Samson Waswa

National Unity Platform (NUP) Bobi Wine, has alleged that security operatives planted surveillance equipment in his offices and vehicles during last week&rsquo;s raid.&nbsp;

Speaking at a press conference on Monday morning, he detailed how security forces broke into the NUP headquarters last weekend, blocking off roads from Bwaise to Kibbiri roundabout before ransacking the premises.

He claimed that the security operatives were envious of the well-organised and clean state of the offices.&nbsp;

The entire place, he said, was tossed and a lot of damage done.

Upon checking after the raid, Bobi Wine said they “found some items, and when we consulted with our experts, they told us what they were."

NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya at one of the properties after the raid

Among the items recovered, he said, was a tracking device found in one of Bobi Wine&rsquo;s personal vehicles, which he occasionally uses instead of his official transport.&nbsp;

"One of the items was a tracker. We found it in one of the cars that I use when I don't wish to move in the official cars," he revealed.&nbsp;

Additionally, he said, a hidden camera was discovered inside his office.&nbsp;

Bobi Wine indicated that the premises were still being screened for more such devices.

Condemning the actions of security forces, Bobi Wine accused them of employing underhanded tactics rather than demonstrating true authority.

"This is how these people behave. They are shameless. These are not signs of strength; they are signs of weakness," he said.

<h2>Police Justification for the Raid</h2>

The Uganda Police Force has previously defended the raids, stating they were conducted as part of investigations into alleged unauthorised military drills at NUP premises.&nbsp;

In a statement issued on Saturday, February 22, the police confirmed that the operation, which targeted NUP headquarters in Kavule and Kamwokya, had concluded with several exhibits recovered.

“The Uganda Police Force reports that several exhibits were recovered from these premises and will be used as evidence,” read the police statement.

It added that further updates would be provided in due course.

NUP offices were broken into last weekend

Among the items recovered, he said, was a tracking device found in one of Bobi Wine’s personal vehicles, which he occasionally uses instead of his official transport. 

Bobi Wine says spy equipment recovered from NUP offices, cars after security raid

Last weekend was a big one for Ugandan dancehall star Beenie Gunter, real name Crescent Baguma Crescent, as he marked his 32nd birthday.

The talented artist was meant to mark the milestone with a major performance at the Roast &amp; Rhyme, which, however, <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/why-roast-and-rhyme-was-postponed-2025022307400499840">got pulled at the last minute.</a>

In a grand style on Sunday, February 23, friends, family, and colleagues gathered to honour <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/music/beenie-gunter-performs-at-torontos-afro-fest-2024073113571398850">Gunter’s career achievements</a> and mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter.&nbsp;

The birthday bash served an opportunity for him to&nbsp; announce Beenie Gunter&rsquo;s latest professional move.

During the celebration, Beenie Gunter officially joined Zhafar Music Agency, a newly established record label that aims to reshape the music industry.&nbsp;

<h2>A Generous Welcome from Zhafar Music Agency</h2>

As part of his grand welcome to the Zhafar Music Agency, Beenie Gunter received several lavish gifts from the label, including three high-quality cameras, an iPhone 16 Pro Max, and designer shoes worth UGX 10 million.&nbsp;

Founded in January 2025, Zhafar Music Agency has quickly positioned itself as a hub for creativity, intelligence, and enjoyment in the arts.&nbsp;

<h2>Zhafar Music Agency’s Vision for the Future</h2>

Speaking at the event, Haruna Zhafar, CEO of Zhafar Music Agency, expressed his enthusiasm about working with Beenie Gunter and other talented artists.

"Music is the heartbeat of our culture, and at Zhafar Music Agency, we are committed to transforming the industry by fostering creativity and collaboration. I am incredibly passionate about working alongside diverse talents who share a vision for innovation and artistic expression."

