Author: ankhh

President Yoweri Museveni left a crowd in stitches after humorously comparing himself to First Lady Janet Museveni during a recent public address.

Speaking about the importance of supporting local furniture manufacturers, Museveni endorsed the idea of government institutions, MDAs, and schools being the main buyers of locally made furniture.

He praised the plan as viable and promised support, but quickly shifted tone in a lighthearted remark that amused the audience.

“The idea of government MDAs and schools being key buyers of your furniture is a good one,” Museveni said.

“And by the way, Mama Janet is no joke unlike me who’s always politicking with you, she’ll actually implement it.”

The crowd burst into laughter at the president’s candid and humorous comparison, applauding his honesty and wit.

The comment highlighted the president’s known tendency to engage in long political discussions, contrasting with the First Lady’s reputation for discipline and action-oriented leadership, particularly in her role as Minister of Education and Sports.

Janet Museveni has previously been praised for her firm stance on education reforms and accountability, and her husband’s comments seemed to affirm her serious approach to work.

The president’s statement, though laced with humor, subtly underscored the need for efficiency in government service delivery and local economic empowerment.

Museveni’s light moment humanized the event and drew positive reactions from both leaders and citizens in attendance.

In churches across Uganda, a troubling trend is taking root: the rise of “spiritual VIPs” — pastors and prophets elevated to near-divine status, often beyond scrutiny or accountability.

This phenomenon, commonly dubbed the “Man of God syndrome,” is quietly reshaping the religious and social landscape of the country.

In many congregations, the title “Man of God” now carries a power that rivals or even exceeds that of elected leaders. Followers obey spiritual instructions without question, sometimes at the cost of reason, dignity, or even safety.

From washing pastors’ feet to sowing seeds of faith worth entire monthly salaries, believers are often caught in cycles of spiritual dependency.

“Dear Ugandan believer, carry your umbrella if you must but also carry your brain, your Bible, and your identity in Christ,” reads a viral message from a local Christian blog.

The message, while humorous, carries a serious warning: faith should not replace critical thinking.

Sociologists and theologians alike are raising the alarm. “When pastors become untouchable, we are no longer dealing with Christianity.

We’re dealing with personality cults,” says Dr. Sarah Nakayima, a religious studies lecturer at Makerere University.

The allure of miracle promises and prophecies has made some church leaders untouchable, both spiritually and legally.

Efforts by the government to regulate religious institutions have been met with resistance, as congregations fiercely defend their “anointed ones.”

Yet beneath the glittering pulpits lies a growing hunger for authentic faith, one rooted in Scripture, service, and humility.

Some Ugandans are beginning to ask tough questions and reclaim their spiritual responsibility.

True faith, as many are rediscovering, is not about worshiping men, but knowing God with wisdom, discernment, and dignity. And that may be Uganda’s most urgent spiritual revival.

In yet another exposé of deep-rooted corruption in local government, Sitakange Charles, the Assistant District Engineer for Civil Works in Mpigi District, has been charged with theft over the alleged embezzlement of 21,739 litres of fuel valued at UGX 242 million, funds meant for road maintenance projects under the UGX 1 billion government grant.

Sitakange appeared before the Mpigi Chief Magistrate’s Court and was remanded until July 22, 2025, as efforts intensify to arrest his alleged accomplice, Kyambadde Sam, the Acting District Engineer, who is currently on the run.

How The Scam Worked

According to investigators from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), working in conjunction with CID and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the two engineers inflated fuel requisitions for road projects and later colluded with fuel station managers to siphon off the surplus fuel.

To conceal the theft, the accused allegedly used registration numbers of grounded vehicles, including Tipper Reg No. LG 0002-082, which has not operated since 2022, to falsely account for fuel worth over UGX 18.5 million. Additionally, vehicles from other departments and even some unregistered with the district were used to create fictitious accountability for the diverted fuel.

Investigators estimate that UGX 90 million was lost in this scheme through fraudulent documentation and forged usage logs.

Ghost Roads & Fake Reports

Worse still, the probe uncovered that entire roads were never worked on, despite official reports claiming otherwise. One such project — the Kyansoozi–Kampiringisa–Muyiira Road, budgeted at UGX 97 million — was completely abandoned, and the funds were allegedly embezzled.

“This is not just theft — it’s a betrayal of the people who rely on these roads for transport, trade, and access to essential services,” a senior SH-ACU official said. “Our investigations show deliberate manipulation and deceit at the highest levels of district engineering offices.”

