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Exploring Kasese and the Majestic Rwenzori Region

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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.

Uganda National Lottery Unveils SPIN4CASH Online: A New Instant Game

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ITHUBA Uganda, the official operator of the Uganda National Lottery, has introduced SPIN4CASH, an exciting instant game now available on the Uganda National Lottery website and mobile app. With SPIN4CASH’s online launch, Ugandans can now enjoy the thrill of instant winnings from anywhere, spinning a digital wheel for a chance to win a share of UGX 2 billion. Previously available only at retail outlets, SPIN4CASH’s online accessibility marks a significant expansion in the country’s lottery gaming options.

Michelle Van Trotsenburg, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at ITHUBA Uganda, expressed her enthusiasm: “Games like SPIN4CASH use our exclusive instant gaming prowess at ITHUBA, bringing new ways for people to enjoy the Uganda National Lottery. We’re excited to grow our online portfolio and remain committed to offering life-changing opportunities.”

To celebrate the launch, ITHUBA Uganda is giving all new participants a UGX 1,000 bonus for their first SPIN4CASH play. SPIN4CASH joins an extensive game portfolio on the Uganda National Lottery platform, including popular titles such as POWERBALL, LOTTO, DAILY LOTTO, and SPORTSTAKE 10.

How to Play SPIN4CASH Online:

  1. Register on the Uganda National Lottery website (www.nationallottery.go.ug) or download the mobile app.
  2. Top-up your wallet through mobile money options on MTN or Airtel.
  3. Select SPIN4CASH and choose your wager: UGX 500, UGX 1,000, or UGX 2,000.
  4. Click “SPIN NOW” to spin the wheel and reveal your prize.
  5. Outcome Notification will appear at the end of each spin.
  6. Choose SPIN AGAIN to play at the same wager or adjust your amount.
  7. Winnings are deposited into your National Lottery wallet, with amounts over UGX 20 million requiring a claim at an ITHUBA Uganda office.

This game is open to individuals aged 18 and above. Remember to play responsibly. For more details, visit the official Uganda National Lottery website or call the Help Line at 0800 334433.

Apple Launches New M4 iMac with 16GB Standard RAM and 12MP Center Stage Camera

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Apple introduced the latest upgrade to its iMac line, featuring the powerful new M4 chip, an upgraded 12MP Center Stage camera, and a standard 16GB of unified memory. While the exterior design of the iMac remains unchanged, the tech giant has made significant updates under the hood, including improved ports, a broader color range, and updated input devices with USB-C connectivity.

The M4 chip, first introduced in the iPad Pro earlier this year, replaces the M3 processor in the iMac, delivering enhanced performance and efficiency. Apple has also increased the base unified memory to 16GB across all configurations, which is double the previous standard of 8GB. The premium models, priced at $1,499 and $1,699, now feature four Thunderbolt 4 ports, an upgrade from the two Thunderbolt 4 and two USB-C ports offered in equivalent M3 configurations. The entry-level $1,299 model retains two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports.

Here’s a breakdown of the new M4 iMac standard configurations:

  • $1,299: 8-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD, two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, Magic Keyboard.
  • $1,499: 10-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 6 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD, four Thunderbolt 4 ports, gigabit ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.
  • $1,699: 10-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 6 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD, four Thunderbolt 4 ports, gigabit ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.
  • $1,899: 10-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 6 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD, four Thunderbolt 4 ports, gigabit ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.

The M4 iMac comes in a vibrant array of colors, including blue, green, orange, pink, purple, silver, and yellow, with all colors available across all configurations. The included Magic Keyboard and choice of Magic Mouse or Magic Trackpad (with a $50 upgrade for the Trackpad) now feature USB-C ports, marking a shift from the previous Lightning connectors.

For video and conferencing, Apple has replaced the former 1080p FaceTime camera with a more advanced 12MP Center Stage camera, supporting Desk View and 1080p HD recording. This camera upgrade offers smoother tracking and better clarity, enhancing the video experience.

Another new option is the nano-texture glass for the display, priced at an additional $200. This feature offers a matte finish for users who prefer reduced glare compared to the standard glossy display. The M4 iMac retains the impressive 24-inch, 4.5K Retina display with 500 nits of brightness, P3 color gamut support, and True Tone.

