By Doreen Bazio—Adjumani District.

UN Women and Stanbic bank, Uganda, have partnered to advance the digitization of Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs), promote financial literacy, and improve access to critical services for refugee women and the host community in Dzaipi Sub County, Adjumani District.

At an event that took place at the Women’s Center in Nyumanzi Settlement on April 29th, 2025, the duo donated 35 smartphones and 1,250 fruit tree seedlings (jackfruit, mango, and avocado) to VSLAs, 334 mama kits to Nyumanzi HC II, and 133 reusable sanitary pads to girls and young women between 15 and 35 years old.

UN Women, with support from the Government of Norway and in partnership with Oxfam Uganda, Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI), Refugee Law Project (RLP), and the Coalition on Action for 1325, is implementing the Leadership, Empowerment, Access, and Protection (LEAPII) project (2022-2025) across Adjumani, Yumbe, Kyegegwa, and Terego districts. In Adjumani, 2,990 beneficiaries are being targeted.

Testimony.

According to Rose Chandia, a beneficiary and member of Amesutakuru Savings Group, they received training in financial literacy, and this has shaped how they allocate and manage resources within their households. She also observes that this has since boosted the confidence and self-esteem of many women in the community because they feel their contribution is acknowledged and respected.

“I was able to take my son to secondary school after he completed primary seven. This made my husband start listening to my advice and taking my ideas seriously. We are now engaged in commercial farming, and our family income has since increased,” Rose said while expressing gratitude during the event.

The Amesutakuru Saving Group, based in Nyumanzi Settlement, is one of the 35 groups that received financial literacy training from WPDI. The groups save on a weekly basis for the host communities and on a monthly basis for the refugees. Their cumulative savings as of March 2025 stand at shs 213,400,000/=, loans stand at shs 181,100,000/=, and cumulative social funds are shs 30,430,000/=. The average loan per group stands at shs 5,174,200/=. The loans are picked and utilized for petty businesses, paying school fees, and attending to health-related matters. Additionally, 25 groups also received small business grants totaling shs 62,500,000/=. These collect revenue of between shs 800,000/= and shs 6,000,000/=.

Stakeholders speak out.

Speaking in affirmation, Dr. Catherine Poran, the Chief Executive Officer of the Stanbic Business Incubator, said the bank has purposed to drive the growth of the economy by improving access to affordable credit, strengthening financial inclusion, and addressing barriers to financial empowerment for marginalized communities like the refugees through their corporate social responsibility role. She also encouraged the beneficiaries to not only plant but also grow the fruit trees as a source of income in the future.

“We are not just a financial institution, but we also provide social services by being intentional about contributing towards addressing challenges that hinder economic empowerment for the people we serve,” Dr. Poran explained.

On why this partnership is key, Dr. Paulina Chiwangu, the UN Women Uganda Country Representative, said that digital and financial inclusion for refugee women is key because very few of them have access to smartphones/digital devices, and yet this acts as a hindrance to economic growth in a fast-paced technology environment where everything is now digital. 

“Only about 16.9 million women in Uganda have access to a smartphone. Uganda’s digital gender gap is more pronounced in rural areas and marginalized communities like those of refugees. I was once a refugee in South Sudan, so I know what empowerment means for you,” Dr. Chiwangu observed.

On his part, Hon. Kaijuka Richard Arthur, the District Vice Chairperson, thanked UN Women for the support and continued collaboration over the years. He thanked UN Women for contributing to peaceful co-existence between refugees and host communities by initiating contributions that conserve the environment, as large parts of it are depleted by the refugees for firewood.

“Adjumani is extremely hot partly because of how we continue to deplete the environment. Planting the trees is a good idea, but sustainability is also key. I urge you to continue supporting the beneficiaries to grow the trees,” Hon. Kaijuka advised. 

However, Mr. Jogo Titus, the Refugee Desk Officer in the Office of the Prime Minister Pakelle, said that Nyumanzi Settlement has a good reputation for sustaining interventions and was thus optimistic that they would do the same with the donations. He added that there was, however, a need for more support because the district receives refugees on a daily basis, and yet, on the other hand, the World Food Program hasn’t only reduced its monthly cash assistance from shs 14,000/= to shs 10,000/= per individual but also only gives food and not trees. He also requested for the support to be extended to the other 19 settlements.

About the project.

Since 2022, UN Women and WPDI have reached out to 2,830 beneficiaries, with 2,500 of them women. The LEAP II project has 4 components: Gender Action Learning System (441 beneficiaries), Climate Smart Agriculture (389 beneficiaries, 70 acres of commercial orchids), Business support (829 beneficiaries), and VSLAs (1,171 beneficiaries). The LEAP project aims to strengthen gender-responsive humanitarian programming, enhance women’s leadership and protection, and promote sustainable livelihoods for refugee and host community women and girls. Earlier this year (2025), UN Women and Stanbic bank, Uganda, signed a 2-year Memorandum of Understanding to extend the #StanbicForHer initiative, a corporate social responsibility campaign by the bank, to 4 refugee camps, including Adjumani. 

91% of refugee families in Uganda are very susceptible economically, with West Nile refugees having the greatest degree of vulnerability (96%) as compared to those in the Southwest (84%). This is mainly because relief assistance is the primary source of income for around 54% of the refugee families. However, now refugees are able to participate in economic activities, and this percentage has since decreased to 37%, according to Oxfam Uganda.

END.

By Bazio Doreen

Authorities and health facility managers in Adjumani have met to strategize how to improve performance on the WASH and infection prevention scorecard. This follows a dismal performance in water coverage, sanitation hygiene, and infection control at both the health facility and community levels.

According to a study conducted by WaterAid, an NGO implementing in the district, for the period between January and March 2025, the 43 health centers in the district had achieved an average of 58% in WASH and Infection control at their facilities. The study assessed the health facility based on 6 parameters: Water supply, sanitation facilities, health care waste management, Environment and cleaning, management and training, and hand hygiene. The findings show that: Water coverage stands at 68%, sanitation and hygiene stand at 56%, infection prevention stands at 62%, health care waste management stands at 64%, washroom management stands at 53%, and general cleaning and administration stand at 43%. 