This case follows closely on the heels of a similar corruption scandal in Busia Municipality, where officials were recently charged for mismanaging fuel under the same UGX 1 billion road maintenance grant.

The SH-ACU has now launched a nationwide crackdown targeting local governments suspected of abusing this critical infrastructure fund, citing a wave of complaints from whistleblowers, citizens, and civil society organizations.

“Corruption in service delivery at the district level is unacceptable,” said the SH-ACU in a statement. “We are expanding investigations across several districts where red flags have been raised.”

The scandal has sparked widespread outrage among residents of Mpigi, many of whom lament the state of their roads despite massive government allocations.

“They tell us road work is underway, yet potholes are everywhere,” said a boda boda rider in Mpigi Town Council. “Now we know why — the money was stolen!”

With Sitakange in custody and Kyambadde still at large, authorities have promised swift action and prosecutions. More fuel station managers and officials are expected to be summoned as the investigation deepens.

The State House Anti-Corruption Unit is urging the public to report similar abuses, vowing that no one will be shielded, regardless of position or influence.

This latest arrest is a stark reminder that the fight against corruption is far from over — and that even in the shadows of small-town bureaucracies, the law will catch up.

A shocking scene unfolded in a Ugandan court when Claudine Uwineza admitted she never loved her husband, Kawongolo Kataswa. She said she stayed in the marriage only for shelter and survival. Reports revealed that Claudine even had a child with another man during their marriage. The court decided to end their marriage due to these revelations.

The case sparked a wave of reactions across Uganda. Many people took to social media to criticize Claudine, accusing her of using her husband for personal gain. Some Ugandans claimed that many women stay in relationships not for love but for financial security or survival. These opinions spread widely online, stirring debates about trust and motives in marriages.

At the same time, the Uganda Police Force reported a growing demand for DNA tests in the country. Most of these requests come from men, according to police records. This trend suggests that many husbands are questioning whether they are the biological fathers of their children. The rise in DNA test requests has raised concerns about trust within families and relationships in Uganda.

In a separate development, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, urged citizens to vote for President Yoweri Museveni in the 2026 Presidential elections. General Kainerugaba also announced that the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) would be present during the elections to monitor the situation and ensure order. His statement has drawn attention as Uganda prepares for the upcoming polls.

The court case, social media reactions, and the rise in DNA test demands highlight deeper issues in Ugandan society. Many people are questioning trust and honesty in relationships. The public’s response to Claudine’s case shows how strongly some feel about loyalty in marriage. Meanwhile, the call for DNA tests reflects growing doubts among men about their families.

These events also come at a time when Uganda is gearing up for a major election. General Kainerugaba’s comments about supporting President Museveni and deploying the UPDF during the elections signal the military’s role in the political process. This has sparked discussions about the military’s involvement in civilian affairs and what it means for the country’s democracy.

In summary, Uganda is grappling with complex social and political issues. The dramatic court case of Claudine and Kawongolo has exposed tensions in personal relationships, while the demand for DNA tests points to a broader trust crisis. At the same time, the country is preparing for a significant election, with the military pledging to maintain order. These developments show the challenges Uganda faces as it navigates personal, social, and political changes. The coming years will likely bring more debates about trust, loyalty, and governance in the nation.

A deep sense of sorrow has gripped the education community in Nyakach and beyond following the unexpected death of Mr. Kennedy Aloo, who had only recently been appointed as the new Headteacher of Soko School. His sudden passing has left staff, students, parents, and fellow educators in a state of shock and mourning.

According to reports, Mr. Aloo collapsed early in the morning as he prepared to report for his new role at the school. It was his first official day as Headteacher, following a recent promotion from his previous position as Deputy Headteacher. Friends and witnesses say he had shown no signs of illness the previous day and was in good spirits, making his untimely death all the more tragic.

Those present at the scene quickly rushed him to a nearby health facility in an effort to save his life. However, medical personnel at the hospital pronounced him dead upon arrival. His body was later transferred to the Nyabondo Mission Hospital Morgue, where further examinations will be conducted to determine the cause of death. As of now, the exact cause remains unknown.

News of Mr. Aloo’s death spread quickly, sparking an outpouring of grief across the education sector and the wider community. Teachers, students, parents, and former colleagues have taken to social media and community platforms to share memories, express condolences, and mourn the loss of a man widely respected for his humility, dedication, and visionary leadership.

