News Articles | MINISTRY OF ICT AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE

19 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AWARDS DISTINCTIVE ELDERS INSPIRING UGANDANS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has awarded a group of distinctive elders inspiring Ugandans due to their contributions to the nation’s socio-economic transformation agenda. The exceptional elders were awarded during the National Mentorship Day Awards ceremony held at State House Entebbe on Thursday 18th September 2025. These included prominent industrialists, farmers, activists, educationalists, religious leaders, philanthropists, health workers, intellectuals, and lawyers such as Dr. Miria Matembe, Justice James Ogola, Dr. Ian Clarke, Dr. Gordon Wavamuno, Mzee Aga Sekalala, Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala and Prof. Frederick Ssempebwa. Others included, Mzee Robert Walimbwa, Mzee William Mukaira, Mr. Erukana Ssegane and Dr. Stephen Rwangyezi. The event brought together student leaders, youth, among others with the aim of inspiring and enabling them to emulate model personalities in the nation. In his speech, President Museveni congratulated the awardees for being recognized because of the great work they have done for Uganda. “I want to thank Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo and the committee for identifying these elders who have contributed to their country in different areas. All these are contributing from different angles to their country,” he explained. “This is exactly what we were fighting for. In the years after independence, there was so much intolerance here and threat to life that many of these people ran away. Not only we the fighters but even all these people like the industrialists, intellectuals had to run away but now everybody is here. All the different opinions are here, and they are all contributing in their different ways. This is very good.” President Museveni however, noted that the only challenge for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government now is to bring out the core issues of the four principles of Patriotism, Pan-Africanism, Socio-economic Transformation and democracy. “The NRM should always point out its synthesis of the basic issues that we think will guarantee our future,” he said. The President also called upon the young people to always work along with the elders for the good of Uganda. “You the young people, nobody should tell you that everything old must go away, you will be making a very big mistake but also the old people should not insist on everything staying the same. Some of the things have to change in order to be rational or reasonable.” The Minister for Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda hailed President Museveni for inviting them to the National Mentorship Day luncheon and noted that the event was not only historic but also symbolic. “It underscores the values and principles that you as our chief mentor have unwaveringly championed throughout your leadership of Patriotism, Pan-Africanism, Socio-economic Transformation and democracy,” she said. “This meeting gives us an opportunity to draw inspiration from your wisdom, guidance and revolutionary ideas.” Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, the patron of the National Mentorship Day Awards revealed why the program mainly focuses on awarding elders who have had an indelible mark on the development of Uganda. “In a country where the majority of the people are young, you need a base or a seed bed, raw materials and right soil where leaders spring from. It's more than positions, I'm more concerned about the thinking because thinking for me is very profound,” he said. “I went to school with no textbooks, like many of us of our generation, at a very difficult time in our country but I was nurtured by the best teachers in those schools, and I made it. Good teachers help you pass exams; great teachers teach you how to think and elder people for me, they serve and retire in silence, yet they carry with them a lot of knowledge and experience that need to be tapped into by the young in order to do better.” Mr. Rwabwogo who also serves as the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Duties noted that as Ugandans, different generations need to combine efforts and work together for the nation's development. “Many young people don't know their history, the history of their country because they don't ask old people or read anymore; they are on their phones,” he stated. “We need to teach the young people to know that there's nothing durable, nothing of significance, nothing of importance that can be done by one person or one generation. You have to combine efforts and therefore we need to create space for that discussion to happen.” He further thanked President Museveni for supporting the Mentorship Awards program which has been running for three years. Mr. Matthew Bagonza, one of the coordinators of the initiative said the session is meant to honor those whose leadership, resilience and guidance have shaped the nation. “And by shining a light on exemplary figures, this initiative reminds the public that mentorship is not an abstract idea but a practical course that strengthens families, communities and the country’s future,” he said.

