PRESIDENT MUSEVENI DIRECTS ANNUAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT TO MARTYRS DAY CELEBRATIONS, CALLS FOR RELIGIOUS HARMONY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today directed that government funding for Martyrs Day celebrations be included in the national budget annually, acknowledging the spiritual significance and massive participation of Ugandans across all religious denominations. “This year, the government gave the Catholics Shs 2 billion, the Protestants Shs 2 billion and the Muslims Shs 200 million for this occasion,” he said. “I have directed the government to make this contribution part of the government budget annually, since many Ugandans participate.” President Museveni, who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Sports and Education, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, made the remarks while addressing thousands of Christians at the Namugongo Anglican site during Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The celebrations were led by the Northern Uganda Cluster, under the theme: “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good (Galatians 6:9–10)”. The President emphasized the government’s continued investment in religious infrastructure. “As you all know, the government spent billions modernizing this infrastructure you see today at both the Catholic and Protestant sites. When the Muslims are ready, we shall also support them because I am told some Muslim followers were also killed by Mwanga. May God bless all of you,” he said. Historical reflection: President Museveni gave a historical reflection on the arrival of new religions in Uganda, tracing Islam’s introduction in 1841 by Ahmad bin Ibrahim, Anglicanism in 1877, and Catholicism in 1879. These religions, he noted, offered new understandings of the divine, complementing Uganda’s indigenous faith traditions. “It was wrong for Mwanga to try and kill this new perspective about the supernatural realm,” said the President. “It is good that young boys and some girls, I am told, were ready to give up their lives for freedom of worship,” he said. The President also saluted this spirit of sacrifice. “This is what all and sundry should know about Africans of this area: they can sacrifice for the legitimate causes they believe in,” he noted. He also linked this historical sacrifice to modern struggles, referencing the 1981 resistance in Kikandwa against Bazilio Okello. “Luttamaguzi Edidian, their leader, told them: ‘Temulajana’ Do not lament.” President Museveni reiterated the importance of religious freedom and the secular character of the Ugandan state. “We believe in the freedom of worship and not coercing people to believe in this or that, as long as they do not break the law. We also believe in separating denominational issues from government matters, which are for all citizens and even non-citizens in Uganda,” he added. He invoked scripture to support this principle. “Jesus helped us in Mark 12:17: ‘Give unto God what is God’s and unto Caesar what is Caesar’s,” he said. The President also reminded Ugandans of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) historical missions: creating prosperity, ensuring continental security, and leveraging African unity for mutual growth. “If all adults become wealth-creators, who will buy their products and services? Tribal and sectarian markets are not enough. The national market of Uganda is better, hence our first ideological principle: Patriotism- love Uganda, because you need it for your prosperity,” he said. “But even Uganda’s market is not big enough. Have you heard of East Africa? Have you heard of Africa? They can buy your surplus. That’s why we embrace Pan-Africanism- love Africa.” He added Social-Economic Transformation and Democracy as core guiding principles. President Museveni urged believers to never mix politics with denominational loyalty. “Politics is about our welfare on Earth. Denominations and religion are about spirituality on Earth and life after, which religious leaders can explain better,” he said. Drawing on his past experience as President of the Scripture Union (1965–1966), he quoted from Luke 10:30-35, the Parable of the Good Samaritan, to highlight religious tolerance and service. “The Samaritan helped the injured man while his fellow Jews, who were religious leaders, passed him by. Jesus praised the Samaritan. We shall know them by their fruits,” he said. He quoted the Church of Uganda Prayer Book, page 207. “Let your light so shine before men that they see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Lessons from the Bush: Recalling his days in the liberation struggle, President Museveni shared how religious diversity was harmonized through shared knowledge and practical survival. “In the bush, I lived with Catholics, Anglicans, Muslims, and traditional believers. We united them around science, a bullet kills. Prayers help, but a reed won’t stop a bullet,” he said. The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who also chairs the National Organizing Committee, delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the Northern Cluster. “On this sacred ground, faith has truly surpassed fear. The Northern Cluster is deeply honoured to have led this year’s commemoration. It is not only a privilege, but a testimony to unity across religions,” she said. She celebrated the commitment of pilgrims from diverse backgrounds who walked long distances in faith. “Their feet were weary, but their spirits were lifted. Their presence affirms shared faith, unity, and the strength of commitment.” Dr. Aceng praised President Museveni’s focus on education, health, peace, and economic empowerment. “Your Excellency, your dedication to peacebuilding has been felt throughout the nation. Let this Martyrs Day renew our