While sharing the findings in a review meeting held at the district council hall on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025, Onen David Livingstone, the SHARE Project Officer—WaterAid, noted that the findings were not only embarrassing but also suggested that the health facilities could be harboring diseases or infections, and this could potentially affect the health-seeking behaviors of patients due to loss of trust.

“This performance is unacceptable and way below the set standard. This is dangerous because one may visit the health center when you are not sick and leave with an infection. Some of you are even providing services without personal protective gear,” David noted.

The community is not spared either; the Village Health Teams (VHTs) were also accused of laxity in creating awareness, conducting surveillance, conducting sensitization, referrals, mappings, and offering minor treatment as ideal HC Is at the village level. According to records at the District Health Office, out of 50,373 households, 9,829 have no latrines, only 18,590 have improved latrines, 27,010 haven’t attained Open Defecation Free Status (ODF), and 4,665 still lack access to safe drinking water.

Atama Yunus, the District Biostatician, observed that the poor findings were mainly because of a lack of reporting by the VHTs due to limited motivation or education level, inadequate reporting tools, and lack of transport since some villages are quite big. Adjumani has 210 villages, 420 VHTs in the host communities, and 285 in the refugee community. He, however, quickly added that a new reporting tool will be rolled out in July 2025, and these concerns will be addressed before then.

In affirmation, Lulu Henry Leku, the ADHO-MCH, notes that if everyone played their part, clients at the Outpatient Department would continue to reduce by 1,000, as it has been the norm. He noted that this is key because health facilities are required to allocate up to 30% of their total budget for disease prevention and control with a target of conducting 48 outreaches. This, he said, isn’t debatable because these are assessed annually by the Office of the Prime Minister and contribute towards the general performance of the district.

While sharing his experience after his facility scored 100% in the study, Dima Felix, the Health Facility Incharge at Ajugopi HC II, said that they usually conduct mock assessments, motivate all key stakeholders like LCIs and VHTs to participate, the Health Assistant verifies the data, they do joint data screening, and they also leverage support from partners in the WASH sector.

“Everything is based on teamwork. We support and motivate each other to play their roles even without facilitation,” Felix revealed.

Building on the testimony, while making his closing remarks at the meeting, Hon. Sabuni John, the Secretary for Health, warned that the district leadership is aware that some health workers are fighting each other instead of working together and that they were ready to take appropriate action because they (especially the politicians) don’t want their opponents to leverage such loopholes.

“I hear some of you are playing politics on your colleagues. You leave that; it is not good. You need to improve… A weak politician may visit your Health centre and identify loopholes for their manifesto. Don’t give strength to our opponents to challenge us because we shall also deal with you after,” Hon. Sabuni warned.

The meeting was attended by health-in-charges, members of the District Health Office, and representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Lutheran World Federation (LWF), and Action Against Hunger. The meeting agreed on various recommendations and resolutions, including leveraging ongoing water projects to extend water to health facilities where it lacks, improving support supervision and motivation of VHTs through Health Assistants and Health Inspectors, conducting the 48 mandatory outreaches, exchanging visits between best and worst performing health centers, encouraging VHTs to frequently update their registers, and harmonizing the number of households per the catchment area of each health facility.

WaterAid is currently implementing the Sexual Health and Reproductive Education (SHARE) project in Uganda, with support from the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada. The five-year SHARE project that ends in 2025 seeks to advance gender equality and increase the enjoyment of health-related human rights by vulnerable right-holders, particularly adolescent girls and young women. Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) play a critical role in achieving SRHR for women and girls, especially as it relates to personal health.

Through SHARE, WaterAid has been partnering with the district to rehabilitate WASH systems in healthcare facilities, including installing handwashing units to prevent the spread of disease; restructuring sanitation facilities to ensure that toilets are inclusive and gender sensitive; training healthcare workers in healthcare facilities and in the community on WASH infection prevention and control; installing safe waste disposal systems; and training healthcare workers on proper waste management. 

By Bazio Doreen

What started off as lyrics/rumors in campaign songs has finally made its way into boardroom discussions and can now have a full Permanent Secretary brave an 8 hours’ drive on a murram dusty potholed road to find out facts. The masked rot and impunity at Adjumani’s Amelo Technical Institution is one that speaks for itself when one visits the institution. However, for one to understand why almost seven years later, the institution is only a shadow of other 11 counterparts countrywide, unearthing the truth goes beyond speaking to people that have access to the facility.

When Amelo Technical Institute was started in 2015 under the umbrella of Business Technical Vocational Education and Training Institution (BTVET) Strategic Plan of skilling Ugandans, many parents had hope that vocational education had been brought closer and would perhaps be cost effective. Located in Pakele Sub County, Adjumani District, West Nile Region, the institute is being hosted by the District Farm Institute along Adjumani – Gulu highway. However, its cardinal location (original buildings) is in Amelo Village, Adjumani Central Parish, Adjumani Town Council.

Many dreams of students in courses like: National Certificate in Motor Vehicle Mechanics, National Certificate in Electrical Installation, National Certificate in Building Construction Planning, National Certificate in Tailoring and Garment Design, National Certificate in Welding and Metal Fabrication; now lie in uncertainty. The school had its first and last graduates in 2019 under a program sponsored by one of its then partners, ENABEL. We like to blame COVID-19 for everything that has gone wrong in the past few years but is Amelo’s case the same?

How trouble started

The Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs. Janet Kataaha Museveni, was disappointed in 2015 when she visited the district to commission the institute after she found out that the work done was substandard. She tasked the Principal to vacate the premises and that is how the school ended up setting a base at the District farm institute.

“The building was not handed over. There is no boys’ dormitory. Plumbing and land scaping had not yet been done. We had occupied but she asked us to vacate.” Principal Ben Charles Kamba explains what happened.

Although some technocrats argue that the Minister had only come to inspect works carried out by her Ministry; why would someone inspect works when a building has already been occupied. However, in the space of about 5 years, 3 contractors abandoned the site until the District Leadership wrote a protest letter to the Minister that saw a Chinese firm finish the pending works. But the works stalled again after the last contractor lost the battle to COVID-19.

