Pulse Uganda

Davis &amp; Shirtliff, a leading provider of water and energy solutions in Africa, has entered into a strategic partnership with Flowserve Corporation, a global leader in flow control products and services.

The collaboration aims to enhance access to high-quality, affordable industrial pumps and seals for businesses across East and Central Africa.

This partnership will enable Davis &amp; Shirtliff to expand its industrial portfolio with Flowserve’s premium products, while Flowserve—listed on the New York Stock Exchange—will leverage Davis &amp; Shirtliff’s established regional presence to reach new markets.

The move is expected to provide industrial customers with innovative and energy-efficient solutions tailored to their needs.

Under this agreement, Davis &amp; Shirtliff will now offer an extensive range of Flowserve products, including high-performance Mark3 DURCO chemical pumps, ZLINE, Innomag, ISOMAG, vacuum pumps, and multi-stage pumps.

Additionally, advanced mechanical seal solutions such as KeyPS, ISC2, slurry seals, mixer seals, and bearing guards will be available. These solutions are designed to optimise industrial efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve sustainability.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Flowserve to provide industrial companies in the region with high-quality and durable pump and seal products,” said Patrick Mufwoya, Managing Director of Davis &amp; Shirtliff Uganda.

“These innovative technologies will help customers achieve energy efficiency within their existing infrastructures while making industrial processes more resilient and sustainable.”

A key feature of Flowserve’s product lineup is RedRaven, an Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled predictive maintenance solution that allows industrial customers to digitise their energy-producing assets. This technology offers real-time monitoring, predictive analysis, and performance optimisation, helping to prevent equipment failures, reduce downtime, and avoid costly repairs.

Flowserve’s President and CEO, Scott Rowe, emphasised the company’s commitment to sustainability: “Addressing the energy transition is central to Flowserve’s business strategy. We are focused on improving equipment efficiency, reducing emissions, and assisting industries in moving towards low-carbon energy solutions.”

The industrial sector in East Africa plays a crucial role in economic development, contributing 8.9% to the region’s GDP.

The sector recorded a growth rate of 5.8% in 2023, up from 3.5% in 2022, according to the 2024 Uganda Economic Survey. This steady expansion highlights the increasing demand for modern technology and high-quality industrial equipment.

Through this partnership, Davis &amp; Shirtliff and Flowserve will provide industries such as chemicals, petrochemicals, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, mining, and manufacturing with durable and efficient solutions.

The collaboration is expected to help businesses in Uganda and beyond reduce operational costs, improve energy efficiency, and adopt sustainable industrial practices.

Mufwoya further noted that the partnership will support compliance with new environmental regulations: “Davis &amp; Shirtliff is excited to provide solutions that help industrial clients meet legal obligations related to climate change while improving operational efficiency.”

By integrating Flowserve’s innovative technologies with Davis &amp; Shirtliff’s strong market presence, the partnership is set to reshape the industrial landscape in East and Central Africa, fostering long-term growth and sustainability.

Flowserve and Davis & Shirtliff team during the breakfast meeting

The collaboration aims to enhance access to high-quality, affordable industrial pumps and seals for businesses across East and Central Africa.

Davis & Shirtliff, Flowserve link up to enhance industrial efficiency in East Africa

Unilever Uganda, through its popular seasoning brand Royco, has launched the &lsquo;Share Goodness&rsquo; campaign at Masjid Mbogo Mosque in Kawempe.&nbsp;

This initiative is aimed at enhancing the Ramadan dining experience for Muslim communities across Uganda by providing nutritious Iftar meals and fostering a spirit of generosity throughout the holy month.

As part of the campaign, Royco will serve Iftar meals at 25 mosques nationwide, reinforcing the values of sharing and kindness that define Ramadan.&nbsp;

Additionally, the initiative will include donation drives and supermarket activations, offering Ugandans an opportunity to contribute food items and financial support to those in need.

