PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR GLOBAL JUSTICE AND AFFLUENCE DURING IFTAR DINNER AT STATE HOUSE ENTEBBE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the current Chair of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has called on world leaders to pursue global justice and affluence, warning that conflicts driven by identity politics continue to destabilize regions and undermine development. “I would like to use this season of Ramadan to call upon people around the world to work for justice everywhere and for global affluence,” he said. President Museveni made the remarks yesterday while hosting the Muslim community for an Iftar dinner at State House Entebbe. The dinner ran under the theme: “Peace, Unity and Reconciliation: Our Divine Mandate for National Building”. The President reflected on the rising global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, and urged leaders to prioritize dialogue, fairness, and economic cooperation. He noted that Uganda maintains friendly relations with many countries involved in the Middle East tensions, including Israel, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. He revealed that he engaged several leaders privately to encourage dialogue and peaceful solutions. The President reiterated his long-standing support for the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, arguing that mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine could help stabilize the region. “I have always told the leaders involved that both sides should recognize each other so that the two-state solution can work,” President Museveni said. He warned that politics based on identity rather than shared interests often leads to prolonged conflict. Reflecting on Uganda’s own experience, President Museveni emphasized that prosperity depends on cooperation and integration rather than division. “As a cattle keeper, I produce milk, beef, and bananas. Whoever buys from me makes me happy. It is not just my tribe that supports my prosperity, it is Ugandans and even the wider region,” he said. “That is why unity is important. Dividing people is short-sighted.” The President also called on developed countries to support economic transformation in poorer regions, arguing that global prosperity benefits everyone. “If you are a smart businessman, why would you want to trade with a poor person?” he asked. “If people have income and wealth, they will buy your products. That is why the world should work towards global affluence.” On the other hand, President Museveni congratulated the Muslim community for observing the holy month of Ramadan and commended Ugandans for maintaining unity and rejecting sectarian politics. “I welcome all our Muslim brothers and sisters. I congratulate you for fasting during this holy month of Ramadan. It is not yet over, but we have already gone some distance.” President Museveni also thanked Ugandans, including the Muslim community, for their continued support and for embracing the message of unity that the NRM government has consistently advocated. “I want to thank the Muslims and all Ugandans for massively supporting us during the just concluded elections. I also congratulate you because when we asked you to avoid sectarianism and love all Ugandans irrespective of their differences, you listened,” he said. According to President Museveni, Uganda’s political stability over the years has largely been a result of rejecting divisive identity politics based on religion, tribe, or ethnicity. He noted that Uganda once suffered from identity-based politics, particularly during the early years around independence. “In the 1962 elections, political parties were largely organized along religious and sectarian lines. That poison nearly destroyed Uganda because no party had a nationwide base,” President Museveni explained. He said the situation forced fragile alliances that eventually collapsed and contributed to instability and conflict. On her part, the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo thanked the President and the First Lady, Janet Kataaha Museveni, for maintaining the tradition of hosting the Muslim community for the annual Iftar dinner. “Thank you, Your Excellency and Maama Janet, for extending this annual invitation to our Muslim brothers and sisters to gather here at State House to observe the Iftar dinner,” H.E Alupo said. She congratulated Muslims upon reaching the later stages of Ramadan and praised the spiritual values associated with the holy month. “Ramadan reminds us of the key messages of faith—prayer, thanksgiving, and fasting. I congratulate the Muslim community for the journey you have undertaken during this sacred period,” she noted. The Vice President also commended the theme of the event: ‘ Peace, Unity and Reconciliation: Our Divine Mandate for Nation Building’, saying it speaks directly to Uganda’s development aspirations. “Without peace, development is not possible,” she said, adding that Uganda has made