commitment to build a nation anchored on love, justice, and unity.” She called for the completion of pending infrastructure at the Anglican Shrine, underscoring the importance of sustaining such spiritual landmarks. Hon. Martin Mugarra, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, hailed the growth of Uganda as a faith tourism hub. “I thank the clergy for welcoming His Excellency and Maama Janet. I commend the organizing committees for making this a success,” he said. The Minister highlighted that the celebration now draws international pilgrims from Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, South Africa, Burundi, Europe, Asia and many others. “They spend weeks in Uganda, contribute to our economy, and return spiritually renewed.” Hon. Mugarra applauded President Museveni for his foresight in signing the Museum and Monuments Act, which protects spiritual heritage sites like Namugongo. “Without your support, Your Excellency, this wouldn’t be possible. It’s because of your directives that these developments have taken shape.” On his part, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, led the main service with a powerful message of resilience, hope, and spiritual recommitment. “The appeal today is simple: it’s a verdict to stand for Jesus. Those who died here would not regret their sacrifice if they see what Namugongo has become. What was meant for evil, God has turned into a blessing,” he said. He congratulated the Northern Uganda Cluster for a successful lead and thanked the international pilgrims for their devotion. “We are celebrating 140 years of God’s faithfulness, mercy, love, and providence. This is not just an event, it's a powerful reminder of sacrifice, faith, and the Lord’s love,” he noted. The Archbishop urged Ugandans to take action in addressing social issues, particularly substance abuse and mental health. “Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco and other substances are destroying lives. As a Church, we commit to advocating against these vices in schools, communities, and even in Butabika Hospital,” he declared. He further appealed to the government of Uganda to consider a National Health Insurance Scheme. “Some may argue it’s financially impossible but where there is a will, there is a way.” Archbishop Kaziimba also highlighted the Church’s humanitarian role, such as recent aid deliveries to Nakivale Refugee Camp. “Let us continue these good deeds. Our work is not only spiritual but practical,” he noted. He applauded the government’s support to the faith sector, especially the sh10.7 billion funding for Phase I construction of the Anglican shrine. “We thank Your Excellency for supporting faith-based tourism. The shrine has attracted thousands and generated income. The Church remains committed to holistic transformation,” he noted. Archbishop Kaziimba ended his speech with a strong message of civic duty ahead of the 2026 elections. “I call upon all Ugandans to support peace, resist the politics of violence, and go out to vote. Let’s be good stewards of this nation,” he added. The preacher of the day, Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, delivered his sermon from Galatians 6:5, Galatians 6:9–10, and 3 John 11, encouraging believers not to be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good. “The foundation of the Church in Uganda is based on the sacrifices and the blood of the martyrs,” he affirmed. The Rt. Rev. Godfrey Loum, Bishop of Northern Uganda and Chairperson of the Northern Uganda Cluster, expressed gratitude for being chosen to lead this year’s national celebration. “We are grateful for the trust placed in us. The Northern Cluster which includes the dioceses of Lango, Kitgum, Nebbi, West Lango, Madi and West Nile has worked together in unity,” he noted. He emphasized the region’s commitment to growing Uganda’s religious tourism and faith-based programs. “Our hope is to contribute to the growth of faith in the Anglican Church and to position Namugongo as a global faith destination,” he said. He also thanked the President for his ongoing support towards Church activities and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Uganda Martyrs Day is a national religious holiday observed every year on June 3rd. It honors the 45 young Christian converts - 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans who were killed between 1885 and 1887 in the historical kingdom of Buganda (now part of modern-day Uganda). As the calendar turns to June, a sacred rhythm takes hold across Uganda and neighboring countries. In the quiet early mornings and under the scorching afternoon sun, thousands of men, women, and children make their way on foot many for hundreds of kilometers to Namugongo. They come to commemorate Uganda Martyrs Day, a solemn yet powerful celebration of sacrifice, conviction, and enduring faith. The Namugongo Martyrs Shrine has evolved into a global religious landmark, attracting pilgrims from across East Africa and as far afield as Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Kenya. On the other hand, the church of Uganda also commemorates 140 years of the Uganda Martyrs, this year. The celebrations were also attended by Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Patrick Amama Mbabazi, the former Prime Minister of Uganda, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. David Bahati, the Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (Industry), Hon. Hellen Asamo, the Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hon. Persis Namuganza, the Minister of State for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Esther Anyakun, the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, various Members of Parliament, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, cultural leaders, among others.