Speaking at the launch event, Grace Nandawula, Head of Customer and Strategy Planning at Unilever Uganda, highlighted the importance of generosity during Ramadan and Royco&rsquo;s commitment to improving nutrition and strengthening community ties.

The muslim community during prayers at the Mosque

"Ramadan is a time of reflection, devotion, and sharing. With the ‘Share Goodness’ campaign, Royco is honoured to play a part in turning regular meals into memorable moments for families across Uganda," she said.

Royco, known for enriching meals with its unique blend of spices, will be a key ingredient in the dishes served during Iftar, ensuring that meals are not only nourishing but also flavourful.

Meals such as Katogo with Royco 2in1, Pilau with Royco 2in1, and beans with Royco cubes will be provided at participating mosques, ensuring a rich and fulfilling dining experience.

Beyond providing Iftar meals, the campaign will engage the wider community through various charitable initiatives:

Donation bins at 30 select supermarkets where shoppers can contribute food items, which will be collected weekly and distributed to selected mosques.

QR codes in-store, allowing shoppers to scan, select a mosque of their choice, and send mobile money contributions.

Beautifully curated Iftar experiences, bringing people together for communal meals prepared with Royco&rsquo;s signature seasoning.

The Muslim community during prayers as they prepare to break the fast on Masjid Mosque Kawempe

This initiative is aimed at enhancing the Ramadan dining experience for Muslim communities across Uganda by providing nutritious Iftar meals and fostering a spirit of generosity throughout the holy month.

Royco supports Muslim communities during Ramadan

Social media users took to X to mock MC Kats after he threatened to expose “a very big secret” between him and Bobi Wine.

Kats, a TV presenter at NBS, wants Wine, real name Robert Kyagulanyi, to urge his National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters to stop insulting him.

NUP President Bobi Wine is a confident and brave leader

In a series of posts on X, MC Kats, whose real name is Edwin Katamba, shared his frustration, sparking a wide range of reactions from netizens.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Without proper structures of how youth will strive to be better You dress them up in illegal army look alike outfits and Chair man gives their names to security so that we go back to free freedom fighters for another 5 years Tulagawoo baa youth dem&mdash; MC Kats (@mckatsug) <a href="https://twitter.com/mckatsug/status/1895210920185602560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My brother don’t be so sure You came in the nite life later We know and have seen way beyond what you have And am not scared by any man on earth Only God <a href="https://t.co/ESqTnyCs6e">https://t.co/ESqTnyCs6e</a>&mdash; MC Kats (@mckatsug) <a href="https://twitter.com/mckatsug/status/1895206566388998164?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had Never understood what Silent Majority ment Till I noticed I have over half a million followers on this app alone and Less than 50people abuse me on it then I got it Silent intelligence is in big numbers on this app&mdash; MC Kats (@mckatsug) <a href="https://twitter.com/mckatsug/status/1895162482496545007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MC Kats arriving at state house entebbe to give Bobi Wine&#39;s top secret to M7. <a href="https://t.co/EmJh719wyx">pic.twitter.com/EmJh719wyx</a>&mdash; Jobless Youth ♤♧ (@___JBY17) <a href="https://twitter.com/___JBY17/status/1895376944679776623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In a stunning display of desperation, Ugandan entertainment show host MC Kats has threatened to spill secrets about Bobi Wine, . This brazen ultimatum, captured in a video statement, has left many questioning MC Kats&#39; motives and ethics. With his reputation hanging in the… <a href="https://t.co/32xNiAsWnK">pic.twitter.com/32xNiAsWnK</a>&mdash; Mordecai Muriisa ™️ (@MordecaiMuriisa) <a href="https://twitter.com/MordecaiMuriisa/status/1895324447084531876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A rare pic of MC Kats and Jesus in the late 1500AD <a href="https://t.co/7sKA6sKBR7">pic.twitter.com/7sKA6sKBR7</a>&mdash; mbale&#39;s finest🇺🇬🌐 (@DebbyDeboel) <a href="https://twitter.com/DebbyDeboel/status/1895403680654135778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Akasajja kabadde serious 💀 <a href="https://t.co/tWSs88gLjz">pic.twitter.com/tWSs88gLjz</a>&mdash; Fahad Nyonjo King (@kingFahad_17) <a href="https://twitter.com/kingFahad_17/status/1895374267635900539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Social media users took to X to mock MC Kats after he threatened to expose “a very big secret” between him and Bobi Wine.

