Uganda Roundup: Arrests, investigations, Turkey military trains Ugandan special forces
'Cult' members arrested
Five members of the Peace of Trumpet Ministry Uganda were arrested for sabotaging the 2024 census, preaching against it, and warning that those who participated might miss the kingdom of God. They also told parents not to allow their children to be immunised and warned against registering for National Identification Cards. According to local media Nation, Charges of common nuisance have been preferred against them, and the case file is ready for submission to the Resident State Attorney. Leaders in the region are urging participation in the census for accurate data and regional planning.
Investigations into wealth of Ugandan Speaker of Parliament
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has ordered an investigation into reports that Speaker of Parliament Anita Among owns houses in the UK, raising questions about her wealth. This comes after he publicly defended her, but now wants more information about her properties. Some Ugandans welcome the probe, seeing it as a possible removal from office, while others have reservations about the President's intentions, Pulse reports.
Refugees in Kampala
The Office of the Prime Minister's report shows that Kampala is home to over 149,000 refugees, with a significant increase from 2020. Most refugees live in settlements in rural areas, but those in urban areas must adapt to Ugandan terms to access finances. Research found that refugees and host communities are learning to coexist peacefully, with inter-marriages contributing to better relations, Monitor reports.
Military training for Ugandan special forces
Turkey has agreed to provide military training to Uganda, including special forces. The agreement covers exchange programs, joint exercises, and specialised training in areas such as mine and IED combat, communications, and cyber defense. According to Military Africa, this initiative is part of Turkey’s efforts to strengthen military relations with African nations. The agreement reflects Turkey’s strategic interest in expanding its defense industry footprint in Africa, while Uganda stands to gain valuable expertise and capacity-building through this collaboration.
Uganda leases airline
Uganda Airlines leases A320 from Global Airlines to address capacity shortfalls on its busiest routes to Nairobi, Johannesburg, Lagos, and Kinshasa. The 160-seat aircraft will eliminate weight restrictions and help the airline maintain schedule integrity while its existing fleet undergoes maintenance. The East African reports that the lease is for one year, and the airline is also in talks to purchase mid-range aircraft from Airbus and Boeing.