2025-06-03

GREATER LUWERO ROADSIDE MARKET VENDORS TIPPED ON HOUSEHOLD INCOME AS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI OFFERS THEM MORE FINANCIAL SUPPORT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday extended more financial support to roadside market vendors in Luwero and Nakasongola Districts. For the last three years, President Museveni through State House has been offering support to various roadside market vendors along major Highways like Gulu, Hoima and Mityana roads to boost their household incomes. The 928 vendors who benefited from this latest business booster package were drawn from Kakooge Daily Market in Nakasongola, Kiyenje Daily Market and Balikyewunya Market (both in Luwero). The vendors who received Shs100,000 each, generally ply their trade in agricultural produce, roasted chicken and muchomo as well as beverages. The package was delivered by State House officials led by the Senior Presidential Advisor-Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo and Private Secretary to H.E the President, Ms. Flora Kabibi. Princess Nassolo revealed that President Museveni extended the financial support to the vendors with an aim of improving their household incomes. “Mzee wants you to work and improve your livelihoods that's why he always empowers you economically,” she said. “The last time we came here, you told us that some of you have never benefited from the Parish Development Model or Emyooga programs so H.E the President decided to offer you this support of Shs100,000 to each one of you as you wait to benefit from other government programs.” Princess Nassolo also cautioned the vendors against unconstructive politicking, advising them that they should instead focus on fighting poverty through stabilizing their homestead incomes. “When time for politics comes, go and vote then come back to your workstations and always support someone who supports you. I'm very sure Mzee has played his part, now it's your time to reciprocate,” she added. Additionally, Princess Nassolo urged the parents to take good care of their children and groom them to be responsible citizens of Uganda. “Our country is facing a lot of challenges when it comes to morality. Advise your children against immorality and criminality. We want to have morally uplift citizens of Uganda.” In a special way, the Senior Presidential Advisor appreciated the youth of Greater Luwero for listening to President Museveni’s message of wealth creation. “Thank you for joining the money economy. Mzee is proud of you.” On her part, Ms. Kabibi called upon the vendors to appreciate President Museveni for being a visionary leader who cares for the wellbeing of all Ugandans. “Because he cares, that's why he sends this financial support to you to grow your businesses,” she stated. “Although the package is small, please utilise it well. H.E the President will send you more support,” she assured. The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Luwero District, Mr. Richard Bwabye Ntulume asked the vendors to utilise the financial support from the President well. He said the package is meant to empower them economically and that they should vote for the President again in 2026 for more development. On the other hand, the vendors expressed gratitude to President Museveni for offering additional capital to their enterprises. The Chairperson of Kakooge Daily Market, Ms. Sofia Namusisi hailed President Museveni for always extending a helping hand to ordinary Ugandans. “He has done us good. Some of us even received PDM and again he has offered us more support. All I can say is that our people are so happy. Long live President Museveni,” she said. “Your Excellency, thank you also for sending a trustworthy and transparent team, the package has been well received.” Ms. Namusisi further disclosed that she was going to use the money to add capital into her business. On the other hand, she requested President Museveni to set up a modern market for them, saying that the current one is in a poor state. Ms. Betty Nazziwa, 75, a vendor at Kakooge Daily Market also thanked the President for the financial support. “Thank you, President Museveni, for helping a poor woman like me. I'm going to use this money to grow my business so that I can properly look after my family,” she said. Another vendor at Kakooge Daily Market, Mr. Joseph Kato Tebandeke also expressed gratitude to the President for helping ordinary Ugandans like him to improve their household incomes. “This support from President Museveni is going to boost my matooke business,” Mr. Kato said. Mr. Muhammad Ssonko, the Chairperson of Kakooge Chapati Operators Association thanked President Museveni for the various programs meant to help Ugandans fight poverty. “As youths, we are now able to make money and look after our families because of President Museveni’s support. We are with him, and we shall support him again come 2026 general elections,” he noted. Furthermore, Ms. Juliet Nababi, the Chairperson of Kiyenje Daily Market prayed for the good health of President Museveni so that he can continue leading and developing Uganda. “We thank you, Your Excellency, for supporting us, especially women. This market is generally occupied by women, and we are your ardent supporters.” Another vendor in Kiyenje Daily Market, Ms. Nabukenya Madinah called on fellow youths to desist from being idle and work towards improving their welfare. “We are lucky that President Museveni supports us by giving us financial support. We should utilise this chance to create wealth.” Mr. Nsimbe Livingstone, the Secretary of Kiyenje Daily Market said, “We are grateful to President Museveni for the support. We are going to utilise this money to grow our businesses.” At Balikyewunya Market, Mr. Mark Ssesazi said President Museveni has always supported the vendors of Luwero and that it was the second time he was sending support to vendors of Balikyewunya. Ms. Asiat Nankinga who first received President Museveni’s financial support in March 2023, said she used the money to add capital in her matooke business. “Even today I have received the money from our President and I'm so grateful. This money is playing a vital role in helping us to develop, we are now able to look after our families. Thank you, President Museveni.” The LC1 Chairperson of Binyonyi Village in Luwero West, Luwero Town Council, Mr. Kabaale Joseph Ssentongo on behalf of leaders in Luwero thanked President Museveni for supporting their people economically. He said the financial package is a very big empowerment tool to vendors and it will go a long way in helping them grow their businesses. “When our people get such money, they don't need money from lenders who often give out loans with very high interest rates.”

