To boost the recently launched StarTimes Go,StarTimeshaslaunched a channel called StarTimes Gochannel, dedicated to 24/7 broadcast of products hence bringing e-shopping to our customers at less or even no extra internet costs.
StarTimes GOis dedicatedto providing an integrated platform through TV shopping, online shopping and phone-call shopping,while featuring the door-to-door delivery and installation service.
Speaking at the launch of this TV channel, the Marketing Director for StarTimes Uganda, Isma Lule noted that this new wave of online shopping is one of the many ways StarTimes wants to improve TV experience.He noted thatTV should not be used for entertainment, but also for education as now exhibited, shopping.
The channel which will broadcast24/7,will air a wide variety of quality affordable products ranging from electrical, home appliances, general hygiene products among others.
This channel is also aimed at breaking the monotony where people expected online shopping to be via internet-aided gadgets. This is because, upon subscription, one can watch this channel, all day all night.
The Spokes Person for StarTimes, Christine Nagujja added that StarTimes is dedicated to ensuring that Ugandans have quality products delivered in a timely manner.
For someone to enjoy the StarTimes Go products and services, they should watch the StarTimesGo TV channel. When they see a product they desire, they will either call our StarTimes Go callcentre on +25670111721 orvisit ourshop online onhttps://ugmall.startimestv.com/. Or customers can alsoorder on StarTimes ONApporvisit us on our official Facebook page, StarTimes Uganda, for more information.
The long-awaited new youth opportunities’ elevating scene ‘Project X’ kicked-off last weekend in high gear.
Project X is the biggest empowerment platform for young Ugandan creatives aged 18-35 in the following categories: modelling, fashion design and performing arts.
The opportunities are here, Project X is a programme of Ethical fashion in partnership with Europe aid.
If you are a creative with your eye on either becoming a top model, successful fashion designer or notable performing artiste, then you must be aware of Project X which is here to help you achieve just these things.
Every young creative, is advised to grab this opportunity by the horn, and should head on to the link https://ethicalfashioninitiative.org/opportunitiesarehere/project-x-apply now to register.
Iconic songstress, Lilian Mbabazi features as the superstar juror, judging the performing artistes’ category.
Lilian Mbabazi
Joram Muzira Job, a renowned Pageant coach and model manager judges the models.
Joram Muzira Job
Super talented fashionista, Gloria Wavamunno does so to the fashion designers.
Gloria Wavamunno
The show highlights every Sunday at 8:30pm on Urban TV.
Effective 1st September 2020, Cairo International Bank has re-branded to Cairo Bank Uganda Limited.
Cairo Bank Uganda limited (The Bank) is a fully owned subsidiary by Banque Du Caire (BDC) set up with the intention of expanding BDC’s presence across the continent whilst providing an entry point into the COMESA market for a wide range of its customers. BDC is one of the largest banks in Egypt with a balance sheet of over $12bn dollars.
The Bank underwent a comprehensive restructuring process in 2019 with in a bid to boost operational efficiency and position it to be able to sustainably grow and offer competitive products and services to their market segment which is in line with the strategic intent of being the ‘preferred small and medium enterprise Bank in Uganda’.
The shareholders invested a significant amount of money in 2019 and the Bank was able to move into a new fit for purpose head office with a renewed brand identity, procured and implemented a world class new core banking system and hired personnel at executive and middle management level with proven industry experience to support and execute the transformation journey.
The re-brand means the Bank is now positioned to leverage on a strong shareholder relationship and be part of a larger group with a strong global network and supporting millions of customers by opening their doors to endless opportunities.
The bank will continue to play a critical role in supporting the lifeblood of the economy which is the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
The Managing Director of Cairo Bank Uganda, Mr. Ahmad Nada Maher while commenting about the change said, “Our customers can look forward to a new, refreshed banking experience which will include a wide range of new innovative products and services, internet banking, exciting partnerships with fintechs and aggregators to provide mobile payment and cash management solutions.”
The change in name will come with a brand new logo, slogan and brand color.
Socialite Bad Black has come out to demean the idea of women carrying out abortion.
