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UK Govt announces support to help Uganda fight mpox  

Philip Smith, the Acting British High Commissioner to Uganda said, “It is critical that we work with the Government of Uganda to counter this outbreak…reports Asian Lite News

The British High Commission in Kampala has announced that the UK will provide £1 million to Baylor College of Medicine and the Infectious Disease Institute to support Uganda’s response to the current Mpox outbreak. The support delivered through these expert partners will be aligned to the Government of Uganda’s overall Mpox respond plan. The funding will strengthen co-ordination of the response; surveillance, and risk communication and community engagement.

Philip Smith, the Acting British High Commissioner to Uganda said, “It is critical that we work with the Government of Uganda to counter this outbreak. We are pleased to announce this additional funding is being released immediately to support a timely response. The UK’s support will work in affected districts to improve the response to the outbreak on the ground. The UK will stand with the Government and people of Uganda in tackling this outbreak.”

Hon. Jane Ruth Aceng, Minister for Health said, “We acknowledge that our collaboration with the UK dates back several years. The UK has always been a key partner with the Government of Uganda on our outbreak response. We appreciate the £1 million contribution via implementing partners Baylor Uganda and Infectious Disease Institute in supporting us respond efficiently to the Mpox outbreak.”

The support package builds on previous assistance the UK has provided Uganda. In October 2022, the UK contributed £2.2 million (UGX 9.3 billion) – and technical experts to support the Government of Uganda’s response to the Ebola outbreak. Between 2018 and 2020 the UK contributed nearly £10 million – over UGX40 billion – to support Ebola preparedness in Uganda. This has improved the Government of Uganda’s ability to respond to the current outbreak. For example, ambulances previously purchased by the UK via the WFP, and subsequently donated to the Uganda Red Cross, are now being used.

Meanwhile, Uganda’s Ministry of Health has warned that the monkeypox outbreak is quickly spreading in the East African country.

During the 30th Annual Health Sub-Program Joint Review Mission, Minister of Health Jane Ruth Aceng spoke of a “quite fast trend” in monkeypox cases across the country, with at least 19 districts affected since the outbreak was declared in early August.

She said Uganda is following closely behind the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi in the number of confirmed cases of the highly viral disease in Africa.

“They [cases] are a little too many. In the last few days, the numbers of confirmed cases are increasing quite fast,” said Aceng. “I want to remind the districts to reactivate the taskforces and do your work. The partners [development agencies] on ground will support you. We all must rise up to the job and ensure that we control monkeypox as quickly as possible.”

Uganda confirmed its first monkeypox death as the cumulative number of laboratory-confirmed infections hit 164 in the country.

Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which spreads through close contact. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, muscle aches, skin rash, and back pain.

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Uganda launches probe into Somalia military chopper crash

Kulayigye said the chopper was flying from Mogadishu to Belidoogle airfield, about 90 km northwest of the Somali capital, with four people on board…reports Asian Lite News

The Ugandan military on Friday announced investigations into a military helicopter crash in Somalia where four peacekeepers survived the accident, a spokesperson said here.

Felix Kulayigye, Uganda’s military spokesperson, told Xinhua over the telephone that investigations will establish the cause of the crash of the Ugandan military transport chopper that went down shortly after leaving Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

Kulayigye said the chopper was flying from Mogadishu to Belidoogle airfield, about 90 km northwest of the Somali capital, with four people on board.

“The aircraft [chopper] crash landed and all on board are safe [survived]. Whenever there is an air accident there must be an investigation,” said Kulayigye.

Uganda is one of the troop-contributing countries to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia.

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Road accidents in Uganda kill over 230 schoolkids in nine months

Michael Kananura urged parents, teachers, and motorists to take responsibility and ensure the safety of pupils and students as the three-month new term opened….reports Asian Lite News

A total of 239 schoolchildren have been killed in road accidents in the past nine months, Ugandan police said, warning motorists to be more careful as the third term began on Monday.

The children, aged between five and 18, were killed while being dropped off or picked up from school in the past two terms, Michael Kananura, public relations officer for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, told reporters in the Ugandan capital of Kampala.

He urged parents, teachers, and motorists to take responsibility and ensure the safety of pupils and students as the three-month new term opened.

“Road safety remains not only an individual responsibility but also a collective responsibility. We all have roles to play to ensure that our school-going children are safe on the roads,” said Kananura. “It is advisable that when young children are being taken to school using motorcycles, parents should always escort them, and it’s also important that you get these children wearing helmets.”

Uganda registers about 20,000 road accidents nationwide each year, resulting in more than 2,000 deaths, according to police data.