2025-05-30

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI SIGNS SUGARCANE BILL INTO LAW

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has signed the Sugarcane (Amendment) Bill, 2023, into law, calling for cooperation between sugar millers and growers for a prosperous industry. “If you don't want to kill this industry, you should all cooperate because if you don't cooperate, the sugar factories will collapse, and once they collapse, even new farmers will have nowhere to sell the sugar. But also, it is not good for the sugar processors, too,” President Museveni said. The Sugarcane (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was passed by parliament last month, after additional consultations involving farmers, millers, and Members of Parliament from sugarcane-growing areas of Buganda, Busoga, Bunyoro, and Acholi on contentious issues that include the composition of the council, the sugarcane pricing formula, and the funding of council activities. Before the signing, the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Hon. Mwebesa Francis, informed President Museveni that the Bill provides for self-regulation of the Sugar Industry Stakeholders Council as provided in the Sugar Act of 2020. The council will be composed of the chairperson and four representatives of farmers, three representatives of millers, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible for trade or his or her representative, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible for Agriculture or his or her representative, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible for Finance or his or her representative. “The chairperson will be a person with sufficient knowledge about the sugar industry and selected from millers and farmers representatives on a rotational basis and serve for two years,” Minister Mwebesa said, adding that the rationale for the above consideration was to give farmers more representation on the council and ensure that no group monopolizes the office of chairperson of the council. “Appointing a chairperson on a rotational basis avoids dominance and fosters a spirit of cooperation and collaboration. In addition, ensure that the chairperson's responsibility is to make more inclusive decisions,” he added. A sugar development fund with contributions from millers and outgrowers in the ratio of 70% to 30% will also be established to fund the council activities. During the meeting, President Museveni was also informed that sugarcane millers will share proceeds from sugar and its by-products with farmers. “I am now satisfied. The processors indeed get more value from the cane than just sugar. They also get ethanol and electricity. So, I think this is a good formula. I can now sign the law,” President Museveni noted. He urged sugar millers not to lure poor people, especially those with less than four acres of land, into sugarcane growing, saying that they should stick to the seven activities under the 4-acre model. “These include one acre for coffee, one acre for fruits, an acre for pasture for dairy cows, and an acre for food crops. They can also consider raising poultry in the backyard for eggs, piggery, and fish farming for those near the swamps.” The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, thanked President Museveni for the guidance on the Bill. “When you presented this bill to Parliament through your minister, we risked in between, and we had issues of contention. And when I called you, you said that you don't proceed with the bill until you reach consensus, so we had to go back and start on the mediations,” Dr. Hon. Tayebwa said. The signing ceremony was also witnessed by the third deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Rukia Nakadama; the Minister for Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda; the Minister of State, Trade (Industry), Hon. David Bahati; Members of Parliament from sugarcane growing areas; and leaders of sugarcane growers’ associations from Buganda, Busoga and Bunyoro.

