Uganda Roundup: Minority fights for MP, monkeypox, soaring airline

Uganda Airlines doubles capacity

Uganda Airlines has doubled its passenger capacity on the Entebbe-Johannesburg route by adding an A320-200 aircraft, increasing available seats from 78 to 160. The A320 will also be deployed on other routes experiencing growth. According to TNW, the addition of the A320 will help meet growing demand and alleviate operational challenges. The aircraft features a two-class cabin with 12 business class and 138 economy seats. Uganda Airlines celebrates its fifth anniversary this August.

Mpox outbreak forces volunteers out

Volunteers from Castlemaine, Australia, had to cut their trip to Uganda short due to a Monkey Pox outbreak, after working on improving the lives of children in the Ugandan Children's Village. The outbreak prompted the World Health Organisation to declare a public health emergency, causing the volunteers to return home. As reported by Midland Express, the charity founder, Steve Argent, hopes to regroup and return within the year and is seeking donations to support their efforts.

Museveni urges leaders to emulate Speaker of Parliament

President Museveni opened the Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association Games in Uganda. He commended Speaker Anita Among for her development work and urged leaders to follow her example. Museveni also encouraged young athletes to pursue sports as a livelihood. Social News XYZ reports that Speaker Anita Among emphasised the importance of sports in bringing people together. State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, advised athletes to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play. President Museveni also addressed a rally at Kongunga Primary School.

Monkeypox outbreak

Health officials in Amuru District are investigating a suspected case of Mpox disease at the Uganda-South Sudan border town of Elegu. A Ugandan male adult was isolated after presenting with body rashes, fever, and headache. According to The Independent, blood samples have been taken for testing. Screening of travellers at the border has been increased, and an emergency meeting will be held to assess the district's preparedness. WHO has declared Mpox a public health emergency.

Minority demand MP

Ugandan minority groups are demanding their own Member of Parliament and better representation in government. They are seeking political space, education, and employment opportunities for their socio-economic transformation. As reported by the Monitor, these groups, which include the Batwa, Ik, and Benet, are also facing issues such as lack of access to education and health services, as well as discrimination and stigmatisation. The groups are calling for support from relevant authorities and are advocating for their cultural rights to be promoted.