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British Chamber of Commerce opens office in Uganda

The Chamber of Commerce’s main objective is to promote better trade links between the UK and Uganda and increase trade and investment….reports Asian Lite News

The British Chamber of Commerce, which is currently operational in a number of other African countries, will be a catalyst for business success by providing a range of business support and trade promotion services. From networking opportunities, business advocacy, educational seminars and exclusive members benefits, the Chamber is dedicated to helping UK businesses in Uganda of all sizes to prosper.

The Chamber of Commerce’s main objective is to promote better trade links between the UK and Uganda and increase trade and investment. The UK private sector is a major investor in Uganda’s development and has the knowledge, experience to help drive Uganda’s economic growth. The UK always strives to be at the forefront of delivering quality products and services, shaping policy, and providing technology advancement, especially in the climate, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare sectors.

The British Chamber of Commerce will be a powerful tool that will drive our relationship forward and build a better future for both countries.

The launch event was held at the British High Commissioner’s residence and brought together business leaders, government officials and community members to witness the start of an exciting journey. Attendees had the opportunity to network, learn more about the benefits of becoming a member and heard from distinguished speakers including Henry Musasizi, Minister of State for General Duties who was the Guest of Honour.

H.E. Kate Airey OBE, the British High Commissioner to Uganda said, “As the economy and investment environment became more difficult, we need to strengthen our community in order to succeed. That is why I am delighted to be launching the British Chamber of Commerce Uganda, which will help all of us. Individually our voice is small, but collectively, we can partner to support Uganda’s growth. The UK private sector has invested billions into Uganda’s economy, but our collective brand should be stronger. Having a chamber will give us the platform to strengthen the relationship between the UK and Uganda.”

Sanjay Rughani, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank and Founding Member of the BCCU said, “I am very pleased to be launching the British Chamber of Commerce Uganda as one if its founding members… We want to be the trusted voice of British business in Uganda, advocating for our members’ interests, facilitating networking and collaboration, and contributing to economic prosperity of both nations.”

Henry Musasizi, the Minister of State for General Duties said, “The British Chamber of Commerce provides an excellent business eco-system that provides a unique opportunity for connecting several businesses and brands in both Uganda and the UK. Our government, under the steadfast stewardship of H.E. President Museveni has consistently, both in terms policy direction and action, emphasized the importance of attracting both trade and investment as key drivers for advancing socio-economic transformation in Uganda. The UK as a Development partner will play a critical role in terms of trade, investment and technical expertise.”

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Global South urges shift in global balance of power

Dennis Francis, president of the UN General Assembly, said addressing the current global challenges requires creativity and consensus-building to fashion effective solutions…reports Asian Lite News

Leaders of developing countries gathered in the Ugandan capital of Kampala over the past week, reaching a consensus to promote South-South cooperation to enhance their capability of pursuing sustainable development, seek strength from unity and increase the role of the Global South in international affairs.

High-level representatives of more than 100 countries and heads of United Nations agencies attended the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) that concluded on Saturday and the 3rd South Summit of the Group of 77 (G77) that wrapped up on Monday.

Participants said they are optimistic about the future of the Global South in world affairs, gearing up to influence the outcomes of the UN Summit of the Future scheduled for September in New York. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the September summit as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reinvigorate global action, recommit to fundamental principles, and further develop the frameworks of multilateralism so they are fit for the future.

In the outcome documents of the two summits, the countries of the Global South said they hope to play an influential role in shifting the balance of the geopolitical landscape from conflict, confrontation and mistrust to diplomacy, dialogue, peace and understanding.

NAM countries, in their declaration over the weekend, said they would positively contribute to the summit to enhance cooperation on critical challenges and address gaps in global governance.

Developing nations stressed that there is a need to reform the multilateral global governance architecture, including the United Nations and the international financial system. This reform would make the institutions fit for purpose, democratic, equitable, representative and responsive to the current global realities and the needs and aspirations of the Global South, according to the NAM Kampala Declaration.

They said the current violation of international laws and UN resolutions on the Israeli-Palestinian crisis, coupled with the unfair treatment of developing countries facing debt distress amid a slow-growing global economy, are the key issues that have revitalized the call for a reformed global system.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who is also the chairperson of the NAM Summit, said the forum should be used to exercise considerable influence, particularly at the UN, for an effective transformative process. “In the negotiations for the Pact of the Future, the outcome document of the upcoming UN Summit of the Future, we should clearly define priorities that favor developing countries by maintaining unity, solidarity, and collective coordination among member states,” Museveni said.

