What You Need to Know About Standard Chartered Uganda’s Sale of Its Wealth & Retail Business (WRB)

Dec 20, 2024

Standard Chartered Uganda has announced plans to sell its Wealth & Retail Business (WRB) as part of its strategic shift toward Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB). The sale process is expected to take 18-24 months and is subject to regulatory approval. During this period, there will be no changes to existing account benefits, products, or services, and all client deposits and investments remain safe. This move mirrors similar successful divestments in other markets like Tanzania and Ivory Coast.

What You Need to Know About Standard Chartered Uganda’s Sale of Its Wealth & Retail Business (WRB)

In a strategic realignment, Standard Chartered Uganda has revealed its intention to exit the Wealth & Retail Business (WRB) segment, a move designed to sharpen its focus on Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB). Here’s a breakdown of what this decision entails and its impact on clients, employees, and the banking landscape.

What is the Wealth & Retail Business (WRB)?

The WRB provides financial products and services tailored to individuals and Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs). These include:

• Banking products: Savings accounts, current accounts, fixed deposits, mortgages, personal loans, and overdrafts.

• Wealth management products: SC Shilingi Fund, offshore mutual funds, endowment plans, and bonds.

Why is Standard Chartered Selling the WRB?

The decision to sell the WRB stems from the bank’s evaluation of its ability to scale in Uganda. The WRB business in this market does not align with the global strategy to deliver best-in-class banking services. By exiting WRB, the bank aims to focus on its CIB division, where it sees greater potential for sustainable growth and market impact.

What Happens to your Existing Accounts and Deposits?

Clients’ accounts and deposits will remain unaffected during the transition period, which is projected to last 18-24 months. Key assurances include:

• No changes to account terms or benefits: Clients can continue to deposit, withdraw, and transfer as usual.

• Safety of funds: Deposits and investments remain secure, with the bank complying with all statutory liquidity and solvency requirements.

Will Your Salary Account or Loan Be Affected?

• Salary accounts: These will continue to operate as usual, with no disruption to benefits or terms.

• Loans: Existing loan agreements remain unchanged, and the bank will continue offering new loans and top-ups to clients.

What About Wealth Management Products?

All wealth management products will remain operational during the transition period, including:

• Bonds: Issuers will continue to honor coupon payments as per bond terms.

• SC Shilingi Fund: Managed by Sanlam Investments East Africa Limited, the fund will operate without interruptions.

• Offshore mutual funds: Managed by Alliance Bernstein, these funds will continue to be serviced as per client contracts.

• Endowment plans: Insurance plans underwritten by partner insurance companies remain valid and unaffected.

The bank commits to keeping clients informed of any changes or updates regarding these products throughout the process.

Will Card Benefits and Rewards Change?

No. Clients will continue to enjoy the benefits of their existing cards, including:

• Earning and redeeming points via the 360° rewards program.

• Accessing airport lounges with the Infinite Visa card when meeting transaction thresholds.

Who Will Take Over the Wealth & Retail Business?

A buyer has not yet been identified. Standard Chartered assures a smooth transition and urges clients to rely solely on official communication from the bank for updates. The bank is committed to finding a buyer who can take on all existing products and services.

What Happens After the 18-24 Months Transition Period?

Once the buyer is identified and regulatory approvals are secured, they will assume ownership of the WRB. Standard Chartered will provide clients with updates and details on the transition process as it progresses.

What About Bank Staff?

The bank’s operations will continue as usual during the transition, and staff—including relationship managers—will remain available to support clients.

Has This Happened Elsewhere?

Yes. Standard Chartered has successfully divested its WRB in other markets, including Tanzania and Ivory Coast. In both cases, the CIB business flourished under the new strategic focus, attracting the right buyers and delivering strong results.

How Long Will the Process Take and Who Can I Contact?

