U.S. sanctions have targeted Ugandan leaders over rights abuses, corruption, and opposition repression COVER STORY | IAN KATUSIIME | Last week, a retired U.S. general drew widespread attention in Kampala with a rare, high-profile visit, moving with unusual access through Uganda’s senior political and military circles. During his stay, …

Governments in Africa are pushing for local processing in a bid to turn their vast critical mineral reserves into factories, skills and long-term jobs. SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | Across Africa, governments are tightening export rules and changing mining laws to make sure they keep more value within their …

Baileys Brings the Ultimate Adult Treat of Indulgence to Old School RnB Picnic Kampala, Uganda | ENTERTAINMENT CORRESPONDENT | As Kampala’s premier feel-good Sunday experience kicks off its 2026 calendar, Baileys is stepping in as the official partner for the Old School RnB picnic happening this Sunday at the Sheraton Hotel …

  Kizito’s beautiful paintings in his new solo show, Hands of the Beholder, communicate more than the physical beauty of the woman, but prompt conversations on the power of togetherness and  harmony in these contemporary times.   ARTS | DOMINIC MUWANGUZI | There are several words, such as ‘beautiful’, ‘impressive’, ‘brilliant’ …

Three women artists showcase multidisciplinary artworks symbolizing the aspect of challenging stereotypes on women identity and pushing the boundaries of conventional society   ARTS | DOMINIC MUWANGUZI | Women are globally known as the pillars of society, and yet their contributions are often overshadowed by societal prejudices that make them …

Morocco’s avocado surge is reshaping Africa’s export map, with North Africa overtaking East Africa in a trade long dominated by Kenya. SPECIAL REPORT | BIRD AGENCY | Africa exported roughly 430,000 tonnes of avocados in 2025, but the balance of power moved north. Preliminary 2025 data show a decisive shift …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | On any given Friday night in Kampala, the lights dim, the music rises and the bar counter becomes a stage. Behind it, bartenders measure, shake and garnish as cocktails slide across polished counters to eager patrons. A decade ago, in popular nightlife venues such as …

  COMMENT | GEORGE ILEBO | Since time immemorial, forests have been a vital pillar for human sustenance. Covering about 32% of the Earth’s land surface, or about 4.14 billion hectares, forests provide critical ecosystem services, including food, medicine, fresh water, air purification, and climate regulation, among others. These ecosystems …

  Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT |  Over 450 delegates are expected in Mbarara next month as brokers shift focus to SMEs and individuals to expand insurance penetration. The Insurance Brokers Association of Uganda (IBAU) is set to host its 8th Annual Conference with renewed momentum after ICEA LION General Insurance …

    COMMENT | DR JUDE KAGORO | The 2026 general election in Uganda followed a familiar pattern. As in the previous six elections under President Yoweri Museveni, the incumbent again emerged victorious. Yet interpreting the result simply as another reaffirmation of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) misses a deeper …