Dennis Francis, president of the UN General Assembly, said addressing the current global challenges requires creativity and consensus-building to fashion effective solutions.

Francis said the current crises, ranging from the Ukraine-Russia, Israel-Palestine and those in Africa, raise questions about the relevance and value of the UN in terms of its ability to resolve global issues. He argued that the Summit of the Future will offer a historic opportunity to forge a new global consensus to transform the multilateral system to deliver better impact for people.

The Global South, according to Secretary-General Guterres, bears the responsibility of changing the form of the global system, noting that those who currently benefit from it are unlikely to lead its reform.

“We have a chance to cultivate a just, peaceful, and prosperous future, where no one is left behind. But for that, a lot needs to be changed and reformed. Together, let’s unite and fight to make that a reality,” Guterres told the 3rd South Summit on Sunday.

He urged the international community to reform and revitalize multilateralism so that it works for everyone, everywhere, and meets the challenges of today. “We rely on the G77 plus China to make the Summit of the Future a success. To seize this opportunity and to find common solutions. The summit will consider deep reforms of the international financial architecture,” the UN top envoy said.

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Ugandan President Lauds Contribution of Indian Diaspora

At the outset of his address, he also recognised India’s pivotal role in the establishment of the NAM group and the nation’s participation in the inaugural NAM summit in Belgrade in 1961…reports Asian Lite News

At the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Kampala, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni expressed admiration for the substantial contributions made by Indian returnees to the economic development of his country.

Commending their noteworthy accomplishments, he said, “I was asking people how many factories have been built by our Indian returnees. They told me about the 900 factories that they had built since they came back.”

Reflecting on Uganda’s historical events, particularly the expulsion of Asians, primarily Indian Ugandans, during Idi Amin’s regime, President Museveni openly acknowledged the mistakes made by the government.

He said, “NAM countries also sometimes make mistakes like here in Uganda.” He recounted the adverse consequences of Amin’s actions, including the economic impact on his country. India during Amin’s time had cut ties with his regime due to his actions.

President Museveni noted the adverse impact of Amin’s decisions on the country’s economy, saying, “You had a leader of a NAM country undermining his own economy.” The expelled individuals were actively involved in various sectors, including sugar, hotels, and steel production.

Expressing remorse, the president lamented the lost opportunities for growth and development during that tumultuous period. President Museveni reflected on the measures undertaken by the Ugandan government to address and rectify past injustices.

“So therefore it is very crucial that we study very carefully the issue of the investment climate in our respective countries. When we kicked out all these people and we came into government, we brought back, we gave back the properties of our Asian citizens and non-citizens that Idi Amin had taken. We gave them back. We had a hot debate in parliament, some people saying this. We said, no, they must get back their properties. And they got their properties,” he added.

At the outset of his address, he also recognised India’s pivotal role in the establishment of the NAM group and the nation’s participation in the inaugural NAM summit in Belgrade in 1961.

“This group of countries, accounts for 4.46 billions of people of the World. It was started by our far-sighted elders in the persons of Sukarno of Indonesia, Pt Jawaharlal Nehru of India, Nasser of Egypt and Chou En Lai of China,” he said.

The first summit of NAM took place in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, in 1961 and was attended by: Afghanistan, Algeria, Burma, Cambodia, Ceylon, Congo, Cuba, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, United Arab Republic, Yemen and Yugoslavia, the President of Uganda said. (ANI)

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Jaishankar: Voice of Non-Aligned Movement is Here to be Heard

“The voice of the NAM is here to be heard. The voice of the NAM is here to stay and to grow. Let us send that message today”, Jaishankar said in India’s National Statement at the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Kampala, Uganda, reports Asian Lite News

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called on the Non-Aligned Movement countries to challenge the concentrations undermining their economic security, adding that the voice of NAM is here to stay and grow.

In India’s National Statement at the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Kampala, Uganda, the EAM also stressed the need for a reformed United Nations.

Addressing the summit, Jaishankar said, “The NAM has entered its seventh decade. In that period, the world has transformed and so too have our capabilities and confidence. We must be bolder in seeking our due and pressing our demands. The more we share, collaborate and reinforce each other, the more we will change the world”.

“The voice of the NAM is here to be heard. The voice of the NAM is here to stay and to grow. Let us send that message today,” he added.

He highlighted the multiple concerns being faced by the countries belonging to the Non-Aligned Movement such as climate change, the impact of Covid pandemic, multiple conflicts across the world, as well as the triad of debt, inflation and growth challenges.