This was probably one of the reasons why the District Chairperson then (2016), Mr. Leku James Pili, and the Member of Parliament, Adjumani West Constituency, Gen. Moses Ali, got involved in the stewardship of the institution as part of the Board of Directors. They served alongside the current District Vice Chairperson, Mr. Kaijuka Richard Arthur; and current LCIII Chairperson – Pakelle Sub County, Mr. Kenyi Welborne.

Observers say this move brought more harm than good and cost the District Chairperson his seat in the just concluded elections because all the ill and impunity that took place was attributed to them as God fathers. However, Mr. Leku denies all these accusations.

“We only wanted to build a strong board with political influence. When we realized the institution had picked up, we quit in observance of the law.” Mr. Leku argues

After they had barely left, the Principal wrote a letter to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Sports on 5^th August 2016 indicating that Mr. Okot Bala Nelson, an instructor had abandoned duty for some months. Consequently, the then CAO, Mawejje Andrew, instituted a 3-member team on 26^th October 2016 consisting of the officers from the Internal Audit Unit, Human Resource and the Education department to carry out an audit of the utilization of grants as well as verify the allegations. The institution then replied requesting the CAO to give them some time since the Principal had just got an accident and was still under medication which seemed ironical since they were the first to write to the Ministry about the abandonment of duty by the instructor.

“…. after the consultation and communication with the Principal …who everybody heard and witnessed of his unexpected accident and still under medication has authorised me to write that your coming is welcomed but needs his presence” the reply letter from the Deputy Principal read in part

Audit findings

The audit was later done on 20^th December 2016 and it was verified from the attendance book that indeed Mr. Okot had abandoned duty. It was also discovered that all accounting records and non- accounting records were locked in the Principal’s office who at the time of the audit was still absent.

The audit team were told that the keys were kept in Kampala with the Principal’s brother who would turn up with them as and when need arises. The bursar also confessed that he had no cash book for the government grants.

Another audit done on 5^th November 2020 though obstructed also found that no proper learning and teaching was ongoing. Indeed, CAO Jack Byaruhanga later wrote to the Permanent Secretary on 2^nd June 2021 about poor governance at the school after the partners like FAWE, NRC, ENABEL, GIZ sponsoring students there withdrew their support and further tasked her to institute a fact finding mission.

The Permanent Secretary only bowed to pressure on 29^th April 2022 when she claimed to be a fact finding mission but in reality she was left with no choice after a council resolution under minute:31/OCM/11/03/2022 to transfer the Principal elsewhere and protest letters written by both the District Chairperson, Mr. Anyama Ben, on 28^th March 2022 and his political rival Gen. Moses Ali on 4^th April 2022 who wrote to the Minister of Local Government and Minister of Education respectively.

Situation

The District Chairperson in his letter among other things further cited: loss, disappearance and under utilisation of assets (solar panels, portable generator, pick up vehicle, beds); loss of Friesian cows, 8 out of 60 goats; exodus of 12/23 staff; non-functionality of the Board of directors; only 43 out of 150 students available; withdrawal of funding by NGOs; stalled projects and denial of stakeholders to access the institute for audit and inspection.

“There are only 6 courses and 2 classrooms. The factual enrollment on ground is different from the one portrayed. The school management has a poor relationship with the community around” reveals Mr. Dralada Kennedy, the LC1 Chairperson Amelo Village.

The District Council in its 11^th March 2022 sitting tasked the CAO to institute and audit into the allegations – which was indeed later done on 18^th April 2022 and thereafter sat again on 30^th March 2022 where it recommended the suspension of the Principal based on the reasons of: Abuse of office, Mal-Administration, Incompetence of the Principal and lack of accountability and transparency.

“We want the Principal to step aside and allow for proper investigations to be carried out on all the accusations raised” the Secretary for Education, Kaijuka Richard Arthur advised.

The first District Council sitting followed a petition from the Student’s Guild as well as a meeting with the school staff and students chaired by the Woman Member of Parliament, Adjumani, Ms. Ababiku Jesca. On the other hand, during the 5th ordinary council meeting held on March 30, 2022, Kaijuka, informed the council that Gen. Moses Ali had dragged his feet in the earlier council resolution.

In a petition dated 1^st March 2022 signed by the 12-member Student Guild and addressed to the District Education Officer, they accuse the Principal of abseentism and poor management. They further state that under his leadership they paid for certain things and never received them, received their uniforms on the day for sitting examinations and engineering students sat for an engineering paper but studied technical drawing.

“We need a change from hell to paradise. The Principal has over stayed his welcome. We have seen all the bad things physically; we are not imagining” the Vice Guild President, Mr. Alule Stephen cries out

“He scares us with suspension and expulsions such that we don’t express ourselves anywhere. We have suffered enough with him. We thought things would change but they keep worsening. We can’t continue with him” the Guild Speaker, Ms Ajio Olivia laments

In another protest letter, dated 4^th April 2022, the Board of Governors, also accuse the Principal of blocking them from executing their duties and holding meetings as mandated. They also informed the CAO how this makes them unable to guide and advise on the next course of action after the Principal had been assaulted on 30^th March 2022 at the school premises at around 3pm by a group of about 20 young men. However, the Secretary for Social Services and DLC Arinyapi Sub County, Sabuni John, thinks it might be a pay back from some disgruntled staff of workers.

“I think he was beaten by boys who did some work for him and he refused to pay them or some of the staff that keep leaving.” Sabuni argues

One such staff could be the School Bursar who has since resumed work and disowned a resignation letter addressed to the Permanent Secretary on 25^th April 2022, the same day that the Ministry said it would send a team to the district in the next 3 days on a fact finding mission. Mr. Tugumisirize Augustine, had clearly stated poor working environment as one of the reasons for his departure before he made a U-turn and refuses to discuss the issue.

Accusations

Observers say his change of mind could be that he was compromised by the pending visit of the Ministry’s Fact finding mission and the break-in into his office a day after he wrote the resignation letter. According to another letter dated 27^th April 2022, about the incident, Augustine says he was informed that the Principal ordered for the break in and changed the locks.

