Showbizuganda

Tag: Fort Portal

  • Mountains of the Moon University Students Advance to Global Finals of the Huawei ICT Competition 2025–2026 Following Regional Victory

    Mountains of the Moon University Students Advance to Global Finals of the Huawei ICT Competition 2025–2026 Following Regional Victory

    Fort Portal City:  Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) has achieved a significant milestone in technology and innovation, with its AgriChain Team (Uganda Innovation Team) emerging winners of the Regional Innovation Track at the Huawei ICT Competition 2025–2026. The team will now represent Uganda at the Global Finals scheduled to take place in Shenzhen from 2nd to 5th June 2026. The winning team, comprising Okoo Elvis, Wasswa Atibu, and Masendi Aaron under the instruction of Alinaitwe Mukonyezi, impressed judges with their innovative project, AgriChain—an artificial intelligence-powered solution developed using MindSpore.

    The project aims to transform agriculture across Africa and beyond by enhancing efficiency, transparency, and productivity within agricultural value chains. This achievement follows a highly competitive journey, where the students advanced from preliminary rounds in December 2025, excelled in the National Finals in January 2026, and went on to outperform teams from 21 Sub-Saharan African countries at the Regional Finals held in Kampala on 5th March 2026.

    Speaking on the achievement, Arinda Ronnie Akantorana, Public Relations Manager at Huawei Technologies (Uganda) Co., Ltd, commended the Mountains of the Moon University, stating: “Seeing the students excel on such a competitive stage is a testament to the high standard of education, mentorship, and technical training provided by Mountains of the Moon University.  Achievements like this bring great pride to the academic community and serve as an inspiration to fellow students. We look forward to supporting them as they progress to the global stage.”

    The Vice Chancellor of Mountains of the Moon University, Prof. Pius Coxwell Achanga, also praised the team’s success: “I warmly congratulate our Innovations Team for emerging winners at the regional level and qualifying for the global finals. This initiative provides a vital platform for talent cultivation, enabling our students to enhance their digital skills and compete at the highest level. We are proud to see MMU and Uganda represented on the global stage.”

    Aaron Masendi, a Computer Science Student & one of the participants, expressed appreciation for the opportunity and highlighted the broader impact of the experience: “We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate in this competition. It has provided a powerful platform for advancing agriculture-technology innovation while strengthening the role of youth and education in solving real-world challenges. Competing at this level has not only enhanced our technical capabilities but also reinforced our commitment to developing solutions that can transform agriculture in Africa.”

    The Huawei ICT Competition is a globally recognized platform that brings together students and educators from over 2,000 universities across more than 100 countries. Since its launch in 2015, the competition has played a critical role in nurturing ICT talent, enhancing practical skills, and fostering innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and networking. It is also recognized as a flagship program partner of the UNESCO Global Skills Academy.

    The AgriChain team’s success underscores the growing role of African universities in driving innovation and positions Uganda as a rising hub for technology-driven solutions in agriculture. Further details regarding the awarding ceremony and the global finals roadmap will be communicated in due course.

  • Plascon Expands Painter Empowerment With New SACCO Offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal

    Plascon Expands Painter Empowerment With New SACCO Offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal

    In a landmark move to empower Uganda’s professional painting community, Plascon has officially launched three new Painters Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal. These offices mark a new chapter in the company’s mission to uplift and support painters across the country by expanding access to financial tools, training, and community engagement structures. The Masaka SACCO Office was inaugurated on 20th May 2025, followed by the Kasese and Fort Portal offices on 21st May 2025.