“Underlying these serious concerns is the nature of the world we confront. We may have overthrown the yoke of colonialism, but we struggle with new forms of inequity and domination. In the era of globalisation, we see economic concentrations that treat the rest of the world as simply markets or resources…We are also subject to narratives of political correctness and universalism that do not give their due to our culture and traditions,” he said.

Taking to social media platform X, the EAM highlighted about his address at the summit, touching upon the issues like the conflict in Gaza and India’s Vishwa Mitra initiative.

“Delivered India’s statement at the 19th NAM Summit in Kampala today. Highlighted the challenges of Covid, conflict, climate change, debt and inflation. Emphasized the need for NAM to challenge concentrations that undermine our economic security. Argued for creating regional economic hubs and resilient supply chains. Spoke about India as Vishwa Mitra. 600 projects across 78 nations, Vaccine Maitri and First Responder actions are proof,” Jaishankar stated.

“On Gaza, stressed that the humanitarian crisis requires a sustainable solution that gives immediate relief. Terrorism and hostage taking are unacceptable. The conflict must not spread. NAM should seek a two-state solution. The more we share, collaborate and reinforce each other, the more NAM will change the world,” he added. (ANI)

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India Gifts Buses, Ambulances, Tractors to Uganda

Uganda was endorsed to chair the Non-Aligned Movement on behalf of Africa for the period from 2022 to 2025…reports Asian Lite News

In a warm gesture, India has gifted 10 executive buses, 5 ambulances, 10 tractors and 2664 flags/flag poles to Uganda ahead of the NAM (Non-aligned Movement) contact group summit, which will take place in Kampala this month.

It will be the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement, which will be held this month.

In a post on social media platform X, the High Commissioner of India to Uganda wrote, “On behalf of Govt. of India gifted 10 executive buses, 5 ambulances, 10 tractors and 2664 flags/flag poles promised by EAM @DrSJaishankar to @GenJejeOdongo, Minister of Foreign Affairs @UgandaMFA, to support Ugandan side to host @NAM_Uganda & @G77Summit_Ug Summits.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uganda wrote on X, “The MFA @GenJejeOdongo

received a donated consignment of buses, ambulances, tractors and assorted flags for @NAM_Uganda and @G77summit_Ug plus observer nations and international organizations from the Republic of India at the Ministry Head quarters in Kampala -Uganda.”

“The items were delivered by the High Commissioner of India to Uganda, H.E Upender Singh Rawat ahead of the two Summits due for 15-20th and 21st &22nd January 2024 respectively at Speke Resort Hotel, Munyoyo -Kampala,” it added.

Uganda was endorsed to chair the Non-Aligned Movement on behalf of Africa for the period from 2022 to 2025.

Notably, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Uganda in April last year and discussed cooperation in trade and investment, infrastructure, energy, defence, health, digital and agricultural domains.

“Discussed cooperation in trade & investment, infrastructure, energy, defense, health, digital and agricultural domains. Congratulated Uganda on assuming the chairship of the NAM and affirmed our strong coordination at multilateral forums including the United Nations,” Jaishankar wrote on X.

The NAM chair position rotates every three years during summit conferences. The chair of the movement is assisted by both the former and incoming chairs. According to the movement, this structure represents its past, present and future.

Azerbaijan chaired the NAM for the period between 2019 to 2022 having taken over from Venezuela.

The Non-Aligned Movement was formed in 1961 during the end of the colonial system and the independence struggles globally and at the height of the Cold War.

The NAM is composed of 120 member states from the developing world and is the largest forum for political coordination and consultation after and within the United Nations.

It is a forum not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc. (ANI)

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Kenya’s Benchmark Solutions Secures $11.6 Mn Funding for Ugandan Market

Established in 2007 with 300 members, the Mbarara Makhan Singh Market Landlords Association has seen its membership grow to 639 as it continues to oversee the management of the market….reports Asian Lite News

Benchmark Solutions Limited, an advisory firm specializing in structured trade and project financing based in Nairobi, has entered into an agreement for a funding arrangement totaling $11.633 million with Uganda’s Mbarara Makhan Singh Market Landlords Association (Limited by Guarantee). The allocated funds will be utilized for the redevelopment of the Mbarara Makhan Singh Market.

The agreement was signed in Nairobi by Benchmark Solution Chief Executive Officer Laura Akunga Muriithi Mwenje and Mbarara Makhan Singh Market Landlords Association Chairman Mr. Thomas Mukundane.

