AGP Executive Report

Ebola Response in Focus: WHO-backed clinical trials have started in DR Congo for the Bundibugyo Ebola strain, testing a monoclonal antibody cocktail with remdesivir and supportive care as cases near 1,600 and deaths pass 500, with Uganda also reporting confirmed infections. Public Service Pay & HR Reforms: Uganda has increased the 2026/27 public service wage bill by about Shs1.09 trillion to Shs9.708 trillion and issued new human resource management guidelines to improve discipline and service delivery. Media Freedom Tensions: Daily Monitor co-founder Wafula Oguttu warns against any reopening deal that gives government influence over editorial decisions, amid negotiations after the paper was shut down. Corruption Probe Update: A drivers’ association in Bukedea accuses Parliament communications boss Chris Obore of using members’ IDs to account for over Shs675m, adding to ongoing IGG/anti-corruption cases. Karamoja Security Push: Joint security forces have intensified disarmament and community policing in Kotido to curb armed raids and illegal firearms. Business & Health Sector: Unihealth Hospitals plans to raise its stake in Uganda’s Victoria Hospital to 99.81% via a share swap, while Qcil reports strong performance and higher dividends despite margin pressures.

Public Service Pay: Government released the 2026/27 public service salary structure, keeping scientists, teachers and specialised technical professionals at the top, with the wage bill set at Shs 9.7tr. Ebola Update: Uganda says its Ebola outbreak has been contained after imported cases from eastern DRC, and it is engaging countries imposing travel restrictions while sending support to the DRC. South Africa Repatriation: Uganda completed the first phase of voluntary returns from xenophobic unrest in South Africa, with a third Uganda Airlines charter bringing total evacuees to 560 at Entebbe. Telecom Disruption: MTN Uganda apologised after a power failure at a data centre disrupted calls, mobile data and Mobile Money services. Anti-Land Grabbing Push: Nakaseke leaders urged voters to reject LC1 candidates linked to land grabbing ahead of July 28 elections. Regional Energy Talks: Museveni discussed a regional East Africa oil refinery with Dangote, while Dangote says a Kenya refinery could refine 700,000 bpd. Sports: Kenya Legends beat Uganda Legends 17-10 in Kampala to retain the SportPesa Legends Cup title.

South Africa Xenophobia: Uganda repatriated another 255 nationals on Sunday, bringing the total evacuated from South Africa to 560 as anti-immigrant violence continues; the military says reintegration training is underway for some returnees. University Growth: Uganda Christian University (UCU) says it is bucking the trend with rising enrolment and revenues, reporting 1,274 graduands at its 27th ceremony and citing a break-even model to cut costs. Public Finance & Debt: ActionAid Federation warns that IMF debt sustainability assessments over-focus on loan repayment over spending on health and education, reviewing IMF advice across multiple countries including Uganda. Clean Cooking Push: Nabisunsa Girls’ School has switched from firewood to LPG after Vivo Energy installed a bulk storage and distribution system, joining other schools adopting cleaner cooking. Parliament Setup: NRM’s CEC named three women MPs—Susan Jolly Abeja, Faith Nakut and Jesica Ababiku—as backbench representatives on the Parliamentary Commission. Construction Jobs: The World Bank says Uganda’s construction sector is held back by weak regulation, skills gaps and procurement delays, limiting job creation despite strong sector growth. Ebola Watch (DRC): WHO reports the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo has reached 1,502 cases and 473 deaths, with insecurity and population movement complicating response. Sports: Uganda’s Faith Cherotich won the women’s 3,000m steeplechase at the Prefontaine Classic, with Uganda’s Peruth Chemutai finishing fifth.

Ebola Crisis in DR Congo: The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak has surged to 1,502 confirmed cases with 473 deaths, as WHO warns the situation remains severe, driven by insecurity, poor infrastructure and fast-moving communities in Ituri and North Kivu. Uganda Health Response: Uganda’s Ebola frontline is also under pressure, with WHO noting progress in contact follow-up and urging sustained support as cases spill across borders. Finance & Inclusion: M-KOPA says it has unlocked over Shs1 trillion in cumulative credit for more than a million customers since 2013, boosting smartphone access and digital income for previously excluded Ugandans. Climate & Agriculture: Government, through UCSATP, has handed vehicles to 69 districts to strengthen climate-smart agriculture monitoring and farmer support. Local Banking Product: Housing Finance Bank launches the HFB Trust Savings Account, offering interest plus insurance benefits for savers. Media & Governance: Uganda’s health monitoring unit flags gaps behind rising maternal deaths in Bududa, citing staffing, infrastructure and specialist shortages. Regional Politics: Martha Karua sues Uganda’s CDF Muhoozi over her deportation, seeking court intervention.