    Masaka City, the historical cradle of Plascon’s painter movement, now hosts a state-of-the-art SACCO office dedicated to its vibrant painter community. With over 70 professional painters subscribing to the SACCO and a legacy that began with the very first technical training in 2006, Masaka has long been a beacon of painter excellence. The new office stands as a celebration of 19 years of continuous growth, skill development, and community strength. The launch event was officiated by Plascon’s Managing Director, Mr. Santosh Gumte, who praised the city’s enduring contribution to the painting profession. “Masaka holds a special place in our hearts. It is here that our journey of painter empowerment truly began, and this new SACCO office is both a tribute to that legacy and a promise of continued support. Our painters are not just service providers — they are professionals, and they deserve infrastructure and support to match their talent,” said Mr. Gumte

    Building on the momentum, Plascon extended its painter empowerment initiative to western Uganda, with the opening of SACCO offices in Kasese and Fort Portal on 21st May. These offices are strategically positioned to reach and support painters in underserved yet rapidly developing regions. In Kasese, the SACCO will play a pivotal role in connecting painters from across the district, including those working all the way to the Mpondwe-Bwera border. The location is particularly significant as it opens up engagement opportunities and easier access to supplies even for painters operating in parts of Eastern Congo.

    Similarly, the Fort Portal SACCO Office is expected to serve not just the city, but also the wider districts of Kabarole, Bunyangabu, Ntoroko, and Bundibugyo. This region, with its growing demand for skilled trades, now benefits from a robust support system that will enable painters to operate more professionally and collaboratively. Speaking at the dual launches, Mr. Moses Kato, Plascon’s Head of Sales, emphasized the long-term vision behind the expansion. “We’re not just opening offices; we’re building a nationwide network of skilled, confident, and connected painters. This initiative will allow painters to access financial tools, receive technical guidance, and grow as a unified community. Our aim is to see professional painting recognized not just as a trade, but as a respected career path,” he stated

    Plascon MD, Mr. Gumte, who officiated the launch in Kasese alongside Mr. Kato, highlighted Plascon’s broader commitment to developing Uganda’s human capital. “We understand that true economic development must include the artisans, the creators, the professionals who build and beautify our homes and cities. These SACCOs are engines of opportunity, hubs of innovation, and homes for the painter community,” he said.

    With these launches, Plascon continues to deepen its role as a champion of vocational excellence in Uganda. The new SACCO offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal are symbols of trust, growth, and the transformative power of community. Through continued investment in painter welfare and development, Plascon reaffirms its commitment to a brighter, more colourful Uganda — painted by professionals, supported by purpose, and driven by partnership.

  • Airtel Uganda launches New Network Sites in Kabarole to Accelerate Digital Transformation of the Tourism City

    Airtel Uganda launches New Network Sites in Kabarole to Accelerate Digital Transformation of the Tourism City

    Fort Portal: Airtel Uganda yesterday reinforced its commitment to providing superior network connectivity by commissioning eight new network sites in Fort Portal City.

    This expansion is part of Airtel’s continued investment in enhancing network coverage and ensuring a brilliant digital experience for its customers in the greater Tooro region.
    Speaking at the commissioning event, Airtel Uganda’s Business territory Manager, Mathias Busuulwa emphasized the company’s dedication to bridging the digital divide and supporting economic transformation through reliable connectivity.

    The District Chairperson of Kabarole, Mr. Richard Rwabuhinga(with white hat) cuts a reborn to symbolize the commissioning eight new Airtel network sites in Fort Portal City. This expansion is part of Airtel’s continued investment in enhancing network coverage and ensuring a brilliant digital experience for its customers in the greater Tooro region

    “Connectivity is more than just a service; it is a gateway to World Tourism, business growth, Education, healthcare, and financial inclusion. We understand that for Fort Portal to continue thriving as a center of tourism business, education, and innovation, it needs a strong, reliable network. Today, we are proud to announce xxx new network sites that will improve coverage, enhance call clarity, and provide faster internet speeds for our customers in this region.”
    The eight new network sites include:
    Fort Portal Njara
    Fort Portal Boma
    Kijura among others.

    While the official launch event is showcasing one of these sites, all eight are now operational and ready to serve the people of Fort Portal. This development will directly benefit our tourists, local businesses, students, farmers, and families by enabling them to stay connected and leverage digital opportunities to improve their livelihoods.