The signing was witnessed by Mr. Deus Nkwasibwe who represented the Office of the President (Uganda); Planbuild Technical Services Director Mr. Dennis Wandera; and Planbuild Technical Services Finance Officer Mr. Simon Jungu.  

Commenting on the agreement Ms. Akunga said: “Benchmark Solutions is pleased to be part of this important arrangement, which we believe is a significant step forward in the revitalization of the Mbarara Makhan Singh Market –  an iconic trading center that has been a cornerstone of Mbarara’s regional commerce since 1960.”

Established in 2007 with 300 members, the Mbarara Makhan Singh Market Landlords Association has seen its membership grow to 639 as it continues to oversee the management of the market.

The market is located on 1.67 acres of land in the heart of Mbarara City’s central business district. It comprises 67 lockup shops, 106 kiosks, 150 stalls, 16 restaurants, and 69 second-hand clothing shades. However, these facilities have fallen into a state of functional and economic obsolescence over the years.

The US$11.633 Million Real Estate Project Financing will be used to transform the existing market into a modern, seven-story shopping center featuring 280 lockup shops, 130 shelled rooms, 330 stalls, a daycare center, 30 toilet facilities, 60 underground parking bays, and 30 roadside parking bays.

“The aim of the project is to overhaul the market and so as to provide a conducive and contemporary environment for small-scale vendors within Mbarara Makhan Singh Market,” Mr. Mukundane said.

The renovation work is expected to be completed in a span of 28 to 36 months.

Benchmark Solutions Limited is a transactions advisory firm specializing in structured trade financing and project financing. IWith operations in 18 African countries and being members of International Loan Markets in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region, Benchmark Solutions Limited serves as an intermediary between international lenders, policy banks, commercial banks, non-bank financial institutions, private equity funds, and entities seeking to invest debt or equity in African governments, financial institutions, and privately owned companies across the African continent.

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Ugandan food science and nutrition pioneer awarded honorary degree

In her acceptance speech, Joyce thanked Dr. Olatunde Oluwatola from Nigeria for nominating her, the University of Reading for honouring her and said that this degree is a tribute to the Girl Child, not only in Uganda but the whole of Africa…reports Asian Lite News

An inspirational diplomat and academic, well known for her work to reduce poverty and childhood malnutrition in her home country of Uganda, has received an honorary degree from the University of Reading.

Professor Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda is the High Commissioner of Uganda to India and also spearheaded the establishment of Uganda’s first ever Department of Food Science and Technology in 1989. She was awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science at a ceremony last week.

Professor Kikafunda is one of  few female professors in Uganda. She was educated at Makerere University, one of Africa’s oldest and most prestigious universities, where she graduated with a BSc in Agriculture in 1976, receiving First Class honours. After further study in Canada, she went on to complete a PhD in Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Reading.

Her research was primarily focused on the risk factors for childhood malnutrition in rural areas of Uganda. After she discovered poor weaning practices were largely contributing to childhood nutrition in the country, Professor Kikafunda and her team worked with mothers to explain how a better diet could improve their children’s health and weight. After word spread, her work on the project “Gender Informed Nutrition in Agriculture” contributed to a reduction of child malnutrition in the western Region of Uganda from 21% to 11% in a period of just four years.

Professor Carol Wagstaff, Research Dean for Agriculture Food & Health at the University of Reading, said: “Joyce’s drive and determination to eradicate poverty and reduce childhood malnutrition in Uganda was instrumental in her establishing, along with colleagues, a unit of Food Science and Nutrition at Makerere University.

“The number of Ugandans studying for a degree in food and nutritional sciences has greatly increased since Joyce founded the Department more than thirty years ago, now elevated to the status of a School due to its strategic national importance. It is particularly notable how the opportunities instigated by Joyce have enabled more women of Uganda to access higher education and to be empowered by gaining a science-based degree level education.”

Professor Kikafunda’s achievements have been recognised both nationally and internationally. She was awarded the Nestle Nutrition Institute Africa Award in 2012 and became a member of the Board of Trustees of the International Rice Research Institute based in the Philippines from 2010-2015.

In her acceptance speech, Joyce thanked Dr. Olatunde Oluwatola from Nigeria for nominating her, the University of Reading for honouring her and said that this degree is a tribute to the Girl Child, not only in Uganda but the whole of Africa.

Between 2013-2016, Joyce was High Commissioner of Uganda to the UK, then High Commissioner to Australia 2017-2022, and she is currently High Commissioner to India. She is also a Founder and Member of Ugandan Action for Nutrition, and is often described as the ‘mother of food science and nutrition’ in Uganda.

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