The process is expected to take 18-24 months, subject to regulatory approvals. Clients can direct any queries to Standard Chartered Uganda’s 24-hour helplines:0313 294 100 or 0200 524 100

Final Thoughts

This divestment marks a significant step in Standard Chartered Uganda’s strategy to optimize its operations and focus on sectors where it can deliver maximum value. For her clients, this transition brings continuity, with no immediate changes to their accounts, deposits, or wealth management products. For the market, it signals a potential new entrant who will assume the WRB portfolio and continue serving individual and SME banking needs.

Highlights From The E-Waste Stakeholders Engagement Workshop

Davis Kawalya

Dec 19, 2024

The E-Waste Management Stakeholder Engagement Workshop, supported by the Electricity Access Scale-Up Project (EASP), was held at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel. The event brought together key stakeholders from the energy and waste management sectors to explore sustainable solutions for managing e-waste.

Hosted by Roy Nyamutale Baguma, Managing Director of the Uganda Energy Credit Capitalisation Company (UECCC), the workshop sought to foster collaboration among government officials, development partners, financial institutions, energy service companies (ESCOs), waste management firms, and technical experts.

“The workshop aims to address the environmental challenges posed by e-waste while fostering dialogue on experiences, opportunities, and strategies to mitigate e-waste risks,” Mr. Baguma said during his opening remarks. “The feedback session will also share insights into the global environmental concerns surrounding e-waste management,” he added.

Mr. Baguma reiterated the government’s dedication to using energy as a catalyst for socio-economic transformation through policies that enhance access to clean and reliable energy. He highlighted UECCC’s implementation of the Financial Intermediation Component under EASP, which scales up clean energy adoption while addressing the potential impacts of e-waste.

One key initiative discussed was the recently launched Price Subsidy Program. Designed to increase the use of clean energy technologies by households and enterprises, particularly in refugee host districts and settlements, the program is pivotal to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation agenda. “This program is crucial for empowering households and businesses,” Mr. Baguma remarked.

The workshop also highlighted challenges linked to e-waste generated by clean energy technologies. “The increasing sale of these technologies is expected to generate significant e-waste at the end of their lifecycle,” Mr. Baguma noted, referencing reports from ESCOs already grappling with stockpiled e-waste.

Collaborative Efforts to Address E-Waste Challenges

Financial institutions were recognized as vital in managing e-waste risks by offering concessional credit to ESCOs and end-users. Mr. Baguma emphasized the need to integrate environmental and social (E&S) safeguards into financial practices. “It is essential for financial institutions to develop robust tools to address these challenges effectively,” he urged.

He also called on ESCOs to prepare Environmental and Social Management Plans and work with licensed waste handlers for responsible e-waste disposal.

The workshop aimed to strengthen Uganda’s e-waste policies and regulatory frameworks. Mr. Baguma acknowledged the World Bank for supporting the creation of the Off-Grid Solar (OGS) E-Waste Management Toolkit, developed by Green Vista, and commended the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for establishing regulatory structures and forming the National E-Waste Management Committee.

Building Partnerships for Sustainable Solutions

Rodney Mukula, founder of Asante Waste Management, highlighted the importance of collaboration. “The E-Waste Stakeholders Engagement Workshop is a significant step toward fostering collaboration between government entities and private e-waste management companies,” he said.

Mr. Mukula also stressed the need for public-private partnerships, investments in innovative recycling technologies, and public awareness campaigns to promote proper e-waste disposal. “By working together, we can unlock opportunities for sustainable initiatives, create jobs, and drive a circular economy for Uganda while addressing critical environmental concerns,” he added.

Workshop Outlook

In his closing remarks, Mr. Baguma officially opened the workshop, expressing optimism for “fruitful deliberations” among participants. The event set the stage for continued collaborative efforts to develop innovative and sustainable e-waste management solutions, ensuring environmental protection and socio-economic progress for Uganda.

Cybersecurity Threat Predictions for 2025: Insights From the Dark Web

Sourced

Dec 12, 2024

From advanced disinformation services to stolen digital identities, smart home vulnerabilities, and AI-driven social engineering — these are some of the key topics currently being discussed in dark web forums.

