Top seven Ugandan blunders for May 2013

This month the institution of Parliament featured with lots of crises. This month we witnessed different organizations doing something about their crises. Outstanding advocacy PR tools were used during the closure of Monitor publications which is commendable. They used the courts of law and the Court   of Public opinion to their advantage. They shared the uncertain future of children who benefited from Monitor scholarships.

 Daily monitor website screen shot

Media siege by Uganda police

The Uganda Police obtained a search warrant authorizing the search of the Daily Monitor and Red pepper premises for the letter allegedly written by General Sejjusa. Uganda police closed Red pepper and Daily monitor together with two radio stations after declaring them crime scenes. The Uganda Police responded with excessive force which attracted unnecessary attention. East African Newspapers carried an editorial on media siege. The media siege dented the Ugandan image locally, regionally and internationally. Most critics think the government should have handled the media issue better. International and regional newspapers, US Embassy in Uganda, Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), politicians, human rights activists, and members of the civil society condemned the media siege. The most famous hash tag was '#mediasierge'. Uganda police ignored a court order instructing them to vacate monitor premises. Police found this to be highly irregular. On May 30, 2013, Media houses were allowed to resume operations. Daily monitor's reopening following 11 days of police siege was allegedly after negotiations with government according to a government statement. This introduced a debate on future compromised editorial policy of the Daily Monitor. Monitor publications has since responded to the issue in Public notices "Monitor: What we agreed with government" reassuring the public about their editorial policy of publishing all news as long as it is in public interest.

IGG opened  fresh investigations at NSSF

The Inspector General of Government started wide ranging investigations into National Social Security Fund over allegations of fraud and corruption by a whistle blower. Some allegations relate to alleged irregular Umeme Shares purchase, disposal of Land at Namirembe, joint venture with SBI for planned housing estate at Lubowa among other concerns. This is a heavy blow to the fund manager at a time when it has embarked on a rigorous re-branding exercise. NSSF is not new to funds mismanagement scandals. Scandals at NSSF have in the past resulted into sacking and prosecution of former top leaders. NSSF has since embraced good PR tools to set the record straight by responding to the allegations. Employees are yet to witness the renewed promise by the new NSSF.

Expelled  NRM  MPs VS NRM

The Speaker of parliament Speaker Rebecca Kadaga ruled that the four expelled NRM rebel MPs cannot lose their seats. NRM Secretary General, Mr Amama Mbabazi had demanded the speaker to declare the MPs' seats vacant after their expulsion from NRM.NRM has since registered   aspirants for the posts in case they fell vacant. The matter of rebel Mps has since gone to court. This has yielded to grounds. This follows a case in court relating to the expelled MPs.

Alleged forgery of the final KCCA petition recommendation report.

The report was presented to Parliament with ten out of 17 members on the committee signing it. The report followed a petition on alleged mismanagement of KCCA to parliament through Hon. Betty Namboze Bakireke (DP, Mukono Municipality). The report recommends that President Yoweri Museveni takes over the executive functions of KCCA for six months. Members on the Committee of Public Service and Local Government raised doubts over its authenticity. The committee Chairperson and her deputy are said to have locked out the Clerk out of the parliament as the concluded with the report. The local government committee had a stormy meeting which ended prematurely with members exchanging bitter words. This was also aired on some local Televisions. Improper conduct of some members of parliament projected the institution negatively. The Deputy Speaker of parliament Jacob Oulanyah ruled that the office of the Clerk investigates the authenticity of the KCCA.KCCA report forgery allegations is a dent on the integrity of parliament.

Missing Uganda diplomatic passports

Police started a hunt to recover at least 200 diplomatic passports suspected to have gone missing from the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control. The Deputy Police Spokesperson, Mr Patrick Onyango, said the diplomatic passports had already been made but the only procedure not done was the placing of names and photographs of the bearers and their titles. Some officials from Immigration were arrested as investigations   into circumstances under which the passports went missing continue. There are several Ugandans holding diplomatic passports illegally who are facing criminal charges abroad. This has been an embarrassment to Uganda. Former junior minister was allegedly arrested in India with a diplomatic passport. The Immigration passport department has released press statements declaring their position on the same which is recommendable.

