By Spy Uganda

Nakaseke: New Hope Uganda, a well-known non-governmental organization (NGO) operating in Nakaseke District since 1980s, is currently embroiled in a heated ownership dispute. The conflict, which has been ongoing for months, has raised serious concerns about the future of over 1,000 students enrolled in its primary, secondary, and technical schools, as well as those relying on its health center and the Church community with in the NGO premises.

The dispute pits key figures within the organization against each other over control and leadership. Allegations have surfaced, ranging from financial mismanagement to a well choreographed ploy to throw out one of the co-founders of the over 40 yr old Organization, through change of name of the organization and Board of Trustees.

There has also been allegations of silent recruitment of the vulnerable youth under their care into LGBTQ activities, with claims that one of the co-founders is receiving support from international funders, particularly from the U.S., to promote LGBTQ ideologies within the institution.

Ministry of Lands Intervention 

The controversy escalated when the Ministry of Lands summoned the warring factions to clarify the ownership issue. Both parties honored the summons and presented their cases, but the ministry is yet to issue a final guidance/ruling on the matter. The delay in resolving the matter has fueled tensions, with stakeholders, including parents and local leaders, growing increasingly anxious about the fate of the institution. This paper has learnt that one of the Co-founders approached their long time friend, who is the 1st lady and minister of Education Janet Kataha Museveni to intervene since she was a friend to both founders Dangers and Jonnes. However after listening to listening carefully,Janet referred the matter Artonney General for advice, who finally referred them to Ministry of Lands which registers Land ownership.

CID To Investigate the Matter 

The latest development in the saga is the intervention of the Uganda Police’s Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID). A letter dated 26th February 2025, signed by C.P. Kantono Lydia, Deputy Director SID, has summoned Jonnes Twebaze Bakimi, one of the co-founders, for an interview and statement recording at CID Headquarters in Kibuli on 5th March 2025 at 10:00 AM.

The summons indicate that the police are investigating allegations of hate speech and libel, which allegedly violate Section 26 of the Computer Misuse Act 2011 (as amended) and Section 162 of the Penal Code Act Cap 128. The allegations were reportedly made to the prejudice of another individual, James Andrew Dangers.

The letter also instructs Mr. Bakimi to provide any recordings or information relevant to the ongoing investigation, particularly concerning accusations of promoting homosexuality. He has been directed to report to D/SP Mulema Maliserino, Head of the Cyber Crime Department, for further guidance.

Future of New Hope Uganda in Jeopardy?

With the ownership wrangles intensifying and CID now involved, the future of New Hope Uganda remains uncertain. The fate of over 1,000 students and the institution’s health center hangs in balance. If the dispute is not resolved soon, there is a real risk that educational and healthcare services could be disrupted in the area.

Observers believe that CID’s involvement could unearth more details about the allegations and potentially bring the dispute to a conclusive end. However, whether this will lead to a resolution that secures the institution’s future remains to be seen.

As investigations continue, stakeholders—including parents, donors, and government authorities—are keenly watching how the situation unfolds. TheSpy Uganda will keep you updated on new developments as they emerge. Watch the space….

About New Hope Uganda

Full Name: New Hope Uganda (NHU)

Founded: 1988

Headquarters: Luwero District, Uganda

Operations: Nakaseke, Luwero, and surrounding areas

Core Focus: Childcare, Education, Vocational Training, and Healthcare

New Hope Uganda (NHU) is a Christian-based non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to supporting orphaned and vulnerable children in Uganda. It was established in 1988 in response to the devastating effects of war and HIV/AIDS, which left many children without families or support systems.

NHU provides holistic care by offering education, healthcare, and vocational training while instilling Christian values. The organization operates several institutions, including primary and secondary schools, a technical college, and a health center, serving over 1,000 students and community members.

Key Services & Programs

1.Education:

-Runs primary, secondary, and vocational schools.

-Focuses on quality education, discipline, and Christian values.

2. Vocational Training:

-Operates a technical college that equips young people with practical skills in carpentry, mechanics, tailoring, and agriculture.

3.Healthcare:

-Provides medical care through its health center, serving students and the local community.

-Offers maternal health services, immunization, and general medical care.

4.Childcare & Sponsorship:

-Supports orphaned and vulnerable children by providing shelter, education, and psychosocial support.

-Works with international donors to sponsor children’s education and welfare.

5. Community Outreach & Christian Ministry:

-Engages in evangelism and discipleship programs.

– Conducts community empowerment initiatives to improve livelihoods.

WATCH: Jonnes Twebaze Bakimi Narrating The Secrets Behind The Land Saga