Hilarious memes flood X as MC Kats threatens to reveal secret with Bobi Wine

BLACK, Uganda’s first Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) audio and wearable brand, has announced an exciting partnership with legendary hip-hop artist Navio.

This strategic collaboration merges BLACK’s high-quality sound technology with Navio’s influence in music, fashion, and fitness, creating a bold lifestyle movement that resonates with trendsetters, music lovers, and fitness enthusiasts across the region.

Navio, known for his pioneering impact on Africa&rsquo;s hip-hop scene, embodies resilience, excellence, and authenticity—values that align perfectly with BLACK&rsquo;s mission of empowering individuals through innovative wearable technology and premium audio products.

<h2>BLACK Welcomes Navio as Brand Ambassador</h2>

Speaking on the partnership, Mourice Aliganyira at BLACK expressed excitement over Navio joining the BLACK family.

"We are excited to welcome Navio to the BLACK family. His influence and dedication to his craft make him the perfect partner to help us inspire a new generation of go-getters. BLACK is more than just a brand; it’s a movement that encourages people to embrace their passions with confidence.

"Through this collaboration, we aim to redefine the audio experience and elevate everyday moments for our customers."

As the face of BLACK, Navio will be actively involved in brand campaigns, product launches, and activations, engaging with fans and demonstrating how BLACK&rsquo;s premium products seamlessly integrate into an active and stylish lifestyle.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the collaboration, Navio emphasized his commitment to pushing boundaries in both music and lifestyle.

"I’ve always believed in setting new standards in everything I do, whether it’s music or lifestyle. BLACK represents that same energy—giving people access to world-class audio and wearable tech that enhances their daily lives. I’m excited to be part of this journey and to show the world what BLACK is all about."

<h2>Exciting Campaigns and Activations</h2>

The partnership kicks off with a high-energy campaign featuring Navio using BLACK&rsquo;s latest products, including:

BLACK FIT 2 smartwatch – Designed for fitness and style.

<ul><li>BASS HEAD headphones – Delivering superior sound quality.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Bassbox portable speaker – Built for immersive audio experiences.</li></ul>

Fans can expect exclusive challenges, surprise giveaways, and immersive experiences, bringing the BLACK brand ethos to life. BLACK invites all tech enthusiasts and music lovers to join the movement by following them on social media for updates, exclusive content, and upcoming activations.

This partnership is set to cement BLACK&rsquo;s position as Uganda&rsquo;s leading wearable tech and audio brand, while reinforcing Navio&rsquo;s status as a trendsetter in music, lifestyle, and innovation.

This strategic collaboration merges BLACK’s high-quality sound technology with Navio’s influence in music, fashion, and fitness,

BLACK teams up with Navio to redefine Uganda’s audio, wearable tech scene

Vivo Energy Uganda has been honoured with the Best Partnership Award for 2024 at the annual Vivo Energy Group Awards held in Cape Town, South Africa.

The award recognises the company’s ‘Fuelling Hope’ blood donation initiative, launched in partnership with Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS) to address the country’s critical blood shortage.

The ‘Fuelling Hope’ initiative transformed Shell service stations into convenient community hubs where customers and residents could donate blood.

Over the past year, the programme successfully mobilised communities across Uganda, collecting more than 1,000 units of blood, significantly contributing to life-saving efforts in the healthcare system.