Every December, experts at NordVPN predict cybersecurity risks for the upcoming year. This time, they partnered with NordStellar analytics, whose researchers analyzed the largest dark web forums to uncover the most discussed and emerging topics.

“While last year’s predictions still hold relevance, we’ve noticed a significant rise in hacking courses and DIY cybercrime kits. Meanwhile, leaked personal media and customer data continue to circulate widely on these forums,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity expert at NordVPN.

“This year, we’ve gone further to identify five emerging threats and vulnerabilities likely to escalate in 2025,” Warmenhoven adds.

Persistent Threats: The Rise of Account Takeovers

One of the dark web’s most discussed threads, with more than 135,000 comments, focuses on “combo lists”, databases containing combinations of usernames, passwords, and other personal data from various breaches. Additionally, nearly 26,000 comments focus on account takeovers, where this stolen metadata is used to access accounts without authorization.

Because of widespread password reuse across multiple platforms, these breaches allow hackers not only to commit fraud but also to impersonate individuals for malicious activities like identity theft.

Warmenhoven emphasizes the ongoing danger: “As long as people reuse passwords, these attacks will remain effective and popular among cybercriminals. In fact, we predict a sharp increase in these activities for 2025 due to new data breaches supplying fresh credentials.”

Emerging Threats: Exploiting Smart Home Security

*An example of a CCTV hacking tool ad found on the dark web forum.*

Another highly active thread on dark web forums, attracting nearly 21,000 comments, focuses on vulnerabilities in smart home systems and applications, with detailed instructions on how to exploit them.

The 2024 IoT Security Landscape Report revealed that over 9.1 billion security events globally were linked to approximately 50 million IoT devices. Home networks alone experienced an average of 10 attacks daily against connected devices, a figure expected to rise further in 2025.

“Hackers are targeting a wide range of devices, from smart refrigerators to home CCTV systems. While some devices act as entry points for broader network attacks, others, like CCTV systems, can be hacked directly to expose private activities,” Warmenhoven warns.

Identity Theft Remains a Top Priority

Fraud-related discussions are among the most active threads on the dark web. Users frequently share tools and techniques for crimes like credit card fraud and insurance fraud, but identity theft remains the most lucrative focus.

Hackers exploit personal data to access bank accounts, secure credit cards, and commit tax fraud. In 2025, these techniques are expected to evolve, with more sophisticated methods emerging.

“One growing threat is synthetic identity fraud, which combines real and fake data, often using deepfake technologies for greater effectiveness. Another is reverse identity theft, where someone lives as another individual taking jobs, accessing medical care, or avoiding legal consequences,” Warmenhoven explains.

The Rise of “Disinformation as a Service”

The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2024 ranked AI-generated misinformation as the second-most severe global risk over the next two years, with cyberattacks ranking fifth.

On the dark web, disinformation strategies are a hot topic, including tactics like using thousands of fake social media accounts, spam emails, and bot farms to spread false narratives.

“We anticipate that disinformation as a service will become a significant threat in 2025,” Warmenhoven cautions. “This service allows cybercriminals to profit from creating and spreading false information. It’s highly customizable, enabling precise targeting of demographics and manipulation of social media algorithms.”

AI-Driven Social Engineering: A Growing Concern

AI-driven social engineering is becoming increasingly sophisticated. While not yet widely discussed, forums are filled with guides and examples for leveraging AI to manipulate human behaviour, craft more convincing phishing emails, and exploit system vulnerabilities.

A particularly concerning trend is the emergence of “company manipulation and exploitation.” Warmenhoven explains: “Bad actors trick companies into issuing refunds or replacements for nearly any reason. Forums share detailed methods for researching companies, targeting brands like Amazon, ASOS, and Walmart.”

Looking Ahead

As 2025 approaches, these insights from dark web forums reveal the pressing need for heightened cybersecurity measures. Persistent threats like account takeovers and identity theft will continue to grow, while emerging risks such as smart home exploits, disinformation services, and AI-driven social engineering pose new challenges.