For many, Mr. Aloo was more than just a teacher. He was a mentor, a role model, and a pillar of the school community. His former students describe him as patient and kind, someone who believed in the potential of every learner regardless of their background or academic level. Many credit him for transforming classrooms into safe, supportive environments where learning was not only encouraged but celebrated.

Colleagues from both his former and current schools have shared stories of his tireless commitment to education. Known for arriving early and staying late, Mr. Aloo was admired for his work ethic and his unwavering belief in the power of education to uplift communities. Several teachers who worked under his mentorship described him as a collaborative leader who valued teamwork, transparency, and student-centered policies.

“It’s hard to accept that he’s gone,” said one of his former coworkers, visibly shaken. “He had just received his appointment letter last week. He was so excited to lead and make a difference. We were all so proud of him.”

Parents of Soko School, many of whom had just begun to interact with Mr. Aloo in his new role, also expressed their disbelief and sadness. Several said they had hoped his leadership would bring fresh energy and vision to the school. “He was someone you could trust with your children’s future,” one parent said. “He listened to us. He respected everyone. This is a huge loss not just for the school, but for the entire community.”

The school itself has been thrown into a state of mourning. A special assembly was held by staff and students to honor Mr. Aloo’s life and service. Students lit candles and laid flowers at the entrance of the school, while teachers wore black ribbons as a sign of respect. The school board has also issued a statement expressing their condolences and promising to support Mr. Aloo’s family during this difficult time.

Faith leaders from the community have also stepped forward to comfort those affected by the tragedy. Several churches held special prayers in his memory, asking for peace for his soul and strength for his loved ones. The local clergy described Mr. Aloo as a man of integrity and faith, who often volunteered in church activities and encouraged spiritual development among students.

While the investigation into his cause of death continues, local education officials have praised Mr. Aloo’s record and character, calling him a rising star in the teaching profession. The Sub-county Director of Education described him as “a committed and promising educator whose leadership was only beginning to unfold.”

Plans are currently underway to organize a memorial service that will bring together friends, relatives, education officials, and former students to honor his legacy. Many are hoping that his dedication and service will be remembered as an example for future educators to follow.

 

In this time of immense grief, messages of love and support continue to pour in for his wife, children, and extended family. The void left behind by Mr. Kennedy Aloo is a painful one, but the memories of his kindness, his leadership, and his vision for a better education system will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

What began as a promising opportunity to work abroad has now turned into a nightmare for hundreds of Ugandans. The number of individuals who claim they were defrauded by a travel agency known as Skypins Tours and Travel Company has continued to grow, with new reports suggesting the total number of victims now exceeds 350. Initially, police had received complaints from around 80 people, but as the scandal gained attention, more victims came forward, revealing a much larger and deeply troubling picture.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the majority of those affected are men who were led to believe they were securing high-paying jobs in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Qatar, Dubai, and Luxembourg. These job offers, however, turned out to be entirely false.

Owoyesigyire stated that the total amount of money lost is estimated to be over two billion Ugandan shillings. Victims reportedly paid between 3.5 million and 10 million shillings each, hoping to secure positions that would change their lives and support their families. Instead, they were left empty-handed and heavily indebted, with many selling assets or taking out loans to fund the payments.

The police have since opened a general inquiry file as they work to understand the full scope of the alleged fraud. Investigators have begun collecting statements from victims and reviewing the company’s operations and financial activities. A troubling detail has emerged during the inquiry: many of the affected individuals say they were threatened or intimidated whenever they tried to ask for updates or demand refunds. These threats were allegedly made directly or indirectly by the company’s director, Asiimwe Christian, who is more commonly known in social circles as Don Chris.

According to numerous reports, the fraud was carried out in a calculated and convincing manner. Jobseekers were first invited to the company’s office, which was initially located in Haruna Mall, Ntinda. The offices were well-furnished and presented as professional, giving many the impression that they were dealing with a legitimate and trustworthy company. Payments were often made on-site, and applicants were given what appeared to be formal documentation and receipts.

Later, the company relocated its operations to Kitende along Entebbe Road. This sudden move made it difficult for some victims to trace the company, especially after their phone calls and emails began going unanswered. Several people only realized they had been scammed after repeated appointment cancellations and unexplained delays. Some were even given fake travel dates, while others were falsely told that their visa applications were still being processed.

The man believed to be behind the entire operation, Don Chris, has since vanished. Police believe he fled Uganda through the Malaba border on the 20th of June. Authorities are currently coordinating with other agencies to track his movements and possibly issue an international alert.