2025-05-30

PEACE IN THE GREAT LAKES REGION: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR POLITICAL WILL AND LIMITED FOREIGN INTERFERENCE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today assumed the chairmanship of the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM) of the Peace, Security and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Great Lakes Region. During the 12th high-level Regional Oversight Mechanism summit held at State House Entebbe, His Excellency Évariste Ndayishimiye, the President of the Republic of Burundi, handed over the instruments of power to President Museveni to steer the peace mechanism for the next two years. President Museveni emphasized the collective responsibility of all involved in the peace processes while calling for limited foreign interference in the region. “Because we know what the problem is, and it can be solved, but we must have the political will, and foreigners should limit their involvement, because foreigners are the ones who carelessly embolden the mistake. Then the mistake makers think that we don't care about these internal groups. We don't care about the region. What is important is our support,” H.E. Museveni said. The Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework, established in 2013 under the auspices of the United Nations, the African Union, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), aims to tackle the root causes of instability in eastern DRC through collective regional responsibility. “I want to congratulate His Excellency (Évariste Ndayishimiye) again for the good work he has done. We now know the problems, and we can solve them. There's nothing we don't know about all these countries: Rwanda, Burundi, Eastern Congo, Tanzania, and Kenya. These are our people. In my opinion, these problems are easy to solve. They are not difficult. What is difficult are the three mistakes: philosophy, ideology, and strategy,” President Museveni added. President Museveni blamed the conflicts in the Eastern DRC on the politics of identity, fuelled by foreigners since the days of Mobutu Sese Seko and Juvenal Habyarimana. “The Mobutu army was defeated in Rwanda, and together with Habyarimana, they fled to Goma. We appealed to Mobutu to disarm them. He wouldn't listen because he thinks the internal forces don't matter. We, the neighbors, don't matter. What matters are the foreigners who are supporting them. Why was Mobutu not listening? We were here. We could have helped him,” President Museveni explained. H.E. President Ndayishimiye congratulated President Museveni and assured him of continued support during his tenure. The high-level meeting chaired by President Museveni brought together the heads of state and government or the representatives of the signatory countries of the PSC Framework, which include the Republic of Uganda, the Republic of Angola, the Republic of Burundi, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Republic of Kenya, and the Republic of Rwanda. Others are the Republic of South Africa, the Republic of South Sudan, the Republic of Sudan, the United Republic of Tanzania, and the Republic of Zambia. The representatives of the Guarantor Institutions of the PSC Framework, namely the African Union, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region and the United Nations, also participated in the meeting, as well as partners of the region as observers.