Zhafar further highlighted the agency&rsquo;s inclusive approach, welcoming artists from all genres to collaborate and grow together in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

"On this special occasion, I want to wish Beenie Gunter a very happy 32nd birthday! I am thrilled to have him on board and look forward to creating magic together, alongside other talented artists across all genres. Together, we will redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s music landscape."

On his part, Gunter promised fans more music, collaborations, and creative projects under the Zhafar Music Agency umbrella.&nbsp;

In a grand style on Sunday, February 23, friends, family, and collegues gathered to honour Gunter’s career achievements and mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter. 

Beenie Gunter marks 32nd birthday with major career move

Ugandan songstress and <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/music/swangz-avenue-drops-first-single-from-highly-billed-all-star-album-2024102821255002923">Swangz Avenue’s Winnie Nwagi </a>has opened up about the difficulties she faces when working with other artists, citing ego and insecurity as major obstacles.&nbsp;

The Matala hitmaker, who recently collaborated with Shakira on their chart-topping song Nze Mpako, shared insights into her experiences during a recent interview.

Nwagi revealed that while she enjoys working with artists who love music and take their craft seriously, not all collaborations are easy.&nbsp;

She noted that some musicians bring unnecessary competition into the process, making it difficult to create a smooth and enjoyable working environment.

<blockquote>At times we work with people who are full of themselves; someone is seeking you out for a collabo but they are showing off. It’s hard. Some even think you are going to steal the show from them.</blockquote>

<h2>Why the Nze Mpako Collaboration Worked</h2>

Despite her past struggles, Nwagi had nothing but praise for Shakira, describing her as a &ldquo;sweet, free soul&rdquo; who made the collaboration process seamless.&nbsp;

<blockquote>I like working with people who love music and who know what they are doing. I like to work with a performer; a person like Shakira.</blockquote>

A successful hit, she said, benefits both artists and should not be seen as a competition.

<blockquote>I think that if you are doing a song, if it's a hit, both the artists will benefit—not just the big artist.</blockquote>

<h2>Nwagi’s Introverted Nature in the Music Scene</h2>

Surprisingly, despite her bold stage presence, Nwagi admitted that she is a naturally shy person, which sometimes affects how she interacts with fellow musicians.&nbsp;

She prefers working with people who create a comfortable atmosphere, allowing her to express herself freely.

<blockquote>As you know, I am a shy girl. To be free around you, your energy has to also be as free. I don’t want to work with a person I am scared of because then I cannot correct them if we are doing something wrong.</blockquote>

With Nze Mpako gaining massive traction across streaming platforms, it is clear that when Nwagi finds the right collaboration, the results speak for themselves.

The Matala hitmaker, who recently collaborated with Shakira on their chart-topping song Nze Mpako, shared insights into her experiences during a recent interview.

‘I am a shy girl’ – Winnie Nwagi talks hardships working with other artists

Party-goers were left perplexed on learning that today’s much-anticipated<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/celebrities/roast-and-rhyme-returns-for-22nd-edition-2024102821443391186"> Roast &amp; Rhyme</a> had been called off.

Swangz Avenue, announced this morning that the event would not take place today, Sunday as planned.

The decision, they said, came as a result of last-minute challenges with the venue and concerns regarding the safety and overall experience of attendees.

In an official statement, Swangz Avenue CEO Julius Kyazze expressed regret over the unexpected turn of events, noting that despite extensive preparations, unforeseen circumstances made it necessary to reschedule the event.&nbsp;

&quot;We understand how much our guests were looking forward to this gathering, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause,&quot; he stated.

Swangz Avenue has reassured ticket holders that their purchased tickets will remain valid for the rescheduled event, eliminating the need for repurchase.&nbsp;

A new date is currently being arranged, with organisers working closely with all involved parties to secure the best possible alternative.

As a token of appreciation for attendees' patience and understanding, all current ticket holders will receive an additional free ticket to bring a friend along to the rescheduled event.

While recognising the disappointment that this change may bring, the organisers emphasised their commitment to ensuring Roast &amp; Rhyme delivers the best possible experience, balancing safety and enjoyment.