Speaking on the achievement, Rob Foyle, Head of Communications at Vivo Energy Group, praised the initiative:

"The 'Fuelling Hope' initiative exemplifies what the Partnerships Award stands for – building lasting relationships with our partners and addressing real community needs. Vivo Energy Uganda has set a remarkable example of how innovation and commitment can create tangible benefits for society."

<h2>Celebrating Impact and Collaboration</h2>

Valery Okecho, Corporate Communications Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda, highlighted the essential role of stakeholders in the initiative&rsquo;s success:

&quot;The success of 'Fuelling Hope' reflects the incredible support of our customers, partners, and employees. By working together, we&rsquo;ve turned our Shell service stations into spaces where hope is restored, and lives are saved.&quot;

Echoing this sentiment, Joanita Mukasa Menya, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Uganda, expressed her pride in the recognition:

"Winning the Best Partnership Award is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared purpose. Through 'Fuelling Hope,' we’ve not only strengthened our partnership with UBTS but also demonstrated the profound impact businesses can have in addressing societal challenges."

<h2>UBTS Commends Vivo Energy Uganda’s Commitment</h2>

The initiative has had a major impact on Uganda&rsquo;s healthcare system, earning praise from Dr. Dorothy Kyeyune Byabazaire, Executive Director of UBTS:

"Vivo Energy Uganda has been an invaluable partner in addressing Uganda’s blood donation challenges. The 'Fuelling Hope' initiative has made a tremendous difference in replenishing our blood banks and saving countless lives. We thank Vivo Energy Uganda for their unwavering commitment to this cause."

<h2>A Commitment to Driving Societal Change</h2>

Vivo Energy Uganda extended its gratitude to the donors and all those who participated in the blood donation drives, reaffirming its dedication to championing impactful social initiatives.

The company remains committed to working with partners who share its values in creating meaningful change and supporting community well-being across Uganda.

Vivo Energy Group CEO Stan Mittelman (3R), presents the Vivo Award to the Uganda Team led by the MD, Joanita Mukasa Menya (2R) and the officials at the conference recently.

The award recognises the company’s ‘Fuelling Hope’ blood donation initiative, launched in partnership with Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS) to address the country’s critical blood shortage.

Vivo Energy Uganda wins Best Partnership Award for blood donation initiative

At the heart of Uganda's agribusiness sector, where farming is not just a way of life but a means of survival, dfcu Bank stands as a beacon of transformation. With development finance as its core mission, the bank continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to improving lives, empowering businesses, and nurturing communities across Uganda.

This is especially evident through its partnership with the Agribusiness Development Centre (ADC), where dfcu has been instrumental in empowering smallholder farmers, cooperatives, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to unlock their full potential.

The recently published ADC Impact Report for 2022/2023 underscores the bank’s long-term dedication to growth, sustainability, and resilience in Uganda’s agricultural sector, ensuring that every intervention counts and every life touched is transformed.

Take the example of Rubanga Cooperative Society, a prime beneficiary of ADC's capacity-building programs. Before partnering with ADC, the cooperative struggled to compete in export markets, and the farmers faced limited access to financial support and training.

Through ADC's comprehensive business development initiatives, Rubanga received valuable training in governance, marketing, and financial management.

As a result, the cooperative secured over USD 2.7 million in export contracts, expanded its processing capabilities, and achieved a 38% price increase through Fair Trade Certification. This transformation has positively impacted over 9,000 farmers, greatly improving their financial stability and livelihoods.

This success story is not an isolated case. Over the past year, ADC reached 885 enterprises and supported 27,079 smallholder farmers through programs focused on governance, financial literacy, marketing, innovation, coaching, mentorship, and climate-smart agriculture.

By providing participants with the tools they need to improve productivity, enhance market access, and reduce risks, ADC is making a profound impact on Uganda’s agricultural communities.