Bad Black
Appearing in an interview on Spark TV, Black strongly criticized all women who carry-out abortions and instead encouraged them to give birth to the babies no matter what circumstances.
“I was born in 1989, I got pregnant in 2006 and gave birth to my first child. I don’t support abortion that much and also I don’t use family planning but everyone should embrace a baby whenever it comes,” Bad Black said.
She also defended herself when questioned on matters regarding bearing kids from different fathers.
Black revealed how someone shouldn’t be condemned for having kids with different men because its an ancient act that was also practiced by holy people in the bible like Abraham.
“Having kids from different fathers is not a crime. Even in the bible, there lived so many polygamous people like Sarah’s husband Abraham.”
Sensational singer Edrisa Musuuza better known by stage names Eddy Kenzo has today, Tuesday 1st September been named the new Uganda Tourism Ambassador.
Eddy Kenzo
Eddy’s new role as a marketer of Uganda’s tourism industry is a perfect replacement for former Miss Uganda, Quinn Abenakyo who has been serving since 2019.
Abenakyo’s efforts were being aided by socialite Zari Hassan and TV personality Anita Fabiola.
The ‘Semyekozo’ singer’s crowning ceremony was presided over by the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Geofrey Kiwanda Suubi at Sheraton Hotel, Kampala.
Kenzo’s new remarkable commitment to his mother land comes two years ever since he was tasked the same in neighboring country, Kenya.
With no doubt, Kenzo is the country’s biggest music export as his international recognitions record is unmatched by any other Ugandan artist for the past 10years.
This has earned him the favorable spot on list of the nominated contenders for representing Uganda’s endowments.
Ruparelia Foundation through Kampala Parents’ School has today donated 10 computers to African Institute for Investigative Journalism to facilitate home-based learning as schools remain closed due to coronavirus.
The donation was handed over to Mr .Solomon Sserwanja the Institute’s Executive Director by Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia one of the directors of Ruparelia Foundation who was also represented by Mrs. Daphine Kato the Principal Kampala Parents School and Mr. Gareth Onyango the General Manager Premier Advertising. While handing over the computers, Mr Gareth Onyango said the donation by Ruparelia Foundation is meant to support E-learning in schools in order to help students to access classwork and digital learning resources online while schools are closed.
He noted that Ruparelia Foundation recognizes the importance of education adding that in any endeavor are committed to help support this mission by giving back to the communities through such assistances.
On his part, Solomon Sserwanja also thanked Ruparelia Foundation for extending a hand and said that the computers will help the beneficiaries to access technology and continue with their classes during the lockdown.
African Institute for Investigative Journalism is a media organization focusing on providing investigative journalism at home on the African continent.
Nigerian rapper Ace Berg who real names are Ikechukwu Okoronkwo held a listener’s party last Saturday at Kabira Country Club Poolside. The event that was organized by one of the biggest event organisers Kasana Events and sponsored by Sanyu FM limited the number of the revelers because of following one of the standards of Operations that the President put up which is social distancing.
Whoever showed up at the invite only event was given a free mask branded with the Kasana Events logo and drinks were on the house. The event kicked off with the team connecting Ace Berg to the Ugandan fans who were already waiting to have a chat with him. His music was playing in the background and among them was heartbreaker which is his latest song.
The listeners party also doubled as a fundraising event which had the invited guests donating to the IHK woman who was killed by her husband. Viola kakai, a midwife at International Hospital Kampala and a mother of three was hacked to death by the husband in a domestic brawl and she ended up leaving behind her three children. The fundraising was therefore to provide for the children who are currently staying in Mbale with the mother of the deceased.
Talent is brewing in Uganda and that is not only for the indigenous but also those who have found the country hospitable. Jessica Mumford is one of the other growing her talent in Uganda.
Jessica Mumford is born American but stays both in Uganda and tje US and has recently ventured into music. Unlike most genres here, she still trades in the uptown genre which even makes her unique.
Jessica a performing artiste raised in Kampala, Uganda and currently living bicontinentally between New York City and Kampala. She is a certified graduate of The Ailey School and a singer and songwriter.