Stay informed and vigilant to protect your personal and organizational data against these evolving cyber threats.

OpenAI Unveils Sora Video Generator for Public Use

Doryn Crystal

Dec 10, 2024

OpenAI has officially launched its much-anticipated video generation tool, Sora, offering users the ability to create lifelike videos from text or image prompts. Part of OpenAI’s “12 Days of Shipmas” product announcements, the Sora release follows the debut of the $200-per-month ChatGPT Pro tier. Available globally, except in the UK and EU due to regulatory constraints, Sora aims to revolutionize the content creation landscape.

Integrated into ChatGPT paid memberships via sora.com, the tool comes with tier-based usage limits. ChatGPT Plus users can generate up to 50 twenty-second videos monthly at 480p resolution, while Pro users enjoy up to 500 videos at faster speeds or unlimited generation at standard speeds.

Sora features a community-sharing platform, allowing users to showcase their creations, view prompts, and repurpose videos for their own projects. Advanced tools, like the “remix” feature, let users transform elements in videos—for instance, converting woolly mammoths into robots. Sora also includes a storyboard tool for blending multiple prompts into cohesive video sequences, simulating traditional video editing timelines.

While Sora boasts impressive realism, challenges remain. Issues like hallucinations, unrealistic physics, and difficulty with precise creative control have been noted by early testers, including Marques Brownlee. These limitations, coupled with concerns about training data potentially sourced from copyrighted material, pose challenges for the platform’s growth and adoption. OpenAI has responded with increased moderation and restrictions on generating content related to real individuals.

Despite its limitations, Sora marks a significant leap forward for AI-generated content, opening new avenues for creators while sparking debates about its impact on traditional filmmaking and intellectual property. OpenAI emphasizes that Sora is not intended for feature-length films at launch but rather as a creative tool to explore and innovate in visual storytelling. As Sora develops, the potential for affordable and accessible visual effects may redefine video production as we know it.

Spotify Wrapped 2024: Ugandan Music Scene Thrives as Afrobeats Reigns Supreme and Local Women Shine

Boses Muhinda

Dec 5, 2024

Spotify Wrapped season is here, and it’s time to unveil Uganda’s most streamed songs and artists of 2024. Afrobeats continues to dominate the charts, with Nigerian artists like Asake, Burna Boy, and Ayra Starr holding key positions. However, there’s been a powerful surge of love for Ugandan artists, particularly female musicians, whose presence is reshaping the country’s streaming trends.

Uganda’s obsession with Afrobeats remains steady, with Nigerian stars occupying 80% of the top 10 most streamed artist spots. Ayra Starr’s “Commas” and Qing Madi’s “American Love” captured the hearts of Ugandan listeners, securing spots among the most streamed tracks. However, Azawi’s “Masavu” took the lead among local hits, outranking heavyweights like Davido and Victony, marking a milestone for Ugandan music.

Streaming data reveals an 87% growth in local music consumption from January to October 2024. Female artists like Azawi, Vinka, and Winnie Nwagi are driving this growth, with Azawi crowned the most streamed local artist. Themes of love and loyalty resonate strongly with young audiences, especially among 25 to 44-year-olds.

Spotify’s commitment to Ugandan talent is evident through initiatives like RADAR features, which highlighted Joshua Baraka, whose “Dalilah” has been a repeat favorite. His debut EP Growing Pains gained international traction, reaching playlists in Nigeria, Kenya, and the UK.

Uganda’s 2024 Wrapped data paints a promising picture of the local music scene. With Azawi’s albums African Music and Sankofa leading the top local album streams and Elijah Kitaka’s Bedroom Essentials making waves, Ugandan artists are increasingly claiming their space on the global stage.

As Afrobeats dominates and local female musicians inspire, Uganda’s streaming trends reflect a country deeply connected to both global sounds and its homegrown talent.