Irene Namubiru arrest in Japan over illegal drugs

Namubiru was arrested at Naita Airport Japan after her luggage was found with illicit drugs. she claimed that she had no idea about what was in the luggage she was given to deliver. Irene was scheduled to perform in Japan. It remains a PR scandal though most Ugandans felt Irene Namubiru was a victim of a set up. All events were confirmed by Interpol officials in Uganda. Some bloggers shared a theory portraying it as a PR stunt as a build up to her upcoming album launch. This is a negative dot on her image. There will always be online negative search results about her. Colleagues and relatives organized a church service to pray for. This was a good PR tactic tool utilising the court of Public Opinion. Namubiru tweeted after her release and date of return. She had a hero's welcome in Uganda. This is still an ongoing crisis. Irene's manager then Thadeus Mubiru has since made a public apology over the same. Kim Tumwesigye was arrested by the police over the scandal. Irene struggles on to save her image.

  

Judge Choudry Vs  Judge Yorokamu Bamwine

There has been an exchange of attacks between High Court judge Anup Singh Choudry and the Principal Judge, Yorokamu Bamwine. Judge Yorokamu Bamwine kicked out Judge Singh Choudry from his chambers. On March 28, 2013; Chouldry delivered a judgment in the case ordered the partners in the firm to pay shs 37b in damages. Uganda law society petitioned against his appointment in 2012.Chouldry was discontinued from practicing law in England after his firm reportedly got in trouble and was subsequently closed in 2001. Some people believe that Chouldry slapped the hefty award on the lawyers to hit at Uganda law society for questioning his eligibility. Critics feel the two judges would have opted for appropriate forums to talk peace.

Ivan N Baliboola

PR and Social media Evangelist.

nbaliboola@gmail.com

Blog: http://mediasurgeon.blogspot.com/

 

AAR client appreciation Luncheon

On May 24, 2013, AAR customer care   team hosted representatives from corporate companies that are already on board as members to an appreciation   luncheon at the prestigious Revolving restaurant at Golf course Hotel. The AAR team was led by AAR Health services General Manager James Macharia. All guests walked away with hampers from AAR Uganda. As you can see pictures, it was strictly an 'AAR brand colours –affair event'.  The  AAR red communicates our caring attitude for life and vitality .it also expresses our passion for work, our customers and all our stakeholders. We want to deliver our services in the most competent way and in the most compassionate manner. Red is the colour of life, passion and energy.

AAR staff visit to God's Grace Orphanage in Kyebando

On  Saturday   June 8, AAR staff visited God's Grace Children's' home. The Occasion was graced by the presence of the AAR Customer Care Manager Diana Namubiru.  Children at the home are between 6months-18years of age. Staff participated in cleaning activities at the home.AAR team donated items which have been collected over a period of three months in AAR clinics and offices in Uganda. These were donated by staff and our clients. The home survives on individual donations and sales from their Jewellery .Over 18 members of staff participated

It was a red affair as usual. Red is the colour of life, passion and energy. In AAR red communicates our caring attitude for life and vitality. It also expresses our passion for work, our customers and all our stakeholders.

AAR Ntinda medical outreach at Metroplex Mall

AAR Ntinda organized a medical outreach at Metroplex mall on May 25, 2013. The outreach had HIV testing and counselling, blood pressure check-ups, free doctor consultations, health promotion literature, and BMI measurements. The AAR Ntinda team was led by Dr.Suzan Tino.AAR Health Care Accountant Halima  Nassanga and Trevor Ariho graced the event. Over 200 people turned up for the exercise. Such events offer opportunities to you as staff to volunteer as part of the AAR Employee Voluntary Programme (EVP).

Metroplex   is a world class shopping centre, and the first of its kind in the country. It has excellent and attractive shops, banking halls, food courts and much more facilities offering various services to over ten residential areas. It is located in Naalya, off the northern by-pass next to Engen petrol station. It is the largest free to shop area where anchor retailers Shoprite and Woolworths have their biggest outlets.

AAR Ntinda medical outreach at Metroplex Mall

AAR Ntinda organized a medical outreach at Metroplex mall on May 25, 2013. The outreach had HIV testing and counselling, blood pressure check-ups, free doctor consultations, health promotion literature, and BMI measurements. The AAR Ntinda team was led by Dr.Suzan Tino.AAR Health Care Accountant Halima Nassanga and Trevor Ariho graced the event. Over 200 people turned up for the exercise. Such events offer opportunities to you as staff to volunteer as part of the AAR Employee Voluntary Programme (EVP).

Metroplex   is a world class shopping centre, and the first of its kind in the country. It has excellent and attractive shops, banking halls, food courts and much more facilities offering various services to over ten residential areas. It is located in Naalya, off the northern by-pass next to Engen petrol station. It is the largest free to shop area where anchor retailers Shoprite and Woolworths have their biggest outlets.