Ebola Update: WHO says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo is now the largest ever recorded, with cases topping 1,400 and deaths rising past 400, while Uganda reports 20 confirmed cases and WHO highlights improved contact tracing and surveillance. Health Response: WHO has listed the first molecular diagnostic test for Bundibugyo virus for emergency use, and Uganda’s border screening and travel advisories are being strengthened. Legal Tensions: Martha Karua has sued Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba over her deportation, arguing it blocks her constitutional right to represent clients in the Besigye treason case. Media & Governance: A fresh debate continues over Uganda’s media clampdown after NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor shutdowns, with critics warning about press freedom and institutional independence. Agriculture & Climate-Smart Work: MAAIF handed vehicles to 69 districts to boost climate-smart agriculture monitoring. Banking: Housing Finance Bank launched a Trust Savings Account with interest and added insurance benefits. Regional Security: Uganda evacuated hundreds of citizens from South Africa amid xenophobic violence.

Ebola Update: WHO says DR Congo’s Bundibugyo Ebola has killed 452 people out of 1,460 confirmed cases, with Uganda reporting 20 confirmed cases and two deaths; WHO also notes a new Marburg case in western Uganda and warns violence and mistrust are still hampering response. Health Measures: Uganda’s Ministry of Health has issued an Ebola travel advisory and strengthened border screening as the outbreak spreads into new health zones. Entebbe at 50: As Operation Entebbe marks 50 years, Israel has unsealed thousands of records on the 1976 raid, while survivors and families reflect on the rescue and its lasting trauma. South Africa Xenophobia: Uganda repatriated the first batch of 273 nationals from South Africa amid anti-immigrant unrest; officials say more groups are expected, and three Ugandans reportedly died during the violence. Courts & Rights: Besigye and Lutale insist they will not accept alternative lawyers after Lukwago’s arrest and Karua’s deportation, arguing it violates their right to a fair trial. Local Governance & Trust: Kyambogo University dismissed social media claims it is set to close, saying the institution remains fully operational. Regional Security: The US plans to block UN funding for the AU Somalia peace mission, raising concerns about AUSSOM’s long-term viability.

Xenophobic Violence Response: Uganda has begun voluntary repatriation from South Africa, with the first batch of 273 Ugandans landing at Entebbe early Friday, as more charter flights are planned to bring home hundreds more amid ongoing anti-migrant unrest. Media Crackdown: Uganda’s army chief ordered the shutdown of NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor under a “no free press” stance, deepening local and international scrutiny over press freedom. Ebola in DR Congo: The DR Congo Ebola outbreak has surpassed 400 deaths as cases spread further, including a first reported infection in Kisangani, raising fears of a wider regional emergency. Oil Land Disputes: Villagers in Buliisa say oil promises are colliding with unresolved compensation after the 2010 eviction of the Balaalo pastoralists. Digital Economy & Business: Dimension Data Uganda rebranded to NTT DATA to expand AI, cloud and cybersecurity services, while Airtel Uganda partnered with SPIRO to roll out electric motorcycles for cleaner last-mile distribution. Health Partnerships: The U.S. signed a five-year health deal worth about $3.1bn with Tanzania, part of a shift toward long-term investment in health systems. Sports & Community: Absa Bank Uganda renewed sponsorship for the Absa Chairman’s Bell Golf Tournament, and UTTA certified four coaches under an ITTF Level 2 programme.

Ebola Surge in DRC: The DR Congo outbreak has killed 438 people out of 1,406 confirmed cases, with spread reaching Kisangani and neighbouring provinces, as officials warn burials and cross-border movement keep transmission alive. Marburg Alert in Uganda: Africa CDC says Uganda has recorded a Marburg case in a child, raising concern as health authorities face pressure over how much context is shared publicly. WHO Boosts Ebola Testing: WHO added the first molecular diagnostic test for Bundibugyo virus to its Emergency Use Listing, aiming to speed up confirmation and response during fast-moving outbreaks. Uganda’s Pension Shift: From July 1, 2027, civil servants will start contributing 5% of salary, with government adding 10%, ending the old non-contributory system. Parliament Corruption Case: Seven Parliament staff, including Chris Obore, were remanded to Luzira Prison over alleged embezzlement and money laundering linked to losses above Shs27bn. Museveni on AFCON Travel: Uganda backs a single East African entry visa for AFCON 2027 to ease movement across host countries. Agribusiness Exports: Ranchers Finest ships Uganda’s first processed beef consignment to Ethiopia, targeting about 20 tonnes monthly. Sports Spotlight: Kitara FC striker Jimmy Kalema’s Masaza Cup success continues to draw attention.