A more detailed breakdown of the data is below:

Top 5 streamed local albums
No	Artist – Album
1	Azawi – AFRICAN MUSIC
2	Elijah Kitaka – Bedroom Essentials
3	Azawi – SANKOFA
4	Radio And Weasel – Radio & Weasel
5	A Pass – Bangoza

Top 5 most streamed albums in Uganda
No	Artist
1	Davido – Timeless
2	Chris Brown – 11:11
3	Asake – Work Of Art
4	Qing Madi – Qing Madi
5	Ayra Starr – The Year I turned 21

Top 5 streamed local artists in Uganda
No	Artist
1	Azawi
2	Vinka
3	Elijah Kitaka
4	Winnie Nwagi
5	Joshua Baraka

Top 10 streamed songs in Uganda
No	Artist	Track
1	Asake	Lonely At The Top
2	Qing Madi	American Love
3	Ayra Starr	Commas
4	Davido	KANTE ( feat. Fave)
5	Crayon	Ngozi
6	Wande Coal	Again
7	Azawi	Masavu
8	Davido	FEEL
9	Victony	Everything
10	Patoranking	Babylon

Color and Creativity: How Designers Build Unforgettable Slots

GURU8 Staff

Dec 4, 2024

When you think of online slot machines, what comes to mind? Flashing lights, catchy sounds, and colorful themes, right? But behind every fun spin is a whole world of creative design and thoughtful decisions that make those slots unforgettable. Whether it’s a classic fruit machine or a modern video slot, designers use color, graphics, and sound to craft an immersive experience. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how color and creativity play a key role in building slot machines that keep players coming back for more.

The Power of Color in Slot Design

Colors aren’t just about aesthetics—they influence emotions and actions. That’s why game designers pay so much attention to color choices when building slots. Different colors can evoke different feelings and impact gameplay.

Creating Atmosphere with Color

First, let’s talk about atmosphere. Warm colors like red, yellow, and orange are energetic and exciting. These colors are often used in slots with themes like adventure, action, or casino classics. On the other hand, cool colors like blue and green have a more relaxed vibe, often found in slots with a tropical, nature, or underwater theme.

For example, a slot based on a tropical island will use shades of blue, green, and sandy beige to make you feel like you’re lounging by the beach. Meanwhile, a Vegas-style slot will lean heavily on bold reds, golds, and blacks to keep things exciting and high-stakes. The color palette sets the mood and tone, making the game feel immersive.

Color for Playability

But it’s not just about looking pretty. Slot machine designers also use color to guide players through the game. Contrasting colors help important features stand out, like the spin button or bonus round triggers. For instance, a bright orange button on a dark background catches the eye, encouraging players to take action.

In addition, colors can be used to signal wins or special features. Ever notice how winning symbols often light up in bright, bold colors? It’s all part of the design strategy to keep players engaged and rewarded with visual feedback.

Creativity and Theme: Making Slots Memorable

When it comes to slot gacor machines, creativity is everything. A great slot sticks with you, and the best way to do that is through unique themes and creative storytelling. From ancient Egypt to futuristic space adventures, the options are endless.

Bringing Themes to Life

Designers often take inspiration from pop culture, history, or mythology to create rich, imaginative worlds for players to explore. Take Ancient Egypt-themed slots, for example. These games are packed with rich imagery, including pyramids, pharaohs, and treasures hidden in the sands. The goal is to take players on a journey where every spin feels like a step deeper into the theme.

To bring the theme to life, designers use creative graphics, animations, and music. The Egyptian theme might feature hieroglyphic symbols on the reels, while a pirate-themed slot might include animated ships and treasure chests. The combination of all these elements makes the slot feel alive and engaging, keeping players hooked.

Interactive Features

Today’s slot machines aren’t just about spinning reels. Many modern slots feature interactive bonuses and mini-games that make the experience more dynamic. These bonus features often take the theme to a whole new level.