What makes the situation even more alarming is that Skypins Tours and Travel was never legally registered as an external labour recruitment agency. This was confirmed by the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development. According to the Ministry, no such company had been granted a license to recruit Ugandans for overseas employment. This lack of registration raises serious questions about how the company managed to operate openly for such a long time without drawing the attention of regulatory bodies.

Investigations are now in full swing, with police actively seeking additional information from the public. Owoyesigyire has urged anyone who may have interacted with the company, or who may have information about its director’s whereabouts, to report to the nearest police station. He assured the public that authorities are treating the matter with urgency and will do everything possible to bring the suspect to justice.

Meanwhile, the victims continue to struggle with the emotional and financial impact of the scam. Some have shared their stories with the media, explaining how they were promised work contracts, travel arrangements, and accommodation abroad. Others expressed shame, frustration, and disbelief that they could be so easily deceived. For many, the hope of a better future has now turned into a bitter lesson.

Labour experts and community leaders have called for tighter regulations and public awareness campaigns to prevent similar scams from occurring in the future. They are also urging the government to increase oversight of travel agencies and job recruiters operating within Uganda. There are growing demands for a national job seeker verification system that can confirm whether an agency is licensed, reducing the risk for desperate individuals seeking employment overseas.

 

In the meantime, police continue to collect evidence, and many hope that justice will be served. The Skypins saga is a painful reminder of how quickly dreams can be stolen when systems fail to protect the most vulnerable.

For many Ugandans, searching for a genuine job can be frustrating. Every day, new listings appear across social media and job boards, some promising high salaries, remote work, or international connections. But with so many options floating around, how do you know which ones are real?

Scams and misleading job ads have made job hunting feel risky. Fortunately, several platforms have stepped up to solve this problem. These job portals have built their reputation around trust, making it easier for both job seekers and employers to connect in a secure, professional environment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven of the most reliable job search platforms in Uganda. Each of these websites has been carefully designed to list verified, legitimate job opportunities, and they offer tools to help you move forward in your career, no matter where you’re starting from.

1. BrighterMonday Uganda

BrighterMonday Uganda is one of the country’s most well-established and widely used job search websites. Known for its professionalism and broad reach, the platform features job listings across every major industry—from hospitality to banking, NGOs to ICT.

What makes BrighterMonday stand out is its verification process. Employers must meet certain standards before their jobs go live on the site, reducing the chances of scams and false advertising. As a job seeker, you can register for free, create a profile, upload your CV, and apply directly to jobs. The platform also sends tailored job alerts based on your skills and interests.

Beyond listings, BrighterMonday offers free resources such as career coaching, interview tips, and CV writing guides. This makes it a powerful tool not just for job hunting, but also for professional development.

2. Fuzu

Fuzu takes a unique approach to the job search experience in Uganda. Rather than functioning as a simple job board, Fuzu operates more like a career companion. Alongside its verified job listings, Fuzu helps users understand where they fit in the labor market, what skills they need to grow, and how to achieve their goals.

The platform features career guidance articles, self-assessment tools, and online courses aimed at improving your employability. Whether you’re applying for your first job or looking to switch industries, Fuzu gives personalized job suggestions based on your profile.

Fuzu also partners with leading organizations in Uganda, ensuring that only credible employers are allowed to post jobs. This commitment to quality makes Fuzu one of the most trusted names in Uganda’s online job space.

3. MyJobUganda

MyJobUganda has become a favorite among young professionals and graduates entering the workforce. The site is user-friendly and neatly categorized by job type, industry, and location. From administrative positions to more specialized roles in engineering, healthcare, or education, the site makes it easy to browse and apply.

MyJobUganda focuses heavily on accuracy and verification. Each job post is reviewed before it is published to ensure legitimacy, giving job seekers peace of mind. Job listings are updated regularly, and many include deadlines, salary expectations, and application instructions, making the process transparent from the beginning.

With its simple design and reliable listings, MyJobUganda is especially useful for those looking for opportunities in both urban and rural areas.

4. Alljobspo Uganda

Alljobspo.com is a global job portal that aggregates listings from multiple sources, but it has carved out a strong presence in the Ugandan job market. One of the platform’s main advantages is its volume, you’ll find hundreds of listings at any given time across different industries and experience levels.

What’s more important, however, is that Alljobspo only accepts listings from verified employers. This means that even though the platform casts a wide net, it still prioritizes the quality and authenticity of its listings.