significant progress in maintaining stability. She further applauded the leadership of the President and the security forces for preserving peace in the country. “Uganda is an island of peace in this region. We should not take this for granted. As citizens, we must all work together to preserve it.” Meanwhile, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, thanked the Muslim community for its continued support to the country’s leadership and national development. She also revealed that discussions on the establishment of Kadhi courts are currently before Parliament. “The issue of Kadhi courts is before us in Parliament, and we appreciate the trust that has been given to us to handle such important matters,” she said. Rt. Hon. Among also commended the President for sustaining the tradition of hosting the Muslim community for Iftar at State House. “We thank you for making this Iftar gathering a tradition and for your continued support to the Muslim community in Uganda,” she added. In his remarks, the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, congratulated President Museveni on his re-election and praised the government for promoting religious freedom and supporting Muslim participation in national development. “Your Excellency, we convey our sincere congratulations upon your re-election under the National Resistance Movement,” the Mufti said. He noted that the country has experienced institutional restoration and socio-economic transformation over the years, adding that the Muslim community appreciates the space given for freedom of worship. “As the Quran reminds us, Allah loves those who are just. We commend your leadership for supporting programs that promote national progress,” he said. The Mufti revealed that the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council has registered Imams across the country and initiated programs aimed at improving their livelihoods. “We have successfully registered imams across Uganda and have initiated Imam SACCOs to enable them participate actively in national wealth creation programs,” he said. He added that Uganda currently has about 16,300 mosques, which serve as centers for spiritual guidance and community development. He also mentioned the council has also established agricultural training centers to support farmers with modern and certified farming practices. “Many people plant crops without proper knowledge of how to manage them. We have opened various training centers to provide farmers with technical skills that will improve productivity,” he explained. The Mufti also expressed concern about conflicts in parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East, calling for renewed commitment to peace. “The ongoing conflicts are affecting humanity and causing loss of life. The world must renew its commitment to peace and mutual understanding. May Allah help us,” he said. He further noted that recent global developments could affect Ugandan pilgrims planning to travel for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Sheikh Ashraf Mutagubya, a lecturer at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), noted that the holy month of Ramadan offers Muslims an opportunity for spiritual reflection and wisdom. “During Ramadan, Muslims dedicate more time to reading the Quran and deepening their understanding of faith. It is a period that makes believers more reflective, and the wisdom gained during this holy month should guide us even beyond Ramadan,” he said. He added that peace and reconciliation remain essential for the progress of both the Muslim community and the nation at large. “Through peace and reconciliation, we can develop more inclusively as a community and as a nation,” Sheikh Mutagubya said. He also commended the government for recognizing the role of Muslims in national development, particularly through the introduction of Islamic banking and finance reforms. “For many years, Muslims have longed to participate more actively in national development. His Excellency saw it fit to consider our faith by introducing Islamic banking and finance, which has created an important opportunity for our community,” he noted. Sheikh Mutagubya further acknowledged the government’s leadership in maintaining stability in Uganda and encouraged Muslims to remain active contributors to the country’s progress. “The government has carried the burden of leadership and ensured that our nation remains stable in this region. As Uganda continues to move forward, Muslims should not remain spectators but partners in building our country through productive patriotism,” he said. “May Allah grant you strength where leadership is heavy and wisdom where judgment is required. May this Ramadan strengthen our unity and commitment to justice. May Allah bless Uganda, its leadership, and unite its people.” The Iftar dinner brought together Muslim leaders and the faithful, government officials including Ministers and Members of Parliament, among other invited guests.