AAR Bugolobi medical outreach at Tuskys for your approval

AAR Bugolobi organized a medical outreach at Tuskys Bugolobi supermarket on June 1, 2013. The outreach had free HIV testing and counselling, physical breast examinations, blood Sugar testing, medical consultation coupons, blood Pressure Measuring, BMI (Body Mass Index) measurements, and free doctor consultations. The medical team was led by the AAR Bugolobi Health Centre  Manager Dr .Dale Mugisha.

Mediasurgeon: Top five Ugandan PR scandals for April 2013

Mediasurgeon: Top five Ugandan PR scandals for April 2013

STATEMENT BY THE PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATION OF UGANDA ON THE ON-GOING IMPASSE BETWEEN UGANDA GOVERNMENT AND SOME MEDIA HOUSES

PRESS  RELEASE

27^TH May,2013

STATEMENT  BY  THE PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATION OF UGANDA ON THE ON-GOING  IMPASSE BETWEEN UGANDA GOVERNMENT AND SOME MEDIA HOUSES

The Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) notes with concern the on-going tensions and continued siege of some media houses in the country notably:The Pepper Publications, The Monitor Publications, Dembe FM and KFM. 

The events leading to the closure and continued siege of these media houses by the Uganda Police Force have been well documented and need not to be reiterated here.

As the apex body of all Public Relations and Corporate Communications professionals in Uganda, PRAU enjoys a healthy and professional relationship with a broad spectrum of organizations in its ranks including the affected media houses and the Uganda Police among other Government Departments.

As such the current impasse is of great concern and one the Association membership is greatly disturbed about. Freedom of the press is enshrined in our Constitution. It is a fundamental right in any democratic dispensation and its violation can negatively impact the democratic space and have far reaching economic ramifications to the country if violated.

Uganda has been lauded for its vibrant and independent press within the region and beyond. This recognition has had its knock on benefits that has portrayed the country in positive light on the African continent and duly earned Uganda its place on the pedestal of progressive and democratic states in the World. Part of this credit belongs to the Government and people of Uganda.

It is therefore imperative that the Government upholds the fundamental rights of the press provided for under the Constitution of Uganda to ensure that this well deserved respect is not besmirched by the current and unproductive bickering which has caused undue paralysis, put the country under international spot-light risking to ruin Uganda’s enviable past achievements.

PRAU and its members therefore implores the Uganda Government and members of the Uganda Media to reach an amicable understanding that ensures professionalism and democratic principles enshrined in our Constitution are protected by all concerned and the current stand-off concluded to ensure that the affected media houses can return to their normal operations henceforth.

We believe this is possible and urge all the protagonists to respect and play by the rules expected of any democratic society. Where differences fester, these should be amicably resolved in the competent Courts of Uganda.

JOB ADVERT : HEALTHCARE ACCOUNTANT

HEALTHCARE ACCOUNTANT

AAR Health Services Group is the leading Health Maintenance Organization in East Africa. AAR provides Pre paid Health & Medical Services to its clients, medical services to the general public and is renowned for its state-of-the art and cutting edge facilities and services. The Healthcare Accountant will be responsible for Healthcare Financial Management.

 

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

 

·         Accounting for all Healthcare income

 

·         Cost of sales management

 

·         Preparing of HealthCare profit and Loss as well as Balance sheet and cash flow statement

 

·         Budget preparation and monitoring of Health care

 

·         Motivate, Coach and mentor all people reporting to you

 

·         Utilize CCC and ACCPAC software to ensure proper reporting and value for money

 

PERSON'S SPECIFICATIONS

 

·         University graduate

 

·         Possession of professional qualification such as CPA or ACCA

 

·         At least four years Experience in a highly dynamic environment.

 

·         Strong leadership and Analytical skills

 

·         Ability to work with various accounting software

 

·         Team player with pleasant personality

 

·         ICT Competency

 

 

 

Qualified candidates should send us comprehensive applications and up-to-date CVs, copies of certificates including daytime telephone numbers, by email or courier to the address below so as to reach us by 31st May 2013. Your application should include three referees, none of whom should be your relative and all of whom should have supervised you, taught you or known you through work. The referees' information should include day time telephone numbers and email addresses. Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted.

 

The Human Resources Manager

 AAR Health Services (U) Ltd

Plot 16A Elizabeth Avenue-Kololo

P.O.Box 6240 Kampala Uganda

Email: hr@aar.co.ug

Top five Ugandan PR scandals for April 2013

UMI directors thrown out   of office by court.

