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Tag: Kasese

  • What Uganda Gains from the annual Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon

    What Uganda Gains from the annual Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon

    The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is now World Athletics Certified, becoming the First International Certified Label Marathon in Uganda. This was revealed on Tuesday during the launch of 2026 (5th edition) which is slated to take place on 22nd August in Kasese. The kingpin of the Marathon is Mr. Amos Wekesa, it’s founder and proprietor of Great Lakes Safaris Limited.

    Below is what Uganda will gain from the now globally recognized Marathon;

    By Wasswa Emma

    The Rwenzori Marathon being upgraded to a World Athletics Label Marathon is more than a title; it’s a game-changer for Uganda. The benefits are clear, measurable, and multi-layered.

    Tourism Advantages to Uganda

    The Label status draws more visitors every year, and they stay longer, arriving before and leaving after the marathon. This extended stay doesn’t just fill hotel rooms; it means visitors spend more on food, transport, and experiences, exploring the country beyond the race.

    Infrastructure and amenity development. Hotels, lodges, restaurants, resorts, and roads expand to meet demand, creating a better experience for both tourists and locals.

    Global media attention enhances Uganda’s online image and publicity, showing the world a vibrant, organized, and exciting destination.

    Uganda is now firmly on the global map, recognized as a premier sports tourism destination.

    Visitors interact with locals, fostering cultural exchange and connecting communities with the wider world.

    Economic Advantages to Uganda

    As of 2026, the global marathon industry is recognized as a multi-billion-dollar economic engine, with the top 50 generating over $5.5b for their host cities.

    More visitors and longer stays mean more money circulating in local economies. Businesses, hotels, restaurants, shops, and service providers benefit.
    Increased sales; high numbers equal high demand.

    Employment opportunities, especially from developed infrastructure, particularly in hospitality, transport, and event management.

    The growth isn’t limited to major cities; smaller towns in Western Uganda also benefit significantly, showing that sports tourism can transform rural and regional economies more than cities could.

    The event encourages repeat visits, building long-term economic momentum.

    Overall, the marathon strengthens Uganda’s tourism revenue, GDP contribution, and local livelihoods, turning sports tourism into a lasting economic asset that continues paying dividends well after the runners cross the finish line.

    Celebrating a Milestone

    Let us celebrate this big milestone as Ugandans. Most of all, let us celebrate the legendary @wekesa_amos for doing the unthinkable. Kudos to the Rwenzori Marathon team and the sponsors who have walked this journey side by side with them.

    Thank you for believing in what once seemed like a dream. Today, we are here proud, firm, and upgraded.

    Uganda will host A Label Marathon on 22nd Aug 2026

    #TuskerLiteRwenzoriMarathon

  • Young Media Entrepreneur, Nyanzi Martin, installs Billboard in Kasese, causes debate

    Young Media Entrepreneur, Nyanzi Martin, installs Billboard in Kasese, causes debate

    Kasese: Rising public figure and self-styled media mogul, Nyanzi Martin Luther, has made a bold statement with the installation of a personal billboard in Kasese District. The billboard, prominently placed along a key highway route, features his image alongside the title “Uganda’s Media Mogul,” a phrase that has sparked both admiration and debate across social media.

    The move, seen by many as an early sign of growing political or branding ambitions, marks Nyanzi’s first major public display outside Kampala. Sources close to his team confirmed that a second billboard is already being planned for Busega, a busy transit hub in the capital city.

    Residents in Kasese have expressed mixed feelings. Some view the billboard as inspirational — a sign that youth from ordinary backgrounds can rise to national visibility. Others question the motive behind the move, asking whether it is part of a wider campaign strategy, a media stunt, or simply a branding effort.

    Nyanzi has not publicly declared political intentions, but his increasing visibility, public commentary, and recent media engagements hint at a carefully crafted image-building effort.

  • Stanbic Bank donation solves 90% of Rukoki hospital maternal services challenges

    Stanbic Bank donation solves 90% of Rukoki hospital maternal services challenges

    Kasese: A recent donation of maternal health equipment worth UGX44 million to Rukoki Health Centre IV in Kasese District by Stanbic Bank Uganda, is solving 90% of the facility’s prevailing maternity ward challenges.