2026-03-06

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR DISCIPLINE, HARD WORK AND TRUST IN GOD DURING TAREHE SITA THANKSGIVING BREAKFAST

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today called on Ugandans to combine hard work with trust in God, saying this is the true path to success. “Man was created in the image of God; therefore, we have the power to create, add, subtract, and exercise dominion over nature all under the guidance of God. What I don’t accept is relying on prayer alone without work. Success comes through hard work and trust in God, not just prayer,” he said. The President who was in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, made the remarks during the 15th Tarehe Sita anniversary thanksgiving breakfast at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) / Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) headquarters, Mbuya. The event, organized under MODVA/ UPDF, was held under the theme: “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; then you will be prosperous and successful”. Joshua 1:8. The prayer of dedication was led by the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, who read from Exodus 15:1–15 and offered prayers for the UPDF and the country at large. President Museveni, also the Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF congratulated Ugandans on the 45th Tarehe Sita, marking the start of the resistance at Kabamba. He also thanked the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for reminding Ugandans of the NRA’s role in key operations, including Kabamba and Masindi, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom. Reflecting on his personal journey, President Museveni shared instances where faith and effort intersected. He recalled a time as a student when a timely cow purchase allowed him to continue his studies, and recounted the early Kabamba attack in 1981, noting that the setbacks were part of God’s plan as the resistance lacked sufficient manpower. He highlighted the need to teach future generations about the nation’s challenges and history. “My Bazzukulu today have not seen the shortages, killings, brutalities of old armies, impassable roads, or early childhood deaths. We must continue to address poverty, corruption, poor roads, education gaps, and health sector issues,” he said. Finally, President Museveni announced that land has been secured to build a museum dedicated to the resistance, ensuring that future generations understand the struggles of their country and the lessons they carry. “We got some land, we are going to build a museum of the resistance so that we give the information to the new generation about the problems of their country and the efforts that were extended,” he said. “The theme of today’s occasion is important: if you stick to the code of conduct, you will succeed. This is not about money, it is about discipline, hard work, and trust in God.” In her prayer, Maama Janet thanked the Lord for guiding Uganda over the past 45 years, for His grace on the UPDF since the Kabamba attack in 1981, and for the critical role the security forces played in ensuring peace during the recent electoral season, as well as for their continued contribution to regional stability. Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, expressed gratitude to the First Lady for accompanying the President and reflected on the significance of the annual thanksgiving ceremony that follows Tarehe Sita. “Thank you, Maama, for accompanying the President,” he said. He explained that after Tarehe Sita, the ministry organizes a thanksgiving ceremony to reflect, recollect, and renew their commitment to national goals and milestones achieved over the years. “This occasion allows us to honor God and recommit ourselves to the progress we have made in various sectors,” he said. Hon. Oboth highlighted the importance of the day’s theme, which focused on defending the gains and honoring the sacrifices of Uganda’s freedom fighters. “With the theme of defending the gains and sacrifices of our national fighters, we come together to thank God for the many blessings bestowed upon our country,” he said. He also congratulated President Museveni on his recent electoral victory. “The celebrations mark not only the 45th Tarehe Sita anniversary but also reflect the courage, resilience, and commitment of our nation under your leadership, Your Excellency,” he added. In a message delivered on his behalf by Lt. Gen. Okiding, Gen. Muhoozi said this year’s 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kabale were a moment to reflect on Uganda’s progress and honour the sacrifices of the freedom fighters. “We celebrated our 45th Tarehe Sita in Kabale under the theme of defending and protecting the gains of the revolution, and honouring the sacrifices of the freedom fighters,” he noted. Gen. Muhoozi said the call for unity, peace and socio-economic transformation was clearly reflected in the choices Ugandans made on the polling day. “This call was translated by Ugandans through their ballots, demonstrating their desire to protect the gains of the revolution and consolidate the country’s progress,” the CDF said. He emphasized that UPDF’s journey from a small liberation force to a professional national army has been guided by faith and principle. “It is only God who has enabled us to reach the level of prosperity and success we are witnessing today. We thank the Almighty God for giving our President the strength and wisdom to lead us up to this day,” he said. On his part, Lt. Gen. Okiding highlighted the