Users can filter jobs by city, job type, or date posted, which makes navigating the listings quick and convenient. Whether you’re looking for your first internship or a senior management role, Alljobspo offers a broad scope of reliable choices.

5. Ugandajob.com

Ugandajob.com is a local job portal built with a single focus: connecting Ugandan professionals to real, trustworthy opportunities. The site’s clean design makes it easy to search for jobs by keyword, sector, or location.

One unique feature of Ugandajob.com is its direct connection to international employers looking to hire in Uganda. For those aiming to work with NGOs, multinational companies, or UN agencies, this platform offers a direct gateway.

The listings are frequently updated, and each one is carefully reviewed to ensure that the employer and job description are legitimate. With its dedication to bridging the gap between workers and employers, Ugandajob.com continues to grow as a go-to site for serious professionals.

6. LinkedIn

While LinkedIn is global in nature, it’s increasingly becoming a go-to resource for job seekers in Uganda. The platform goes beyond just job listings—it helps users build their online presence, connect with employers, and network with industry leaders.

In Uganda, many companies now post jobs exclusively on LinkedIn. Because employers can see your profile, experience, and endorsements, it becomes easier to stand out, especially if you’re active and professional on the platform.

Another advantage is that job listings on LinkedIn typically go through a vetting process, especially when posted by verified company accounts. The application process is also quick—some jobs allow you to apply with just a few clicks using your LinkedIn profile.

7. Great Uganda Jobs

Great Uganda Jobs has earned a reputation as a specialized job board that focuses purely on Ugandan opportunities. Whether you’re looking in the public or private sector, the platform covers a broad range of industries including finance, education, NGOs, health, and technology.

The site allows users to search for jobs based on qualification level, job function, and location. It’s regularly updated with new listings, ensuring job seekers stay current with what’s available.

Great Uganda Jobs is known for its frequent updates and consistent focus on job quality. Each listing is reviewed before being posted, reducing the risk of encountering fake offers.

Empowering Ugandan Youth Through Training and Skills Development

Beyond simply providing job listings, platforms like BrighterMonday have taken steps to address a deeper issue: career readiness. In collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation under the GenerationKazi initiative, BrighterMonday is actively running soft skills training programs for young Ugandans.

These sessions are designed to improve time management, productivity, and personal effectiveness—skills that are just as important as qualifications when entering today’s job market. The goal is not just to help people find work, but to prepare them for long-term success and leadership roles.

This program is part of the Young Africa Works strategy, which aims to support 30 million young Africans in securing dignified and fulfilling employment by 2030. Ugandans who take part in the initiative gain not only job opportunities but also access to career coaches, learning materials, and employer networks.

If you’re serious about your career, this is more than just a job board; it’s a stepping stone toward a better future.

Final Thoughts

The job market in Uganda is evolving. While challenges still exist, the rise of trusted online job platforms is making a real difference. These websites provide more than just job ads; they offer safe, verified, and professional pathways into employment.

Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a seasoned professional, these platforms give you the tools and information to make confident, informed decisions. Take time to explore each one, build your profile, and apply with intention. Your next opportunity might just be a click away.

If you’re ready to take the next step, start with BrighterMonday or Fuzu and begin shaping the career you deserve.

Kampala, Uganda – The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has reached a significant milestone in its national ID renewal program, with thousands of renewed identification cards now ready for collection across Uganda.

The announcement brings relief to countless citizens who have been eagerly awaiting their updated IDs, essential for accessing critical services like healthcare, education, banking, and voting.

On Monday, NIRA registrar Claire Ollama addressed the press, revealing that production of the renewed national ID cards began last week and has already yielded impressive results. “We are thrilled to share that we’ve produced 100,000 renewed national ID cards since last week,” Ollama said. “These cards have been dispatched to distribution centers nationwide, ensuring accessibility for applicants in every region.”

The rollout marks a major step forward in the government’s efforts to strengthen Uganda’s national identification system. National IDs are a cornerstone of daily life, required for everything from opening bank accounts to registering for school or participating in elections. For those with expired or damaged IDs, the renewal process is vital to maintaining access to these services.

Ollama confirmed that the cards are either en route or have already arrived at various collection points across the country. “This shows our renewal program is delivering results,” she said, emphasizing NIRA’s commitment to making the process as smooth as possible. She urged applicants to visit their designated pickup centers to collect their new IDs and called for patience as the authority continues processing remaining applications. “We’re working tirelessly to ensure everyone receives their renewed IDs quickly,” she assured.