Jessica has released her first ever original album entitled “Unfolding” and it is something you want to listen to over and over.
You can get her new album on iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal.
MTN is adding its voice to the global drive to raise awareness about the importance of wearing masks with the launch of the #WearItForMe campaign across its 21 African and Middle Eastern markets.
To help drive this much-needed change in behaviour, MTN is committing its September 2020 marketing resources towards encouraging everyone to adopt wearing masks so as to save lives.
As Uganda and the world at large try to navigate the “new normal” brought about by COVID-19, wearing masks remains one of the most effective preventative measures to slow the spread of the virus. However, many people remain reluctant to wear them, wear them incorrectly, or still feel it is not important.
“In Uganda over the last weeks we have reported unprecedented record high numbers of new COVID-19 cases with the numbers soaring each day. It’s upon this growing concern witnessed across various MTN markets that we decided to dedicate resources yet again towards something that we believe can make a big difference in curbing the spread of this deadly disease,” says MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer, Wim Vanhelleputte.
“This fight calls for concerted efforts, wearing a mask correctly is something each one of us can do to protect ourselves and loved ones for it has been proven to be one of the most effective preventive methods in slowing and stopping the spread of the Corona Virus. I however encourage Ugandans to alongside wearing the mask correctly to continue observing the other Standard Operating Procedures including staying at home where possible, social distancing as well as hand washing and sanitising among others,” says Vanhelleputte.
#WearItForMe is the next phase in MTN’s COVID-19 response under Y’ello Hope – MTN’s umbrella initiative which provides much-needed support during times of societal need.
It is a powerful call-to-action using the voice of some of the most influential figures within our communities and across the continent; our mothers, and mother-figures. The campaign will see mothers and mother-figures sending heartfelt messages to their children, and all the children of Africa, to wear their masks to protect themselves and their loved ones.
“As part of the campaign, MTN will also be distributing 100,000 masks to customers through the MTN service centres across the country,” said Vanhelleputte while launching the #WearItForMe campaign.
MTN’s #WearItForMe campaign will build on the several interventions that MTN carried out since the COVID-19 breakout in March 2020 under the Y’ello Hope initiative that is aimed at brightening lives and limiting the impact of the pandemic.
During this time, MTN has prioritised looking after its people, customers, communities and networks while focusing on efficiencies to help mitigate the pandemic and its effects on livelihoods. Initiatives ranged from special data bundles and zero-rated access to educational sites. In addition, utilising technological solutions for contact tracing and dissemination of information through the Africa COVID Communication & Information Platform across our 21 markets.
At the onset of the COVID-19 crisis in the country, MTN Uganda allocated media space worth shs316million to the ministry of Health to run the much needed COVID19 communication across different media. To facilitate a free flow of information, the Telecom zero-rated the Ministry of health website to enable people get timely information without the need for data.
When the country started registering cases of COVID19, MTN set up a fully equipped call center at the MTN Head offices to support the Ministry of health work force in terms of receiving calls from members of the public seeking referrals and those seeking general information about the deadly coronavirus.
To support the movement of both logistics and members of the COVID-19 Task Force as it spearheads the country’s fight against the pandemic, MTN recently donated three brand new Nissan Hard Body pick-ups to the Office of the Prime Minister.
In a bid to promote hand washing and hygiene as one of the ways to prevent the spread of the fatal coronavirus, MTN provided another Shs.220million to National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) to provide relief to the masses of people living in water stressed parts in and around Kampala. This is because water is especially important in the COVID19 fight as hand washing is very critical.
MTN also provided another Shs.294million to the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) for surveillance, screening, psychological support in the high risk areas and border points across the country.
“MTN is committed to supporting the Government in the fight against Corona virus. We are adding our voice to that of the Ministry of Health and reminding you to wear your masks correctly everywhere you go,” concludes Vanhelleputte.
#WearItForMe will run throughout the month of September. Visit www.wearitfor.me to send a message to someone encouraging them to do the right thing. #WearItForMe; because when we all wear masks, we protect each other.