Swangz Avenue encouraged fans to stay updated through their social media platforms and the official Roast &amp; Rhyme page.

The event organisers assured supporters that the festival will return “bigger and better” once a new date is confirmed.

Revellers checking in for the Soul on Strings edition of Roast and Rhyme

Swangz Avenue, announced this morning that the event would not take place today, Sunday as planned.

Why Roast & Rhyme was postponed 

Winnie Byanyima has opened up again about her past relationship with President Yoweri Museveni, describing it as a normal relationship that had its challenges.&nbsp;

While appearing on Next Radio today, Byanyima addressed comments made by journalist Andrew Mwenda, who had recently brought up her past with Museveni during a television discussion about the detention of Dr Kizza Besigye.

Byanyima revealed that she had known Museveni since childhood, stating, &ldquo;President Museveni is somebody I have known since I first became aware of the world; he was in my home visiting when I was maybe three years old. I have known him all my life.&rdquo;&nbsp;

However, she insisted that her past relationship with Museveni was irrelevant to current political discussions.

<h2>No Scandal, Just an Ordinary Relationship</h2>

Byanyima dismissed any speculation that her past with Museveni was something scandalous, insisting that there was nothing dramatic or politically significant about it.&nbsp;

“I think some people assume there is some scandal or something that makes me uneasy, but they couldn’t be more wrong. This was a relationship I had many years ago, and I left it.”

She went on to explain that, while the relationship had its ups and downs, it is not something that defines her or her political career.&nbsp;

“It was a normal relationship with some challenges, and I left it. But it is not interesting for political discussion.”

<h2>More Details to Come in Her Book</h2>

Byanyima hinted that more details about her relationship with Museveni will be included in her upcoming book, but cautioned that it would not be a significant focus.

&nbsp;“If people are so interested, they should wait for my book. But honestly, it is just one of the many events in my life.”

Her remarks came after Mwenda mentioned her past with Museveni during a TV debate on NBS about Dr Kizza Besigye&rsquo;s detention, an issue Byanyima believed was far more critical.&nbsp;

“Mwenda just thought this was an interesting angle, but it had no relevance to the discussion.”

Byanyima dismissed any speculation that her past with Museveni was something scandalous, insisting that there was nothing dramatic or politically significant about it. 

Byanyima drops more details on 'challenging' past relationship with Museveni

The Ministry of Works and Transport (MOWT) has announced planned maintenance works along the Kampala–Entebbe Expressway, set to begin on Wednesday, 26th February 2025.&nbsp;

The 14-day project aims to address underground water seepage, which has contributed to the deterioration of pavement layers and weakened the road surface in key sections.

The works are expected to cause some disruptions to traffic flow, with authorities advising motorists to plan accordingly.

<h3>Key Affected Sections and Scope of Work</h3>

The maintenance efforts will focus on the Exit Ramp at Kajjansi towards the Old Entebbe Road and a section at Kilometre 17+000 near the Pepsi Cola factory (Busega–Mpala section).&nbsp;

Road signage on Kampala - Entebbe expressway

The Ministry has engaged China Construction and Communications Company Ltd (CCCC), which was notified to address these defects under the warranty guarantee obligation with the Government of Uganda.

According to the Permanent Secretary of MOWT, Bageya Waiswa, the works will involve:

<ul><li>Installing subsurface drains to eliminate water buildup beneath the pavement.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Milling and resurfacing affected areas.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Adding edge kerbs to direct surface water to appropriate drainage channels.</li></ul>

<h3>Measures to Minimise Traffic Disruptions</h3>

The Ministry has instructed the contractor to ensure effective traffic management during the maintenance period. Measures will be taken to minimise disruptions and keep traffic moving as smoothly as possible. Motorists were advised to exercise patience and follow traffic diversion signs as work progresses.

Speaking about the intervention, Bageya Waiswa apologised for the inconvenience and assured the public that the project would result in a safer and more durable road surface.