The renewal program has faced challenges in recent months, including delays and system backlogs that frustrated many applicants. Some citizens expressed concerns about long wait times, raising questions about the efficiency of the process.

However, NIRA’s latest update demonstrates progress in overcoming these hurdles. The production of 100,000 cards in such a short period signals that the authority is addressing earlier issues and improving its operations.

To keep citizens informed, NIRA has advised Ugandans to check with their local NIRA offices or designated collection points for updates on their ID status. The authority has also pledged to provide regular updates as production continues in the coming weeks, to meet national demand in an organized and timely manner.

The successful rollout of renewed IDs is a critical part of ensuring that all Ugandans have access to valid identification. A valid ID not only facilitates access to essential services but also empowers citizens to fully participate in the country’s economic and civic life. By prioritizing efficiency and addressing past challenges, NIRA is working to build a stronger, more reliable system for delivering these vital documents.

As the renewal program moves forward, NIRA encourages citizens to stay engaged and proactive. Applicants are advised to contact their local NIRA office or visit collection points to confirm the availability of their renewed IDs. With thousands of cards now ready and more on the way, this milestone marks a promising step toward ensuring every Ugandan has the identification they need to thrive.

Engineer Denis Sabiiti, who served as the Member of Parliament for Rubanda West County in Rubanda District, has passed away.

Franckline Tumuhumuza Bonde, a relative who called Sabiiti his uncle, said he died on Monday evening around 8:00 PM at his home in Entebbe, near State House.

Tumuhumuza shared that Sabiiti had been fighting cancer and was released from the hospital in January 2025. “Two weeks ago, he had a checkup and was doing well. I think the effects of his medication might have played a role in his death,” Tumuhumuza said. He noted that Sabiiti had finished his treatment and was only going for routine checkups.

Sabiiti was the MP for Rubanda West from 2016 to 2021, winning the seat after defeating Henry Banyenzaki, the then-State Minister for Economic Monitoring. In the 2021 election, he lost the seat to businessman Moses Kamuntu Mwongyera.

Sabiiti’s death marks the second loss of a prominent figure from Rubanda District on the same day, following the passing of retired Supreme Court Judge Prof. George Wilson Kanyeihamba on Monday morning.

A study by Gulu and Lira Universities found that over one-third of women involved in sex work in Gulu City are married and live with their husbands. The results were shared at a scientific event at Bomah Hotel in Gulu City on Friday.

Dr. Felix Bongomin, a lecturer at Gulu University, led the study in February and March 2025. His team interviewed 314 women working as sex workers in 15 known areas of the city. The study, supported by the Centre for International Reproductive Health Training (CIRHT), looked at why women turn to sex work and their use of birth control.

The research showed that many married women secretly leave home to work as sex workers without their husbands’ knowing. Dr. Bongomin said economic struggles, domestic violence, broken relationships, absent or abusive partners, and access to food aid during the COVID-19 lockdown pushed many women, including married ones, into sex work. Some women also said sex work offered better money to support their families.

The women in the study ranged in age from 15 to 49. Many used two types of birth control, like condoms and pills or injections, showing they care about safe sex. However, some admitted to risky behavior for higher pay, which increases the chance of getting infections. Positively, 75% of the women tested negative for HIV, and some used preventive medicines like PrEP or HIV treatment.

Still, many women face challenges like stigma, low self-esteem, and unkind treatment from healthcare workers, which stops them from seeking health services.

Another study by Anna Grace Auma from Lira University found that some young girls in the region have had multiple pregnancies before adulthood. These pregnancies often lead to unsafe abortions, health problems, or even death.

Auma also noted that men rarely choose vasectomy, a permanent birth control option, because of misunderstandings and cultural beliefs. This puts most of the family planning responsibility on women.

Dr. Francis Pebalo, who organized the event, said the research also covered family planning, care after abortions, and how medical professionals use health services (70.6% of them use family health services).

Dr. Siyane Aniley from CIRHT emphasized the importance of improved education in enhancing women’s health. She urged schools, researchers, and policymakers to work together to lower maternal deaths and improve healthcare using solid evidence.

CIRHT has supported both universities with 48 small grants and built digital classrooms and simulation labs to help train future healthcare workers.

The study shines a light on the hidden lives of sex workers in Uganda and calls for practical support to address their challenges and reduce stigma.