Airtel Uganda continued its country-wide broadband internet solution drive in Lira, Gulu and Arua cities as it expands its affordable and reliable fixed wireless internet solution to all parts of the country.
At the unveilings, subscribers were treated to demonstrations of how this fast broadband internet solution works and how to acquire the devices.
The Lira Deputy Town Clerk, Rebecca Acen, showed gratitude for Airtel’s continued expansion and innovations that it has brought to the residents of Lira.
“Airtel Uganda continues to play a major role in the development and provision of employment opportunities for many people in Lira City. Its commitment and contribution to the country and our community over the years has enabled us to achieve certain advancements in the telecom industry,” Acen commented.
The Broadband Internet Solution unit which attracts a one-off entry cost of Shs280,000 inclusive of a 51GB of Data valid for 30 days, free installation and device maintenance for three years has been on the market since September last year when it launched in Kampala.
In Gulu City, Otika Walter the City’s Deputy Speaker, echoed the continued importance for the need for technological advancements to be brought closer to people in places far from the capital city to at least enable the regional communities to move at the same pace as the capital.
“We are happy to have such advanced services from Airtel Uganda extended to our newly formed city. It is of utmost importance that this is the norm with all service providers. The closer the services are brought to our people the faster our communities will advance and engineer local and national economic development,” Otika remarked.
Commenting about the expansion in the Northern region, Paul Mutanga, Airtel Uganda’s Regional Business Manager, Northern Region said; “Since the launch, hundreds of homes and businesses in the country have benefited from the Airtel Broadband reliability and affordability. To satisfy the demand, we have decided to expand the solution to customers upcountry especially during these unprecedented times when the internet is a major driver of livelihood.”
The fixed Wireless internet device comes in stylish designs and can connect 32 internet-powered devices including laptops, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, game consoles, security cameras and many others to the internet.
Ichode Erasmas, the Managing Director at Zuritap addresses media.
By Our Reporter
Zuritap, a new platform designed for connecting professional service providers to clients has been launched. The mobile app was officially unveiled at Eliana Hotel in Ntinda on Tuesday.
Speaking during the launch, Ichode Erasmas, the Managing Director at Zuritap said that the platform will enable easy and convenient access to professional services for clients while also helping expand the customer base for the service providers.
“Zuritap is here to empower small businesses and individuals providing professional services,” Ichode Erasmas stated.
The platform, which has been active for 2 months now, so far has about 300 service providers offering a range of services like plumbing, catering, and cleaning services among others.
“We don’t just put everyone on the platform,” Ichode added. “We make sure every service provider is verified by our team of experts and also trained in ethical conduct and customer care etiquette.”
The service is so far only available in Kampala and surrounding areas.
“To use the platform, download the app via Google Play or Apple store and sign up,” Charles Espan, a Zuritap ambassador explained. “When you are logged in, the app gives you a list of all service providers and shows you each service provider’s profile and how far away they are from your location. You can then choose your preferred service provider and contact them via the app.”
In a bid to further ease the lockdown, Uganda government has voted to re-open its borders and airport on 1st October 2020. We’ve learned that foreigners on a tourist visa will be required to come with a covid-19 free PCR certificate valid for 72 hours.
The government has also proposed an instant covid-19 test. Tourists and other travelers into the country will be tested and held within selected airport hotels as they await their results. Upon receipt of a negative results, these people will be let go. “There will no longer be a mandatory 14 day quarantine. It is all about ease of doing things in Uganda. We are simplifying everything going forward,” our source tells us.
BigEye.ug has also learned that government has come up with a home-care package for managing COVID-19 cases at home. “Our hospitals are getting stressed. There’s no reason why asymptomatic patients should occupy beds at hospitals. All covid-19 cases will now be managed home. Only extreme cases will be referred to the major selected hospitals for attention. Care-givers will pick the medicine and immune boosters for the patients at gazetted treatment centres,” our source reveals.
When it came to churches, the committe voted to re-open but with numbers limited to a maximum of 70 per service. “Churches will be required to have registers for all their services. We shall re-open churches but with more controls. Churches must also meet the space requirements.”