The High court threw out two directors of Uganda Management Institute (UMI) ,citing lack of requisite academic papers. Judge Elizabeth Musoke, of the Kampala Civil division, ruled that the appointment of Kasozi Mulindwa as Director Programmes and Student Affairs (DPSA) and that of Deo Lukonji Bbosa as Director Finance and Administration (DFA) was riddled with procedural impropriety. This   was a dent to the good image of institution which is known for teaching professionals in the country.

Kyambogo university tuition scandal

What started as a tuition crisis spilled into a strike which left at least one student injured. Students protested against blacklisted by the university administration for failure to pay tuition last academic year. Management alleged that the students forged documents such as receipts and examination cards to illegally sit exams. Police instituted a probe which revealed more rot at the ten year old university. There have been several arrests and interrogation of senior management staff in connection with the scandals at the institution.IGG picked interest in the case and started investigating. Kyambogo University has been a nursery bed for scandals for some time. This is beyond heated in-house wrangles. Chaos continuing to manifesto even after the Vice Chancellor, Prof Isaiah Ndiege is on forced leaved points to a deeper problem that needs urgent interventions. Kyambogo University was also in the media over poor sanitation.

President Museveni and his sack money

The two major Newspapers carried a picture of the Busoga Youth Forum chairperson, Mr Sanon Bwire, carrying a sack reportedly containing Shs250 million which President Museveni had donated to the group. The action was a fulfillment of presidential pledge but Critics argued that it was a manipulative move by the president. Social critics disagree with the action because it breeds a culture that only encourages laziness. The story showed Lack of goodwill on the side of government regarding its priorities. Some people are suffering because there are no drugs in health centres   and the government claims that there is no money. Pressure from the civil society upgraded this act to a crisis phase two. There were media reports that the youth in Sembabule District used the case to ask for their share as well. The act reflected President's lack of faith in systems that are meant to deliver services in the country. Museveni was also faulted by activists for not following the set-out procedures of fulfilling presidential pledges. The act was a bad PR stunt for the president though it was a good strategy to show continuity with NRM even beyond 2016. Money in a sack portrayed the disrespect for accountability and responsible spending. Some officials have since been arrested over embezzlement 0f part of the money that was donated to the youth.

Former minster Musumba and Igara East MP held over extortion in India.

Former regional minister Isaac Musumba and a businessman Yakuba Mathai were  arrested in India for allegedly trying to extort US$20 million from four directors of electronics giant Videocon. The crisis deepened when Musumba still possessed a diplomatic passport even when he was no longer a minister which dented Uganda's international image. Musumba and the colleagues claim that Videocon had invested in a mining business in Uganda in 2009, but the four directors suddenly wrapped up the business within six months, signed a memorandum of understanding with the partner and left the country, duping several investors.

Coca Cola sues Riham over trademark infringement

Coca Cola has sued Riham on allegations of trademark infringement. The suit [CS 213] filed on April 24  seeks for an injunction restricting Riham from further infringement on Coca Cola brand contents, and shelving all products on the market which are purportedly considered as infringements. The law suits impacts negatively on the reputation of Riham soda. Both brands Riham Cola and Coca Cola products are said to possess similarities in relation to brand colours, packaging, content, and names among others. The injunction also seeks to stop Riham from producing products that are confusingly similar to Coca Cola. Riham has since launched another product despite the law suit. The Riham Cola soda bottle has since gone through remodifictaion.

Conclusion

With bad news, the best move is to own up and apologise. The sooner the better. This gives you more control of media coverage, and lessened the sting of media.Come clean and get past it. Monitoring media for crises is very important. Companies should Review media for crises on a daily basis to plan for any latest developments and deal with them.

 

Ivan N Baliboola

PR and Social  media Evangelist.

nbaliboola@gmail.com

 

AAR Uganda shines at the ANNUAL FITNESS AND WORK OUT EVENT

AAR partnered with the Uganda National Work-out and Fitness Association (UNWAFA) to organise the 'Annual Fitness And Workout Event 'on Wednesday 1st May 2013. As a sponsor, AAR provided   free breast cancer screening, blood pressure check-ups, on site-stand-by ambulance, dietitian health talk sessions, and BMI measurements. Our counsellor Joy wamala also graced the occasion.Despite the fact that it was a rainy day, the event attracted over 300 participants.