The maintenance works are scheduled to end on 12th March 2025, provided there are no unforeseen delays. The government remains committed to ensuring the sustainability of key infrastructure projects, with a focus on improving drainage systems and extending the lifespan of roads.

Parts of Entebbe Expressway have been prone to flooding

The 14-day project aims to address underground water seepage, which has contributed to the deterioration of pavement layers and weakened the road surface in key sections.

Traffic disruptions expected as repairs commence next week on Entebbe Expressway

Ugandan music heavyweight Bebe Cool continues to push boundaries with his latest single, Motivation, the second release from his upcoming album, Break the Chains.

After the success of Circumference, which came out earlier this year, Bebe Cool is proving his ability to evolve, embracing Afrobeats while maintaining his signature touch.

With Motivation, Bebe Cool takes a fresh approach, delivering a mellow Afrobeats track that speaks to deep love and devotion. Unlike Circumference, which left some Ugandans debating its connection to his usual sound, Motivation finds a balance between the new and the familiar, offering fans a song that resonates with his long-standing artistry.

Produced by Bushington (George Kagoda) and Melanin Boy, Motivation carries smooth melodies and a captivating rhythm that instantly draws listeners in.

While many expected Bebe Cool to use the song as a personal anthem for his struggles and triumphs, he instead delivers a beautifully crafted love story that tugs at the heartstrings.

The Motivation video, directed by Garrick Williams and Bushington, continues the aesthetic brilliance <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/bebe-cool-unveils-circumference-video-2025011809204010195">introduced in Circumference.</a> While it maintains the theme of mystery with veiled women, it also takes a bold step in redefining love.

The standout moment? Bebe Cool’s love interest is a heavily tattooed woman, symbolising that true love transcends physical appearances.

Throughout the video, Bebe Cool and his leading lady appear as partners in life and business, reinforcing the theme that love is not just about romance but also support and partnership. The visuals are vibrant, artistic, and thought-provoking—a testament to Bebe Cool’s growth as an artist and storyteller.

The song’s rollout coincided with Bebe Cool’s newly introduced Motivation Week, an initiative that he says will become an annual event, taking place every year in the week after Valentine’s Day. Through motivational talks and discussions, Bebe Cool aims to inspire Ugandans across different fields, just as he continues to inspire musically.

With audio mixing by Brian Putaralski and mastering by Jesse Ray, Motivation is polished to perfection, offering a radio-friendly, feel-good anthem that is bound to stick with listeners.

Now streaming on all major music platforms, Motivation is more than just a song—it’s a declaration of love, perseverance, and artistic evolution. If this track is anything to go by, Break the Chains is shaping up to be one of Bebe Cool’s most exciting projects yet.

Bebe Cool dropped his new single 'Motivation'

Unlike Circumference, which left some Ugandans debating its connection to his usual sound, Motivation finds a balance between the new and the familiar, offering fans a song that resonates with his long-standing artistry.

Bebe Cool drops 'Motivation' as he gears for highly anticipated album

The Minister of State for Mineral Development, <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/celebrities/ministers-who-are-phiona-nyamutoros-friends-2024121108565723275">Phiona Nyamutoro</a>, who also serves as the National Youth MP, has firmly opposed proposals to scrap youth parliamentary seats in Uganda.

As part of the public push to reduce the size of Parliament, there have been discussions suggesting that special seats for youth representatives should be eliminated, a move Phiona argues would be detrimental to youth inclusivity in governance.

"Our job is to re-echo the voices of young people in Parliament. We have high youth inclusivity in Uganda’s legislation, and this is because of the affirmative action that allows youth to elect five regional youth representatives and one national youth MP," she said.

One of the arguments raised in favour of removing youth MPs is that many young people are already being elected to Parliament through regular constituency seats, making special youth representation unnecessary.&nbsp;

However, Nyamutoro strongly disagrees with this viewpoint.

