Channel 44 News
As the sun rises on a new week, Uganda stands at the center of dynamic changes across the political, economic, and environmental spectrum. From government reforms to major financial adjustments, here are the top stories shaping the nation this April 22nd, 2025.
Government Moves to Reinstate Military Trials for Civilians
The Ugandan government is pushing for new legislation that would permit civilians to be tried in military courts under “exceptional circumstances.” This proposal follows a January 2025 Supreme Court ruling that banned such trials. Justice Minister Norbert Mao clarified that the draft law is currently before Cabinet and will define specific instances where military involvement would be necessary.
The move has stirred concerns among civil society groups and opposition figures, with some fearing it could be used to silence critics. Longtime opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, among others, has voiced strong opposition, recalling previous charges brought against him in military courts.
Bobi Wine Declares 2026 Presidential Ambitions
Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has officially announced his candidacy for the 2026 presidential elections. The National Unity Platform (NUP) leader stated his resolve to challenge President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades. Wine expressed deep concern over continued intimidation of opposition voices but remains confident in the “power of Uganda’s youth” to drive change.
Uganda Slashes External Borrowing by 98%
In a historic financial shift, Uganda’s Ministry of Finance has revealed plans to drastically cut external borrowing by 98% in the upcoming fiscal year. The decision aims to reduce the ballooning public debt, which stood at $25.6 billion as of June 2024. The government will now borrow only UGX 30 billion ($8.15 million), down from UGX 1.394 trillion in the current year.
This fiscal tightening underscores a move towards self-reliance and responsible financial stewardship, aligning with the country’s long-term development goals under Vision 2040.
Power Outages Likely to Continue into April 2025
Energy Minister Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa has warned that electricity outages may persist until April 2025. This comes as Uganda transitions from the private distributor Umeme to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL). The minister attributed the outages to infrastructure weaknesses inherited during the transition. Government efforts are underway to secure funding and strengthen UEDCL’s operational capacity.
Museveni Declares 2025 the “Year of Wetland Action”
In a bold step toward environmental conservation, President Museveni has declared 2025 the “Year of Wetland Action.” The announcement is part of a broader government commitment to restore Uganda’s wetland coverage from 9.3% to 12% by 2040. Citizens are being encouraged to engage in sustainable practices and report any cases of wetland encroachment. The President stressed the importance of wetlands in sustaining agriculture, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
East African Trade and Investment Expo Set for Oman
The Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry is organizing the East African Trade and Investment Expo 2025, scheduled for April 16-17 in Muscat, Oman. The event will bring together regional business leaders, investors, and policymakers to explore trade partnerships between East Africa and the Gulf region.
This expo is expected to open doors for Ugandan products and innovations to reach new markets, especially in energy, agriculture, and tourism.
Conclusion
As Uganda strides through 2025, the nation finds itself at a crossroads of opportunity and challenge. With eyes set on economic independence, political reform, environmental protection, and regional collaboration, the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the nation’s future.
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