What stands out is ADC’s focus on gender equality. In 2023, 51.7% of the beneficiaries trained by ADC were female, surpassing their target of 40%. This has had a ripple effect, encouraging greater women's participation in decision-making processes and ultimately improving household incomes.

Additionally, the success of ADC’s programs in fostering leadership among under-represented groups is evident; 48.1% of youth and 61.8% of women trained by ADC have moved into management roles within their organisations, showcasing the program’s success in cultivating leadership and innovation.

<h2>Driving Economic Growth and Sustainability</h2>

The economic impact of ADC’s initiatives is tangible. One key area where ADC has made significant strides is in job creation. Through its various programs, ADC facilitated the creation of 554 new jobs in 2022/2023, moving the organisation closer to its target of 1,114 jobs.

This not only reduces unemployment pressures but also contributes directly to the economic growth of rural communities where jobs are often scarce.

Furthermore, financial inclusion remains a core focus. In partnership with DFCU Foundation, ADC facilitated access to formal banking services for 84 enterprises and over 2,177 smallholder farmers. This initiative has improved financial literacy and helped farmers and enterprises access the working capital they need to grow.

ADC-supported enterprises reported an impressive additional income of UGX 6.5 billion, a 17.2% increase compared to baseline figures, underscoring the role ADC plays in fostering sustainable economic growth.

<h2>Innovation has played a key role in ADC’s impact.</h2>

In 2023, ADC embraced digital solutions by partnering with Agtual to develop the ADC BeanBook, a market information system designed to provide real-time insights for coffee and cocoa farmer producer organisations (FPOs).

For farmers like Samuel, who previously struggled to negotiate fair prices for their coffee, this tool has been transformative. By having access to current market data, Samuel is now able to make better-informed decisions about pricing and sales, ensuring higher profits and financial security for his family.

ADC’s partnerships have also been instrumental in strengthening its impact. Collaborations with ABI Development, SEATINI, and GOPA Worldwide Consultants have led to initiatives like the Climate Smart Agriculture Project, which targets over 1,000 farmers across 30 FPOs, and the Business Accelerator Program, which builds SME competitiveness.

These collaborations have expanded ADC’s reach and deepened its ability to support farmers and agribusinesses, from improving environmental sustainability to enhancing capacity-building efforts.

One such story is that of Grace Akatuha, a leader at Kikazi Agri Enterprises, who found herself struggling to grow her business beyond the constraints of a sole proprietorship. Through ADC’s Business Accelerator Program, Grace received training in governance, financial management, and digital tools.

This support allowed her to transition her business into a registered company with sound governance practices and operational processes. Additionally, she embraced digitalisation, investing in computer equipment to keep accurate records and improve efficiency.

Today, Grace’s business is thriving, and she’s actively mentoring other female entrepreneurs, proving that ADC’s programs not only help businesses scale but also empower entrepreneurs to be leaders in their communities.

Looking forward, dfcu Bank, through ADC, remains steadfast in its mission to drive inclusive growth and sustainability in Uganda’s agricultural sector.

The USD 205,000 funding secured during the reporting period, combined with dfcu’s USD 173,000 investment in the Agricultural Exchange Programme, demonstrates the bank’s unwavering dedication to fostering innovation and long-term sustainability in Uganda’s agriculture.

With over 14,881 learners reached through both virtual and physical channels and 270 enterprises added to the Business Accelerator Program, ADC continues to drive transformation across Uganda. Its clean audit status further reflects its commitment to transparency and accountability, solidifying its role as a trusted partner in development.

As dfcu Bank celebrates the achievements of the Agribusiness Development Centre, it reaffirms its commitment to empowering Uganda’s agricultural sector.

Through strategic investments, partnerships, and community-focused programs, DFCU Bank is not only transforming businesses but also uplifting lives, strengthening communities, and ensuring that Uganda’s agricultural sector will be a cornerstone of economic growth for generations.

Chair Person Of Gukwatamanzi Farmers Cooperative Society In Bokwe , Masindi Showing Off The Tractor  The Group Got Through Adc Linkages.