Parliament Corruption Crackdown: The Inspectorate of Government has preferred charges against seven Parliament officials, including Chris Obore and Adilo Daniel, over alleged embezzlement and money laundering running from 2023 to May 2026, with the suspects expected to appear in court. Xenophobia Response: Uganda has set up four evacuation centres in South Africa (Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban) to repatriate nationals amid anti-migrant violence, with hundreds already processed and the first group expected to arrive in Entebbe on Thursday evening. Ebola Update: DR Congo’s Ebola toll has climbed above 400 deaths and 1,406 confirmed cases, as insecurity and community resistance continue to hamper response efforts. AFCON 2027 Push: President Museveni pledged full government support for Uganda’s co-hosting of AFCON 2027 and endorsed a common East African entry visa to ease movement for fans and teams. Lottery Shock: ITHUBA Uganda has wound up its national lottery operations, with the regulator saying it will manage the cessation and protect stakeholders. Consumer Protection: UNBS seized over 400 cartons of counterfeit toilet tissue in Kikuubo and arrested four suspects. Business & Economy: Uganda announced a three-year income tax holiday for qualifying tourism start-ups, aiming to attract investment and create jobs.

Ebola Update (DRC): The Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has spread into Haut-Uele province, expanding the affected northeast and raising fears of wider community transmission as cases and deaths climb. Poverty and Jobs Shock: The UNDP warns the crisis could push nearly one million more people into extreme poverty and wipe out tens of thousands of jobs across the region, including Uganda. Uganda Health Alert: Uganda has detected an isolated Marburg virus case in Kyegegwa district in a 1½-year-old child who died; Africa CDC says there are no active cases and no contacts yet showing symptoms. Uganda Media Crackdown: Uganda faces renewed international scrutiny after security operations shut down Nation Media Group outlets including NTV and Daily Monitor, with Amnesty calling it harassment of activists and media freedom under threat. Court Ruling (Matembe): Former Ethics and Integrity Minister Dr. Miria Matembe was granted Shs 3m cash bail (non-cash bond) on sectarianism charges, with conditions to avoid sectarian statements. Regional Trade: Uganda’s sugar industry has protested Kenya’s 300%+ excise duty hike on imported sugar, warning it could disrupt exports and violate EAC free-trade principles. Finance & Innovation: 4G Capital, a women-led fintech neobank, qualified for the 2X Challenge database after a Global Innovation Fund investment, aiming to unlock more gender-lens capital for borrowers in Kenya and Uganda.

Press Freedom Under Pressure: Uganda’s army chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets, with Daily Monitor, NTV and Spark TV taken off air as rights groups warn of deepening authoritarianism. Ebola Fallout: UNDP says the DRC Ebola outbreak is now a development and economic crisis, potentially pushing nearly one million more people into poverty, with women hit hardest, while agencies report cases and deaths rising across eastern DRC. Cross-Border Security: IGAD’s regional cyber drill ends with calls for stronger cooperation and plans for an information-sharing centre to fight cross-border cyberattacks. Economy & Infrastructure: Uganda signed a €110.5m deal with Standard Chartered to finance a northeast road, as the government also launched a Sh1.081trn agri-food investment plan to boost food security and attract private capital. Regional Migration: Uganda announced voluntary repatriation for citizens in South Africa amid anti-illegal immigration protests. Governance & Oversight: Parliament Speaker Oboth-Oboth defends redirecting billions to committees to strengthen oversight and curb corruption.

Ebola Watch: A suspected Ebola patient in Glasgow, Scotland was tested at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital after a ward was partially locked down; Public Health Scotland says the result is negative and there are no confirmed cases in Scotland, as the Bundibugyo outbreak in DRC continues to spread regionally. UN Economic Warning: The UN says the Ebola outbreak could cost Africa up to $3.6bn and threaten hundreds of thousands of jobs if it isn’t contained, with Uganda reporting a smaller number of cases. Uganda Court Update: Former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago’s treason-related case was deferred to July 7 after he was too ill to attend court, with prison authorities citing his hospitalization at Mulago. Media Freedom Tension: Uganda’s government says the shutdown of Nation Media Group operations followed a security-led inquiry ordered by President Museveni, while talks are underway to reopen outlets. Justice & Rights: Miria Matembe was remanded to Luzira Prison on sectarianism charges after appearing in court, with her bail application set for the next hearing.