18 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR PEACEFUL DIALOGUE AS IPOD SUMMIT CHARTS PATH FOR UNITY AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has once again called on Uganda’s political actors to embrace peaceful dialogue and reject violence as the country prepares for the 2026 general elections. Addressing leaders of six political parties during the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) Summit at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on September 18, 2025, President Museveni said Uganda’s progress depends on leaders diagnosing societal challenges correctly and applying peaceful solutions rather than resorting to subversion, violence, and divisive politics. The summit, convened under the theme “Together for a Peaceful and Sustainable Uganda,” brought together Presidents and Secretary Generals of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Democratic Party (DP), Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Justice Forum (JEEMA), and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). In his keynote address, President Museveni, speaking in his dual capacity as NRM National Chairman and IPOD Summit Chair, urged opposition leaders to adopt peaceful methods of engagement, emphasizing that mistakes in governance can be corrected over time if the country remains stable. “As we have seen in the last 40 years, the NRM has revived Uganda’s economy. Although we still face challenges, we are much stronger than ever before. Even if one has a wrong understanding, as long as they are not violent, the country will remain stable, and in the future, mistakes can be corrected,” H.E. Museveni said. He argued that Africa’s biggest tragedy stems from both wrong diagnoses of societal problems and the use of violent methods. “That is how chaos arises in many African countries. Even when you make mistakes, if there is peace, there is room for correction. But when you combine wrong ideas with violence, you get a total breakdown,” he added. Reflecting on his long political career, President Museveni reminded party leaders that he had been involved in politics for 65 years, beginning as a Democratic Party youth leader in 1960 before joining UPC briefly in 1970. “Politics must be like medicine. A political leader should be like a doctor—able to correctly diagnose the problems of society. If the diagnosis and prescription are wrong, the patient dies. If leaders misdiagnose societal issues, their countries collapse,” he explained. He reiterated the NRM’s four principles—patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy—urging that these values remain key to securing Uganda’s future. President Museveni also weighed in on the recent teachers’ strike, which UPC President Jimmy Akena had raised during discussions. He stressed the importance of prioritizing limited national resources, citing the case of Soroti Flying School, where pilots and engineers were prioritized over other staff to prevent the school’s collapse. “In Soroti flying school, we needed most pilots and engineers of the aircraft, but they didn't have the money to pay all of them well. They were not prioritizing, saying, we must all get equal, either we all get or nobody gets, that logic is not correct. We, freedom fighters, always prioritize. I advised them, and they agreed to pay the pilots well,” President Museveni explained. At the same ceremony, President Museveni handed over the IPOD Chairmanship to the Democratic Party’s Chairman, Hon. Norbert Mao. “Thank you for having trusted us, NRM, for the last five years with the leadership I now peacefully hand over,” H.E. Museveni said. NRM Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, also Chair of the IPOD Council of Secretaries General, applauded President Museveni for sustaining IPOD after international donors withdrew funding. “We were orphaned as IPOD when donors left, but as a father, you picked us up and have nurtured IPOD. You have shown that homegrown solutions can address African challenges,” Rt. Hon. Todwong said. He urged all political parties to continue promoting unity, dialogue, and democratic values, adding, “Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and accountable political system that serves all Ugandans.” Hon. Mao takes over IPOD leadership: The summit also marked a leadership transition, with Democratic Party President General, Hon. Mao, assuming the chairmanship of IPOD from President Museveni. In his remarks, Hon. Mao emphasized consensus-building as the foundation of national unity, further committing to a peaceful election in 2026. “So today, I, on behalf of the DP, take the leadership of IPOD. I want to announce that we shall leave the door of IPOD open. Our agenda will be to ensure that we have a peaceful election, a free and fair process, and that we shall continue to talk honestly about the problems we face, that we shall attack the problems that face Uganda, rather than attacking each other for God and my country,” he said. “We cannot have a country where there is no consensus about anything. We may disagree on some things, but we must find common ground. IPOD is about finding common ground, because the unity of Uganda is paramount. I'm delighted that the IPOD summit members are the 20% who want to offer at least 80% of the solution,” Hon. Mao added, commending President Museveni for ordering the release of nearly 70 political detainees earlier this year following discussions between DP and NRM. “Sometimes small gestures like this are not appreciated, but they are significant steps towards reconciliation,” he said. On the other hand, UPC President Jimmy Akena reaffirmed his party’s commitment to dialogue, describing it as essential for building unity during the upcoming election season. “As Ugandans, we may not agree on every policy, but we must focus on the greater good. UPC will always choose dialogue to overcome difficulties,” Hon. Akena said. “Even in a tough election season, our goal is to emerge stronger and more united.” Forum for Democratic Change President Patrick Oboi Amuriat underscored FDC’s long-standing support for IPOD but warned that dialogue must be meaningful and lead to tangible results. “Our country is fractured along tribal, religious, and political lines. We must emphasize reconciliation,” Mr. Amuriat said. He called on President Museveni to exercise clemency and pardon political prisoners, including those awaiting delayed justice. “Progress requires leaving the past behind. Clemency will demonstrate goodwill and help this country move forward,” he urged. JEEMA President Asuman Basalirwa echoed similar sentiments, stressing that Uganda’s problems can only be addressed through dialogue and consensus. Mr. Saddam Gayira, President of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), highlighted the success of non-confrontational politics. “In 30 years of politics, I have never been summoned by the police. Even in the last election, none of our members were arrested. Why? Because we preach peaceful engagement,” Mr. Gayira said. He urged fellow leaders to treat each other with respect, regardless of party differences. Dr. Lawrence Sserwambala, IPOD’s Executive Director, acknowledged the platform’s milestones but warned that challenges such as electoral violence, weak enforcement of the code of conduct, and youth vulnerability remain pressing. “Uganda’s youthful population, particularly in urban ghettos, is vulnerable to manipulation into violence. IPOD must nurture them as champions of peace,” he said. Dr. Sserwambala urged that the 2026 elections provide a critical opportunity to strengthen consensus, fairness, and inclusivity. “Uganda is watching us. History will judge us by the choices we make. Let us choose peace, let us dialogue, let us put Uganda first,” he noted. The summit was also attended by top leaders, including Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, NRM’s Central Executive Committee members, and delegations from all IPOD member parties. Their presence symbolized the broad-based support for dialogue as a central tool for conflict resolution and democratic progress.