    Speaking during the handover ceremony, Dr. Edward Wefula, the facility’s in-charge, commended the bank for the timely support. He described the donation as “a lifeline that has restored dignity and efficiency to maternal care services at Rukoki.”

    Dr. Wafula said, “This donation has solved 90% of the problems we have been grappling with in the maternity ward. The donations received today include four oxygen concentrators meaning we shall now not lack oxygen. The consignment also had 10 modern maternity beds and all their accessories, two blood pressure machines, 200 Mama Kits among others. I want to give an assurance that we can now provide safer deliveries, better neonatal care, and improved hygiene for both mothers and babies.”

    Stanbic Bank delegation pose for a group with the Kasese district leadership during the equipment handover event at Rukoki Hospital in Kasese district

    The equipment is part of a bigger consignment worth UGX 300 million being distributed to select health centres in a drive launched last week by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwine. The initiative aims to strengthen facilities across Uganda, particularly those facing challenges in providing maternal and child health services. Since the start of the year, Stanbic Bank has donated medical equipment to more than 10 health facilities across Uganda and plans to reach at least nine more by the end of October.

    Speaking while flagging off the this countrywide initiative, Dr. Diana Atwine praised the Stanbic Love Month donations that have significantly complemented the government efforts boosting access to quality health care especially in the maternal health space. She said, “A healthy Uganda cannot be built by government alone. Partnerships like this one are critical if we are to ensure no mother dies while giving life. Therefore from the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of the government of Uganda, I want to salute Stanbic always standing with Ugandans and fulfilling your commitment.”

    Rukoki Hospital is a government-owned facility that was recently upgraded from a Health Centre IV to a hospital at the start of this financial year in July 2025.According to staff members, despite its new status, the hospital is overwhelmed by a high patient volume and a large catchment population, leading to poor services, a shortage of beds, and makeshift facilities for patients. The hospital delivers between 200 and 300 children on a monthly basis.While handing over the consignment, Stanbic Bank Head of Coverage, Sam Bulenzi praised the resilience of Rukoki’s medical staff, recalling the tragic fire that engulfed the facility in June 2021, destroying equipment worth millions of shillings.

    Bulenzi said, “We are all aware of the tragedy that struck in 2021, yet out of that adversity rose a renewed sense of purpose. Your resilience and commitment to saving lives is what inspire us to be here today.”

    He said the donation is in line with Stanbic Bank’s purpose, ‘Uganda is our home, We drive her growth’. Rukoki Health Centre continues to serve as a critical referral facility for thousands of patients from across the Rwenzori region, also absorbing overflow cases from nearby health centers and Kilembe Hospital, which has been repeatedly affected by floods.

    Sam Bulenzi, Stanbic Bank Head of Coverage handing over a mama Kit to an expectant mother in Kasese

    Bulenzi said, “For us, driving growth doesn’t stop at financing businesses and farmers. It also means strengthening essential sectors like health, education environment stewardship which the backbone of our nation.”

    Kambale Frigo, the Kasese Municipality member of parliament thanked the bank for the gesture, noting that the support will directly improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in the region. Sylvia Atuhaire, the Stanbic Head of distribution highlighted that the donation coincides with the bank’s annual “October Love Month,” a period dedicated to giving back to communities in celebration of Uganda’s Independence and Global Customer Service Month. Uganda has made progress in maternal health, with its maternal mortality ratio (MMR) declining to 189 per 100,000 live births as of 2022, a 44% drop from 336 in 2016.

    Sam Bulenzi, Stanbic Head of Coverage Handing over a Mama Kit to the Kasese CAO Paul Walakira. Looking is Kambale Frigo, the area Member of Parliament

    However, challenges remain, including inequities in service access, low completion rates for recommended antenatal care visits, and logistical issues like delayed medicine deliveries. Common causes of maternal deaths include obstetric hemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, and infection.

  • 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.

  • Rwenzori Marathon provides a unique opportunity for us to promote healthy living in the wake of non-communicable diseases, promote young talents, & boost tourism says Hon. Peter Ogwang

    Rwenzori Marathon provides a unique opportunity for us to promote healthy living in the wake of non-communicable diseases, promote young talents, & boost tourism says Hon. Peter Ogwang

    The State Minister for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang has hailed the Rwenzori Marathon saying it provides a unique opportunity to promote healthy, young talent and tourism.