Employee Wellness is something AAR Uganda does not take lightly. In November 2012, AAR Uganda started a staff Jogging club with weekly sessions. Staff members join for free. Participants are free to walk, jog ,and run. For over eight years, AAR Uganda has sponsored its staff to participate in various marathons.

'I fit in' was the catch phrase for the day which helps explains the gist of Body Mass Index (BMI) which is the relationship between height and weight. The event was a scale up initiative promoting health, nutrition, and fitness as a measure to curb the growing public health crisis of obesity and overweight in Uganda.

 Fifteen percent (15%) of all proceeds from the Annual Work out and Fitness Event will go towards helping the less privileged at Smiling Faces Uganda, an NGO that looks after women and children in poor states. Most of cases are as a result of diabetes and HIV-AIDS affected families, accident victims among others. UNWAFA is a non-profit making Association that serves the health and fitness club fraternity with a mandate of growing, protecting and promoting the health and fitness industry in Uganda through regular exercises and sports. All participants at the event walked away with a free work-out DVD.

Top four Ugandan PR disasters - March 2013

Top four Ugandan PR disasters - March 2013

PR is relatively a new profession in Uganda and as such people tend to relate it to propaganda. Few agencies and organisation have taken crisis management as a pivotal role of PR seriously. This list is not aimed at attacking individuals and organisation. It offers a professional PR insight into Crisis management in Uganda. I hope that Lessons shared can better the PR fraternity in Uganda. I commend the inclusion of Best Crisis Management Award category in the PRAU Excellence Awards. PR Practitioners need to stop leaving entire Crisis management to the legal departments. They should fully be involved.

 

1. Suspension of Fr Musaala by the Catholic Church.

Archbishop of Kampala Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga suspended Fr. Anthony Musaala, who authored a document criticising Catholic Church colleagues in Uganda, accusing them of sexual crimes among others. Mismanagement of  Fr. Musaala's saga by Catholic Church put it in the media spotlight. The Archbishop was quick to suspend and give explanations without assessing the magnitude of the crisis. The Catholic Church prolonged the crisis when they over reacted. Fr Musaala would just be transferred to another place or a commission of inquiry publicly instituted but not sacking him. And going public about the move was wrong. As Christians who preach forgiveness, the idea of peace talks would be good. All efforts should always be done to stop crises from growing. It was a delicate time especially that the Pope was just settling in.

According to the Archbishop Dr Cyprian Lwanga,Fr. Musaala was suspended for the document, which "damages the good morals of the Catholic believers and faults the church teaching". Fr. Musaala admitted to authoring the document which widely circulated on the internet after being leaked Fr. Musaala's letter sparked public debate concerning celibacy in the Catholic Church. The saga also attracted enough media attention. He was hosted on highly rated shows and made it to the front page of daily Newspapers.

2.         Tullow oil's alleged bribe to President Museveni 

It was alleged that Tullow considered bribing President Museveni with $50million ahead of the 2011 elections. After several media reports, President Museveni issued a directive through his lawyers' instructing Tullow Oil to respond within three days to the allegations. The story was an embarrassment to the president who is the fountain of honour. Tullow Oil later refuted bribery allegations and apologized to President Museveni. Tullow's response was restricted because this court case against Heritage was still on-going. President Museveni has since instructed police to probe Oil bribery allegations made in a London court.

 

 

 

3.         Tullow pays expatriate Shs9m daily for a year

Tullow Uganda paid a one-man consultancy firm about Shs9 million per day for one year to teach its officials about "organizational effectiveness", an investigation by a local newspaper revealed. Tullow Oil says the cost was borne by the group, critics say 'organizational effectiveness' could have been taught by local consultants. The claims highlight the lack of goodwill because a lot of the expenses incurred by oil companies fall under "recoverable costs" that the oil companies will claim back from Uganda when the oil revenue starts flowing in. The report  points  to  an old concern of     transparency in the Oil sector.

4.         Uganda court rules against Hima Cement 

On March 26, Justice Eldad Mwangusya took away Hima's mining rights to limestone deposits in Kasese, western Uganda. The ruling affected its image and operations in a number of ways. The ruling invalidated all transactions and legal rights because Hima does not have a legal basis to carry out business in the country. East Africa Gold Sniffing was contesting a decision by the Ministry of Energy that restored Hima's mining rights after the latter managed to secure an exploration license over the same area. Hima Cement went back to court and appealed against the ruling requesting for stay of execution.

