the district’s population, making support from development partners important in addressing the needs of both refugee and host communities.

He appreciated the partners for their continued contribution, noting that Adjumani would continue to require additional support to ensure that the burden of serving the population is shared.

“Adjumani appreciates the efforts of development partners and will continue to need more support to ensure the population burden is shared,” he said, adding that the intervention would help bridge gaps in resource allocation.

At the school, Head teacher, Achai Rosalina, welcomed the intervention, thanking the visiting partners and describing the gesture as a symbol of strength in promoting gender equality and girl-child empowerment.

Apio Sharon, Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Adjumani, said menstrual hygiene was a priority for the Office of the President, describing it as a matter of security.

Her remarks highlighted the wider implications of menstrual health, particularly the need to protect girls’ dignity, wellbeing and participation in education and community life.

Beyond distributing hygiene pads.

While the distribution provides immediate support to learners, the broader campaign also emphasizes sustainable menstrual hygiene management and male engagement.

This is important because menstrual health should not be treated as an issue affecting girls alone. Boys, parents, teachers, community leaders and institutions also have a role in creating environments where menstruation is understood, stigma is challenged and girls receive the support they need.

Engaging boys and men in menstrual hygiene awareness can help break cultural barriers, reduce discrimination and encourage shared responsibility in supporting adolescent girls.

The involvement of government and development partners also highlights the importance of sustained investment in adolescent health and sexual and reproductive health education, particularly in communities facing additional social and economic pressures.

For the learners at Alere Senior Secondary School, the hygiene pad distribution is a welcome intervention. However, lasting change will depend on more than occasional donations. It requires consistent access to menstrual hygiene products, appropriate sanitation facilities, accurate information and supportive school environments.

As efforts to advance adolescent health and gender equality continue in Adjumani, the bigger question is how such interventions can be sustained and extended to reach more girls across refugee settlements and host communities.

Ultimately, no girl should have to choose between managing her period and pursuing her education. Ensuring that girls can attend school with dignity and confidence is not simply a menstrual health intervention; it is an investment in their education, equality and future.

END.

By Onzima Allan

Two journalists, Okudi Martin of NBS Television and Sida Alfred of Radio Amani 89.1 FM, were reportedly arrested at around 2:00 p.m. on today Monday October 26^th while covering a protest at the Adjumani Resident District Commissioner’s (RDC) office over a longstanding land dispute in Ukusijoni Sub-county.

The journalists are currently being detained at Adjumani Central Police Station, according to information shared by the journalists.

Colleagues have alleged that the arrests were carried out on the orders of the office of the Adjumani RDC, Mr. Toko Swaib. However, the circumstances surrounding the arrests and the specific grounds for the journalists’ detention have not yet been independently established.

The RDC had not commented on the allegations by the time of publication.

The reported arrests come a day after the journalists covered the destruction of approximately 300 bags of charcoal in connection with enforcement of a previously contested ban on charcoal trade in the country.

It remains unclear whether their coverage of the charcoal incident was connected to their arrest. Media for All, Uganda had not independently established whether formal charges had been preferred against the journalists.

Renewed concerns over press freedom

The incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of journalists reporting on public protests, land disputes and government enforcement actions in the Madi sub-region.

In 2020, journalists from Moyo, Adjumani and Obongi reportedly petitioned the office of the Adjumani RDC over alleged violations of journalists’ rights during the enforcement of COVID-19 restrictions and the electoral period.

The latest incident has renewed questions about the environment in which journalists operate, particularly when covering sensitive public-interest issues involving government authorities and community grievances.

Article 29(1) (a) of Uganda’s Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, including freedom of the press and other media. This protection underpins the media’s role in informing the public, documenting events and promoting accountability.

Media for All, Uganda calls for clarification

Media for All, Uganda condemns any unlawful intimidation, harassment or obstruction of journalists carrying out their professional duties.

The organization calls on the relevant authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrests, communicate the legal grounds for the journalists’ detention and ensure that their rights and safety are protected.

It further urges the authorities to handle the matter through lawful and transparent procedures and to ensure that the journalists have access to legal assistance.