19 September 2025

“NOT SUPPORTING NRM IS VERY RISKY” - PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TELLS BUGANDA NRM CADRES

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has applauded members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the Buganda region who lost in the recently concluded party primaries for their decision to rally behind those who emerged as flag bearers. Speaking on Wednesday, September 17, at State House Entebbe, the President, who doubles as the NRM National Chairman, hailed the move as a demonstration of political maturity and commitment to unity within the party ahead of the 2026 general elections. “I want to congratulate you, and I can see the spirit of the National Resistance Army (NRA) is coming back. Go back and support the flag bearers,” the President said, commending the losing candidates for placing the party above personal ambition. President Museveni noted that the NRM’s performance in Buganda has historically suffered due to divisions. “You hear that the NRM MPs in Buganda have been 31 out of 105, but in about 29 constituencies, the NRM had won by majority, but they divided the vote. If you had not divided your votes, the NRM would have had 60 seats instead of 31,” he observed. The meeting was attended by NRM cadres from the Buganda region, many of whom had lost in the primaries, especially at the constituency level, but had unanimously agreed to support their victorious counterparts. Reminder about Uganda’s political history: President Museveni reminded the gathering of the dangers posed when political actors fail to unite around a common vision. He drew parallels with Uganda’s troubled political past, cautioning against repeating the mistakes of earlier parties. “Not supporting NRM is very risky; the country can be in total chaos, because if you have got people who don’t see that Uganda should be one, suppose they are the ones in charge of the country. What will happen?” H.E. Museveni asked. He revisited the events following the 1980 elections, when divisions between the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and Democratic Party (DP) set the stage for armed conflict. “When we came, we tried to persuade them to go back to the message of unity under the Uganda National Liberation Front (UNLF). They didn’t agree, and they tried to bring back DP and UPC. If they had agreed, there would have been no war from 1981 to 1986,” President Museveni recalled. The President also invoked the 1961 elections, when the Kabaka Yekka (KY) movement clashed with the Democratic Party. “Mengo said that they should boycott the election of 1961; those of the Democratic Party decided to go ahead and register themselves to participate. Those of Kabaka Yekka got annoyed and resolved to cut down on their coffee. That’s what happened in 1961,” he said, drawing a link to more recent violence, such as the killings in Masaka following the 2021 elections, arguing that the same divisive spirit has periodically resurfaced. According to President Museveni, the first obligation of political actors should be to safeguard stability, without which development cannot be sustained. He argued that supporting the NRM is not just about political allegiance but also about ensuring peace, growth, and socio-economic transformation. “Supporting NRM is first of all for stability, but also secondly, for the future, because you can see the factories are now coming. The whole of Matugga is factories, Kawempe factories, in Namanve, they are producing,” President Museveni said, noting that Uganda’s growing industrial base depends on wider markets. “Where are we selling these products? We are not selling them in Uganda. We are selling them in East Africa, South Sudan, and Congo,” he explained, stressing the importance of NRM’s ideological pillars: patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy. “It is politics of aims, not politics of jobs, not politics of groups,” President Museveni said, urging cadres to avoid politics of personal gain. Warning against politics without ideology: The President underscored the dangers of engaging in politics without a clear ideological foundation, terming it “a big danger,” reminding the audience that even the restoration of traditional leaders was undertaken with clarity of purpose. “We told everybody, yes, we are restoring the cultural institutions, but keep out of politics. No powers of administration, no powers of legislation, because these are with the people. Everything is in writing. There’s nothing we say or do that is not deliberate,” he emphasized, urging the cadres to always be guided by the NRM’s foundational aims. “If you are really clear about them, these issues you are talking about, like fighting for positions, cannot be a serious point, because you can sit down and discuss and choose who is fit to lead amongst you,” he said. President Museveni likened politics to medical practice, stressing that it must involve identifying problems and prescribing solutions. He reflected on the struggle against Idi Amin, noting that it was not merely about his brutality but also about a lack of ideological direction. “When we started fighting Idi Amin, some people said we started fighting him because he killed people. I didn’t know that Amin would kill people because even if Amin had not killed people, we would have fought him because he didn’t know what he was doing,” he said. He tied this back to NRM’s long-standing goals of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, East African unity, and socio-economic transformation. “If you go to South Africa now, it is full of Ugandans. I hear there are 1 million Ugandans there. They don’t even know what role Uganda played,” President Museveni noted. NRM cadres pledged support: On behalf of the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) and cadres in Buganda, the party’s Vice National Chairperson for the region, Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, thanked President Museveni for what he described as an “ideological lecture.” “The elections of 2021 didn’t go well in Buganda, but come 2026, we are more than determined to win highly. What we are asking for is your time whenever we ask for advice. We understand that Buganda is the highest beneficiary of development in this country,” Hon. Kasolo said. He assured the President that Buganda cadres now have the answers to the challenges that previously weakened NRM’s support in the region. “We pledge that we shall bring back this team after we have won the election,” he said. The meeting drew several senior government officials and party leaders. Among them were Attorney General Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who is also patron of the “Buganda on Museveni” campaign initiative; NRM Deputy Secretary General Rt. Hon. Rose Namayanja-Nsereko; Buvuma County MP; Hon. Migadde Ndugwa; Gomba District Woman MP; Hon. Sylvia Nayebare; Minister of Energy; Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, and Lwengo District Woman MP Hon. Cissy Namujju.