2025-05-28

2026 POLLS: COL. NAKALEMA ASSURES TOURISTS ON SECURITY

As the clock ticks towards the fast-approaching 2026 general elections, the head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema has allayed tourists' fears of any possible insecurity, saying the democratic affair shall be conducted peacefully. Despite other countries where tourism tends to come to a standstill due to election orchestrated violence, Col. Nakalema says the case will be different for Uganda, therefore encouraging more tourists to continue planning to visit the country. “In Uganda, we prioritise the protection of investors who include the tourists because they play a big role in supporting our economy. I can assure you all that the country is peaceful, and we are working to maintain the status even during the forthcoming elections,” she said. Col. Nakalema made the remarks on Thursday 22nd May 2025 during the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2025 held at Speke Resort, Munyonyo. She also revealed that Uganda is one of the best tourist destinations in the world. “We are walking the talk, and I'm proud the international bodies are noticing. We have been declared the best tourist destination countless times,” she said. Col. Nakalema said the State House Investors Protection Unit is working with NITA-Uganda to leverage technology to ensure protection of tourists. She said there are efforts by the government to create a thriving investment climate, a move she says the government is succeeding. “Tourism is a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy, and the government prioritizes the safety of visitors, especially during elections. National parks are closely monitored with robust security measures, and law enforcement works tirelessly to maintain the safety and well-being of travelers in safari zones,” she acknowledged. The reassurance comes at the time when political parties are gearing up preparations towards a democratic affair with the ruling party-NRM already setting pace for internal electoral processes. She pointed out that Uganda is renowned for its dedicated tourism police force, which ensures the safety of travelers across the country. “Tour operators are well-informed about the election season and will make any necessary adjustments to your itinerary to avoid areas affected by political activity, ensuring minimal disruption to your journey,” she said. Ms. Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities rallied investors to choose Uganda, noting that the country is peaceful and with adequate physical features. According to Mr. Amos Wekesa, a member of the Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda, famously dubbed the Pearl of Africa, possesses all the elements required to dominate the global tourism sector. "From its unique mountain gorillas to the world’s most powerful waterfalls, the country is a treasure store of natural and cultural wonders. However, despite a steady post-COVID recovery and notable achievements, Uganda lags behind regional competitors like Kenya and Tanzania in realizing its tourism potential." Mr. Wekesa pointed out that to top the world's tourism rankings, Uganda must address systemic challenges while strategically leveraging its unique offerings. He says the sector has demonstrated resilience, with revenue rising from Shs110bn in 2017/18 to Shs156.5bn in 2023/24. Employment has surged to 610,806, and visitor numbers to national parks and the Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC) are on the rise. However, foreign exchange earnings of $1.025 billion in FY 2023/24 remain significantly below the $1.6 billion recorded pre-pandemic in 2019/20. “While infrastructure upgrades like improved tourism roads and the near-complete Entebbe Airport expansion have spurred growth, critical gaps in funding, inadequate marketing, and climate-related challenges continue to hold Uganda back,” Mr. Wekesa said. Mr. Herbert Byaruhanga, a seasoned tourism consultant, asserted that Uganda must rethink its strategy to achieve global leadership. “We need to learn from the tourism sectors of other economies, leverage our unique attractions, and position ours as a premier destination. Only then can we attract the numbers and investment required to grow the sector,” he said. He noted that the government needs to prioritize tourism in its budget, ensuring critical projects receive adequate funding. According to the available data, tourism significantly contributes to Uganda's economy. In 2023, it directly contributed 3.64% to GDP, employing 1.6 million people or 14.7% of the total workforce. The sector also generated significant revenue, with inbound visitors spending over Shs4.58 trillion on tourism services and domestic tourists spending approximately Shs2.97 trillion.