Pre-orders for the M4 iMac are available now, with shipping starting on November 8.

Digital Transformation as a Catalyst for Growth in theUgandan SME Sector

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In today’s fast-evolving digital world, the demand on SMEs to digitally transform their service operations in line with supporting an increasingly complex online customer is a powerful catalyst for growth and competitive advantage across various sectors. This is especially urgent for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), that are pivotal to Uganda’s economicgrowth. According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, SMEs contribute approximately 70% to Uganda’s GDP and account for 80% of total employment.

Many SMEs are increasingly investing in technological solutions to remain competitive and scale their businesses. These include HR management systems, digital payment platforms, automated payroll software, and data collection tools, all aimed at better serving diverse customer needs and streamlining operations.

However, despite these advancements, many SMEs are still in the early stages of adopting technology. Barriers such as high costs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited technical skills hinder their ability to leverage the benefits of digital transformation fully. These challenges slow the widespread adoption of business automation and innovation that when mature as technologies are represented as Machine Learning and artificial intelligence, thus preventing Ugandan SMEs from reaching their full competitive advantage potential.

Tier 3 data centres like Raxio Data Centre fill a critical gap by providing the foundational infrastructure needed for optimal digital technology performance. This allows industries, particularly SMEs, to focus more on navigating higher-level challenges such as selecting the right IT tools and addressing regulatory issues. By offering cutting-edge infrastructure, Raxio enables businesses to drive innovation and facilitate seamless digital transformation—essential for both economic growth and long-term sustainability. This technological backbone supports unrestricted scalability, empowering businesses to grow without the limitations of inadequate infrastructure.

A key milestone in building a robust digital transformation ecosystem has been the deployment of the first local instance of Microsoft Azure Stack by Liquid Intelligent Technologies in the Raxio Uganda Data Hall. This partnership unlocks new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing affordable access to advanced cloud solutions. In the past, many SMEs found these solutions inaccessible due to high costs or inadequate infrastructure. This development now brings powerful cloud capabilities within reach, enabling SMEs to scale and innovate more effectively.

The integration of Azure Stack into Raxio’s infrastructure not only eliminates technical constraints such as slow access, poor support, and data residency issues, but also addresses key concerns around cost and deployment complexity—critical factors in today’s digital economy. This empowers Ugandan SMEs to confidently expand their operations while ensuring their data remains secure and compliant. With access to high-performance cloud services, SMEs can optimize their processes, enhance efficiency, and drive innovation like never before. This technological leap also positions them to compete on a global scale, fostering sustainable growth in an increasingly digital world.

Hosting the Microsoft Azure Stack aligns perfectly with Raxio’s vision of driving economic growth and oiling the varied phases of digital transformation in Uganda. Our secure and reliable services allow SMEs to focus on their core activities, knowing that their data and operations are supported by world-class infrastructure.

At Raxio Data Centre, we do more than just provide a service; we actively invest in your business’s strategic innovation journey, working towards the future success of SMEs in Uganda. Technology is no longer simply a tool—it has evolved into an ecosystem that captures, stores, and processes data, ultimately producing insights through machine learning. The result is artificial intelligence, which will be the driving force behind SME growth, innovation, and the overall prosperity of Uganda.

Apple Plans to Release Smart Glasses and AirPods with Built-in Cameras by 2027

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Apple is reportedly working on new augmented reality (AR) devices, including smart glasses and AirPods with integrated cameras, with a potential release date in 2027. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, these upcoming products are part of Apple’s strategy to broaden its AR ecosystem beyond the current Vision Pro headset. The new offerings aim to make AR technology more accessible to a wider range of consumers.

The Vision Pro headset, despite its highly advanced technology, has faced significant challenges in the market. With a hefty price tag of $3,500, complaints about its weight, overheating issues, and the overall niche appeal, consumer interest has reportedly declined since its initial launch. Sales of the Vision Pro have not met Apple’s expectations, pushing the tech giant to consider more user-friendly AR solutions.