However, according to the CAO, the Principal has already sent him a WhatsApp message saying that the Ministry was equally auditing him and thus all the books of account were in Kampala. In the same message, the Principal had also said that he had been beaten by thugs and was receiving treatment in Kampala 2 days after the break in.

Although, he was present to attend to the fact finding team from the Ministry, he had a cloth wrapped around his neck and was using a walking stick. The CAO also further reveals that the Ministry of Local Government called him and tasked him to explain why he meddling in the affairs of the institute and thus from then, he decided to just watch on and do nothing much since the council had already made a resolution and gone ahead to make an effort to implement it.

The 2^nd Deputy Prime Minister had written to the Minister for Local Government, Mr. Raphael Magyezi, accusing the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Adjumani, Mr. Grandfield Omonda, of interference in the management affairs of the institute.

“My attention has been drawn to a letter Ref. CR/252/01 dated March 17, 2022 wherein the CAO Adjumani district local government directed head of internal audit, Adjumani district to conduct a special audit into the operations of Amelo technical Institute” Gen said.

Gen Ali said, Amelo technical institute is established in accordance with the provisions of the business, technical, vocational education and training act, 2008 which is directly supervised by the Ministry of Education and Sports adding that the letter by the CAO is in contravention of section 15(1) of the National Audit Act 2008 which mandates the Auditor General to audit Central Government.

“The purpose of this letter is therefore, to bring this matter to your attention so that you can prevail on the CAO Adjumani to desist from interfering in the management of Amelo technical Institute” Ali added.

Such coincidental acts of the Principal always being sick whenever an audit arises has made some people indeed believe in his threats that he has people or persons in high places protecting him.

“He told us that we won’t be able to finish this war because he has a rock in the Ministry of Education. He then gave me and the Guild Speaker 300,000/= each and promised to take us to watch the AFCON final if we stopped pursuing the petition.” Alule narrates

“The only thing that can explain how this rot has been going on for years is that he is conniving with people in the Ministry. He keeps saying he is leaning against a hard rock” Sabuni argues

“Gen. Moses Ali should have guided the district chairman if there were gaps in the council resolution, because any antagonism amid Gen. Moses Ali and the district council will have adverse consequences on the development progress of the district.” the Former Secretary for Education and District Vice Chairperson, Anyanzo John Ambayo advises.

“We should give the Ministry a benefit of doubt but expect a decisive solution to this matter. There is overwhelming tension about this matter and there is no more room for a god father.” Deputy Resident District Commisioner, Mr. Angupale Swadiq observes.

Concerns

This is not the first time a similar audit or move is done against the principal. The only difference is that this time, the District Chairperson and the only Minister in the district are not friends and thus have to work separately to resolve the issue. While it appears that it is a war of egos and political authority or power over the matter, one has a tainted name regarding the matter that he has to rebuild while the other has a campaign pledge to fulfil. While the students, parents and staff are hoping that whoever wins sincerely has them at heart and will indeed sort out the mess and give them hope again. But what do the technical people in this matter say.

The District Education Officer, Mr. Dima Robert, says that the Ministry should come clear on what the district can or can’t do because it seems like the law is applied selectively.

“I want the Ministry to make it categorically clear whether my office can inspect the institute because on many occasions the District Inspector of Schools is turned away by the Principal.” The DEO reveals

The District Internal Auditor, Mr. Akuba Denis, also observes that it is time wasting to always set up audits whose findings are never implemented.

“This is not the first time we are attempting to resolve such issues. In 2016, we tried it and failed and have since failed since then because the Principal seems untouchable.” Akuba observes

Defense

The Principal however insists that he represents government and thus should be providing services to the people. He also describes all the accusations as false allegations and power struggles and is optimistic that the fact finding report will vindicate him.

Recommendation

When the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Ketty Lamaro, visited the district on the fact finding mission, she left many people talking in whispers. She met the staff and the principal in closed door meetings and no one seems to know what was discussed. In the meeting with district leaders and technical staff, she also failed to pronounce herself on the mandate of the district on whether or not they can do audits and inspection. While she toured the original site, she said she didn’t see any major reasons why the Minister had ordered for the institute to vacate. She also said she believed the issues raised could easily be solved in a stakeholders’ meeting. She however, promised to inform the district leadership on what their final decision as regards to their resolution and recommendation.

Future

With the visible dilapidated structures, rusted equipment, management crisis, exodus of students, staff and implementing partners and the never ending battles between the Principal and stakeholders; one could argue that the god father, whoever they may be, has reduced an institute from classrooms to buildings and what they may now only be interested in is ensuring that their name is never mentioned because there is clearly nothing much to benefit from anymore. Amelo Technical Institute could become a castle built on sand if the Ministry continues to drag its feet in solving the mess

END.

By Bazio Doreen. 

Adjumani District leaders have given Presidential Initiative on Wealth and Job Creation (Emyooga) Program SACCO leaders a condition to recover at least 25% of the loans given out and remit it back to the Microfinance Support Centre (MSC) before they can access additional seed capital.

The additional seed capital of shs 20 million is already in the SACCO bank accounts, but they need to fulfill this condition before they can access it. Only 14 SACCOs out of 36 have so far received a total additional seed capital of shs 280 million.

The resolution was made during a review meeting convened by MSC to improve recovery of funds under the Emyooga program. With support from MSC, the 36 SACCOs so far have only recovered shs 894,149,004 out of the shs 1,568,220,000 loans disbursed to 338 associations.

During the meeting held on 9th April 2025 in the Adjumani District Council Hall, Nsubuga Francis, the Regional Manager for Northern Uganda, told the SACCO leaders that each SACCO had missed out on about shs 60 million in the past 3 years because of failing to refund the money in time.

He also observed that groups were failing to pay back the money because they thought the government was using it as bait to make them vote for the ruling party and President Museveni.

“Some groups were formed to purposely embezzle this money. It is now time to change that mindset and recruit better members. Many people thought the President was using it to encourage them to vote for him and NRM.” Nsubuga revealed.

On her part, Dipio Agnes, the Acting District Commercial Officer, told the SACCO leaders that they need to reorganize their groups, restructure the leadership through holding Annual General Meetings (AGM) by 9th May 2025, and conduct a financial audit for 2024 by 25th April 2025.