19 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI EXTENDS SUPPORT TO KAMPALA EVENING MARKET VENDORS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today extended support to over 9,000 evening market vendors operating under the Toninyila Market initiative in Kampala. Each vendor, mainly dealing in cooked food sold on city streets, received UGX 100,000 to boost their businesses. The State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye, delivered the package on behalf of the President and commended the vendors for their resilience in working with limited capital to sustain their livelihoods. She urged them to use the funds strictly for business growth, emphasizing that the program is ongoing and will cover all divisions of Kampala. The rollout began in the Central Division and will later extend to other divisions. Ms. Barekye noted that the President’s directive is to reach “the last person” by directly supporting small-scale traders, particularly those often excluded from mainstream government initiatives. She praised President Museveni for prioritizing household income enhancement through support to small businesses. Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, Mr. Moses Byaruhanga also addressed the vendors, highlighting that while the NRM government has established broad anti-poverty measures such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, evening street vendors had not been adequately included. He said the President specifically tasked his team to organize and support the evening market, recognizing its role in Kampala’s economy. Mr. Byaruhanga further called on the vendors to rally behind President Museveni and the NRM flag bearers in the forthcoming elections, stressing that their continued support would ensure the sustainability of such people-centered programs.

18 September 2025

ROADSIDE MARKET VENDORS HAIL PRESIDENT MUSEVENI FOR EMPOWERING THEM

Roadside market vendors yesterday expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for supporting their businesses with seed capital. Through the State House Political Department, the President extended a contribution of UGX 100,000 to each vendor at Watuba Daily Market in Lwamata Town Council (Kiboga District), Bukwikiri Daily Market (Kyankwanzi District), and Kasana Bakusekka Magenda Market (Luwero District). A total of 638 vendors benefited from the Roadside Market Vendors empowerment project. The beneficiaries, who mainly trade in groceries such as watermelons, pineapples, onions, chapatis, and chips, received the support after appealing to the President that they had been sidelined from government development programs such as Emyooga and the Parish Development Model (PDM). The President encouraged the traders to use the additional capital wisely while continuing to pursue benefits from mainstream government programs, emphasizing that those funds also belong to them. Delivering the package on behalf of the President, the Senior Presidential Advisor-Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo called on the traders to invest the money productively to improve household incomes. She explained that while the NRM government has delivered infrastructure, electricity, and road networks, President Museveni now wants to ensure every home gets out of poverty. She further cautioned vendors against abandoning their work for politics and rallies that do not improve their livelihoods. Nassolo urged them to vote for leaders who deliver community interests rather than self-seekers, adding that supporting President Museveni and the NRM government would safeguard their progress. At Kasana Bakusekka Magenda Market, Chairperson Zubair Kasana thanked the President for the financial support, saying it would greatly boost the vendors’ businesses. He, however, raised concern about gaps in mobilization, stressing the need for leaders who can effectively communicate the NRM government’s achievements, warning that the opposition often exploits this weakness to mislead the public.

18 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI URGES RELIGIOUS LEADERS TO MOBILIZE THE FAITHFUL IN WEALTH CREATION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on religious leaders across the country to actively mobilize their congregations in the struggle for wealth creation as part of Uganda’s wider economic transformation agenda. The President made the call on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, while meeting a delegation of Born-Again leaders led by Bishop Dr. Moses Odongo, the General Overseer of the National Fellowship of Born-Again Pentecostal Churches in Uganda (NFBPC), at State House, Entebbe. Addressing the gathering, President Museveni emphasized that economic empowerment and spiritual growth should move hand in hand. He said faith-based leaders are strategically placed to guide Ugandans on practical ways of lifting themselves out of poverty. “If you have two acres, and you put one acre under cassava for food, you remain with only one acre for money. If you choose the wrong enterprise, you never get out of poverty,” H.E. Museveni explained. He drew on Uganda’s experience with low-value crops such as cotton, which he said could not sustain families. “At that time, farmers harvested about 200 kilograms of cotton an acre, selling at 200 shillings. That meant 40,000 shillings a year. How can a family survive on that? That is why I recommended foods, because foods can actually make a lot of money, even up to 30 million shillings an acre,” President Museveni said. The President reiterated his long-held view that Uganda’s prosperity lies in the correct use of land and enterprise selection, citing examples of high-value crops like coffee and fruits. President Museveni likened the principles of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to those of the Christian faith, saying both stand for non-sectarianism, unity, and reconciliation. “The NRM is like a church because we came with non-sectarianism, no revenge; these are Jesus’s teachings. Traditionally, Africans believed in revenge, in blood settlement. But we came with forgiveness and unity. That is why I said if my people are not truly Christians, let me start my own church, combining earthly issues with spiritual transformation. That is how NRM was founded,” President Museveni said. Bishop Dr. Odongo welcomed the President’s message, pledging that the fellowship of Born-again churches would stand firmly with the government in mobilizing Christians for wealth creation. “We will continue to help Christians interpret your dream of wealth creation, asking ourselves: how do we get money in our pockets and communities? That is where our churches are located. For instance, we have already started the coffee project as a way of mobilizing our people,” Bishop Odongo said. He added that through the church’s influence, entire communities, not just Christians, could be reached with programs like coffee planting and other agribusiness ventures. President Museveni assured the delegation that the government was ready to support such initiatives, including providing free seedlings. “We can help you to develop seed beds, to give free seedlings to your Christians, and when you mobilize from the church, you can also target the whole community,” the President said, noting that the high cost of seedlings from private suppliers had created barriers for ordinary Ugandans. “Seedlings were once at 400 shillings, but now I hear they are at 2000 shillings. That is why we must go back to government channels, directly or through institutions, to ensure free seedlings for our people. We can start with coffee, then move to fruits, which I introduced in Soroti,” President Museveni explained. Bishop Odongo also briefed the President on the fellowship’s plans to establish a permanent headquarters in Kasangati on six acres of land. The facility, he said, would include a training school for pastors with a structured curriculum. “If you feel God is calling you, come and study. Come and know how to do it like a doctor or a driver; you must study first. We want to set up a place where our leaders can be equipped with knowledge and skills to serve effectively,” Bishop Odongo said, appealing for government support in the project. He further commended President Museveni and First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni for preserving religious freedom in Uganda. “We have had an environment where we worship God freely. From our neighbors, we are highly regarded because of you and your family’s love for God and service to Him. Your efforts for wealth creation are amazing, and we are following that example,” Bishop Odongo said. The President welcomed Bishop Odongo’s efforts to unite the Balokole across denominations, saying such unity was crucial for both spiritual and socio-economic transformation. He reiterated that religion should not be divorced from practical efforts to improve livelihoods.