In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman reveals that Apple’s Vision Products Group is looking ahead to more mainstream AR devices, such as smart glasses comparable to Meta’s Ray-Ban Stories collaboration. These smart glasses, along with AirPods featuring built-in cameras, are expected to utilize Apple’s existing investment in the Vision Pro’s visual intelligence technology. This system allows devices to analyze their surroundings and provide real-time information to the user.

In addition to the AR developments in hardware, Apple is set to bring similar augmented reality features to its iPhone lineup. Later this year, iPhone 16 users will be able to point their cameras at objects or locations to access relevant information instantly. For instance, when aimed at a restaurant, the camera will display ratings and hours of operation, or when pointed at a plant, the app will identify the species. The feature will also allow users to interact with dates on objects, such as event flyers, adding them directly to the Calendar app.

Although the smart glasses and camera-equipped AirPods are still in the development phase, they are a clear indication of Apple’s ambitions to push AR technology into more everyday use cases. The company is also working to stay competitive with rivals like Meta, which has already introduced similar smart glasses products at a more affordable price.

Looking further ahead, Apple has plans to refine its Vision Pro offering with a lower-cost model, expected to be priced around $2,000. This version could be available as early as next year. Meanwhile, a second-generation Vision Pro headset, featuring an upgraded processor, is reportedly in the pipeline for release in 2026.

Apple’s vision of the future includes an AR world embedded in everyday devices, and while challenges remain, the company’s continued investment in augmented reality signifies its commitment to leading the next generation of immersive technology.

Stay tuned to Guru8 for further updates on Apple’s latest innovations.

Understanding MTN Uganda’s Wakanet 5G and Fiber Prices & Fair Usage Policies (FUP)

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An MTN Wakanet Router. Credit: Simba Telecom

MTN Uganda offers two primary internet services under its Wakanet brand: Wakanet 5G and Wakanet Fiber. While both provide high-speed internet connectivity, they differ in terms of technology, coverage, and pricing. You might have seen FUP (Fair Usage Policy) on artworks and this will help you break it down.

Wakanet 5G utilizes the latest 5G network technology, offering blazing-fast speeds and low latency. It’s ideal for users who require high-bandwidth activities like online gaming, video streaming, and virtual reality. However, its coverage is currently limited to specific areas within Uganda.

Wakanet Fiber leverages fiber optic technology, ensuring a stable and reliable connection with high download and upload speeds. It’s suitable for both residential and commercial use, offering a consistent internet experience. While fiber optic coverage is expanding, it might not be available in all regions yet.
Pricing and Fair Usage Policies (FUP) from 1st October

Both Wakanet 5G and Wakanet Fiber come with various packages, each offering different speeds and data allowances. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing and FUP for each:

MTN Wakanet 5G Prices:

PackagePrice (UGX)Speed (Mbps)Validity (Days)FUP
40 Mbps295,00040306 Mbps after 1,800GB
60 Mbps395,00060308 Mbps after 2,400GB
80 Mbps495,000803010 Mbps after 3,000GB
100 Mbps595,0001003010 Mbps after 3,000GB
150 Mbps695,0001503010 Mbps after 3,000GB

As you can see, Wakanet 5G packages come with a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), which means your speed will be reduced after you exceed your monthly data allowance.

Each MTN Wakanet 5G package comes with a specific data quota that can be used at full speed within a billing cycle, such as 1,800GB for the 40 Mbps plan. Once this limit is reached, your internet speed is reduced (e.g., dropping to 6 Mbps for the 40 Mbps plan) for the remainder of the cycle, but the connection remains active at the lower speed. At the beginning of the next billing cycle, your speed and data quota are reset to the original package settings.

MTN Wakanet Fiber Prices:

PackagePrice (UGX)Speed (Mbps)Validity (Days)FUP
Lite130,0006030Unlimited
Standard195,00010030Unlimited
Premium295,00020030Unlimited
Prestige595,00050030Unlimited


While Wakanet 5G customers face speed reductions after hitting their monthly data quota, Wakanet Fiber users typically don’t encounter such restrictions. Fiber users enjoy consistent high-speed internet without the need for a Fair Usage Policy because the fiber-optic infrastructure can handle much higher data demands without compromising service quality.

Here is a comparison between the new and old Wakanet Fiber policy.