“No one is above the law. We don’t want anything to happen to you. I was almost arrested for recommending groups that have serial defaulters. The government is ready to provide technical support where possible.” Dipio said.

On the other hand, Obumai Simon Peter, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner, also warned that the government is aware that many people misused the first disbursement of the funds and is ready to take action. He added that the government has already started by setting conditions for accessing additional funds. He also advised them to put money in enterprises of their groups and utilize it to a tune that is commensurate to the loan received.

“Some of you have failed to update your files because you put money in other things apart from your enterprises. The first phase was such a mess. I am glad that the government has now set a condition to unlock additional disbursement. We don’t want to embarrass the President; we shall arrest those who continue to fail to comply,” Obumai warned.

According to records at the MSC as of March 2025, the government had disbursed shs 1,120,000,000/= as seed capital to 36 SACCOs and 361 groups in Adjumani. Additionally, 1,260 employment opportunities were created, and 1,903 individuals have so far benefitted.

The MSC has moved further to establish another sub-office in Moyo District to serve the communities of Yumbe, Adjumani, Moyo, and Obongi districts. Previously, SACCOs needed to move to Arua City to be able to access services.

Nsubuga said, “We now have a new office in Moyo District to serve you people. This will save time spent accessing services and promote smooth running of the program.”

The Presidential Initiative on Wealth and Job Creation (Emyooga) Program was launched in August 2019 as part of a government strategy targeting to transform 68% of homesteads from subsistence to market-oriented production with an overall objective of promoting job creation and improving household incomes, targeting 18 categories/enterprises.

END.

By Bazio Doreen.

The Government of Uganda, through the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), has launched the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project—Government Network (UDAP-GovNet) to enhance internet connectivity for host and refugee communities in Adjumani District.

The UDAP-GovNet seeks, among other objectives, to promote digital inclusion of host communities and refugees through improving the availability of core digital infrastructure in 12 remote refugee host districts, addressing digital demand-side barriers including the affordability of mobile devices, and improving basic digital skills.

Under the two-year project that is funded by the World Bank/IDA up to the cost of US$ 200 million, 80 telecommunications masts and 24 telecenters will be established across the country. In Adjumani, a telecommunications mast for voice and data services will be set up in Nyumanzi Refugee Settlement, and telecenters will be established in Maaji and Pagirinya refugee settlements at public institutions to enable refugees to access free internet through Wi-Fi hot spots.  

While making opening remarks during the launch at the District Council Hall on April 23, 2025, the District Chairperson, Hon. Anyama Ben, thanked NITA-U and the government for choosing Adjumani district as one of the beneficiaries, observing that this is a great opportunity for the district because it hosts about 240,000 refugees who constitute half of the district population. 

“It is not easy to sit in Kampala and decide to choose people that you have never seen. I thank you for that. Adjumani District is unique because half of its population constitutes refugees. We have different cultures, but we are staying together,” Hon. Anyama observed.

The Chief Administrative Officer, Ocen James Andrew, also thanked the government for creating an enabling environment for technology advancement that is enabling local governments to promptly and timely deliver quality services to the people.

“At a certain point years ago, we didn’t have telephones; searching for someone was very difficult, but that is history now. This project is going to be a milestone for underserved and vulnerable communities. Technology has made it easy for rural districts like ours to easily do and receive payments,” Ocen explained.

On his part, Abdul Ramathan, who represented the Refugee Desk Officer—OPM Pakele, said that many refugees struggle to meet their basic needs, and thus some can’t afford to buy digital devices while others struggle to buy data bundles. He also observed that many refugees are illiterate and therefore lack basic digital skills, and thus the project will support them in not only accessing the internet but also gaining knowledge on digital safety and security.

“Some refugees have never held any phones/computers in their lives because they can’t afford them. There is a need for them to learn basic digital skills but also know how to overcome challenges in cyber and digital security,” Abdul said. 

According to Josephine Olivia, the UDAP-GovNet Project Manager, the overall goal of the project is indeed to bring digital services closer to the people. She added that the telecommunications masts will be supported by a backbone of fiber optic cables and complemented by Wi-Fi hot spots and shared digital services to ensure widespread connectivity.

Josephine also said that the project is in line with the National Development Plan III (FY 2020/2021–2024/2025) and the World Bank’s ‘Building Back Better’ initiative to strengthen economic resilience and digital governance.

The UDAP-GovNet is a government initiative focused on enhancing digital connectivity, expanding e-government services, and promoting digital inclusion across Uganda. The project aims to bridge digital gaps and accelerate economic growth through technology adoption. The project is led by the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance (MoICT&NG), Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), and private sector partners. Under the project, NITA-U and its partners will establish 80 telecommunications.  

END.

By Bazio Doreen.

President Yoweri Museveni is set to visit Adjumani District in the first week of May 2025 to interact with leaders from the Ma’di Subregion and deliberate on how to resolve the Apaa Land Conflict in the East Ma’di Wildlife Reserve.

The announcement was made by Maj. Gen. Felix Busizoori, Commander of the UPDF 4th Infantry Division, during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Adjumani district council hall convened by the West Nile Development Association (WENDA) on Thursday, 10th April 2025, over the recent killings in Ukusijoni Sub County that led to the death of 5 people, including a UPDF soldier, and ongoing atrocities and land grabbing in East Ma’di Wildlife Reserve. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders from the Ma’di Subregion and the Area Members of Parliament, including the 2nd Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Gen. Moses Ali.

The meeting followed a resolution by leaders and the community of the Ma’di Subregion to boycott the 23rd Peace celebrations held at Yumbe Boma Ground on 12th April 2025 and instead declare the day for mourning the sons of Ma’di who lost their lives in two separate incidents on 27th March 2025 and 3rd April 2025.

However, Gen. Moses Ali appealed to the leaders and community of the Ma’di Subregion to attend the peace day celebrations, as it would give them an opportunity to express their grievances and outcry to the President who would be presiding over the celebrations. He also said that the ceremony would launch a 26 billion compensation package for the Uganda National Rescue Front (UNRF), who are mainly from the Ma’di Sub Region.