Media for All emphasizes that journalists must be able to cover public protests and other matters of public interest without fear of retaliation for their reporting. Any concerns about journalistic conduct should be addressed through established legal procedures rather than intimidation or unlawful restrictions.

The organization will continue to follow the matter and seek clarification from the relevant authorities as more verified information becomes available.

ENDS.

By Bazio Doreen

Adjumani District Local Government has begun stakeholder consultations on the proposed Atiak irrigation canal project, which is expected to extend across seven sub-counties in Adjumani as part of a wider irrigation initiative involving neighboring Amuru District.

The consultations are aimed at gathering views from local leaders, technical officers and other stakeholders to guide the proposed canal’s boundary demarcation, alignment and design ahead of implementation.

On October 20^th, 2026, the district leadership, in collaboration with Ingeniosite Engineering Consult Ltd, held a consultative meeting at the district headquarters attended by members of the District Executive Committee, district councilors, sub-county chairpersons, Senior Assistant Chief Administrative Officers and technical staff from the Production and Natural Resources departments.

The proposed project, initiated by Atiak Sugar Factory, is expected to cover approximately 109 kilometers across Ciforo, Ofua, Arinyapi, Pakele, Adropi, Dzaipi and Ukusijoni sub-counties.

The project will draw water from the River Nile to support irrigation and agricultural production. It also includes plans for greenhouse establishment and the development of selected agricultural enterprises in the participating sub-counties.

Consultations to guide project planning

Edema Richard, the Principal Assistant Chief Administrative Officer of Adjumani District, clarified that the meeting was a consultative exercise and not the commencement of construction works.

He explained that the engagement was intended to obtain views from local leaders and technical stakeholders to inform the planning process.

Edema also emphasized the importance of preserving the names of streams along the proposed canal route, noting that local geographical features and their names should be recognized during the planning and boundary demarcation exercise.

He further explained that the proposed project falls under a public-private partnership arrangement involving Atiak Sugar Factory, in which the Government of Uganda has a 40 per cent stake through the Uganda Development Corporation.

Irrigation infrastructure to support agricultural production

Eng. Joseph Kyagulanyi, the project team leader, said the proposed canal was initiated to address the factory’s need for a reliable water supply to support its operations and agricultural activities.

He explained that the proposed design would include fencing, on-site water storage and escape structures to manage excess water and help reduce flooding risks.

The use of water from the River Nile is central to the proposed irrigation scheme, which is intended to improve water availability for agricultural production. The technical planning process will guide the canal’s alignment and the infrastructure required along its route.

Greenhouse farming and new agricultural opportunities

Mesiku Harriet, Adjumani District Senior Land Management Officer, informed the meeting that the proposal includes: the establishment of greenhouses and support for agricultural enterprises in the selected sub-counties.

She explained that the district is expected to provide 10 acres of land for greenhouse establishment and each sub county is expected to select an enterprise from nine proposed options, of: coffee, rice, sun flower, macadamia, Hass Avocado, Cashew nuts, lemon, cotton and cocoa.

She also outlined plans to irrigate 80,000 acres along the canal and support eligible beneficiaries to obtain customary land titles adding that people affected by the project will also be compensated for their land.

The proposed activities are intended to expand agricultural opportunities in the participating communities by supporting greenhouse farming, crop diversification and access to irrigation. The selection of enterprises will help guide agricultural planning within the respective sub-counties.

District leadership calls for coordinated planning

Hon. Anyanzo John Ambayo, Adjumani District Chairperson, informed stakeholders that a feasibility study had been conducted and that further consultations would be organized with relevant line ministries, local leaders, Horyal Investment Holding Company Limited and the intended beneficiaries.

He said a memorandum of understanding would be signed with Horyal Investment Holding Company Limited after the final project design had been presented and approved by the district authorities.

The district leadership emphasized the importance of involving local leaders, technical departments and communities throughout the planning process to ensure that their views inform decisions on the proposed canal route and associated agricultural activities.

Environmental protection and support for local farmers

Lagu Charles, the District Agricultural Officer, called for the project to support sugarcane out-growers in Adjumani while creating opportunities for agricultural development across the participating sub-counties.