17 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI BOOSTS HOIMA ROADSIDE MARKET VENDORS WITH ADDITIONAL CAPITAL

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday extended a lifeline to roadside market vendors along Hoima Road by providing each with seed capital of UGX 100,000 through the State House Political Department, led by Princess Pauline Nassolo and the Special Presidential Assistant in charge of Women Affairs, Ms. Flora Kabibi. The initiative comes after vendors raised concerns about being sidelined from mainstream government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga. The support specifically targets small traders dealing in food items and groceries who have long struggled with limited working capital. Mr. Kakande David, the Vice Chairperson of Ggobero Market traders, hailed the President for the intervention, saying the support would go a long way in expanding their businesses. He further appealed for government assistance in constructing a permanent market and improving transport facilities, noting that many vendors source produce like plantain from the Democratic Republic of Congo. At Bukomero Parkyard Market, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Kiboga, Mr. Ssempala Kigozi, thanked the President for remembering the ordinary people, while chapati seller Makuye Denis expressed gratitude, saying the boost would significantly increase his daily income. Leaders of the Bukomero Daily Market also commended the gesture. They emphasized that the support was especially impactful for women, whose household incomes would see immediate improvement. The Vice Chairperson Abubaker Bukenya pledged continued support for the President and the NRM flag bearers. In Roma Roadside Market at Lwamata Town Council, vendors dealing in groceries such as carrots and onions welcomed the additional capital. The Market Chairperson Christine Nabasita applauded the President for supporting poor families and single mothers, stressing that the assistance would ease their daily struggles. Overall, 623 roadside traders benefited from the program, which aims to uplift small-scale vendors and strengthen grassroots economic activity along Hoima Road.

16 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI WELCOMES THREE NEW AMBASSADORS-DESIGNATE TO UGANDA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today, Tuesday, September 16, 2025, formally received credentials from three new Ambassadors-designate to Uganda, pledging stronger bilateral cooperation with Ireland, France, and Thailand in areas of education, infrastructure, security, trade, and socio-economic transformation. The new envoys include Ms. Margaret Gaynor of Ireland, Mrs. Virginie Leroy of France, and Ms. Morakot Janemathukorn of Thailand. Uganda–Ireland ties In his meeting with Ireland’s Ambassador-designate, Ms. Gaynor, President Museveni emphasized Uganda’s ongoing commitment to women's empowerment and girl-child education as critical pillars for the country’s development. “That FGM (Female Genital Mutilation) is bad biology, but it is fading away. We are expanding and emphasizing girl-child education and women empowerment programmes. Previously, women were excluded and reduced to being housewives and dependents all the time, and when the husband dies, the family depends on the eldest son in the family. This is going to stop,” the President remarked. On economic development, Museveni underscored Uganda’s strategy of driving socio-economic transformation through four key sectors: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. Ambassador Gaynor, who succeeds H.E Kevin Colgan, brings wide diplomatic experience, having served as Deputy Head of Mission and Cooperation at the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania. She was accompanied by her spouse, Mr. Jean-Louis Brudey, Deputy Head of Mission Ms. Jill Clements, Second Secretary Ms. Caoimhe O’Hagan, and Economic Adviser, Mr. Peter Michael Oumo. Uganda and Ireland have enjoyed diplomatic relations for over three decades, with Ireland’s support playing a pivotal role in strengthening education systems, particularly in enhancing access, quality and equity. Uganda–France relations President Museveni also welcomed back Mrs. Virginie Leroy, France’s new Ambassador-designate, who previously served in Uganda between 2014 and 2019. Expressing gratitude to France for its consistent support in infrastructure development, Museveni noted: “I not only want infrastructure, but also support in wealth creation.” He further commended France for its role in training the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in mountain warfare, which he described as vital for strengthening national security. Ambassador Leroy said she was delighted to return to Uganda. “I’m so delighted to return to the Pearl of Africa as France's new Ambassador-designate to the Republic of Uganda. Looking forward to reconnecting with old friends, meeting new ones, and further advancing the long-standing Uganda-France partnership.” She was accompanied by Deputy Head of Mission, Mrs. Janyce Obrecht, Defence Attaché LCL, Mr. Sebastien Berger, Head of Economic Service, Mr. Gregory Sidrack and Mr. Marc Trouyet, the Country Director of the French Development Agency (AFD) in Uganda. Uganda–Thailand partnership The President also received credentials from Ms. Janemathukorn, Thailand’s new Ambassador-designate to Uganda. She was accompanied by First Secretary, Mr. Thitiwoot Techapun, Uganda’s Honorary Consul, H.E. Barbra Mulwana, and Administrative Assistant, Mr. Andrew Orwenyo Mokua. Discussions focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between Uganda and Thailand, with emphasis on trade, investment, and cultural cooperation. The ceremony, held at State House Entebbe, was attended by senior government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odong Jeje Abubakhar.