Finally the issue of bars remained unresolved. “Bars will be re-opened but they must prove beyond reasonable doubt that people can still party and maintain social distancing and not be a risk to themselves. They fall in the same categories as gyms and other sports events,”our State House source explains.
The government has also been exploring new enforcement options for those who defy the government guidelines. “It’s tricky when you get someone not wearing a mask and send them to prison. Instead, we are going to get catchment areas. We shall be subjecting those who break government protocols to tougher measures. Community work, heavy fines, all these are going to be part of the package. We shall send them to clean the gutters of Kampala. We shall have them slash the bushes. This is going to be free labour.
In a bid to develop more ground forces, government will allow medical schools to resume especially for final year students. For the rest of the students, this has been declared a dead-year. School will officially resume in early February next year, the President has emphasized this, it’s not debatable,” our source confirmed.
BigEye.ug has also learned that lockdown won’t be an option government will pursue any longer since WHO has also dropped it off its recommendations. It’s now about moving on amidst the challenge. “The big things on the table is how we get to regain back our other life, the bars, the events. For now, the Tentative dates for Bars and events is November 15th. Government has tasked bar owners to avail their SOPs and proposals, once these are agreed, bars that meet requirements will be given KCCA stickers allowing them to operate,” says our source.
Kampala. Milk is a key component of any balanced diet and yet many people are not well versed with its processing or value chain that impacts the quality of milk before it gets to their glasses.
According to the Dairy Development Authority (DDA) in Uganda, although milk production in Uganda has increased from 2.08 billion litres in 2015 to about 2.5 billion in litres in 2020, consumption is still low. A DDA report suggests that the per capita consumption of milk in Uganda stands at 62 litres which falls below the 200 litres recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Speaking at a recently organized event at the DDA offices, the Minister of State for Animal Industry Bright Rwamirama blamed this low consumption on people’s tendency to take fruit juice or soda which is readily available instead of milk which according to him is more nutritious. Rwamirama called for the need to prioritize serving milk at events in order to boost milk consumption.
This call for increased milk consumption has come at a time when milk processing companies have made it easier for consumers to take dairy products by ensuring quality control and varying products such as milk, yoghurt, butter, flavoured milk, and cream among others from which consumers can choose.
Marketing Manager, Fresh Dairy – Vincent Omoth said, ‘A growing body of recent research suggests that enjoying three servings of dairy foods a day is part of a nutrient-rich and balanced diet, and while several dairy products are available on the market, it’s vital to pay attention to the processing value chain as the quality of these dairy products is determined by the effectiveness of the milk processing value chain. The milk processing value chain refers to the step by step process that milk takes from the farm to the consumer’s cup.
Omoth noted that the value chain of Fresh Dairy’s products begins with the Farm. Fresh Dairy works with over 30,000 small and large farmers who are the principal stakeholders in our business that we empower on best practice in the dairy enterprise periodically. At Fresh Dairy, we believe that good quality milk products are made from good quality milk. We therefore source all the milk used in Fresh Dairy products from Ugandan farms only.’
Omoth explained that dairy farmers take their milk to Milk Collection Centres every morning where it undergoes mandatory tests. From Milk Collection Centres, milk is driven using milk tankers to the factory. At the factory, milk is tested again before entering a closed processing system out of which dairy products are made such as yoghurt, milk, ghee, butter, cream. The pasteurized Fresh Dairy products are then distributed to the retail outlets such as shops, supermarkets, duukas and kiosks countrywide where consumers can easily buy them.
Spark TV life wire presenter Nakitto Rehemahvalias Precious Remmy yesterday paid a courtesy visit to Wakiso based Kampala Children’s Centre, a home of hundreds of children that are under the watch of Bishop Arnold Muwonge. Remmy did not only spend her time engaging in their home activities but also shared with them a word on career mentorship and life virtuals.Remmy also visited Wakiso giant schools, Destiny Bridge Academy Primary school and Stride High School, top schools in primary and secondary respectively. Both schools are owned by Bishop Arnold Muwonge. Remmy Shares a passionate love for Kampala Children’s centre (KCC) and intends to keep the partnership between her and the organisation.