steady growth of the UPDF, which has become a professional force contributing nationally, regionally, and globally. “Day by day, the UPDF grew, standing firmly on clear principles. We have thrived on professionalism and contributed not only nationally but regionally and globally,” he said. He reiterated that Uganda’s national motto, ‘For God and My Country,’ remains a cornerstone of the UPDF’s foundation. The retired Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Luke Orombi, expressed gratitude to God for the journey Uganda has undertaken over the years. “I am so thankful to the President, but above all, I give thanks to God,” Archbishop Orombi said. “I have seen difficult days. I have seen seasons of uncertainty. I have witnessed prayers being lifted. And today, it is unique and powerful to see soldiers gathered to thank God.” Drawing from Scripture, he reflected on the leadership transition from Moses to Joshua, noting that the past decades of leadership in Uganda have helped many understand the biblical account more deeply. “The last years of leadership have opened our eyes to the Book of Joshua,” he said. “Joshua took over from Moses and led the children of Israel into the Promised Land. The salvation and the fulfilment of God’s promise took 40 years.” Archbishop Orombi thanked God for the national army and prayed for its continued commitment to its calling. “I thank God for our national army. May you continue to remain a people’s army, guided by purpose and faith,” he said. He also prayed for wisdom for President Museveni as he leads the country. “May God grant the President wisdom to fulfil his calling as the leader of this nation,” he added. Archbishop Orombi noted that Uganda has enjoyed peace and has extended support to neighbouring countries in times of need. “When a nation honours God, God prospers that nation and grants it peace and even peaceful neighbours,” he said. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mrs. Rosette Byengoma, welcomed President Museveni, the First Lady, and the distinguished guests, noting that the gathering was not merely ceremonial but deeply spiritual and reflective. “It is my great honour to welcome Your Excellency, the First Lady, and all our distinguished guests to this 15th Tarehe Sita thanksgiving. Today, we gather as one family, united to honour the Almighty God for His faithfulness,” she said. She also paid tribute to the UPDF, which began its liberation struggle in 1981, describing it as a force built on professionalism, practical discipline and clear principles. “Tarehe Sita is not just an event on the calendar. It is a symbol of courage and conviction. It reminds us of our responsibility to safeguard security, democracy and national unity,” she noted. On behalf of the Ministry and the entire UPDF fraternity, Mrs. Byengoma congratulated President Museveni upon his recent electoral victory, saying the renewed mandate reflected the trust Ugandans continue to place in his leadership. “We pray for God’s continued guidance, wisdom and strength as you lead our nation forward. We thank God for giving Uganda a visionary leader committed to a better future,” she said. This year’s national Tarehe Sita celebrations were held in Kabale District under the theme: “Defending the Gains of the Revolution and Honouring the Sacrifice of the Freedom Fighters: A Call for National Unity, Peace and Socio-Economic Transformation.” Mrs. Byengoma said Kabale, located in Uganda’s historic Kigezi region, provided a fitting backdrop for the celebrations, reminding the nation of the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle. “The theme challenges us to honour the sacrifice and dedication of the freedom fighters whose commitment laid the foundation for today’s peace and stability,” she said. There was also an emotional testimony from Lt. Gen. (Rtd) John Mugume, who reflected on his early days in the liberation struggle, particularly his time in Kabamba. He recalled the difficult and uncertain moments he faced as a young soldier, describing the immense sacrifices that defined that period. “I remember my time in Kabamba and the trying moments we went through as young soldiers. The sacrifices were enormous,” he said. Lt. Gen. Mugume noted that communication was a major challenge at the time. Unlike today, there were no mobile phones to enable constant consultation and coordination. “Things were not easy. There were no phones. The only line of communication moved from Kabamba to Ngoma, Katonga and other areas. We carried out our tasks without supervision, yet we remained committed,” he said. He explained that despite the hardships and pressure, they pressed on with determination, driven by belief in the cause. Reflecting on the progress made since those early days, he emphasized that Uganda has undergone remarkable transformation. “The Uganda of then is very different from the Uganda of now,” he said. Lt. Gen. Mugume expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the leadership and support extended to him and his colleagues over the years, noting that faith remained central throughout their journey. “We thank President Museveni for what he did for us and for the country. Above all, God has been at the centre of it all,” he said. He added that veterans remain proud of the institution they helped build. “As veterans, we are very proud of the UPDF, and we are proud of President Museveni,” he concluded. The function was attended by UPDF senior and other officers, families of the UPDF officers, religious leaders, and other distinguished guests.