16 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ENDORSES TOORO KINGDOM’S AGRICULTURAL AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVES

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged his full support to Tooro Kingdom’s ambitious agricultural and youth empowerment programs, describing them as a timely intervention to transform livelihoods at the grassroots level. The President met His Majesty King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV and his delegation at State House, Entebbe, on Monday, September 15, 2025. The Tooro Royal Family was represented by Queen Mother Best Kemigisa and Princess Ruth Komuntale Akiiki. Others in attendance were the Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire and senior government officials, including the Minister of State for Youth and Children, Hon. Balaam Barugahara. Presenting the Kingdom’s vision, Prime Minister Rwomiire outlined a robust plan targeting Tooro’s nine counties with agriculture and youth-centered programs. The initiative includes the establishment of coffee and cocoa nursery beds, demonstration gardens, and hatcheries in all nine counties. “What this does is it brings services close to the people, gives them income, and generates economic activities and employment,” Mr. Rwomiire said, noting that the Kingdom was seeking a budget of 4.6 billion shillings to kick-start the programs. He further revealed that Queen Mother Best Kemigisha would serve as the brand ambassador of the initiative to enhance visibility and mobilization. “The Kingdom has been there with you since, and we know the struggles we have gone through together. His Majesty the King has always acknowledged the support you have given him, including during his coronation. We know the problems, and we believe we also know the solutions,” Mr. Rwomiire added. In response, President Museveni strongly welcomed the proposal, particularly the coffee project, which he described as a “good intervention” that aligned with government efforts to commercialize agriculture under the Parish Development Model (PDM). He observed that private suppliers currently sell a single coffee seedling at 3,000 shillings, which is unaffordable for most farmers. “There’s no reason why the Kingdom can’t also do it. Government institutions have the seeds. The Kingdom can get them, multiply them, and distribute them for free to farmers,” H.E. Museveni said. The President emphasized the Parish Development Model (PDM) as the backbone of wealth creation, explaining that farmers organized under Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) would directly benefit from the seedlings distributed through the Kingdom. “This is a good intervention, provided you concentrate on the parish,” he said. President Museveni reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the 100 million shillings per parish allocation under the PDM, adding that an extra 15 million shillings would be available for local leaders who often fall outside direct parish benefits. “The Shs100 million is for the poor people. But leaders who are not part of the groups also need support. So, we are adding Shs15 million for them,” he explained. Zero Tolerance for Corruption: Responding to concerns over mismanagement of PDM funds, President Museveni issued a stern warning against theft, promising tough action against culprits. “Those stealing PDM money will vomit it. That’s not a problem. We shall lock them up until they return it. If there is monitoring and facts are established, we shall arrest them, and they will vomit the money,” H.E. Museveni declared, further insisting that despite corruption risks, the PDM remained a vital instrument for poverty eradication and would not be abandoned. Minister Barugahara briefed the President on issues raised during a Baraza in Fort Portal held ahead of the Empango celebrations. He reported irregularities in fund disbursement, including instances where money was given to non-residents of a parish. “In one parish, money was given to 50 people who didn't belong there. This has been a very big problem. We need to fix these gaps and ensure transparency,” Hon. Barugahara said. He assured the President that his ministry would step up efforts to enforce accountability through open dispute resolution and closer supervision. The Tooro Prime Minister also introduced a Youth Economic Empowerment Program, designed to be cost-effective and impact-driven. He said the initiative seeks to restore the Kingdom’s relevance to its subjects by working hand-in-hand with the government. “It is not just about the Kingdom but also about government delivery. We shall sensitize communities through radio, field visits, and kingdom structures. This is our mobilization strategy to ensure high impact and visibility,” Mr. Rwomiire said. The meeting also featured presentations from international partners working with the Tooro Kingdom on development projects. Mr. Nicolas Geoffrey, a Ugandan-born resident of the United Kingdom and special envoy of the Tooro Royal Family, revealed plans to build a university campus in Tooro specializing in agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and tourism. “We have identified land in the Kingdom and secured interest from investors. We have even engaged Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, through his envoy Claudia Pinto. However, our partners want a letter of support or directive from you to guarantee Uganda’s commitment,” Geoffrey told the President. Dr. Niel Holder, Tooro’s special envoy from Barbados and a UN Global Peace Ambassador, emphasized opportunities for trade and cultural exchange between Uganda and the Caribbean. “The Caribbean has many people who have never visited Africa. They go to Europe and the USA, spending lots of money in countries that don’t value them. With Uganda Airlines now operating flights to Britain, we can connect Britain to Barbados and open up new avenues for tourism, food trade, and cultural diplomacy,” Dr. Holder said. He pledged to work closely with King Oyo and President Museveni to develop bilateral relations that would unlock trade opportunities for Ugandan farmers and position Tooro as a hub of international partnerships. King Oyo’s delegation reaffirmed the Kingdom’s historic partnership with the central government, pledging to align its programs with national priorities. “The Kingdom has been consistent in supporting your leadership and programs. With this initiative, we want to demonstrate that we are partners in delivering transformation to our people,” Prime Minister Rwomiire said. President Museveni, visibly impressed with the proposals, praised the Kingdom’s proactive approach, particularly in anchoring its plans at the parish level, which he said would ensure inclusivity and sustainability.