“I was informed that you plan to boycott the Yumbe function, but I am here to beg you to attend. The function will, among other things, focus on compensation for ex-combatants of the UNRF, which we started. I therefore request my daughter, Hon. Ababiku, and others to set aside bitterness and attend the event so that our message can reach the President,” Gen. Moses Ali pleaded.

While presiding over the 23rd Peace Day celebrations in Yumbe on Saturday, 12th April 2025, President Museveni confirmed that he had spoken to Hon. Ababiku Jesca, the Woman Member of Parliament for Adjumani, and Hon. Feta Geoffrey, the Chairperson of the West Nile Parliamentary Caucus, over the matter.

The President further said that he indeed had plans to meet the Members of Parliament from both Acholi and West Nile over the long-standing Apaa land conflict between Amuru and Adjumani districts. He, however, added that the final decision that would guide government action would come from the Judicial Commission of Inquiry established on 3rd April 2023, led by the former Chief Justice, Bart Katureebe.

“I will meet with Members of Parliament from both the Acholi and West Nile sub-regions, but let it be clear—the real resolution will come from the findings and recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry,” the President said.

The President also warned leaders from both districts that individuals inciting violence over the Apaa issue will face the full force of the law, adding that he is already aware that some leaders were playing games and manipulating the conflict for personal gain.

 “I went to the satellite archives and retrieved detailed information from as far back as 1985 about that area. Let me warn you—if this issue is not handled properly, some people may end up in jail,” Museveni cautioned.

Meanwhile, according to Maj. Gen. Felix Busizoori, commander of the UPDF 4th Infantry Division, in a bid to restore calm, 15 people have been arrested in connection with the most recent killings, and the UPDF has put in place intense patrols and a curfew while they wait for actualization of the proposal to deploy more soldiers in East Ma’di Wildlife Reserve.

“We have arrested fifteen people for inciting violence and land grabbing in East Ma’di Wildlife Reserve, and we are hunting for more suspects,” Maj. Gen. Busizoori revealed.

Previously, the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, chaired by the former Chief Justice Bart Katureebe, was tasked with investigating the complex land dispute, including issues of ownership, boundary demarcation, casualties, and displacement. Other members include Joyce Gunze Hasasa, Dr. Fred Henry Bateganya, lead counsel George Omunyokol, and Secretary Imelda Adongo.

The failure of the commission to hold any known public hearings or meetings since April 2023 to date to sensitize the two communities on the six-month task given to them has continued to escalate the land conflict, with stakeholders raising questions on its effectiveness as a resolution mechanism and on whether the government is committed to decisively and conclusively resolving the conflict for over 14 years now.

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By Bazio Doreen.

The government has earmarked shs 26 billion to compensate over 9,000 ex-combatants of the defunct Uganda National Rescue Front (UNRF) I, led by Gen. Moses Ali, the current 2nd Deputy Prime Minister, and UNRF II, led by Gen. Bamuze Ali, and the West Nile Bank Front (WNBF), who for the last 23 years have been waiting for their payment.

These surrendered their guns on 24th December 2002, after signing a peace agreement that promised them a resettlement package, 10 government positions, and retaining their ranks in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces.

While presiding over the 23rd Peace Celebrations in Yumbe District on Saturday, 12th April 2025, as a chief guest, President Yoweri Museveni launched a shs 1 billion compensation package in cash and said that the government will pay shs 13 billion in the next financial year and another shs 12 billion after West Nile votes for the NRM in the forthcoming 2026 elections.

“We would have paid the shs 26 billion at once, but we are working on the Nebbi – Arua road, which is in bad shape. It is not true that we had forgotten to pay the ex-combatants because their children have been studying and getting medical care in facilities constructed by the NRM since 1986,” the President explained. 

President Museveni also commended Gen. Moses Ali, the former WNBF commander, for accepting to cease fire and embrace reconciliation, a move that restored the region on a path of redevelopment.

According to the State Minister of Defense (Veteran Affairs), Huda Oleru Obason, some of the ex-combatants have been paid while others await verification. Particularly, the Aringa Obongi Peace Initiative Committee was formed during peace negotiations between the Ugandan government and the Uganda National Rescue Front II (UNRF II).

Hon. Oleru expressed her appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for honoring his commitment to provide a financial “handshake” by allocating Shs 1 billion to members. She added that this was the final installment for the group, asserting that it was the last assistance the government would provide to the Aringa group and similar organizations like the West Nile Bank Front and that no additional claims would be accepted.

Regarding the compensation for the UNRF II, Hon. Oleru noted that out of more than 3,000 outstanding claims, 364 had been confirmed and compensated, with funds already transferred to their accounts.

Meanwhile, President Museveni also unveiled a monument in memory of the peace agreement signatories.

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They produce. They sell. They survive. But without certification, women-led refugee businesses in Adjumani remain invisible beyond their communities—trapped between resilience and risk, where livelihoods grow but safety is never guaranteed.

By Bazio Doreen.

By sunrise, the smoke has already begun to rise from the cooking fires in many settlements across Adjumani District. Inside a small, makeshift shelter, Anzoa Susan, 32, a bee keeper based in Pagirinya Settlement, carefully wipes the rim of a reused container before pouring in thick, yellowish-brown honey. She works slowly, deliberately; not because she has time, but because she cannot afford mistakes.

After being trained by the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), an NGO operating in the Adjumani, Anzoa started this informal honey business which feeds her children, pays for health care and also caters for the school fees of her two children whenever it can. And yet, beyond her residential village, it is almost invisible.

“We have been doing this honey business since 2021 using the few materials and equipment that were provided by LWF. I have heard about certification but we can’t afford it on our own because branding alone is expensive for us. However, even with no proper storage for the honey, we ensure to abide by the measurement standards in the market,” Anzoa explained.

In practice, “measurement standards” go beyond estimation or routine practice, they require calibrated tools, verified quantities, and consistent units. Without proper measurement systems, a litre of honey may not always be a litre, affecting not only pricing but also fairness in trade and consumer trust. This is where metrology, the science of measurement becomes critical, ensuring that every product sold meets accurate and verifiable standards.

The reality beneath the resilience.