FeatureOld PolicyNew Policy
Monthly Quota30-day validity30-day validity
Speed ThrottlingReduced speed after quota exhaustionReduced speed after quota exhaustion
General FUPSpecific quotas and speed limits for each package.Unlimited data for all fiber packages
Gaming and Peer-to-Peer FUPSeparate speed limits for these activities. Yes they used to limit gaming and torrent speedsNo specific restrictions



These prices and fair Usage Policies may change at the discretion of the MTN Uganda and we have added a link to their website with the terms and conditions. We shall also update this article should it change.


What is a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) and Why Does it Matter for Your Internet?

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If you’ve ever seen the acronym FUP while signing up for an internet package, you might have scratched your head and thought, “What’s that all about?” Don’t worry; you’re not alone! FUP, which stands for Fair Usage Policy, is a term that’s often tucked away in the fine print of your internet plan. But here’s the thing: it’s actually a crucial element of your internet experience. Let’s break down what it means, why it exists, and how it impacts you.

So, What Exactly is a Fair Usage Policy?

In the simplest terms, a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) is a set of rules designed by internet service providers (ISPs) to ensure that everyone gets a fair slice of the internet pie. It’s a way for providers to keep network traffic balanced and make sure that heavy internet users don’t hog all the bandwidth. Think of it as an unwritten rule that says, “Hey, don’t be the person who eats all the snacks at the party!”

FUP usually kicks in when you use an unusually large amount of data compared to other users. It’s like when you’re binge-watching your favorite TV show, downloading high-definition movies, or running large gaming updates for hours on end — that’s when your ISP might say, “Whoa, slow down there, partner!” and start applying the Fair Usage Policy.

Why Do ISPs Have a Fair Usage Policy?

ISPs have a finite amount of bandwidth to share among all of their users. Picture a highway: when the traffic is light, everyone moves smoothly. But during rush hour, things slow down because more people are using the road at the same time. Similarly, the internet has “rush hours” too, and if a few people are using up a ton of bandwidth (streaming 4K videos, torrenting huge files, or hosting servers), it can create a traffic jam that affects everyone.

The Fair Usage Policy is like a speed limit for heavy users, designed to keep the digital highway running smoothly for everyone. By setting limits, ISPs can ensure that Aunt Martha can still watch her cat videos in peace while her teenage nephew plays online games in the next room.

What Happens When You Hit Your FUP Limit?

So, what happens when you’ve eaten your share of the internet goodies? ISPs typically respond in one of three ways:

  1. Slower Speeds: This is the most common outcome. Your internet speeds might be “throttled,” which means you’ll experience slower download and upload rates until your billing cycle resets.
  2. Data Caps: Some providers will restrict your data usage after hitting the limit, meaning you can’t download or stream as much until the next month.
  3. Extra Charges: In some rare cases, ISPs might charge you extra for going over the FUP limit, similar to how phone companies charge for extra minutes or texts.

But before you get worried, it’s important to know that most people never even notice the effects of FUP because they don’t reach these high usage levels. It’s typically aimed at people running server farms in their living rooms or downloading the entire internet every day.

How Does FUP Affect Everyday Users?

For most casual users who surf the web, scroll through social media, and stream a few shows a week, FUP won’t even make a blip on their radar. However, if you’re a power user — someone who’s regularly streaming in 4K, working with large files, or gaming online for hours — you might feel the pinch.

Unfortunately, Many ISPs aren’t transparent about their FUP limits, so you have to dig deep into the terms and conditions to find out.. For example, they might say something like, “If you use more than 500GB of data in a month, we’ll reduce your speed from 100Mbps to 20Mbps.” Knowing this, you can plan your internet habits accordingly.

How Can You Avoid Running into FUP Limits?

Here are a few tips to keep your internet experience smooth and FUP-free:

  1. Monitor Your Data Usage: Most ISPs have apps or online dashboards that let you keep an eye on how much data you’re using. Make it a habit to check in every now and then.
  2. Prioritize Your Activities: If you know you’re getting close to the limit, try to prioritize essential activities, like work or school tasks, over non-essential ones, like downloading games or streaming in ultra-high definition.
  3. Choose the Right Plan: If you regularly hit FUP limits, consider upgrading to a higher-tier plan that offers more data or has no FUP at all.