    The District Chairperson of Kabarole, Mr. Richard Rwabuhinga (with white hat), Speaker of Fort Portal city, Albert Ahebwa (3rd L), Airtel Uganda’s Regional Business Manager, Mathias Busuulwa(3rd R), Head of Brand and Communication, Noela Byuma (L) with other Airtel staff and officials from Fort Portal city at the commissioning eight new Airtel network sites in Fort Portal City

    Speaking at the launch, the District Chairperson of Kabarole, Mr. Richard Rwabuhinga, congratulated Airtel on this milestone, highlighting its role in driving Uganda’s economic growth through improved connectivity. He also commended the NRM government for liberalizing the telecommunications sector, which has enabled such advancements.

    “With reliable and transformative 4G connectivity, we can enhance e-commerce, online jobs, innovation, and participation in stock exchanges. A strong network infrastructure will also support our tourism city, attracting more visitors to the region, boosting the local economy, and supporting businesses.”
    Airtel Uganda remains committed to supporting national development through continuous investment in network infrastructure across the country. As the preferred telecom partner for millions of Ugandans, the company continues to expand its reach, ensuring every customer has access to affordable, high-quality communication services.

    “We are grateful to the people of Fort Portal for their trust in Airtel Uganda. Last year, during the Townhall at the College, we made a commitment to the people of Fort Portal to act on the feedback we got. We have delivered on this feedback and remain committed to connecting Tooro to the world” Busuulwa concluded.

    With this expansion, Airtel Uganda reinforces its position as the network that empowers communities, drives business growth, and fosters innovation across the country.

  • The Untold Tales of Fort Portal trip is here

    The Untold Tales of Fort Portal trip is here

    Celebrity Tours and Travel is organizing an mesmerizing fun filled trip to Fort Portal, we can reveal.

    The trip dubbed ‘The Untold Tales of Fort Portal’ is due from October 4th to 6th this year.

    The fun and entertainment filled trip will have activities like game drive, Semuliki Hot Springs, Boat Cruise, Photography, Games, Night Life in Fort Portal and Nyahuka Bridge.

    The trip will be charged as follows singles UGX 450k and couple UGX 850k and fee is inclusive of transportation, accommodation, meals and entry fee as well as all activities.

    For more inquiries and bookings, contact on +256755368871 or +256780796195

  • All is set for Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival which is set to ignite Fort Portal Tourism City

    All is set for Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival which is set to ignite Fort Portal Tourism City

    Fort Portal: The Deputy Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom on behalf of His Majesty, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities officially launched the second edition of the highly anticipated Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival at a press conference held at the Mucwa Parliament.

    Organised by Talent Africa Group, Ekyooto Ha Mpango is set to bring Fort Portal city to life from the 13th to the 14th of September 2024, the vibrant festival promises a dynamic celebration of culture, music, sports, fashion, and tourism.

    Following the success of the 2021 hybrid edition held during the lockdown, the objectives of the 2nd edition are to promote tourism, cultural exchange, and economic growth in the region, while celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of Ugandan culture. The festival aim is to not only entertain but also educate, inspire and showcase the Tooro region as the leading tourism destination in Africa.

    Ekyooto Ha Mpango will offer a spectacular lineup of events including:

    Music Festival

    On September 14th, the Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival will feature an electrifying music festival showcasing leading artists from the Tooro Kingdom and special guest artists from across Uganda and beyond. Attendees can expect unforgettable performances, diverse musical genres, and an atmosphere of unity and celebration. Some of the confirmed acts include the legendary female group BLU 3 alongside leading acts from the Tooro Kingdom such as Titan, Irene Hinda, Rosette, Ayesiga, Draei Bitsc, Holy Trimmy, Sagio Mhza, Home of Talent, and more.

    Sporting Events: On September 13th, sports enthusiasts will have the opportunity to participate in and witness thrilling basketball and golf tournaments. These events aim to promote a spirit of healthy competition and camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.

    Fashion Gala: The festival will also host a glamorous fashion gala on the evening of September 13th, highlighting the creativity and innovation of leading designers and models. This event will celebrate contemporary fashion while paying homage to traditional styles, making it a must-attend for fashion lovers.

    Royal Tour: This exclusive tour led by His Majesty the King, in the company of the Minister of Tourism, Royals from other Kingdoms, and other high-level delegates and officials will showcase some of Tooro Kingdoms most breath taking tourism destinations.