For example, in a fantasy-themed slot777, a bonus round might involve slaying a dragon or searching for hidden treasure. These features not only boost excitement but also keep players entertained and invested in the game. The creativity behind these bonus rounds is crucial for ensuring that players return to the game for more.

Visual and Sound Effects: A Complete Experience

Colors and themes aren’t the only tools designers use. Visual effects and sound design play a huge role in creating an unforgettable slot experience.

Visual Effects that Wow

From glowing symbols to exploding animations, designers use visual effects to make the gameplay feel exciting. When a big win occurs, the screen might light up with fireworks or spin rapidly, creating a sense of accomplishment. These visual effects are carefully planned to amplify the emotional payoff of a successful spin.

Sounds to Complement the Action

Sound design is just as important as the visual aspect. The right sound effects can make a game feel dynamic and immersive. A big win might be followed by celebratory music, while a free spin feature might have a sound that builds anticipation. The sounds that accompany the game ensure that the experience is engaging and fun.

Conclusion: Why Color and Creativity Matter

Ultimately, the color and creativity that go into designing online slot machines are what make them memorable and fun. Designers use color to set the tone and guide players through the experience, while creative themes and interactive features keep things fresh and exciting. The right combination of colors, graphics, and sound effects can turn a simple spin into an unforgettable experience. So, next time you hit the reels, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind the design—it’s all part of what makes the game so enjoyable!

By blending creativity, color psychology, and innovative features, slot machine designers continue to craft experiences that are not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging for players.

Chloride Exide Uganda Partners with Huawei to Launch Smart PV Solutions

Gumisiriza Garry

Nov 21, 2024

Chloride Exide Uganda, a leading provider of energy solutions, has entered a strategic partnership with Huawei to introduce Huawei’s state-of-the-art Smart Photovoltaic (PV) solutions to the Ugandan market. This collaboration seeks to address the growing demand for clean and reliable energy in the industrial and commercial solar sectors.

The official launch event, taking place on November 21, 2024, aims to highlight the transformative potential of Huawei’s advanced solar inverters and Smart PV technologies. These solutions are designed to deliver enhanced efficiency, scalability, and sustainability, offering significant advantages to businesses and institutions adopting renewable energy.

Objectives of the Launch

The event focuses on three core objectives:

1. Showcasing Huawei’s Inverters and Smart PV Solutions

Partners and stakeholders will have the opportunity to explore the advanced features of Huawei’s inverters. These solutions are engineered to optimize energy production and reduce operational costs, catering to the needs of industrial and commercial solar applications.

2. Building Brand Trust and Strengthening Cooperation

The partnership aims to foster an open, collaborative relationship with regional partners, electric power companies, and photovoltaic industry stakeholders. Both Chloride Exide and Huawei are committed to cultivating long-term, mutually beneficial alliances within Uganda’s renewable energy sector.

3. Expanding Market Presence

The launch serves as a platform to enhance market penetration for Smart PV solutions in Uganda’s growing photovoltaic industry. It also seeks to empower regional partners through training sessions and shared industry insights, equipping them to deliver tailored energy solutions to clients.

A Step Toward a Renewable Energy Future

This partnership represents a significant milestone in Uganda’s renewable energy landscape, as it introduces innovative technologies to address the country’s energy needs sustainably. By leveraging Huawei’s advanced Smart PV solutions, Chloride Exide Uganda is set to further its mission of providing efficient and reliable energy solutions.

About Chloride Exide Uganda

Chloride Exide Uganda is a leader in providing energy solutions for residential and commercial needs. Specializing in power backup systems, solar installations, inverters, and batteries, the company is committed to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions that support Uganda’s energy transition.

About Huawei

Huawei is a global leader in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and smart energy solutions. The company’s cutting-edge solar inverters and Smart PV systems are at the forefront of the renewable energy sector, catering to industrial, commercial, and residential markets with energy-efficient, reliable, and scalable solutions.

For more information on Huawei’s Smart PV solutions or Chloride Exide Uganda’s energy services, visit their websites or contact the respective representatives.