2026-03-04

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI LAUNCHES UGANDA’S FIRST ISLAMIC INSURANCE FIRM, RALLIES MUSLIM COMMUNITY TO INVEST IN COMMERCIALLY VIABLE ECONOMIC VENTURES

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today launched Tamini General Insurance, Uganda's first Islamic Insurance firm. Tamini General Insurance is a conglomerate of Saalam Group designed to offer Sharia alternative insurance services based on mutually beneficial terms with joint insurance guarantees for insurers and the insured. The event took place today at Millennium Park - Lugogo, Kampala City during an Iftar dinner organised by the Senior Presidential Advisor Political Affairs and Head of NRM National Chairman's Office, Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo. “Salaam Bank and Tamini, you are welcome to Uganda. Uganda is a growing market with over 45 million people. The population will reach 100 million by 2050. You are in Uganda at the right time," the President said. He rallied the Muslim community to invest in commercially viable economic ventures as opposed to consumptive spending. President Museveni also applauded Salaam Group for extending all inclusive financial services and products that cover both low- and middle-income earners and defined their operations as a comprehensive financial cycle that offer financing and insurance options. “Insurance is about preparing so that in case anything goes wrong, you have backup. When you borrow, you invest but what if things do not go as planned? I thank Tamini Insurance for completing the cycle,” he stated. President Museveni further explained that the government is keen towards the implementation of interest free wealth creation initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM),adding that the 6 per cent annual charge is only intended to control inflation to maintain stability of the fund. He therefore implored the Muslim community to take advantage of such government initiatives. “We should work to eliminate poverty by getting everyone out of poverty. PDM will help to ensure the remaining 30 percent of Ugandans also gets out of poverty,” he said. President Museveni also informed PDM management committees to implement a matrilineal approach in selection of beneficiaries of the model funds. He explained that matrilineal approach that is based on kinship exclusively through the female line in a home, will ensure involvement of more families including polygamous families as opposed to patrilineal approach that may deny some women-led families chance to benefit from PDM. Additionally, the President commended women for their active involvement in economic activities that positively impact their households and national economy. He also pledged to inject more funds to support Muslim women families from Shs2 billion to about Shs20 billion. Mr. Mohamed Bahdon, group CEO Tamini Insurance identified the three operational pillars for their firm on the Ugandan market that include ethical investment, transparent oversight and collective participation to meet the overall objective of financial inclusion for all. He noted that Islamic based Insurance will offer affordable insurance options and redefine the country insurance landscape and a new echo system to that effect aligned to Uganda's vision 2040. “A farmer who accesses Halal financing from Salaam Bank to grow his crop can now insure that crop through Tamini,” Bahdon said. "This will result in Uganda's economic transformation from a consuming nation into a producing nation." The Chief Executive Officer of Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), Alhaji Ibrahim Kaddunabbi Lubega reported that Uganda's insurance sector has gradually muscled up to over Shs2 trillion with higher projections from the new sharia based Islamic Insurance scheme on board brought by Tamini General Insurance. Alhaji Kaddunabbi revealed that currently the global Sharia based Insurance is valued at USD 36.6 billion and projected to hit over USD 75 billion by 2033 and Uganda adopting the same, renders immense opportunities to the country's insurance sector to blossom further. On her part, Hajjat Namyalo noted that the just commissioned Muslim based Tamini General Insurance company will pay more attention to the informal sector including market vendors, communities in disaster prone areas. On the other hand, Sheikh Muhammad Yunus Kamoga, a Tabliq Muslim Sect leader, thanked President Museveni for always pardoning those caught on the wrong side of the law, mentioning himself and the prominent city motor car dealer Hajji Muhammad Ssebuufu. He however requested him to grant pardon to two prominent Muslims currently under detention. He also commended the President for fostering unity among Muslims and transforming Uganda into a modern society with equal benefits for all religions and aiding the establishment of Muslim education and financial institutions.