Over the weekend, Martinellis a sovereign sparkling wine brand partnered with Sheilah Gashumba, one of the best Uganda’s in-demand Influencers and media personalities AT an invite-only and champagne brunch.
Gashumba, who is an experienced empowering, sociable, and charismatic brand ambassadors to several other companies will help promote, educate, and increase awareness of Martinellis to their target audiences across the nation.
“I am a longtime fan of Martinellis. Since then, I have became excited about the brand, team and everything they stand for.
When I heard about the opportunity to be part of it all, I had to do it.” Sheilah assured the invited guests.
The new expression to Uganda which has already launched globally is a blend of natural fruits and it is sold in a gold and army-green glass bottle.
Amongst the many celebrities that embraced the event hosted by Sheilah is Judith Heard, Abryanz, Irene Ntale, Natasha Sinayobye, SK Mbuga and wife Vivian Chebet and Bettinah Tianna.
The evening was highlighted by performances from award winning saxophonist Michael Kitanda, DJ Vee and DJ Maintain.
Gagamel boss, Bebe Cool has said that he will not stop releasing new music.
The “Love you everyday” hit maker made the remarks in a local TV interview where he noted that he will not stop doing music because he still has the energy and loves what he does.
He further said that music has no age limit and therefore he can not listen to what society has to say.
“I hear a lot of people complaining that I should stop competing with the young artists. Well that is their opinion and therefore I cannot go by it,” he said. “Music has no age limit and therefore I cannot stop doing it.”
“I love music and I will not stop doing it. I know I have been in the industry for long but I still love what I do and I cannot stop.” He added.
The friendship between Bobi Wine and events promoter Bajjo has hit rock bottom.
This is after promoter Bajjo storming the media to de-campaign Bobi Wine who previously had been his close ally.
Appearing on local television, Bajjo claimed to have been Bobi Wine’s biggest mobilizer and threatened to spill the secrets about Bobi’s camp.
“Bobi Wine, you well know I have been a key factor and I have influenced many people to join you. I’m now going to reveal your secrets, its now my turn. The movie is just beginning,” he said.
The motor-mouthed promoter added that he will not be intimidated by Bobi’s supporters.
“His fans are fond of intimidating people who criticize Bobi Wine. Bobi Wine you will never rule Uganda, I have said it, come and kill me.” He added.
In order to make cooking gas even more affordable for all, Vivo Energy Uganda has launched a new campaign dubbed “Shell Gas Refill Nyongeza” in which Shell Gas refill prices have been slashed to UGX 44,000, UGX 86,000 and UGX 247,000 for the 6kg, 12kg and 45kg respectively.
Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Moses Kebba, the Marketing Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda said that the campaign is intended to further ease financial strain on loyal customers and reward them for continually selecting the Shell Gas brand as their cooking solution over the years.
With the recent waiver announced by the government on VAT on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) – commonly known as cooking gas, it is anticipated that the public will better embrace the usage of gas as the most ideal and safer cooking solution in their homes, as it will be more affordable in comparison to the past.
“We applaud this move by the government to make cooking gas more affordable for Ugandans especially during this period where the economy has been hit hard with the Coronavirus. As a business, we are committed to supporting our customers in any initiative they undertake to take on more efficient and eco-friendly cooking options, and we encourage them to continue using Shell Gas which is a safer, cleaner and more affordable”, noted Moses Kebba.
Uganda loses an estimated 100,000 hectares of forest cover annually, which is mainly attributed to wood based cooking energy like charcoal and firewood, options that many look at as a cheaper cooking option. The reduction in gas prices therefore presents an opportunity for potential customers to switch from the traditional less environmentally friendly options.
To be able to enjoy these further discounted refill offers on Shell Gas, customers are advised to look out for the Shell Gas refill van in their areas or at different activation points of sale. Shell Gas customers can also enjoy more convenience with our recently introduced free home delivery services for both new purchases and refills across greater Kampala.
Shell Gas refill ‘Nyongeza’ promotion will run until 21st October 2020.