    The Minister said this today while flagging off the 3rd edition of the now annual Rwenzori Marathon organized by Tourism enthusiast Amos Wekesa and sponsored mainly by Tusker Lite.

    Hon. Peter Ogwang said it was such an exhilarating experience to flag off and even participate in the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon that took place this morning in the beautiful terrains of Kasese District. The Minister participated in the 10km run and emerged the 6th.

    “I really want to congratulate my brother Wekesa Amos, the Ministry of Tourism, and other partners for making this happen. Such marathons provide a pathway that nurtures and ushers our young athletes to the competitive world of sports. From my own experience today, Rwenzori Marathon provides a unique opportunity for us to promote healthy living in the wake of non-communicable diseases, promote young talents, and boost tourism. I was taken aback by the number of tourists that took part in the run. It is a testament that Uganda is indeed the number one tourism destination. Together, we need to consolidate our efforts as stakeholders and use sports to promote tourism as our country’s niche. Trust me, the benefits will be immense. I am upbeat about the forthcoming #KampalaMarathon2024 this December,” Hon. Peter Ogwang said.

  • Hon ⁦Peter Ogwang rallies for Rwenzori Marathon

    Hon ⁦Peter Ogwang rallies for Rwenzori Marathon

    The Minister of State for Sports paid and picked his kit for Rwenzori Marathn⁩ 2024 slated this Saturday in Kasese.

    The Minister has boosted the annual marathon by confirming his coming for the marathon in Kasese!

    Amos Wekesa praised the minister for the support and commitment to participate.

    “He made a few phone calls for me this morning, very critical ones,” Wekesa said.

    The Rwenzori Marathon is now a certified one and will have races for 5kms, 10kms, 21kms and 42kms. The marathon is powered by Tusker Lite and is due this Saturday 24th August in Kasese town.

  • Centenary Bank Extends Relief to Kasese District Flood Victims

    Centenary Bank Extends Relief to Kasese District Flood Victims

    Kampala: Centenary Bank, the largest commercial microfinance bank in Uganda, in response to the devastating landslides and floods that struck Kasese District in May, displacing over 1,000 families, has stepped forward with a substantial donation to aid affected communities.

    The catastrophic event saw major rivers such as Nyamugasani, Rwembyo, Kabiri, Isule, Hima Kuruhe, and Muhokya burst their banks, causing widespread damage across eleven Sub Counties and Town Councils.

    Understanding the dire need for immediate relief, Centenary Bank, through its Kasese branch, collaborated with local entities, including Bwera branch and the Diocese, to provide essential supplies to 173 affected families. This initiative underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting and uplifting communities in times of crisis.

    According to Selevano Masereka the Centenary Bank Kasese Branch Manager, the bank donated 865 kgs of maize flour, 346 kgs of farm rice, 1,730 kgs of cassava flour, 519 kgs of beans, 40 cartons of soap, and 173 blankets to the affected families.
    These donations are aimed at addressing the immediate welfare needs of the affected families, ensuring they have access to basic necessities during this challenging period. The provision of food items such as maize flour, farm rice, cassava flour, and beans will help alleviate hunger, while soap and blankets will assist in maintaining hygiene and comfort.

    Speaking on the initiative, James Katamba Sebavubya, the Centenary Bank Western Region Manager stated, “As a bank that cares deeply for the well-being of our people, we are committed to standing by our communities during difficult times. Our support to the families affected by the floods and landslides in Kasese is a testament to our dedication to making a positive impact and providing relief where it is most needed.” Annually, Centenary Bank commits 2% of previous year’s net profit towards Corporate Social Responsibility in the areas of education, health, environmental stewardship, social mission of the church which form part of the bigger ESG agenda for environmental, social and economic transformation.

    The bank’s intervention has been met with gratitude from the recipients and local leaders, who have lauded Centenary Bank for its swift and generous response. This act of solidarity not only provides immediate relief but also reinforces the bank’s role as a pillar of support within the community.