At the heart of Uganda's agribusiness sector, where farming is not just a way of life but a means of survival, dfcu Bank stands as a beacon of transformation.

Empowering Uganda’s agriculture: How dfcu, ADC are transforming lives

Ugandan singer, songwriter, and producer <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/mcsan-hospitalised-in-critical-condition-after-poisoning-incident-2024073113514736424">Mcsan Mr FineLines </a>has released a heartfelt new love song titled For Better For Worse.&nbsp;

The track, which dropped on February 14, 2025, is already making waves as the ultimate Valentine&rsquo;s Day anthem, resonating with fans across social media.

Produced by One Blessing and visually brought to life by director Dave Thymas, the song captures the essence of deep, unconditional love.&nbsp;

Mcsan, known for his smooth melodies and passionate lyrics, delivers a touching pledge of eternal commitment to his lover.

The video, styled by Bei Powa, adds an extra layer of elegance, showcasing stunning visuals that complement the song’s romantic theme.

Signed under Cypher Music House, Mcsan Mr FineLines made his official entry into the Ugandan music scene in 2020.&nbsp;

Since then, he has consistently released diverse records spanning multiple genres, proving his versatility as an artist. His previous hits include &quot;Antidote,&quot; &quot;Roger Dat,&quot; &quot;Hero,&quot; and &quot;Kooti&quot;, with the latter gaining significant attention before the release of For Better For Worse.

Just hours after its release, For Better For Worse has been melting hearts, with fans praising its emotional depth and captivating melody.&nbsp;

Social media is buzzing with positive reactions, with many hailing it as the perfect soundtrack for love and commitment.

With this latest release, Mcsan Mr FineLines continues to cement his place in the Ugandan music industry as a rising star to watch.

Produced by One Blessing and visually brought to life by director Dave Thymas, the song captures the essence of deep, unconditional love.

Mcsan Mr FineLines drops a Valentine’s ballad: 'For better for worse'

Renowned Ugandan footballer Lumala Abdu has taken a bold step beyond the pitch, channeling his passion into humanitarian work through his newly established Non-governmental organization Lumala-Abdu Youth Impact (LAYI).&nbsp;

Having personally experienced the struggles of displacement as a refugee in both Uganda and Sweden, Lumala is now using his platform to amplify the voices of refugees and vulnerable youth.

Lumala and his team conducted a large-scale community outreach at Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Hoima, engaging with over 2,000 youth aged 10-25.&nbsp;

These demographics were carefully selected based on prior community assessments that identified those in urgent need of support.&nbsp;

The initiative focused on mentorship, sports-driven empowerment, and essential aid for young refugees. Lumala reaffirmed his commitment to long-term engagement, urging fellow athletes, public figures, and institutions to contribute to humanitarian efforts.

Through LAYI, Lumala collaborated with Kyarimpa Cares, AVSI Foundation, in partnership with Right to Play, Youth Sport Uganda, Uganda Olympic Committee, and UNHCR, with support from the Olympic Refuge Foundation, to implement Game Connect, a sports-based mental health intervention in Kyangwali Refugee Settlement (Kikuube) and later he will be in Pagirinya Refugee Settlement (Adjumani District).&nbsp;

The program aims to improve psychosocial resilience and mental health support for 16,500 refugee and host community youth.

<h3 style="text-align: justify">Donations and Impact</h3>

Over 200 sports kits (jerseys, boots, cones and balls) were donated to aspiring young footballers before Lumala led them through drills, training sessions, and friendly matches. He also shared his personal journey, inspiring many young refugees with stories of perseverance and success.

The outreach was presided over by representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister (Settlement Commandant, Focal Person MHPSS and Game Connect, and Focal Person Sports) and UNHCR (Head of Sub-office and Protection Officer), highlighting the program's significance in government and international humanitarian efforts.