    Cultural Experiences and Performances: Throughout the festival, visitors will be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the Tooro Kingdom through a series of cultural experiences and performances. Traditional dances, storytelling, and artisanal crafts will provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s history and customs.

    Tourism Excursions: To showcase the natural beauty and attractions of the Tooro Kingdom, the festival will offer guided and discounted tourism excursions to leading destinations. Some of the tourism activities include chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, Crater lake hiking tour, the Royal Palace, Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru, Mount Rwenzori and Sempaya Hot Springs.

    Aly Allibhai, the CEO of Talent Africa Group states, “We are thrilled to present the Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival as a celebration of the vibrant culture and heritage of the Tooro Kingdom. This festival is an opportunity to unite communities, promote tourism, and create lasting memories for all attendees. We invite everyone to join us in Fort Portal Tourism City for two days of celebration, discovery, and fun. Whether you are a music lover, sports enthusiast, fashionista, culture buff, or adventure seeker, this festival has something for everyone”.

    The Deputy Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom Abwooli Harriet Nyakaka said, “Fort Portal is the jewel of the pearl of Africa. Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival will help boost local economy, providing a significant opportunity to tap into various sectors such as tourism, accommodation, hospitality and local businesses. We believe that by bringing people together to celebrate our culture, we can foster economic growth and create lasting benefits for local businesses. I urge the people of Fort Portal and Uganda, to come and enjoy the culture, the tourism sites, and everything else the festival has to offer”.

    The Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival is powered by Talent Africa Group, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiques, NBS Television, Capital FM, and the Kingdom of Tooro.

    For more information, updates, and sponsorship opportunities, please contact info@talentafricagroup.com or call 0758 772 564.

    Meanwhile: Are you looking for tourist home in Fort Portal to stay at during Ekyooto Ha Mpango festival, Braka Homes is here to host you. They are your tourist residence offering the best service and rates in town in their serene environment.

    Contact them on +256702789737 or +256782559526 or find them along Fort Portal – Kasese Road. Your stay is their smile. Braka Homes is a home away from home!

  • Miss Elite Judith Heard puts Fort Portal on the global map

    Miss Elite Judith Heard puts Fort Portal on the global map

    Fashionista and super model Judith Heard is not about to give up the throne. The current Miss Elite Africa is still up there and a force to reckon with.
    In the just concluded ‘Ekyooto Ha Mpango’ in Fort Portal, she unleashed her celebrity power and she surely put the Tourism city on the global map.
    Her stage appearance was lit and showed how she is still a force to reckon with when it comes to influencing things.
    Ekyooto Ha Mpango was aimed at promoting tourism locally and globally in Fort Portal. Big to you JH!!!
  • Airtel Uganda pushes expansion of its Broadband Internet Solution in regional cities

    Airtel Uganda pushes expansion of its Broadband Internet Solution in regional cities

    • The device offers an affordable solution for homes and SMEs
    • Broadband device connects up to 32 users simultaneously

     

    Kampala: Airtel Uganda has continued its country-wide drive as it expands its affordable and reliable fixed wireless internet solution to all parts of the country.

    Subscribers in the cities of Fort Portal, Mbarara and Kabalewere treated to the unveiling of the fast internet solution with Masaka to follow shortly.

    At the unveiling in Mbarara City, the Mayor applauded Airtel Uganda for the improved and managed services that the company has been

    “Airtel Uganda has played a major role in the continued development of Mbarara City over the years its commitment in providing the people of Mbarara with affordable communicationservices is highly valued,” said Mugabe Robert Kakyebezi, Mbarara City Mayor.

    The Broadband Internet Solution unit which attracts a one-off entry cost of Shs280,000 inclusive of a 51GB of Data valid for 30 days, free installation and device maintenance for three years has been on the market since September last year when it launched in Kampala.

    Commenting about the expansion, Airtel Uganda General Manager, Broadband, Brenden Kachenje said; “Since the launch, hundreds of homes and businesses in and around Kampala have benefited from the Airtel Broadband reliability and affordability. To satisfy the demand, we have decided to expand the solution to customers upcountry especially during these unprecedented times when the internet is a major driver of livelihood.”