2026-03-03

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HOSTS FORMER TANZANIAN FIRST LADY ANNA MKAPA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today hosted the former First Lady of Tanzania, Anna Mkapa, who paid a courtesy call on him at State House, Entebbe. The meeting which was attended by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, reflected the deep and cordial relations between the leadership and people of Uganda and Tanzania, and the continued commitment to strengthening ties within the East African region. President Museveni warmly welcomed Mrs. Mkapa and commended the enduring friendship between the two countries. He noted that Uganda and Tanzania continue to enjoy strong bilateral relations built on mutual respect and collaboration in key sectors including education, trade, regional security, and development. Mrs. Mkapa expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation between the two nations. She acknowledged the strong historical bond between Uganda and Tanzania and emphasised the need to sustain partnerships that promote regional integration and social development.

2026-03-02

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMITS SHS5BN TO CREATIVES, URGES YOUTH TO JOIN POVERTY FIGHT AT JAZZ WITH JAJJA SECOND EDITION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the First Lady, also the Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni today hosted the second edition of Jazz with Jajja at their Kisozi farm in Gomba District. The event brought together a number of content creators, journalists, digital entrepreneurs, and social media influencers for a deep reflection on Uganda’s economic transformation and national values. Before the formal discussion, President Museveni took the youth on a tour of his farm, showcasing his herds, including Ekyigondo, now numbering over 700 cows originally belonging to his late mother, Kokundeka, for ghee production. He emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of forefathers and passing it on to the next generation. The Ranch Edition, coordinated by Mrs. Natasha Museveni Karugire, brought together young Ugandans, many of whom shared stories of rising from difficult beginnings through digital enterprise. The inaugural edition took place on January 4, 2026. During the meeting, President Museveni also pledged Shs5 billion in support to organized content creators, describing them as an important layer in Uganda’s evolving economy. Responding to a request from YouTuber Isaac Katende, popularly known as Kasuku, on how digital influencers can formally collaborate with the government, the President described the sector as a modern evolution of traditional advertising. “What you are talking about is not something new. In the past, companies spent money on television and radio advertising. Now a layer of operators has come up using social media as an easier way of communication to package and present products to consumers,” he said. “If you are organized, we shall support you. If it is a combination of sales and entertainment, that is fine. I am glad to see our young people putting up that layer of promoters. We shall support you both in improving communication technology and operationally.” President Museveni also underscored the contribution of content creators in the new economy. “You are adding something different. It used to be an advertisement on radio and television. Now you have used the internet to combine celebrity with promotion and link it with other sectors.” He framed the discussion within what he called Uganda’s “whole battle”, moving citizens from poverty into productive economic participation. “I have heard that many of you were born in difficult circumstances. There are many like that. The question is: how can the country deal with that?” he inquired. The President explained that the government's long-standing strategy has been to involve as many Ugandans as possible in the four wealth creation sectors. “Now about 70 percent have joined the money economy. Those will help us deal with the remaining 30%. In this new kisanja, we must fight poverty because poverty is the biggest problem,” he said. He emphasized that financing has been deliberately taken closer to citizens through the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, ghetto funds and boda boda funds. “We have made sure the money is near the people. PDM is in the parish; in towns it is in the wards. Go and join the SACCOs. They are open to everyone above 18 years.” He revealed that the government injects Shs100 million per parish annually totalling Shs500 million per parish over five years, creating what he described as “parish banks.” For creatives specifically, he confirmed direct intervention. “For the creatives, we are going to put money in your own SACCOs. We already have billions with the musicians. Now we are supporting you as well.” He reiterated that science and technology remain the primary drivers of transformation. “The primer of change in human society is science and technology,” he said. “Without it, you cannot transform society.” He concluded by thanking the organizers. “I thank Natasha for coordinating you and bringing you here. I thank Maama for coming to support me at this event. God bless you all.” In her