"They say that youths do not need special seats in Parliament because the number of young people that go into Parliament has increased anyway. But people need to know that it is not about age but about the lens through which we view youth perspectives," she explained.

She stressed that even if younger legislators enter Parliament, they may not necessarily champion youth-specific issues, as their focus could be on broader national concerns.&nbsp;

The role of youth MPs, she insisted, is to ensure that the unique concerns of young people are prioritised and addressed directly.

"Even when there are many young people in Parliament discussing different national issues, there still has to be scrutiny from the youth lens. What are the young people saying? What do they want to be put on the table, and what are their tailor-made solutions?" she asked.

<h2>Achievements of Youth MPs in Parliament</h2>

Nyamutoro pointed out that youth MPs have been instrumental in securing policies and allocations that specifically benefit young Ugandans.

She cited the government&rsquo;s Parish Development Model (PDM), where youth MPs successfully negotiated for a gazette of 30% of the funds to be allocated to young people.

"When we had just entered office, the government introduced PDM, and we were able to bargain for 30% of that money to go to the youths. For every UGX 100 million allocated to a parish, 30% must be designated for young people," she noted.

Another key achievement she highlighted was the amendment of the PPDA (Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets) Act, which now mandates that 30% of all local contracts be awarded to young people.

"All the youth inclusiveness you see in government has been negotiated by the youth MPs," Phiona emphasised.

<h2>The Future of Youth Representation in Uganda</h2>

With these contributions in mind, Phiona insists that removing youth parliamentary seats would set back the progress made in ensuring that young people have a significant say in national decision-making.

"If you ask me whether youth MPs deserve to stay, I would say yes," she affirmed.

The debate over reducing the size of Uganda&rsquo;s Parliament is expected to continue, but Phiona and other youth leaders are determined to defend the necessity of youth representatives, arguing that their presence in Parliament ensures that young Ugandans remain actively involved in shaping the country&rsquo;s policies and future.

One of the arguments raised in favour of removing youth MPs is that many young people are already being elected to Parliament through regular constituency seats, making special youth representation unnecessary. 

Nyamutoro opposes removal of youth parliamentary seats 

Opposition NUP’s Deputy President and chief mobiliser, Fred Nyanzi also known as Chairman Nyanzi has been released, four days after <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/news/nyanzi-arrest-gen-nalweyiso-says-nup-militia-parade-a-court-martial-offence-2025021809524698185">he was grabbed from the street by government security operatives.</a>

Nyanzi was seen limping and showed marks that appeared like blisters on his feet as he recounted his ordeal in captivity.

Narrating to his relatives and colleagues upon release, he said, the people who abducted him said they had orders to take his life if he resisted.

Chairman Nyanzi says he was tortured in detention

One of them who seemed friendly, he said, urged him to comply with them.

“He told me, Nyanzi, you are my friend. I do not wish to shoot you because we have orders to shoot you if you resist. I had no choice but to comply, I cried out to all the people around but everyone was too scared,” he recounted.

Nyanzi <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/news/chairman-nyanzi-detained-at-wandegeya-2025021907074965733">was arrested by nonuniform security operatives</a> at the Kubbiri roundabout while retreating from a party function.

He was traveling in his vehicle with the NUP deputy spokesman Waiswa Mufumbiro.

As the armed security operatives attempted to force them out of the vehicle, Mufumbiro latched on an opportunity to flee on foot, running towards Kalerwe.

Chairman Nyanzi upon release from detention

Nyanzi was seen limping and showed marks that appeared like blisters on his feet as he recounted his ordeal in captivity.