In Adjumani District, stories like Anzoa’s are everywhere in Adjumani’s 19 refugees’ settlements. Women have turned loss into labor, and labor into livelihood. But behind that resilience is a harder truth. For most women here, business is not ambition but survival. This shift is driven by a need for self-reliance following reduced humanitarian aid and funding cuts from international agencies like the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNHCR.

According to a report shared by United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) released in 2021 on employment statistics for refugees in Uganda, only 29% of refugees in Uganda are actively working versus 64% of host communities.

Interestingly, Adjumani has a total population of approximately 528,885 people with refugees making up nearly 43–45%, effectively creating a 1:1 ratio with the host community in many areas. According to UNHCR and OPM, about 85% of the refugee population in the 19 settlements are women and children.

Even after considering differences in age, gender and education, refugees are 35% points less likely than Ugandan nationals to be employed which leaves self-employment as the most immediate solution. Most refugees earn between Ugshs 150,000/= and Ugshs 250,000/= a month from these informal businesses which is just enough to live day-to-day, but never enough to grow.

Certification is more than a regulatory requirement, it is a gateway to formal markets. Products bearing a recognized quality mark signal compliance with national standards, enabling producers to access supermarkets, institutional buyers, and cross-border trade. Without this certification, even high-quality products remain confined to informal markets, where trust is personal and growth is limited.

Although Uganda’s refugee model, led by the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), has given such enterprising women the opportunity to build something consistent and valuable, product certification has become a wall they cannot see, but feel every day. Although, the mandate to ensure product safety and quality lies with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards, here in the settlements, that system feels far away.

According to Antonio Ssemakalu, a Senior Metrologist at Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), and Secretary of the Quality Assurance Association of Uganda, so far UNBS hasn’t directly worked with refugees and there is no product of refugees in Adjumani that has been certified yet but this can be changed with close partnership with authorities in charge of refugees.

“We usually do certification for small and medium enterprises and startups at a subsidized cost. I believe many refugee businesses fall in this category; so this can be considered if UNBS partners with OPM or UNHCR. Together with the UNBS Gulu regional office, we can conduct trainings and specialized outreaches in refugee settlments to create awareness on product certification;” Antonio suggested.  

However, he adds that UNBS is aware of authorities like the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) that are indirectly ensuring standards and safety by ensuring that the food given to refugees by the World Food Program and its partners is safe for consumption. 

In 2018, government started implementing mandatory certification with a distinctive mark (Q mark) for all products covered under compulsory standards. These products among others include: foods, drinks, electronics, cosmetics, steel products, cement, confectionaries, apiary, and mattresses.   

To implement this, UNBS has previously partners with other stakeholders to scale up sensitization and create awareness on the laws and regulations that support the mandate of the bureau. These include: Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), Uganda Small Scale Industries Association (USSIA), and The National Apiculture Development Organization (TUNADO).

The Cost of Being Unseen.

For Akuol Deng Elizabeth, 34, the Vice Chairperson Refugee Welfare Council II Nyumanzi Settlement, the problem is not effort, it is trust. She says that although since 2014, she has been preaching self-reliance to women and acting as a role model to them through her liquid soap business, her main customers are only those who know her. Without certification, her prices stay low; the market stays small and growth stays out of reach. With certification, Akuol’s liquid soap could easily access supermarkets and be supplied to those who consume in bulk.

“Being able to only market our products to our refugees who are struggling financially just like us makes our businesses for just survival and limits the market. Although we hope to do better in the next 3 years if we get support, for now we only market through our friends; every member of our savings group does marketing,” Akuol Deng explained.

On the other hand, for Tamaria Scovia, 37, a Volunteer Reusable Sanitary Pads Mentor trained by Right to Play, an NGO operating in Adjumani; the stakes are even more personal. A team of 25 women entrepreneurs is not just selling a product but protecting dignity.

“We chose this product because it is cost effective for the girls, many of them have dropped out of school due to the shame that fails with maintain proper menstrual hygiene,” Tamaria noted.

While this is a noble cause, without quality assurance; materials vary, safety cannot be guaranteed and opportunities to supply schools, markets outside the settlement or NGOs disappear. Certified sanitary pads can be supplied to schools/NGOs and Tamaria’s group may be able to increase or multiply their current monthly income of between Ugshs 400,000/= and Ugshs 500,000/= after selling between at least 100 reusable pads a week.

“Due to limited access to materials, our materials are likely to be of a low quality. Also because of limited capital and low profits, we fail to produce in bulk, since we manufacture and store the products in our homes. We also sell piece by piece in polythene bags that are not even sealed during market days because we can’t afford packaging,” Tamaria revealed. 

The Quiet Risk in Everyday Products.

In many homes across Adjumani including those in the settlments: local honey is consumed without quality testing; liquid soap is used without standard formulation and sanitary products are trusted without certification. While nothing seems visibly wrong; neither is it officially safe.

Standards exist to close precisely this gap between perception and proof. Through testing, certification, and enforcement, they ensure that products meet minimum safety, hygiene, and quality requirements. In their absence, both producers and consumers operate in uncertainty, where risks are not always visible, but can have real consequences for health, safety, and livelihoods.

At Pagirinya II Market, Maritina Lawa, a refugee vendor who sells some of these locally made products said that although overtime manufacturers have made an effort to improve on cleanliness, and packaging, the storage of products is still poor and this affects their business.

“Some products have to be sold off as soon as possible because storage is poor and improvised while on the other hand many entrepreneurs not only have limited access to quality raw materials but can’t afford preservation,” Lawa observed. 

Indeed, consumers like Alice Bibiana Amadrio, observe that many local products are thought to be original and devoid of chemicals of harmful substances but product certification with a UNBS ‘Q mark’ would give the much needed confidence to protect consumers from products that may risk their health.

The solution within reach.

Experts point to simple, powerful interventions like: taking certification services into settlements; reducing costs for small producers; training women in quality standards; building direct links between OPM and UNBS programs; and also advocating for the co-opting of refugees in government wealth creation programs.  Government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga and GROW which either target women or ring fence a certain percentage of the beneficiaries for women.