Why Should You Care About FUP?

While FUP might sound like a sneaky way for ISPs to control your internet use, it’s actually there to protect the experience for everyone. Imagine a café offering an all-you-can-eat buffet. If one customer started piling their plate with everything, leaving little for others, the café might introduce a “one-plate-per-person” policy. FUP is similar — it’s a way of keeping things fair and enjoyable for everyone.

So next time you see “FUP” in your internet plan’s fine print, you can smile knowingly, understanding that it’s just there to make sure everyone — from casual browsers to hardcore gamers — can enjoy the internet in harmony.

In Conclusion: FUP is a Balancing Act

Ultimately, Fair Usage Policy is about balance. It ensures that everyone on the network can access fast, reliable internet, without a few users draining all the resources. While it may sound restrictive, it’s really just a way to keep the digital playground fun for everyone. So go ahead, enjoy your streaming and browsing, just maybe don’t try to download all of Netflix in one night! 😊

Pragmatic Play’s Game-Changers: Titles You Can’t Miss

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In the fast-paced world of online gaming, finding the perfect game provider that delivers both excitement and reliability is key to an unforgettable gaming experience. For players in Indonesia, Pragmatic Play has become one of the top names to watch, offering a range of innovative games that keep players coming back for more. From visually stunning graphics to engaging gameplay mechanics, Pragmatic Play’s titles are making waves in the online gaming industry. If you’re curious about which games you should try next, look no further — here’s a rundown of the top Pragmatic Play games and why they’re setting the standard.

The Appeal of Pragmatic Play Games

Pragmatic Play is well-known for its diverse range of slots, each packed with unique features that keep players on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a fan of traditional slots or enjoy modern, high-stakes games, Pragmatic Play’s catalog offers something for everyone. What sets them apart is their commitment to quality and fairness. Their games are not only visually impressive but also designed with fair play in mind, making them one of the most slot terpercaya (trusted slot providers) in the online gaming world.

For Indonesian players, Pragmatic Play’s games often hit the sweet spot, combining engaging themes with the chance to win big. Whether you’re spinning reels in the jungle, traveling through ancient Egypt, or chasing treasures in the deep sea, their games transport you to new worlds with every spin.

Top Titles You Can’t Miss

1. Great Rhino Megaways

One of the standout titles from Pragmatic Play is Great Rhino Megaways. This game builds on the success of the original Great Rhino but adds even more excitement with the Megaways mechanic. With up to 200,704 ways to win, every spin can lead to massive payouts. The savanna-themed slot features wild rhinos, cheetahs, and other wildlife, creating a dynamic and thrilling atmosphere. Bonus rounds and free spins add to the excitement, making this game a must-try for any slots fan.

If you’re looking for the next best game on a situs slot, Great Rhino Megaways should be at the top of your list. Its combination of high volatility, beautiful visuals, and high win potential makes it a game changer.

2. Wolf Gold

Another fan favorite is Wolf Gold, a slot that has garnered a huge following thanks to its simple yet rewarding gameplay. Set in the wild American West, this game features majestic animals such as wolves, buffalo, and eagles. Its smooth mechanics and frequent payouts have earned it the reputation of being one of the slot terbaik (best slots) available today.

What makes Wolf Gold especially appealing is its jackpot feature. The game includes a progressive jackpot that gives players the chance to win big on any spin. The stunning graphics and tranquil soundtrack are just icing on the cake, making it a favorite for both casual players and high rollers alike.

3. The Dog House

If you’re looking for a game with a lighthearted and fun theme, The Dog House is a perfect choice. This playful slot is set in a cartoonish neighborhood filled with adorable dogs, offering an entertaining and lighthearted gaming experience. Despite its playful appearance, The Dog House packs a punch with its high volatility and sticky wilds feature, which can lead to impressive payouts.

It’s no wonder that The Dog House has become a go-to game for many players on PGTOTO. Whether you’re chasing big wins or simply enjoying a few casual spins, this slot offers plenty of excitement and a chance to score major rewards.