This collaboration underscores the shared vision of both organizations to drive Uganda’s shift toward sustainable energy and empower businesses with the tools they need for a cleaner, greener future.

A Guide to Establishing Your Business as a Haven for Developers

Brian Code

Nov 18, 2024

All sorts of businesses might employ developers for software, web design, or other areas. With how integrated many companies are into digital spaces, this is often necessary – but if your brand isn’t one that finds itself in a specifically digital, software-driven industry, you might struggle to attract the necessary talent.

Therefore, establishing your brand as one that is a positive place to work for these prospective employees can take some consideration. It has to be somewhere they want to work now, but it also should be able to provide them with hope for their future.

The Right Tools

Those looking to kickstart their career in web development or software development will need a role that challenges them and lets them use technology that is up to the industry standard. Without this, they’re going to leave their job with you and find that they haven’t gotten the kind of experience that can take them anywhere. Fortunately, this can also be a good opportunity for you to learn from them as well. For instance, if you’re trying to create a website or an app, you might be aware that APIs are used throughout this process. Your new team members might help you to meet certain API security standards, ensuring that the tools they have access to can be implemented for maximum impact across the board.

Opportunities to Progress

Some of the people who apply for the role that you have available might be at the higher end of the skill spectrum, but you shouldn’t be so quick to brush off those with less experience. After all, this is a golden opportunity to cultivate your talent from within – training people up to the highest level and developing a workforce that comes to be seen as the envy of your competitors.

To do that, you need two key elements. First of all, you need access to the right training – an allowance that you might give every employee so that they can further their own professional development. Then, you need higher roles that they can be promoted into, providing them with an incentive to stay rather than take those newfound skills elsewhere. This is vital for employee retention.

Appealing Directly

Sometimes, it might be that the most basic approach is the right one. While you might be laying the groundwork so that people can begin to gently notice on their own accord how well-suited they are to your business (and vice versa), they might also apply because you’re offering them a competitive salary.

Understandably, you’re always going to be at the mercy of what you can afford. That means that you might not be able to offer the same kind of wage as your competitors. However, you might be able to subsidize this with the right benefits. The end result is that while it’s not the highest wage out there, your developers might have access to better time off or a more flexible work/life balance, which is very important.

Liberty Life Uganda Wraps Up Kuza School Challenge, Equipping Students with Financial Literacy and Social Entrepreneurship Skills

Brian Code

Nov 18, 2024

Liberty Life Assurance Uganda has successfully concluded the inaugural Kuza School Challenge, an initiative aimed at fostering financial literacy and social entrepreneurship among secondary school students. The program, which began in September 2024 at Kabojja International School, culminated in a celebratory event where participating students showcased their entrepreneurial projects and received seed funding to bring their ideas to life.

The Kuza School Challenge was designed to equip students with essential financial management and entrepreneurial skills while addressing social and community issues. Over the course of the program, students participated in hands-on training sessions, developed viable business proposals, and received expert training from National Social Security Fund (NSSF) to develop and refine their entrepreneurial proposals.

During the handover ceremony, Mr. Joseph Almeida, Managing Director Liberty Life Assurance Uganda, commended the students for their innovative ideas and dedication to creating community-focused solutions. “This challenge was not just about starting businesses; it was about empowering young people with the financial skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the business world, while also encouraging them to make a positive impact in their communities. We are proud to support these young changemakers as they embark on their entrepreneurial journeys,” he said.

The students, through their projects, demonstrated an impressive understanding of financial discipline, problem-solving, and the principles of social entrepreneurship. Each team pitched business ideas that addressed pressing community issues, from environmental sustainability to access to education, healthcare, and technology.

As part of the program’s conclusion, Liberty Life Assurance Uganda provided seed funding of UGX 2 million to each winning team, enabling them to implement their business plans. The initiative also offered mentorship to guide the students as they transition their ideas into viable social enterprises.