<h3 style="text-align: justify">Football with a Purpose</h3>

Lumala&rsquo;s humanitarian work comes at a crucial time, as Uganda continues to witness an influx of displaced people due to conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This cause is deeply personal for Lumala, whose father is believed to have Congolese roots.

Reflecting on his journey, Lumala shared:

<blockquote>I know what it feels like to be lost, alone, and struggling to find a place in the world. Football saved me, but not everyone gets that chance. That’s why I started LAYI—to give hope and opportunity to the next generation. Please join us. With nothing, little or everything.</blockquote>

During the event, Lumala and his team facilitated structured sports activities focused on mental health and social support, including the Goal Celebration Game, which promotes a sense of belonging, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Youth participants shared their personal experiences and challenges, fostering a sense of unity and support. The day concluded with a friendly football match between Manson and Angel Teams, bringing together youth from Rwenyawawa and Munsisa B villages, the hosting communities.

Located in western Uganda, Kyangwali Refugee Settlement is one of the country’s largest refugee-hosting communities, accommodating 144,521 refugees as of December 2024.

Of these, 2,407 (18%) are youth aged 15-24 years, with the host community comprising 414,000 people. Since its inception in August 2019, Game Connect has impacted 3,206 young people (1,302 in Phase One and 1,904 in Phase Two), using structured sports activities to promote mental health resilience.

<h3 style="text-align: justify">Transforming Lives Through Sports and Mentorship</h3>

Founded in 2024, Lumala-Abdu Youth Impact (LAYI) believes in the transformative power of sports for displaced and marginalized youth. The foundation&rsquo;s mission is to:

<ul><li>Provide mentorship and career guidance for refugee youth.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Enhanced psychosocial coping skills among youth through structured sports activities.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Strengthened social support networks, fostering inclusion and mental well-being.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Increased stakeholder engagement and advocacy for using sports as a mental health intervention.</li></ul>

Lumala Abdu is calling on fellow athletes, corporate organizations, NGOs, media and the international community to join him and rally behind refugee communities, invest in goodwill and corporate social responsibility towards those in need. His story is one of resilience and the transformative impact one individual can make.

As a receiving settlement, Kyangwali faces escalating challenges, including limited access to land and productive resources, worsened by food ration cuts by the World Food Programme, making food security a pressing concern. Refugee youth struggle with:

<ul><li>Limited access to decent playgrounds and sports facilities.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Lack of essential sports equipment (balls, jerseys, shoes).</li></ul>

<ul><li>Poverty, limited access to education, and skills training.</li></ul>

<ul><li>High rates of abuse and exploitation.</li></ul>

Educational Support: Studies show that 70% of children in underserved Ugandan communities lack basic school supplies, significantly affecting academic performance. LAYI aims to bridge this gap.

<ul><li>Food Security: With over 40% of widowed women in Uganda experiencing food insecurity, initiatives like these directly improve their living conditions.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Sports Development: Football remains a strong pillar for youth development. Providing sports kits fosters talent growth, discipline, and career opportunities.</li></ul>

Lumala Abdu has taken a bold step beyond the pitch, channeling his passion into humanitarian work through Abdu Youth Impact (LAYI). 

Ugandan footballer Lumala Abdu leverages his personal refugee journey to inspire hope and uplift communities in Uganda.

Lumala Abdu champions refugee empowerment through his new NGO

A group of 29 young Ugandan leaders has successfully completed their university education under a leadership development initiative aimed at empowering academically gifted students.&nbsp;

These graduates were part of the inaugural cohort of 122 scholars inducted in 2022 into a program focused on academic excellence, mentorship, and professional development.

The initiative, launched to nurture leadership and career readiness, has provided scholars with practical work experience through internships in the banking sector and other industries.&nbsp;

Some graduates have transitioned into professional roles, while others remain engaged through mentorship programs. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Gift Shoko, Managing Director of Equity Bank Uganda, praised the scholars for their dedication, emphasising the program&rsquo;s role in shaping future leaders.