Dipio Agnes, the Adjumani District Commercial Officer, now says there is a need not only to advocate for more products in Adjumani to be certified especially in the settlements but there is a need to upscale the uptake of local manufacturing and local economic development.

“We have already set up one refugee cooperative in Mungula Settlement in Itirikwa Sub County. Business requires persistence, depending on grants from NGOs is not sustainable. Refugees can be supported to gain better from their enterprises through targeted outreaches and sensitization because the Ugandan economy is liberal and refugees can trade anywhere,” Dipio advised. 

Such interventions have the potential to do more than improve compliance, they can transform entire value chains. When producers are trained in standards, equipped with proper measurement tools, and supported through certification processes, their products become more competitive, consistent, and trusted. This not only increases incomes but also strengthens consumer confidence and integrates informal enterprises into the broader economy.

With the district authorities already walking this journey, women like Anzoa can be supported to not only make the best out of her honey business but also remain resilience in the face of budget cuts to NGOs and reduced food rations to refugees.

As evening falls, Anzoa ties a cloth over her bucket and sets it aside. Tomorrow, she will return to the market. She will sell what she can. She will earn what she must. And she will continue to build something that works; but is not yet recognized.

In Adjumani, women have already done the hardest part, they have built businesses out of survival. What remains is a system willing to see them, support them, and ensure that their products meet national standards, are accurately measured, and are safe for public consumption

According to data from the Ministry of Finance and Planning, most of Small and Medium Enterprises operate largely in the informal sector, generating about 80 percent of the country’s manufactured output and making a significant contribution to the economy. Additionally, in the 2024/2025 financial year, UNBS handled 30 civil cases, while 95 criminal cases were recorded related to breaches of standards and metrology laws.

This story was published in partnership with Ultimate Media Consult and Uganda National Bureau of Standards.

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By Bazio Doreen.

The Crown Prince of Dubai, His Royal Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid AI Maktoum, has pledged to build schools, a specialized hospital, provide tricycles, and promote solar-powered technologies to empower the women, men, and youth in Adjumani District.

The pledge was presented by Dr. Jjingo Robinson, a Financial Coordinator at the United Arab Emirates, accompanied by the UN Women Country Representative in Uganda, Ms. Paulina Chiwangu, and Hon. Rosaline Rose Birungi Kamuli, a representative from the Office of the Ugandan President, while meeting district leaders during a courtesy meeting at the district headquarters as part of a monitoring visit organized by UN Women.

Concerns raised.

Hon. Kaijuka Richard Arthur, the District Vice Chairperson, informed Dr. Jjingo that Adjumani Hospital is currently grappling with the lack of a gynecologist, and thus the district leaders welcome the idea of partnering to construct a specialized hospital and that they shall avail land for this noble cause.

Mr. Taban Peter Data, the Resident District Commissioner, thanked UN Women for supporting and empowering women in Adjumani. He also observed that while building schools, especially a university, would be the most appropriate move, it is worth noting that in many schools across the district, there are inadequate teachers and facilities for pupils and students. He also observed that procuring tractors for refugee women groups would encourage many more to embrace commercial agriculture amidst the ever-dwindling food rations.

Mr. Abdul Ramathan, who represented the Refugee Desk Officer OPM-Pakele, noted that UN Women has supported women to embrace leadership, adding that 10 out of 19 Refugee Welfare Officer Chairpersons are women. He said that helping women improve their self-esteem and confidence has increased women’s participation in refugees’ political elections from 45% in 2016 to 63% in 2023. He, however, noted that these women still face the challenge of transport due to the long distances.

Response.

In response, Dr. Jjingo tasked the district to come up with a detailed proposal and concept paper on the ideas discussed within a week so that the United Arab Emirates can consolidate the long-term partnership through UN Women. In the meantime, Dr. Jjingo promised that the UAE is willing to provide tricycles and tractors to support farmer groups and motorcycles to ease mobilization by women leaders. He also said skilling refugee youth on solar-powered technologies would create employment opportunities and make them self-reliant.

About the project.

The trio was in the district to specially monitor the Leadership Empowerment Access and Protection (LEAP) Project that is being implemented by Overcomers Women Activists/Co-Act, Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative, and Refugee Law Project. The LEAP project has been supporting women in the thematic areas of: leadership skills, women’s rights, psychosocial support, peacebuilding, child protection, teenage pregnancies, agriculture, adult education, and GBV. 

The LEAP project has so far reached out to 23,493 beneficiaries, mainly women in Ayilo and Nyumanzi Refugee Settlements. The LEAP project has been running since December 2021 and ends in 2025. The UN Women has been operating in Uganda since 2012, mainly focusing on reducing gender inequality.

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By Bazio Doreen.

The Vice President of Uganda, H.E. Major (Rtd) Alupo Jessica, is set to visit Adjumani District in March 2025. Her Excellency will be visiting the district on the invitation of Miss Jewel Michaels, the 2024 Miss Teen Pearl of Africa, to launch the Jewel Michaels Foundation for Education in Adjumani.

During the visit, the VP will interact with pupils at Pakele Girls and Ofua Central Primary School and patients at Ofua HC III. The VP is also expected to meet with technical and political leaders from the West Nile region.

According to Queen Jewel, the main objective of setting up the foundation is to prevent teenage pregnancies and other factors that hinder mainly girls from going to, staying, and completing school. In Adjumani, teenage pregnancy stands at 15.7%. Between 2020 and 2024, Adjumani District reported 1,785 cases of teenage pregnancy and child marriage. According to the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), in the last decade, over 1.2 million children dropped out of school. In Adjumani, the school completion rate is only 48%.

Queen Jewel also says her foundation shall, among other causes: create a running scholarship scheme for underprivileged children to go, stay, and complete school; support small-scale household projects of chicken and goat rearing; as well as undertake cross-country study tours for children to learn from Uganda’s development site. 

Miss Jewel also represented Uganda at the Miss Teen Universe 2024 pageant in Delhi, India, where she was the second runner-up. Miss Jewel, 14, is the daughter of Major General (Rtd) Michael Ondoga and Lucy Batcher, a sister to VP Alupo. She is also a vocalist, guitarist, and sportswoman.

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