 

Ivan N Baliboola

PR and Online media management. Lives and works in Uganda(The Pearl of Africa)

nbaliboola@gmail.com

 

AAR at Nile special Super 8 Rugby League finals

Kyadondo Rugby Club hosted the finals of the Nile special Super 8 Rugby league matches on April 13, 2013. AAR Uganda is the official medical service provider in form of First Aid for rugby matches at Kyadondo Rugby club. The AAR Emergency team was on standby with an ambulance.AAR Uganda signed a 30 million medical sponsorship agreement with Kyadondo Rugby club early this year. This sponsorship has greatly improved on the injury risk management and reduced the high medical costs the club has been paying annually. We are the official   medical sponsor   of the Toyota Buffaloes. Buffaloes is a good team which holds the growth of the rugby sport in Uganda. Buffaloes, a fast-rising young team has become an academy for the Heathens. Toyota Buffaloes is a 'player feeding machine' to the Heathens. Both teams share the Kyadondo ground.MTN Heathens beat Toyota Buffaloes 20-06 in a close and entertaining encounter to win their record 11th Nile Special Super 8 Rugby title last Saturday.

AAR partners with Rotary Club of Kampala south

AAR Uganda partnered with the Rotary Club of  Kampala South to offer medical services in form of first aid during its 17th Annual fund-raising Sports Gala.Since 1996, the Rotary Club of Kampala South has organised a Sports Gala annually to raise funds for its community projects. The Gala is a regular and popular event on the Rotary Calendar in Uganda. It is intended to: bring together Rotarians, their families and well-wishers for a day of fun and sports; invite members of the public to interact with Rotarians outside their fellowships; create awareness within the community about Rotary and its projects; and raise funds for Rotary projects. The Gala attracts over 400 adults and children who come to participate and compete in a number of sports events that promote fun and fellowship. These include indoor games such as Scrabble; sports such as football, dodge ball and relays; a quiz; and skits to crown the day. Children were entertained with face painting and bouncing castles.

Top four Ugandan PR disasters - March 2013

1. Suspension of Fr Musaala by the Catholic Church.

Archbishop of Kampala Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga suspended Fr. Anthony Musaala, who authored a document criticising Catholic Church colleagues in Uganda, accusing them of sexual crimes among others. Mismanagement of  Fr. Musaala's saga by Catholic Church put it in the media spotlight. The Archbishop was quick to suspend and give explanations without assessing the magnitude of the crisis. The Catholic Church prolonged the crisis when they over reacted. Fr Musaala would just be transferred to another place or a commission of inquiry publicly instituted but not sacking him.And going public about the move was wrong. As Christians who preach forgiveness, the idea of peace talks would be good. All efforts should always be done to stop crises from growing. It was a delicate time especially that the Pope was just settling in.

According to the Archbishop Dr Cyprian Lwanga,Fr. Musaala was suspended for the document, which "damages the good morals of the Catholic believers and faults the church teaching". Fr. Musaala admitted to authoring the document which widely circulated on the internet after being leaked Fr. Musaala's letter sparked public debate concerning celibacy in the Catholic Church. The saga also attracted enough media attention. He was hosted on highly rated shows and made it to the front page of daily Newspapers.

2.         Tullow oil's alleged bribe to President Museveni 

It was alleged that Tullow considered bribing President Museveni with $50million ahead of the 2011 elections. After several media reports, President Museveni issued a directive through his lawyers' instructing Tullow Oil to respond within three days to the allegations. The story was an embarrassment to the president who is the fountain of honour. Tullow Oil later refuted bribery allegations and apologized to President Museveni. Tullow's response was restricted because this court case against Heritage was still on-going.President Museveni has since instructed police to probe Oil bribery allegations made in a London court.

3.         Tullow pays expatriate Shs9m daily fora year

Tullow Uganda paid a one-man consultancy firm about Shs9 million per day for one year to teach its officials about "organizational effectiveness", an investigation by a local newspaper revealed. Tullow Oil says the cost was borne by the group, critics say'organizational effectiveness' could have been taught by local consultants. The claims highlight the lack of goodwill because a lot of the expenses incurred by oil companies fall under "recoverable costs" that the oil companies will claim back from Uganda when the oil revenue starts flowing in. The report  points  to  an old concern of     transparency in the Oil sector.

4.         Uganda court rules against Hima Cement 

On March 26, Justice Eldad Mwangusya took away Hima's mining rights to limestone deposits in Kasese, western Uganda.The ruling affected its image and operations in a number of ways. The ruling invalidated all transactions and legal rights because Hima does not have a legal basis to carry out business in the country. East Africa Gold Sniffing was contesting a decision by the Ministry of Energy that restored Hima's mining rights after the latter managed to secure an exploration license over the same area. Hima Cement went back to court  and appealed against the ruling requesting for stay of execution.