He recommended that a specific agricultural enterprise be selected for each sub-county and urged the project team to ensure that environmental protection is incorporated into the project planning process.

His recommendations highlighted the importance of coordinating agricultural development with environmental conservation and the interests of local farmers.

Agreed actions to guide the next phase

During the meeting, stakeholders agreed on several actions to support further consultations and project planning.

These include:

• Organizing an exchange visit for district councilors, Community Development Officers, Senior Assistant Chief Administrative Officers, sub-county chairpersons and district technical staff to learn from comparable initiatives.
• Holding consultations with Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, Local Council I chairpersons and other stakeholders in the selected villages.
• Undertaking boundary demarcation along the proposed canal corridor.
• Conducting community sensitization meetings for residents living along the proposed route.
• Organizing radio talk shows to raise awareness and provide opportunities for public engagement.
• Convening a joint meeting involving leaders from Adjumani and Amuru districts and technical representatives from relevant line ministries.
• Ensuring that Horyal Investment Holding Company Limited is represented in all planned engagements.
• Fast-tracking the final project design for presentation and consideration by the district authorities.

The agreed actions will guide continued engagement between the two districts, the project proponents and local communities as the project design is developed.

Background

Atiak Sugar Factory is a major agro-industrial investment in Amuru District involving Horyal Investment Holding Company Limited and the Uganda Development Corporation. The factory was established to support sugar production, promote sugarcane growing and create economic opportunities in northern Uganda.

The proposed irrigation canal forms part of efforts to strengthen water availability for agricultural production. By linking irrigation infrastructure with greenhouse establishment and selected agricultural enterprises, the initiative is expected to support agricultural development in the participating sub-counties.

For Adjumani District, the current consultations provide an opportunity for local leaders and technical officers to contribute to the planning process, coordinate with neighboring Amuru District and ensure that community views are considered in the proposed project’s design.

Adjumani District Local Government will continue engaging relevant stakeholders as consultations, boundary demarcation and technical planning progress. Construction and implementation arrangements will follow the completion and approval of the final project design and the necessary agreements.

END.

By Onzima Allan.

As the 2026 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations enter their second week, Senior Four candidates at Sacred Heart Secondary School in Bardege-Layibi Division, Gulu City, say early syllabus coverage, consistent revision and support from their teachers have strengthened their confidence in the national examinations.

The candidates say they are optimistic about achieving good grades, attributing their preparedness to the guidance they have received from teachers and the time dedicated to revision ahead of the examinations.

Ajok Debra, a Senior Four candidate who also serves as a leader in the Uganda National Students’ Association (UNSA), said completing the syllabus early and receiving guidance from teachers had boosted her confidence.

“We are confident that we shall perform well in our UCE examinations,” Debra said, adding that early preparation had helped candidates approach the examinations with greater confidence.

For international learners from South Sudan, Sacred Heart Secondary School has also provided an opportunity to pursue their education in a supportive learning environment.

Achol Garage D, a South Sudanese candidate, expressed satisfaction with her experience at the school since joining it. Her remarks highlighted the importance of a welcoming school environment for learners pursuing their academic goals away from their home country.

Beyond classroom learning, the school is also embracing digital education as technology increasingly shapes teaching and learning.

Charles Chan, the teacher in charge of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), said learners had shown interest in the subject, reflecting the growing role of digital skills in education. Further details on the school’s ICT programmes and how they support learners would help demonstrate the impact of this approach.

Meanwhile, the school’s head teacher, Sister Helen Lamunu, thanked parents for entrusting the institution with their children’s education.

“We thank the parents for trusting in Sacred Heart. As a school, we are neutral and we welcome everyone,” Lamunu said.

Her remarks underscored the school’s commitment to welcoming learners from different backgrounds and providing an inclusive learning environment.

A total of 250 candidates are sitting for the 2026 UCE examinations at Sacred Heart Secondary School. The school is optimistic that the candidates will maintain its record of academic performance as they complete this important stage of their education.

As the examinations continue, the candidates’ confidence reflects their preparation and the support they say they have received from their teachers. Their eventual results will show how well that preparation translates into academic achievement.

END