2025-05-23

“THERE ARE MORE JOBS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR THAN IN GOVERNMENT,” SAYS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AS HE CONCLUDES PDM TOUR IN GREATER LUWERO

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon Ugandans to take the Parish Development Model (PDM) seriously because of its huge potential to get them out of poverty and generate more employment opportunities than the government can provide. According to the President, wealth creation at the grassroots level, particularly through commercial agriculture and small-scale enterprises, is the key to sustainable job creation in Uganda. “People waste a lot of time looking for government jobs. And the leaders also don’t explain very well that in a developing country, there are more jobs in the private sector than in the government because the government jobs are few. The government jobs (civil servants, police, the army, teachers, and health workers) are 480,000. The population of Uganda is 46 million. So, how can they be satisfied? The people who are doing the PDM era are already employing people,” President Museveni said. He made the remarks on Thursday, 22nd May, 2025, while addressing a rally at Wabinyonyi playground, Nakasongola Town Council, Nakasongola district, as he concluded his three-day performance assessment tour on the Parish Development Model and other wealth creation activities in Greater Luwero. President Museveni gave an example of the Minister of State for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, who is employing 26 people on his 4-acre model farm, and one Nyakana Richard of Rwengaaju in Kabarole, who is employing 15 people, using 1.2 acres of land. “Uganda has 40 million acres of arable land. I was calculating that if we used only seven million acres like Nyakana has done, and each acre created 15 jobs, we would have 105 million jobs, more than all the people of Uganda. We would have so many jobs to the extent of importing workers,” the President noted. President Museveni added that the factories are already employing 1.2 million people, three times more than in the government. “You, the parents, need to advise your children that the government jobs are limited. You prepare yourself to work in commercial farms, factories, and service sectors or become a job creator in the commercial agricultural sector,” he stressed. The President hinged his address on six pillars, namely, peace, security, development, wealth, health, and education, as key to achieving socio-economic transformation, while emphasizing that they should be handled carefully through prioritization in the spirit of patriotism. “You people should continue supporting the NRM, which believes in unity for all Ugandans, and that’s one of the pillars of peace,” he said. President Museveni emphasized that whereas development (enkulakulana) reflected in social services such as roads, health centers, schools, and electricity is crucial, wealth creation and fighting household poverty should be everybody’s concern. “This road to Gulu was tarmacked soon after independence and has been tarmacked since that time for 60 years, but up to now, there are poor people residing around it. So, NRM does not want you to only talk about development but also household incomes,” he said, adding that it’s the reason the NRM, since 1995 has been supporting the wealth creation drive through initiatives such as Entandikwa, NAADS, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Emyooga, and now PDM. The President pointed out a few people who have listened and are doing well, such as Joseph Ijara of Serere, who uses two and a half acres to do poultry and livestock, earning him more than Shs 1 billion a year through selling eggs and milk, with profits amounting to over Shs800 million per year. Others are Hajjat Mariam Baiga in Ssekamuli, Bamunaanika in Luwero, Nalubowa Aida of Nakaseke, and a 64-year-old Tumusiime Deziranta who just started with Shs 1 million from PDM and is doing well. According to President Museveni, if the PDM is taken seriously, the parish SACCOs will reach an extent of owning banks worth Shs 1.6 billion in 10 years, and this will save them the burden of running to money lenders who charge them exorbitant profits. After two years, a PDM beneficiary who received Shs 1 million is expected to return it with an interest of Shs 120,000 only. “So please, don’t neglect this. I heard people blaming the Sacco leaders for prioritizing family members and friends. This is because you don’t go there. A parish Sacco is for everybody above 18 years in that parish, and when you meet, that’s how you elect your Sacco leaders. Be active and get involved,” President Museveni stressed. President Museveni also promised to set up a special fund for the fishermen after leaders appreciated him for protecting the lakes through the fisheries protection unit, which has streamlined fishing activities. The NRM Vice National Chairperson for central region, Hon. Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi appreciated President Museveni for visiting greater Luwero. “We know the President has not been able to reach everybody, but his tour is a gesture of appreciation for what we are doing as the Greater Luwero in terms of wealth creation,” Hon. Kiwanda said. The Member of Parliament for Nakasongola County, Hon. Mutebi Noah Wanzala, and the area woman MP Zawedde Victorious called for a special land fund to compensate absentee landlords who are evicting tenants. The ceremony was also attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, NRM leaders, among others.

2025-05-22