    Centenary Bank remains committed to working hand-in-hand with local authorities and organizations to ensure that the affected families continue to receive the assistance they need to rebuild their lives. This initiative is part of the bank’s broader mission to contribute to the social and economic development of Uganda, particularly in times of hardship.
    As the affected families begin the arduous task of recovery, Centenary Bank also commits to addressing climate change adaptation and mitigation measures. Together with Kasese leadership, the Cente Foundation, and the local community, 12,000 trees have so far been planted. This initiative shall continue as part of the Bank’s sustainable solutions beyond tomorrow.

  • UNICEF condemns attack on school in Kasese and calls for respect of schools as a safe place for all learners

    UNICEF condemns attack on school in Kasese and calls for respect of schools as a safe place for all learners

    Kampala; The United Nations Children’s Fund – UNICEF decisively condemns the attack on Lhubiriha Secondary School in Kasese District, which resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives, the killing of 41 students and abduction of an unidentified number of learners.

    According to media reports, the killings and abductions took place on the night of Friday June 16, 2023, the same day gazetted to commemorate the Day of the African Child.

    UNICEF demands the immediate release and safe return of the abducted learners.

    UNICEF extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to the grieving families and friends of the deceased.

    “We stand in solidarity with the students, the teaching staff, the school authorities, families of those impacted and the people of Uganda in this sad moment,” said Safieldin, UNICEF Representative to Uganda.

    “Schools must always provide safe and secure environment for learners, teachers and support personnel. We must work together, tirelessly and resolutely, to ensure that such acts of violence never disrupt the sanctity of educational institutions,” he adds.

  • ‘Mbagala Nyo’ song is officially out, tipped to become a top hit

    ‘Mbagala Nyo’ song is officially out, tipped to become a top hit

    A new love titled ‘Mbagala  Nyo’ by Daddy Cabu featuring Josh Moziah is officially out, we can confirm. 
    The song speaks of a traveler who fell in love with the people and culture of the place, as well as the beautiful nature and wilderness.
    Daddy Cabu is a Swiss musician, Producer and Sound Engineer while Josh Moziah is a Kasese based Afro pop musician and a budding producer under JV.Studio in the suburbs of Kasese Municipality.
    Daddy Cabu and Josh met accidentally in Kasese and decided to work on a project together after the Swiss producer visited his studio.
    He left him a beat and Josh recorded the voice and sent it and there was a lot of online communication to share ideas for the song.
    After the song was ready, Daddy Cabu decided to come back to Uganda to shoot the video from Josh’s home area of Kasese, and solicited the services of renowned video producer Sasha Vybz and his East African Booking Agent Joe Black Manyire. The result is a beautiful fusion of sounds and a great voice.
    The song has been tipped to become a top hit in Kampala.

    Enjoy the song here https://youtu.be/ZhuNJyJXRGY

  • Birungi Charities takes #PadThruCovid campaign to Kasese

    Birungi Charities takes #PadThruCovid campaign to Kasese

    Birungi Charities through their #PadThruCovid campaign want to reach out to girls in Kasese by donating pads, clothes and money to the young girls in Kasese. 

    Birungi Charities boss Esther Birungi said, “You have helped us impact the lives of young girls all over this country including the areas of Moroto, Kampala, Masaka, parts of Eastern and Western Uganda. We are asking you to contribute to yet another great cause for these young girls in kasese through our campaign #PadThruCovid”.

    Birungi Charities told this website that it has come to their attention that girls in Kasese are exchanging sex for sanitary pads.

    According to the Kasese District Health Information systems, there were 7,319 teenage pregnancies registered in 2020. 115 of these girls were below 15 years old.

    The District Health officials attribute this to poverty and lack of Sexual reproductive health sensitization.

    “It broke my heart to hear this and I cannot just sit by while these young girls live their lives like this. We are not only fundraising for money but other basic needs like food and clothes to help support these vulnerable girls.
    Any contribution you can make is highly appreciated,” Esther said.

    Esther Birungi, a lawyer in making has been credited for doing humanitarian work to reach out to young girls across the country.

    Donate today; cash, food and clothes to Esther Birungi on +256759635251 or email to estherbirungi11@gmail.com