“Their success is a testament to the transformative impact of this initiative, which aims to equip young Ugandans with the skills needed to drive socio-economic growth. We are confident that they will use their knowledge and leadership abilities to create meaningful change in their communities,” Shoko said.

<h2>Building Future Leaders Through Mentorship</h2>

The leadership program operates across multiple East African countries, including Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It blends academic excellence with mentorship, character development, and professional networking to prepare students for the workforce.

Through a structured internship component, scholars gain hands-on experience in various fields, receiving a monthly stipend to support their development. Many graduates have leveraged these opportunities to secure career placements or continue engaging in mentorship activities.

Elizabeth Wahito, Acting Head of the Public Sector &amp; Social Investment Unit at Equity Bank Uganda, reiterated the importance of mentorship and peer networks in sustaining long-term success. &ldquo;Beyond financial empowerment, this program builds a community of young leaders who will inspire and support one another throughout their careers,&rdquo; she noted.

<h2>Program Expands to More Ugandan Scholars</h2>

Since its launch, the leadership program has expanded significantly, welcoming additional cohorts in 2023 and 2024. A total of 197 scholars have since been selected from 30 districts, with plans underway to induct a new group following the release of the 2024 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) results.

The initiative continues to prioritise skills development, offering participants three to six-month paid internships and ongoing mentorship throughout their university journey. The recent graduation not only highlights the achievements of the first cohort but also reaffirms the commitment to empowering young Ugandans through education, leadership training, and professional growth opportunities.

These graduates were part of the inaugural cohort of 122 scholars inducted in 2022

These graduates were part of the inaugural cohort of 122 scholars inducted in 2022 into a program focused on academic excellence, mentorship, and professional development.

First cohort of young Ugandan leaders graduates from prestigious program

A new loan campaign has been launched to provide financial relief to customers at the start of 2025, allowing borrowers to enjoy a two-month repayment break before making their first instalment.

Dubbed "KIGGALE ne Ecobank", the initiative is designed to ease the financial burden many experience at the beginning of the year, commonly referred to as "Jan Worry".

The campaign allows customers to access salary loans of up to $100,000 (UGX 372 million) and defer their first repayment until April or May 2025.&nbsp;

This flexibility enables borrowers to focus on other financial commitments, such as back-to-school expenses, personal projects, or investment plans for the year.

Speaking at the launch, Grace Muliisa, Managing Director, explained that the campaign is more than just a financial offering. "It’s a partnership that will help customers jumpstart their 2025 goals without financial pressure."

<h2>Additional Benefits for Customers</h2>

Beyond the repayment holiday, the campaign offers customers several benefits, making it a highly attractive option. These include:

Flexible repayment plans ranging from 60 to 84 months, allowing borrowers to spread out their instalments conveniently.

Zero monthly fees on the Advantage Account, reducing overall costs.

A complimentary VISA Gold Card for added banking convenience.

Competitive interest rates, starting at 15.9%, making borrowing more affordable.

Customers can also access other tailored financial solutions, including:

With this initiative, the bank aims to empower individuals by offering innovative financial solutions tailored to real-life challenges. The campaign is set to improve financial planning and help individuals and families manage their finances more effectively at the start of the year.

For more information, customers are encouraged to visit any bank branch or reach out to customer service for assistance.

The campaign allows customers to access salary loans of up to $100,000 (UGX 372 million) and defer their first repayment until April or May 2025. 

Kiggale loan campaign offers relief for borrowers in early 2025

Coca-Cola Breweries Uganda Ltd brought Kampala to a standstill on Saturday with a series of flash mob performances.

The <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/business/ccbu-hima-cement-team-up-to-convert-plastic-waste-into-cement-making-fuel-2024073111321933458">company is running a campaign</a> promoting its returnable glass bottle products.&nbsp;

Pulse Uganda

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