‘A friendly soldier begged me not to resist’ - Nyanzi relives ordeal after release 

Government has officially launched the Deep Tech Centre of Excellence in Namanve.&nbsp;

The initiative, spearheaded by the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat in partnership with Future Lab, the Uganda National Council of Science and Technology, and the National Science, Technology, Engineering, and Innovation Skills Enhancement Project (NSTEI-SEP), aims to <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/news/100000-jobs-to-be-created-in-bpo-sector-as-government-unveils-new-policy-2025022016550224022">position Uganda as a key player in the global deep tech ecosystem.</a>

The launch event was presided over by Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, and Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation.&nbsp;

Speaking at the event, Dr. Musenero said the Deep Tech Centre of Excellence would be a catalyst for Uganda&rsquo;s transition into a knowledge-based economy.

"Through this Centre, we aim to create a dynamic ecosystem where deep technology propels economic transformation and provides new opportunities for young people," she stated.&nbsp;

"Our goal is to elevate Uganda’s global competitiveness by positioning Science, Technology, and Innovation as key drivers of economic growth, in alignment with Vision 2040.”

The Centre will serve as a hub for innovation, focusing on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Robotics, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials, Cloud Computing, Edge Computing, and Quantum Computing.&nbsp;

The event also featured the unveiling of a Local Electronics Manufacturing Facility, implemented by Lwera Semiconductors, along with innovations from Ugandan deep tech pioneers such as Innovex, Kaara Energy, and Tech Anatomy.

The event also featured the unveiling of a Local Electronics Manufacturing Facility

<h3>Transforming Uganda’s Innovation Landscape</h3>

The Deep Tech Centre has been established with three core objectives:

<ul><li>Developing a world-class research and innovation ecosystem</li></ul>

<ul><li>Providing commercialisation support for technology ventures</li></ul>

<ul><li>Enhancing Uganda’s workforce to compete in the Fourth Industrial Revolution</li></ul>

The AI for BPO initiative, which will provide AI-driven support to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, was also announced at the launch. Additionally, a Deep Tech Venture Studio will be set up to help innovators develop globally competitive ventures.

The Centre will house a local data repository and exchange program to support research commercialisation and corporate venture capital investment.

According to David Gonahasa, Lead of the Industry 4.0+ Bureau at the STI Secretariat, the centre aligns with Uganda&rsquo;s broader Industry 4.0+ framework.

"By embedding deep tech innovation, Uganda can lead the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This initiative is part of Uganda’s strategy to catalyse innovation in emerging technological fields, giving the country a global competitive edge," Gonahasa said.

<h3>Driving Uganda’s Future with Deep Tech</h3>

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report (2025) predicts that over 100 million jobs will be created in the global deep tech sector by 2030.

This presents a massive opportunity for Uganda to generate high-value employment and attract investment in research-driven enterprises.

Arthur Mukembo, CEO of Future Lab and co-founder of the Deep Tech Centre, highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative:

"We are focused on providing unparalleled access to world-class R&amp;D and commercialisation infrastructure, nurturing technical, research, entrepreneurial, and management talent," he said.

"By leveraging AI, Big Data Analytics, and IoT, we aim to tackle challenges like limited healthcare access, low agricultural productivity, and youth unemployment.”

A 2022 Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report revealed that investments in deep tech startups reached $60 billion in 2021, more than doubling since 2016.

However, despite the immense potential, stakeholders at the launch emphasised the need for robust public-private partnerships, infrastructure development, and forward-thinking regulations to ensure sustainable growth and intellectual property protection.

The establishment of the Deep Tech Centre of Excellence is a bold step towards making Uganda a hub for deep technology innovation in Africa.

Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, and Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the launch of the hub

The launch event was presided over by Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, and Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation. 

Uganda launches Deep Tech Centre to drive innovation, economic growth

The Ugandan government is exploring the idea of launching a national social media competition to encourage positive storytelling about the country.&nbsp;

The proposal was revealed by Amina Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, during the <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/news/100000-jobs-to-be-created-in-bpo-sector-as-government-unveils-new-policy-2025022016550224022">official launch of the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Policy in Kampala.</a>

Zawedde called on Ugandans to post uplifting content about their country, arguing that negative portrayals often deter foreign investors and tourists.&nbsp;

She suggested that Uganda could borrow a page from the Philippines, where different regions compete to share the most positive content about their country, in a move that has helped boost their global image.