Divine Vhovha, Deputy Headteacher at Kabojja International School, lauded the program’s impact on the students. “The Kuza School Challenge has not only instilled critical skills in our students but also broadened their perspective on how they can contribute to their communities meaningfully. We are grateful to Liberty Life Assurance Uganda for this partnership, and we look forward to seeing the incredible outcomes these projects will achieve.”

The Kuza School Challenge aligns with Liberty Life’s commitment to empowering youth and addressing Uganda’s financial literacy gaps. With only 32% of Ugandans financially literate and many small business owners lacking financial management skills, this initiative has paved the way for a new generation equipped to manage money, grow businesses, and contribute to societal well-being.

Liberty Life Assurance Uganda is exploring opportunities to expand the Kuza School Challenge to more schools across the country, impacting thousands of students in the coming years. The conclusion of this first phase marks a significant milestone in their journey to build a financially savvy, socially conscious, and entrepreneurial youth community.

Jovita Namakula, a student and founder of the online voting platform Vortex, shared her excitement after her pitch was selected as the winner of the Kuza School Challenge. “I’m thrilled to see Vortex take off,” said Namakula. “Winning the 2 million shillings will allow us to enhance the platform and expand its reach, making elections more transparent and accessible. I’m deeply grateful to Liberty Life Assurance Uganda for their support which is helping us turn our vision into reality and create lasting change.”

The success of this first phase is a powerful reminder of the potential within Uganda’s youth and the role of financial education in building a brighter future for all.

Exploring Kasese and the Majestic Rwenzori Region

Davis Kawalya

Nov 15, 2024

Nestled in the western part of Uganda, Kasese is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in East Africa. Renowned for its proximity to the Rwenzori Mountains—often referred to as the “Mountains of the Moon”—Kasese is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking tranquility in an awe-inspiring environment. Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, or simply looking to relax, Kasese offers a memorable escape.

The Magnificent Rwenzori Mountains

The Rwenzori Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominate the region with their jagged peaks, lush vegetation, and glacier-capped summits. These mountains are home to one of Africa’s most thrilling hiking experiences, with trails that take you through diverse ecosystems, from bamboo forests to alpine meadows. Trekkers can tackle multi-day expeditions to the peaks, including the Margherita Peak, or enjoy shorter day hikes with stunning views.

For those not inclined to hike, the Rwenzori region offers equally captivating experiences. Explore the rich biodiversity of the area, with a chance to spot unique bird species, vibrant flora, and small mammals. Photographers and nature lovers will be enchanted by the dramatic landscapes and ever-changing light of the mountains.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

A short drive from Kasese brings you to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s premier safari destinations. Famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, the park offers a variety of wildlife experiences. Game drives will introduce you to elephants, buffalo, and antelopes, while birdwatchers can marvel at over 600 species.

A Home Away From Home: Bwiranda Hotel

When exploring Kasese and the Rwenzori region, finding the perfect accommodation is essential. Located conveniently in the heart of Kasese town, Bwiranda Hotel provides a comfortable and welcoming retreat after a day of adventure.

The hotel boasts a range of modern amenities to ensure a relaxing stay, including spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving both local and international cuisine. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Bwiranda Hotel offers personalized service and a serene ambiance, making it the ideal base for your Rwenzori escapades.

Local Culture and Cuisine

Kasese is more than just natural beauty—it’s a hub of rich culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions of the Bakonzo people, who call the Rwenzori region home. Explore local markets, enjoy traditional music, and savor Ugandan dishes like matoke (steamed bananas) and fish stew. Bwiranda Hotel’s restaurant also offers a chance to taste these flavors in a cozy setting.

Plan Your Visit

Kasese and the Rwenzori region provide a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. With attractions like the towering Rwenzori Mountains, the wildlife-rich Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the welcoming comfort of Bwiranda Hotel, your visit is bound to be unforgettable.

Whether you’re an avid trekker, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone simply looking for peace in nature’s embrace, Kasese has something special for you. So pack your bags and set off on an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

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