This list is not aimed at attacking individuals and organisation but to offer  a PR insight to   Crisis management in Uganda. I hope that Lessons shared can better the PR fraternity in Uganda.

Ivan N Baliboola

PR and Online media management

nbaliboola@gmail.com

--

Ssezibwa Falls

AAR Uganda medical booth at Kisementi

AAR Acacia organised their first  medical booth this year on Saturday, March  23, 2013 at kisementi. The team carried out free BMI, BP, a deworming exercise, HIV testing and counselling,and  free doctor consultations. The event started at  9am and received a big turn up.The AAR team was led by the Acacia Health centre Manager Humphrey Asiimwe.

I don't ask you to agree with me, but I do ask you to think about it. If you're searching for a job or looking for opportunities or just looking to learn and grow as a person, think about disconnecting from your devices, lifting your head, and getting involved in what's going on around you—at least for a little while.

AAR Uganda medical booth at Ntinda City Victory Church.

AAR  Ntinda Health Centre with support from   Ntinda City Victory Church held a medical booth on March 10, 2013. The  AAR team was led by AAR Ntinda Health  Centre manager Dr. Tino Suzan.The camp at Ntinda City Victory Church attracted over 250 people from all walks of  life.Activities carried out included: free BMI measurements, blood pressure check up, general body checkups, HIV testing and counseling, health promotion sessions, and a deworming exercise. As usual the team gave out important health promotion literature, and free doctor consultation vouchers. Ntinda City Victory Church  is  near our Ntinda  health  facility.

AAR offers free medical services to Kyambogo University students

AAR  Bweyogerere Health centre organised   a health fair at Kyambogo University Bazaar grounds last Friday March 15, 2013.The AAR team was led by the Bweyogerere Health Centre Manager Dr. Stephen lugolobi. This is not the first outreach of  the kind. AAR Bweyogerere had a community outreach at St Mary's College Lugazi in July 2012 where it carried out  free medical check-ups, a deworming exercise for all students, health awareness talk shows, and tree planting as part of  Trees for Health Programme.The one day event attracted over 600 people. There was free HIV testing and counselling, doctor consultation, blood sugar check- up ,BMI (body mass Index)measurements ,health awareness discussion sessions, and blood pressure check-up.

The health fair was organised with support from the Kyambogo University administration,Zydus, and UHMG(Uganda Health Marketing Group).Kyambogo University (KYU) is Uganda's third public university established by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001.It is a merger of  the former Uganda Polytechnic Kyambogo (UPK), the Institute of Teacher Education, Kyambogo (ITEK), and the Uganda National Institute of Special Education (UNISE).Kyambogo has a rich history that dates as far back as 1928. UPK started in 1928 as a small technical school on the Makerere Hill and was transferred to Kyambogo Hill in 1958 as Kampala Technical Institute.

AAR staff visit to Sanyu Babies' home

AAR  Bugolobi  Health Centre staff  visited   Sanyu Babies' Home on Saturday  March  2 , 2013.The team held a paediatric health camp for the children and a separate counselling session for the caretakers. The Bugolobi team headed by Dr.Katafire also participated in a general cleaning exercise at the home. AAR has organized periodic paediatric Health camps at Sanyu babies' home for the last  five years.

AAR staff Visit to Sanyu Babies' home.

AAR  Bugolobi  Health Centre staff  visited   Sanyu Babies' Home on Saturday  March  2 , 2013.The team held a paediatric health camp for the children and a separate counselling session for the caretakers. The Bugolobi team headed by Dr.Katafire also participated in a general cleaning exercise at the home. AAR has organized periodic paediatric Health camps at Sanyu babies' home for the last  five years.

AAR Uganda and MSH Health camp in Budaka District

AAR Uganda and Management Sciences for Health (MSH) with support from Budaka district administration organised a community health Camp on 8^th March 2013.The Health camp at   Budaka Health centre IV  coincided with the celebrations to mark the international Women's day. The event was in line with our CSR objective of  providing free quality health care to communities in which we operate in.

The teams from AAR , Budaka health Centre IV and MSH/STAR-E  carried out free  HIV/AIDS testing, HIV counselling and treatment, cervical cancer screening, safe male circumcision, family planning education, infant de-worming, blood donation ,and checkups  for hypertension and diabetes.The camp which had initially targeted 1000 received over 1200 people.