14 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MARKS 81ST BIRTHDAY AS HE OFFICIATES AT FIRST-EVER BODA UNION FESTIVAL

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today celebrated his 81st birthday at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala City. The birthday celebrations were held concurrently with the first-ever Boda Union Festival and Expo. During his address, the President who was in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, thanked boda boda riders for celebrating his birthday with him. He also highlighted the government's efforts to protect boda boda riders from exploitative boda loans and moneylenders. “My agreement with the Boda Bodas is that it is criminal for someone to give you a rabbit and then demand a cow in return. Moneylenders give you Shs5 million and expect Shs15 million back. That is robbery,” he said, adding that high interest rates have made moneylenders “enemies of progress” across sectors, including agriculture. He explained that this is why the government introduced the Parish Development Model (PDM), which offers low-interest financing. “If we give you Shs1 million, you pay back just Shs1,125,000 after two years. We have applied the same arrangement for the ghetto and now for the Boda Bodas,” he said. The President also announced support to the industry and revealed that the State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye will certify all Boda Boda SACCOs to ensure accountability and prevent selfish individuals from misusing funds. Maama Janet congratulated the President for reaching his 81st birthday. She also urged Ugandans to embrace unity as the bedrock of transformation. “Africa was blessed with abundant resources, but we have remained poor because we fight among ourselves. Now, by God’s grace, Uganda has been given the wisdom to form a union — to bring us together. When we unite, we will be unstoppable,” she said. The First Lady also noted that while unity is key, Ugandans must also “learn to serve what we produce,” so as to build their own banks, wealth, and future. “God has used the President to lay a firm foundation for the Boda Bodas, the taxis, and for families across Uganda. It is now upon us to build on that foundation and create a nation that is truly unstoppable,” Maama Janet added. The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among also congratulated the President on his 81st birthday and praised him for making Uganda “the country everyone wants to live in.” She also thanked him for creating a conducive environment that has enabled the boda boda industry to flourish. On their part, boda boda leaders hailed the President for his support towards the industry. Mr. Frank Mawejje, Chairperson of the United Riders Cooperative Union, revealed that the recent patriotism training at Kaweweta gave riders the knowledge to run their unions more professionally. He said unlike in the past when SACCOs would collapse, they now employ accountants and lawyers to ensure proper management. Mr. Mawejje however, urged the government to deal with moneylenders who still confiscate the riders’ National IDs despite a Presidential directive banning the practice. Union Business Products Advisor, Mr. Fred Ssenoga called for unity between the taxi and boda boda sectors, saying their combined numbers in Kampala could lobby for life-transforming projects. He announced plans to establish “Union Villages” to help members own homes instead of spending their entire lives riding without a place to call their own. Mr. Ssenoga also appealed for government review of the Shs 700,000 digital number plate registration fee, arguing it was unfair for riders to pay the same as luxury car owners. Mr. Sekindi Rashid, Chairperson of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation (UTOF) requested the President to officially launch the new taxi park in Kampala and thanked him for expanding the road network and harmonizing the previously divided taxi industry. Events promoter Abbey Musinguzi alias Abtex also requested President Museveni to support events promoters through SACCOs, citing heavy exploitation by moneylenders. The celebrations ended with renewed calls for unity, discipline, and innovation within Uganda’s transport and entertainment industries, with leaders pledging to build on the foundation laid by the President.