Why Pragmatic Play is Leading the Charge

So, what makes Pragmatic Play’s titles so special? First and foremost, it’s the perfect blend of innovation and quality. Their games aren’t just about spinning reels — they incorporate advanced mechanics, like Megaways and progressive jackpots, that keep gameplay fresh and exciting. On top of that, their commitment to player satisfaction is evident in every title, ensuring that each game is fair, engaging, and packed with winning potential.

Moreover, Pragmatic Play understands the importance of mobile-friendly games in today’s world. All their titles are optimized for mobile devices, meaning you can enjoy your favorite slots whether you’re at home or on the go. This convenience has made them a favorite among Indonesian players who value flexibility and accessibility in their gaming experience.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Play Pragmatic Play Games

Pragmatic Play continues to lead the charge in online gaming innovation with a portfolio that caters to players of all tastes. Whether you’re chasing high volatility games with massive win potential or looking for a more casual and relaxing experience, Pragmatic Play’s titles offer something for everyone. Their focus on quality, fairness, and mobile optimization makes them one of the most reliable providers in the industry.

So why wait? Head over to trusted platforms like PGTOTO and dive into some of the best slots available. With titles like Great Rhino Megaways, Wolf Gold, and The Dog House, you’ll experience why Pragmatic Play has become a game-changer in the online gaming world.

Instagram Introduces New “Teen Accounts” for More Privacy and Parental Oversight

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Starting today, Instagram is rolling out a new type of account for all users under the age of 18, referred to as “Teen Accounts.” The new account settings are aimed at improving the safety and privacy of tens of millions of teens on the platform. These changes will affect both new and existing users, and the account type comes with default protections, restrictions, and enhanced parental controls.

Key Features of Teen Accounts

One of the major changes is that all accounts for users under 18 will now be set to private by default. Previously, this applied only to users under 16. Instagram is also implementing new features to bolster these protections, such as blocking unknown adults from direct messaging minors, which has been a long-standing feature. A new Sleep Mode will now automatically mute notifications between 10PM and 7AM, encouraging better digital well-being for young users.

Antigone Davis, Meta’s global head of safety, highlighted the significance of these updates: “This really standardizes a lot of the work that we’ve done, simplifies it, and brings it to all teens. It provides essentially a set of protections that are in place and are already populated.”

In addition to the privacy settings, teens will now have more control over the types of content they see on Instagram. They will be able to select age-appropriate topics to see more of on the Explore page and in recommendations, including categories like “sports,” “travel,” and “animals.” Instagram is also expanding its content moderation for teens, restricting certain types of content that appear in Reels and on the Explore page, while also sending regular reminders encouraging teens to take breaks from the platform.

Expanded Parental Controls

Instagram’s parental controls are also getting an upgrade. Parents will now have more oversight of their teen’s activity, including the ability to see who their child has messaged in the past seven days (though the content of the messages will remain private). Parents will also have control over when Sleep Mode is activated and will be able to monitor the topics their teen engages with most frequently.

One key change is that teens under the age of 16 will now need parental permission to make certain adjustments to their accounts, such as changing them from private to public. Parents will have to set up Instagram’s parental supervision tools to approve these changes.

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Gradual Rollout and Future Expansion

Instagram’s new teen account features will initially be rolled out to users in the United States, the UK, Canada, and Australia. The update will first affect new teen accounts, with existing accounts being transitioned to this new setup within a week. Meta plans to bring these teen accounts to the European Union later in the year and expand the feature across its other platforms by 2025.

Combatting Age Falsification with AI

While Instagram is enhancing protections for teens, Meta acknowledges that some users may still attempt to bypass these protections by lying about their age. To address this, Instagram will use AI to verify the age of users. If, for example, someone claims to be 18 but receives a message saying “Happy 14th birthday,” Instagram’s AI can flag this discrepancy and take corrective actions. Instagram already requires users who attempt to change their age to verify their identity through methods like recording a video selfie, uploading an ID, or having others vouch for their age.

Antigone Davis explained the challenges of age verification, saying, “We have to take a multi-layered approach because there’s no one foolproof way to do this.”

Ongoing Concerns and Legislative Action

These changes come amid growing scrutiny of social media platforms and their impact on young users’ mental health. Following revelations from Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen in 2021, lawmakers have intensified their focus on child safety online. In response, Instagram has rolled out a series of child safety features and launched parental controls in 2022. The platform has also agreed to participate in studies on the mental health effects of social media on teens and young adults.