Press Freedom Crackdown: Uganda’s military chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of NTV Uganda and Spark TV, with soldiers surrounding Nation Media Group offices; negotiations are reportedly underway to reopen outlets, while U.S. Senator Jim Risch urged Washington to review security ties after the media curbs. Political Justice: The Makindye court adjourned the treason-related case involving former Lord Mayor Elias Lukwago due to ill-health, as his trial over misprision of treason continues. Ebola & Regional Health: The UN warns Central Africa’s Ebola outbreak could cost Africa up to $3.6bn; meanwhile DR Congo reports Ebola cases above 1,300 with hundreds of deaths, and Uganda is named among affected areas. South Africa Xenophobia Deadline: Police deployed nationwide as anti-immigration groups’ unofficial 30 June deadline arrived; thousands of foreigners sought help to leave, and Uganda announced an evacuation plan for nearly 750 citizens amid violence fears. Clean Cooking Business: Uganda’s clean energy push gets a boost with local firms like Elsmart and Enersave scaling improved cookstoves and biomass briquettes, supported by results-based financing and partnerships. NRM Politics & Economy: NRM delegates endorsed Museveni as presidential flagbearer for 2026–2031, while the FY 2026/27 budget debate continues after a major upward revision to Shs 84.391trn.

Media Freedom Under Pressure: Uganda’s army chief ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets, including NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor, with journalists describing a “military siege” and calls from regional press bodies for reopening. Xenophobia Fallout: Uganda says it will evacuate 746 citizens from South Africa amid anti-immigrant violence, with registrations, safe assembly centres and charter flights planned. Ebola Escalation: Africa CDC reports DRC Ebola has hit 1,274 confirmed cases and 360 deaths, with 96 health workers infected; Uganda has 20 confirmed cases mostly linked to spillover. Health Response Boost: Uganda and Africa CDC/WHO launched a Continental Incident Management Support Team at Makerere University to coordinate Ebola preparedness and response across at-risk countries. Legal/Justice: US seeks extradition of former AU policy adviser Michael Katungi Mpeirwe over alleged drug trafficking, arms smuggling and terrorism-related offences; he was remanded to Luzira Prison. Education Access: A bicycle programme delivered 728 bikes to 14 secondary schools in Kamuli, Kyegegwa and Adjumani to cut long school walks.

Media Freedom Under Pressure: Uganda’s military chief Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets, including NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor, saying he “does not believe in a free press,” while talks are now underway to reopen the stations after security raids on NMG offices. Xenophobia Fallout: Uganda plans to evacuate 746 nationals from South Africa as xenophobic violence escalates ahead of a June 30 deadline, with Uganda Airlines set for special charter flights and officials urging citizens to register at the High Commission in Pretoria; one Ugandan was reported killed in KwaZulu-Natal. Ebola Response Boost: Africa CDC, WHO and Uganda launched a Joint Continental Incident Management Support Team to strengthen coordinated emergency response for the Bundibugyo Ebola situation, with support for Uganda, DRC and nearby at-risk countries. Energy Access Push: World Bank’s Mission 300 update shows progress but highlights that nearly 600 million people still lack electricity, with electrification gains led by Tanzania, Ethiopia and Nigeria. Business & Trade: Uganda protested Kenya’s 300% sugar import levy, warning it could hurt Ugandan millers and jobs and disrupt EAC trade ties.

Media Crackdown: Uganda’s military chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered soldiers to shut down Nation Media Group outlets in Kampala, forcing NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Daily Monitor and radio stations off air, with staff trapped inside and the Daily Monitor describing a “military siege.” Civil Society Detentions: Security agents arrested and later released civil society leaders and lawyers Sarah Bireete and Eunice Musiime after hours of questioning, amid wider pressure on dissent. South Africa Evacuation: Uganda says 746 nationals have registered for voluntary evacuation from South Africa over xenophobic violence, with Museveni directing government coordination and Uganda Airlines set for special charter flights. Regional Health Response: Africa CDC, WHO and Uganda launched a joint incident management support team at Makerere University to strengthen Ebola emergency coordination across Uganda and the DRC. Culture & Tourism: Uganda opened its first cultural and tourism festival in Munich, Germany, promoting diaspora ties and tourism. Business & Energy: A report highlights how clean cooking and smarter stoves are cutting fuel costs, while Uganda’s media shutdown and energy affordability remain major public concerns.