comprehensive address, Maama Janet urged young Ugandans to rediscover their identity, embrace faith and take responsibility for transforming their country. “It is important that we celebrate being Ugandan. Africa has failed to develop because it always looks to other countries to develop it, to change it or to do things for it, yet there are jobs here.” She expressed concern about young Africans risking their lives abroad while opportunities exist at home. “We must start by being proud of being Ugandan. All the other things will come from knowing that Uganda depends on us to develop it,” she said. Maama Janet cautioned against identity erosion, urging young people to value who they are and where they come from. “When you see Ugandans trying to change themselves to look like others, just think,” she said, emphasizing that confidence in national identity is foundational to transformation. On education reform, she spoke at length about Uganda’s new competency-based curriculum, describing it as a shift from passive learning to active engagement. “Our young people now enjoy being in class, asking questions and doing their own projects. Teachers are becoming facilitators. Education should liberate, not keep us captive.” She also contrasted education rooted in colonial philosophies with an approach that empowers African identity and critical thinking. “When you educate a person properly, you liberate your country,” she said. The First Lady further highlighted the government's growing investment in sports, noting that structured planning has replaced past improvisation. “In the past, students would go for national competitions without accommodation or food,” she said. “Now we plan. We select which teams to fund as a nation because we cannot fund all at once.” Although the national budget must address multiple priorities, Maama Janet assured participants that sports development is steadily improving as resources increase. Drawing on faith, she encouraged discipline and purpose. “Before you were in your mother’s womb, God knew you. Those who discipline their lives will fulfil their purpose.” She urged the youth to reject divisions based on tribe or religion and to work together. “If we hold hands as Ugandans and work together, our country will be unstoppable.” Among the participants was Ms. Jackie Arinda, a young entrepreneur who runs a coffee business using social media platforms. “I sell my coffee on TikTok, X and Instagram,” she said. “I go to the roastery, roast my coffee, take it home and market it directly on my social media platforms.” Ms. Arinda noted that digital platforms have enabled her to reach customers beyond her immediate location and build a brand without relying on traditional distribution channels. She added that she had previously benefited from the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), which helped strengthen her financial footing. However, she raised concerns about skills gaps and emerging technologies. “What policy changes can enable Ugandan businesses to use new technologies like AI and drone systems?” she asked. “As much as we advertise, we are not yet skilled to the required standard.” In response, President Museveni welcomed the innovation demonstrated by young entrepreneurs. “We shall support you to continue improving the technology of communication and also give you operational support,” he said. Delivering a vote of thanks, Ms. Pamela Ankunda said the central message of the engagement was patriotism and strategic security for Uganda and Africa. “The biggest takeaway is the love of Uganda and the strategic security of Uganda and Africa,” she said. “When you love Uganda, you understand that this event was teaching us the values of our country.” She thanked the First Lady for being “a woman of faith and valor” to the women of Uganda, recalling her declaration in Karamoja that the region would grow its own food “not by anyone’s power, but by the mighty power of God.”

2026-03-01

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI RECEIVES CREDENTIALS FROM SIX NEW AMBASSADORS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today received Letters of Credence from six Ambassadors-designate accredited to the Republic of Uganda at State House Entebbe. The Ambassadors who presented their credentials are: H.E. Mr. Ahmed Mohammed Abdulrahman Abdullah Al-Zweidi, Ambassador-designate of the State of Qatar H.E. Mr. Juan Humberto Macìas Pino, Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Cuba H.E. Mr. Seddiki Nafaa, Ambassador-designate of the Sahrawi Republic H.E. Mr. Gideon Behar, Ambassador- designate of the State of Israel H.E. Mr. Jaime Moreno Bau, Ambassador-designate of the Kingdom of Spain H.E. Mr. Màrio De Azevedo Constantino, Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Angola President Museveni welcomed the envoys to Uganda and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, technology transfer, education, and regional stability. He emphasized that Uganda remains open to partnerships that promote value addition, economic transformation, and shared prosperity for the people of Uganda and the respective countries. The President wished the Ambassadors successful tenures and assured them of Uganda’s support in the execution of their diplomatic duties.

2026-02-27