13 September 2025

COL. NAKALEMA DELIVERS KEY SPEECH AT UK-AFRICA BUSINESS SUMMIT, UGANDA LAUDED AS BEST INVESTMENT DESTINATION

The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema has underscored the role of transparency and accountability in promoting investments in a country. According to Col. Nakalema, investor confidence hinges on predictable regulation, fair processes and robust oversight. “Transparent governance reduces risk perception, lowers borrowing costs and mobilizes capital whereas accountability mechanisms deter misuse, thus strengthening institutional trust,” she said. Col. Nakalema made the remarks on Friday 12th September 2025 while delivering a closing message of assurance to investors on behalf of Uganda’s leadership during the UK-Africa Business Summit 2025, London. The UK-Africa Business Summit, Trade and investment was established to strengthen commercial, diplomatic and development ties between the UK and African nations. Now in its 15th year, the summit provides a high-level platform for government leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and diaspora stakeholders to explore trade and investment opportunities. She underscored Uganda’s commitment to protecting investors through an enabling investment climate created by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government through the able leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Col. Nakalema also revealed that as SHIPU, technology is key in their operations. “Digital documentation reduces physical paperwork, expedites processing times, and minimizes the potential for human error, whereas secure communication ensures the confidentiality and integrity of all exchanges protecting investors from potential cyber fraud. Real time investment insights also enable investors to receive immediate updates on the investment process, protection and support.” During the same event, Uganda was lauded as the best investment destination and SHIPU’s Investors Protection Portal (EIPP) was referred to as a great investment catalyst due to its efficiency. “Uganda’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) capture leads the East African Community with 24 percent of the total regional foreign direct investment between 2019-2023,” she added. “Uganda was consistently named Africa’s top investment destination by AIM UAE in both 2023 and 2024 and also the investment catalyst award at the Go Global Awards in 2023 by the International Trade Council. This reflects investor confidence in policy stability and market reforms.” Col. Nakalema further noted that as stakeholders, they can build a prosperity bridge between Uganda and the UK that transforms both economies while establishing new standards for international investment partnerships in Africa. In his welcome remarks, the founder and chairman, UK-Africa Summit, Mr. Willy Mutenza said this year's programme continues to build on their core priorities, with a sharper focus on practical solutions and partnerships that deliver measurable outcomes. “Our engagement now extends beyond our long-standing trade relationship with the UK to include new and dynamic partners in Türkiye, India, the Caribbean, and across Africa and Europe. In Africa, we are actively promoting intra-continental trade, supporting regional integration and growth led by African enterprises and institutions,” he said. “We meet at a critical moment for global trade. Renewed tariffs from the United States under President Trump, alongside shifting geopolitical alliances, are reshaping how business is done across borders.” Mr. Mutenza noted that despite these challenges, Africa’s resilience continues to define its outlook. “With expanding markets, a youthful population, and growing infrastructure, the continent holds vast potential for investors seeking long-term opportunity,” he said. “This summit brings together global and regional voices committed to that vision.” Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba - Deputy Governor Bank of Uganda also made a much-appreciated presentation on Uganda’s steadfast economic growth. The summit was also attended by Uganda’s senior leaders who included, the 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, the Permanent Secretary, Internal Affairs Ministry, Lt. Gen. Joseph Musanyufu, the Director Citizenship & Immigration Control, Maj. Gen. Apollo Kasiita-Gowa, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Juliana Kagwa, among others.

13 September 2025

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

Roadside market vendors in Luwero district have been urged to ensure that they work towards stabilizing their household income and creating wealth. “H.E the President always advises us to join the money economy through the four sectors; commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. If we heed his message, we will be able to improve and stabilize our household income, thus creating wealth,” the Senior Presidential Advisor In-charge of the Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo said. Princess Nassolo made the remarks on Friday 12th September, 2025 as she led a team from State House to deliver President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s business booster package to the vendors of Balikyejusa Market in Luwero. At least 640 vendors benefited from the package and each one of them received Shs100,000. They majorly deal in agricultural produce, roasted gonja, roasted chicken and meat, beverages, among other items. According to Princess Nassolo, President Museveni received a report that most of the vendors have never benefited from the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, so he decided to first send them additional capital to their businesses as they wait to benefit from other government programs. “H.E the President has sent us to deliver this money to you directly. It's meant to boost your businesses. Use it well,” She advised. Princess Nassolo also called upon the vendors to always hold their leaders accountable if they want to benefit from government programs. “If you hold your leaders accountable, you will be able to get the right services from the government,” she said. “More so, you should vote for the right leaders who will be able to deliver on their promises. These leaders belong to the NRM party,” she added. On her part, the Special Presidential Assistant on Women Affairs, Ms. Flora Kabibi cautioned the vendors against politicking, urging them to mainly focus on working and improving their livelihoods. “As we head to the political season, vote for your candidates then go back and work, don't involve yourself in politicking,” she urged. “H.E the President always encourages all of us to work so that we improve our livelihoods. He has even extended financial support to you so that you can boost your businesses.” Ms. Kabibi also appealed to parents to nurture their children well to be responsible citizens in the country. The Chairperson of Balikyejusa Market, Mr. Nyombi Yakub Zziwa who also serves as the Chairperson of NRM Workers League - Luwero district, revealed that the money from the President is a big addition to them and that they were going to use it to expand their enterprises. “We thank the NRM government for its numerous poverty alleviation programs aimed at uplifting the lives of Ugandans.” Mr. Kayindo Musisi Ali, the Vice Chairperson of the market was also among the beneficiaries. He thanked President Museveni for extending support to the vendors and promised that they will utilise the funds well to grow their businesses. “Mzee we are so happy that you have given us this money to add into our businesses. Some of our people have inadequate capital but this support from H.E is going to solve that challenge,” he said. Ms. Nakibuule Sylvia, another vendor at Balikyejusa Market also expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the financial support, explaining that she is going to use it to boost her small business. Another excited vendor, Namugenyi Sandra, assured President Museveni that as vendors who have benefited from his financial support, they were going to reward him by voting him back to power in 2026. “We are going to vote for President Museveni again and again.” Mr. Ssimbwa Nelson, a vendor dealing in pineapples was also grateful to President Museveni for the kind gesture to the ordinary people like him. “Your Excellency, I can't thank you enough apart from praying for your good health. We pray that God enables you to lead and serve Ugandans for more years,” he stated.

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