Despite these efforts, many lawmakers remain cautious. Nearly 40 U.S. states are now backing the surgeon general’s proposal to implement warning labels on social media platforms, while the U.S. Senate passed a landmark child safety bill in July aimed at further regulating how social media platforms interact with younger users.

These new teen account features mark Instagram’s latest move toward creating a safer and more controlled environment for young users, balancing privacy with parental oversight and tackling the ongoing challenges of age verification on digital platforms.

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Vivo Energy Uganda Unveils Phase 2 of ‘Kigwera Ku Shell’ Back-to-School Promotion, Doubling Rewards for Parents

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Vivo Energy Uganda, the company responsible for distributing and marketing Shell-branded fuels and lubricants in Uganda, has proudly launched the second phase of its highly successful ‘Kigwera Ku Shell’ back-to-school promotion. This phase aims to double the number of winners, offering even greater support to parents as they prepare their children for the upcoming third school term. Participants in the promotion stand a chance to win up to one million Uganda shillings in school fees, in addition to other exciting prizes.

The first phase of the ‘Kigwera Ku Shell’ promotion saw 20 lucky customers receive school fees for their children, alleviating the financial burden that many parents face during the back-to-school period. This significant impact has paved the way for the expansion of the promotion, allowing more parents to benefit as they navigate the often-challenging school term preparations.

Speaking at the launch event, Joanita Menya, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Uganda, expressed her excitement about the continuation of the promotion. “At Vivo Energy Uganda, we understand the challenges that parents face, especially during the back-to-school period. We are thrilled to be launching Phase 2 of the ‘Kigwera Ku Shell’ promotion, which will allow us to double the number of beneficiaries, further supporting our customers and their families. Education is a vital pillar of development, and by easing the financial strain on parents, we are contributing to a brighter future for our communities.”

The ‘Kigwera Ku Shell’ promotion is designed to make back-to-school preparations less stressful by offering multiple opportunities to win. Customers who purchase fuel at Shell service stations, shop at Shell Select stores, service their vehicles, or buy Shell Gas automatically qualify for the promotion. The more they engage with Shell services, the higher their chances of winning.

Hellen Bwengye, Marketing Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda, expressed gratitude to Shell customers, saying, “We are deeply thankful to our loyal customers for their unwavering support during the first phase of the promotion. Your participation has been inspiring, and we are excited to see even more winners in this next phase. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our communities.”

Joanita Menya, MD Vivo Energy, Night Ampurire, Hellen Bwengye, Marketing Manager Vivo Energy and the station manager Shell Kitende pause for a photo after handing over fuel to Night

Joan Nabukalu, Brand Manager of Non-Fuel Retail at Vivo Energy Uganda, also reflected on the profound impact of the ‘Kigwera Ku Shell’ promotion. “The back-to-school period can be overwhelming for many parents and guardians. We are proud that through this promotion, we have been able to bring smiles to the faces of our customers. Our aim is to continue giving back to those who support us, making their lives a little easier in meaningful ways,” she said.

To participate in the promotion, customers are required to purchase fuel worth 50,000 Uganda shillings for cars and 5,000 Uganda shillings for boda bodas (motorcycles). Additional ways to qualify include spending 10,000 Uganda shillings at participating Shell Select shops, servicing a car for 50,000 Uganda shillings, servicing a boda boda for 10,000 Uganda shillings, and purchasing or refilling Shell Gas.

In a heartwarming gesture, Vivo Energy Uganda also rewarded Night Ampurire, a resident of Entebbe, with a year’s supply of fuel and vehicle servicing for her brand-new double cabin vehicle. This ensures that her new vehicle remains in top condition and that her business continues to thrive.

Night’s story, which gained widespread attention after being covered by the media, highlighted her struggles as she relied on an old, dilapidated car to run her fruit-selling business. MTN Uganda stepped in and donated a new vehicle to Night, transforming her business and ensuring she could continue supporting her family.

With Phase 2 of the ‘Kigwera Ku Shell’ promotion, Vivo Energy Uganda continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of its customers, offering them a chance to win significant rewards while easing the financial pressures associated with back-to-school preparations.

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