MSH staff  are already on board as AAR members. Management Sciences for Health (MSH) is an international non-profit organization that uses proven approaches developed for four decades to help leaders, health managers, and communities in developing nations build stronger health systems for greater health impact. MSH has offices in 32 countries and experience in 140 nations.www.msh.org

AAR City Centre Medical Booth at Kiwatule Catholic Church.

AAR City Center organized a medical booth on the 17^th February, 2013 at Kiwatule Catholic Church. The AAR team was led by the AAR City Health Centre Head Nurse Nafula Letitia.Activities carried out  included: free general body checkups, free HIV testing and counseling. Special Separate sessions were held by our AAR Counselor Joy Wamala. Over 200 people turned up at the event.

The AAR team gave out free consultation vouchers and health promotion literature to those who visited our tents.

AAR Uganda takes on initiatives that impact on the social well-being of communities in which it operates in. Our community engagement initiatives include: tree planting, charity marathons, fund-raising dinners, free medical service camps, food aid, donations and visits to orphanages, showing love to the needy through fund-raising initiatives as well as donations to victims of  natural disasters.

    

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AAR City Centre Uganda Medical Booth at Kiwatule Catholic Church

AAR City Center organized a medical booth on the 17^th February, 2013 at Kiwatule Catholic Church. The AAR team was led by the AAR City Health Centre Head Nurse Nafula Letitia.Activities carried out  included: free general body checkups, free HIV testing and counseling. Special Separate sessions were held by our AAR Counselor Joy Wamala. Over 200 people turned up at the event.
The AAR team gave out free consultation vouchers and health promotion literature to those who visited our tents.

AAR Uganda takes on initiatives that impact on the social well-being of communities in which it operates in. Our community engagement initiatives include: tree planting,charity marathons, fund-raising dinners, free medical service camps, food aid, donations and visits to orphanages, showing love to the needy through fund-raising initiatives as well as donations to victims of  natural disasters.

AAR City centre UG - Booth at Kiwatule Catholic Church

AAR City Center organized a medical booth on the 17^th February, 2013 at Kiwatule Catholic Church. The AAR team was led by the AAR City Health Centre Head Nurse Nafula Letitia.Activities carried out  included: free general body checkups, free HIV testing and counseling. Special Separate sessions were held by our AAR Counselor Joy Wamala. Over 200 people turned up at the event.

The AAR team gave out free consultation vouchers and health promotion literature to those who visited our tents.

AAR Uganda takes on initiatives that impact on the social well-being of communities in which it operates in. Our community engagement initiatives include: tree planting,charity marathons, fund-raising dinners, free medical service camps, food aid, donations and visits to orphanages, showing love to the needy through fund-raising initiatives as well as donations to victims of  natural disasters.

AAR KABALAGALA MEDICAL BOOTH AT UCHUMI SUPERMARKET

AAR Kabalagala Health Centre held a medical booth at Uchumi Supermarket Kabalagala on February 16, 2013. The AAR team was led by Kabalagala's Health Centre Manager  Humphrey Asiimwe.  Over 300 shoppers visited the AAR tent. Activities carried out included: free BMI Tests, BP check up, general checkups, HIV testing, health promotion fliers, and de-worming.

AAR Kabalagala organized the medical booth with support from UHMG and Uchumi.Such AAR activities are meant to give back to communities which is in line with the company's core value of Caring. Core values are pillars in every decision and action we make as AAR. These values are not cosmetic. These values give us in AAR, means of  not only guiding but also evaluating our operations, our future planning and especially as anchors to make a difference to the way we, the staff who are the core to the company, do business and conduct our work on a daily basis.

 

 

AAR KABALAGALA MEDICAL BOOTH AT UCHUMI SUPERMARKET

AAR Kabalagala Health Centre held a medical booth at Uchumi Supermarket Kabalagala on February 16, 2013. The AAR team was led by Kabalagala's Health Centre Manager  Humphrey Asiimwe.  Over 300 shoppers visited the AAR tent. Activities carried out included: free BMI Tests, BP check up, general checkups, HIV testing, health promotion fliers, and de-worming.

AAR Kabalagala organized the medical booth with support from UHMG and Uchumi.Such AAR activities are meant to give back to communities which is in line with the company's core value of Caring. Core values are pillars in every decision and action we make as AAR. These values are not cosmetic. These values give us in AAR, means of  not only guiding but also evaluating our operations, our future planning and especially as anchors to make a difference to the way we, the staff who are the core to the company, do business and conduct our work on a daily basis.