Speaking at the event, Zawedde urged Ugandans, especially young people, to rethink how they use social media. She noted that while many enjoy posting sensational or negative content, such posts often create a misleading impression of Uganda to outsiders.

"We are urging you not to post things that bring disrepute to Uganda because we know that this is what you like to do as young people. But it doesn't build us. Sadly, some of these posts are not even true," Zawedde said.

She encouraged Ugandans to focus on promoting the country&rsquo;s strengths, including its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and thriving businesses.

"We urge that once in a while when you want to post about Uganda, post about the good food, the nice restaurants, and the beautiful cultural dances because that is what the world wants to see," she added.

Minister Chris Baryomunsi launched the Uganda BPO Policy and Publicity Campaign.

<h2>Competition to Reward the Most Positive Content</h2>

To promote a more constructive use of social media, Zawedde proposed the introduction of a competition where districts or subregions would compete to post the most positive content about Uganda.

"While benchmarking on this policy in the Philippines, we found that the country even has competitions on which province posts the most positive things about their country and therefore attracts more foreign investments. I think this is something that we need to try out here. We can do it by district or subregion," she explained.

Also speaking at the event, ICT Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi highlighted the impact of online narratives on Uganda&rsquo;s global reputation.&nbsp;

He shared an example of a British doctor who had initially feared visiting Uganda due to negative portrayals online but later found the country to be one of the best places he had ever visited.

"You need to understand that what you post online determines how your country is understood abroad. Some people are pushed to write negatively about Uganda because of politics, but ultimately, you have a duty to be an ambassador of your country," Baryomunsi said.

He stressed that promoting a positive image of Uganda would attract investors, tourists, and opportunities that benefit Ugandans.

The proposal was revealed by Amina Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, during the official launch of the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Policy in Kampala.

Government proposes social media contest to promote Uganda image

Dr Kizza Besigye has ended his weeks-long hunger strike, which he had maintained in protest against his continued detention without a remand warrant.&nbsp;

His decision came after he was formally charged before a civilian court on Friday.

According to Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who leads his defence team, Besigye&rsquo;s demand was to be presented in a civilian court rather than remain in indefinite detention following the Supreme Court&rsquo;s ruling against his trial in a military tribunal.&nbsp;

According to Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who leads his defence team, Besigye’s demand was to be presented in a civilian court rather than remain in indefinite detention following the Supreme Court’s ruling against his trial in a military tribunal. 

Samson Waswa

Articles written by the author

Bobi Wine says spy equipment recovered from NUP offices, cars after security raid

Beenie Gunter marks 32nd birthday with major career move

‘I am a shy girl’ – Winnie Nwagi talks hardships working with other artists

Why Roast & Rhyme was postponed

Byanyima drops more details on 'challenging' past relationship with Museveni

Traffic disruptions expected as repairs commence next week on Entebbe Expressway

Bebe Cool drops 'Motivation' as he gears for highly anticipated album

Nyamutoro opposes removal of youth parliamentary seats

‘A friendly soldier begged me not to resist’ - Nyanzi relives ordeal after release

Uganda launches Deep Tech Centre to drive innovation, economic growth

Government proposes social media contest to promote Uganda image

Besigye ends hunger strike as lawyers push for bail

Besigye, Lutale remanded till March, High Court do decide on treatment

100,000 jobs to be created in BPO sector as government unveils new policy

Bebe Cool set to drop ‘Motivation’ as he launches annual inspiration week

Aganaga talks 'betrayal' of replacing Ssegirinya with armchair intellectual

Ignore Muhoozi, Mwenda tweets - Gen Kayanja Muhanga tells DRC government

Government seeks Shs 700 bn loan from Stanbic to buy out Umeme

Martha Karua challenges Ugandan opposition to front one candidate against Museveni

Nyanzi arrest: Gen Nalweyiso says NUP ‘militia parade’ a court-martial offence