    The fixed Wireless internet device comes in stylish designs and can connect 32 internet-powered devices including laptops, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, game consoles, security cameras and many others to the internet.

    The solution offers the best internet experience at the most affordable rate of less than Shs2,000 per GB.

    PRICE OF BUNDLE (UGX)

    GB

    COST PER GB

    VALIDITY

    Shs100,000

    50GB

    Shs2,000

    30 days

    Shs200,000

    120GB

    Shs1,660

    30 days

    Shs300,000

    200GB

    Shs1,500

    30 days

    The Airtel Broadband Outdoor Unit is easy to install and can be conveniently recharged.

    ✓ Buy data bundles via the Airtel USSD Menu by dialing *100# Selecting Option 9. Broadband Offers
    ✓ Buy data bundles through Airtel Money
    ✓ Visit the Airtel Broadband Self-care portal – https://airtel.co.ug/broadband
    ✓ You can also visit any Airtel service center or partner shop and pay for your Data bundle recharge

    The device can be ordered conveniently, quickly and safely through the online shop via the Airtel Uganda website.

  • President M7 congratulates 7 new cities in the country

    President M7 congratulates 7 new cities in the country

    President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has congratulated 7 new cities which started yesterday. He said the elevation into cities is an acknowledgment of the growth they have experienced.
    He said more will follow on the 8 cities already in the country.
    “Congratulations to the people of Jinja, Arua, Gulu, Masaka, Fort Portal, Mbarara and Mbale, whose towns today became cities. Uganda now has eight cities and more will follow.
    The elevation is an acknowledgement of the growth these towns have experienced but importantly a move to ensure more services are brought closer to the people.
    My guidance is that the political and technical leaders must work in harmony to ensure the cities are run efficiently. I also urge the wanainchi to be involved in the running of these cities, especially through oversight. Congratulations,” President M7 said.
  • Photos: Fort Portal gets taste of Guinness Night Football as series makes Fort Portal debut

    Photos: Fort Portal gets taste of Guinness Night Football as series makes Fort Portal debut

    Fort Portal: Kick off time in Fort portal was nothing short of entertaining as football enthusiasts flocked  the Pavilion Bar and Grill parking for the first ever Guinness Night Football extravaganza that took place last night (Saturday).

    The neon–themed night saw fans indulge in their passions for football engaging in a cocktail of fun football activities like 5- Aside football, Table Foosball, Human Foosball with the highlight of the night being the local skill challenges of “Mirundi”,“Kagere” and incredible head games all played in neon themed UV lighting technology.

    The night saw town folk bring out their competitive sides with teams such as ‘Pavillion’,’ Hits’, ‘desert’, ‘team no sleep’, ‘UPU stars’, ‘the preacher’s’, team Abasadii, st George A and B among others. With team UPU coming out victor after going head to head with team ‘Abasaddii’ in an action packed football show down that saw team UPU stars coming out victor with a 5-4v win against their counterparts hence sealing their place in the finals that will take place in Kampala later in December.


    Speaking to     journalists during the games UBL’s Cathy Twesigye expressed her excitement about how the games have so far turned out.

    “Like I’ve said before, this is football ‘the Guinness Way.’ we are bringing the fun and the party to the game. I cannot tell you how proud I am that our fans are coming out and showing that they are made of more, it’s going to be parteh after parteh here after” said Cathy Twesigye,Guinness Brand Manager.

    The Night featured show stopping performance from the ‘king herself’ Cindy who jumped on stage with her famous hit song “Selector” but it was her 2009 hit song “Ayokyayokya” that got the crowd wild and on their feet.


    It was later     closed with a riveting performance from Fik Fameica who together with DJ CIZA’s mixes turned the heat up for the revelers who got on their feet dancing the night away to songs like “Gwa Bisobola”, “Tubikole”, “Omu Bwati”, “Boom Party” his collaboration with Nigeria’s Patoranking among others.


    The series will be     traversing the country whilst taking fun and action–packed night experiences coupled with unexpected and fun football activities that will give players and fans a chance to get involved in an extraordinary experience with the games moving to the eastern town of Mbale next month.