PRESIDENT MUSEVENI UNVEILS INDIVIDUALIZED WATER PLAN FOR WEALTH CREATORS IN KARAMOJA, PLEDGES MORE ROADS, SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has unveiled a new government initiative to establish individualized water systems aimed at supporting commercial farmers and small-scale producers, as part of a broader effort to eradicate poverty through wealth creation and self-sufficiency. Addressing thousands of supporters during a campaign rally at Kalas Girls Primary School in Amudat District, Karamoja Sub-region, on Tuesday 28th October, 2025, H.E. Museveni said the government was developing a plan to ensure every productive household has access to reliable water for production, a move he said would mark a turning point in Uganda’s rural transformation strategy. “We are working out a plan for water for rural areas. Apart from the valley dams, people need water at each home,” President Museveni said. “The communal water systems will not address their water problem. We are trying to analyze how we can provide individualized water for wealth creators. In the Ankole area, we no longer use those communal dams. If you come to Rwakitura, you will see I have three of my own dams because animals, when they go too far, they get diseases like ticks,” he added. The new policy seeks to end decades of dependency on shared water facilities in semi-arid regions like Karamoja, where boreholes and valley dams are often overstretched or dry up during prolonged droughts. “Borehole water is still very low at 18%. The Minister of Karamoja must find out what the problem is, because in other districts like Abim and Karenga, the percentage is much higher,” President Museveni said. Government data indicates that only 18% of Amudat District’s 415 villages currently have access to safe water, leaving 81.7% without a clean source. Of the existing water-for-production infrastructure, one solar-powered irrigation system has been completed at Katotin, 12 valley tanks have been constructed, and two wind-powered abstraction systems have been installed. Major recent projects include the Kosike Valley Dam, with a capacity of 2.7 billion litres, and the Kaechom Valley Dam, which holds 1.8 billion litres. Ongoing projects include additional solar-powered irrigation systems and a large valley tank under construction. The Lowoyakur Dam, shared with Nakapiripirit, will hold 1.4 billion litres of water once completed. Peace as the foundation of development: Throughout his address, President Museveni emphasized that peace, the first of seven core achievements highlighted in the NRM’s 2026–2031 manifesto, remains the cornerstone of Uganda’s development. “If you want to know that miracles are possible in Africa, come to Karamoja and come to Amudat. I thank God for making me somehow connected to that miracle,” President Museveni said, while revisiting Uganda’s turbulent past. He explained how the National Resistance Movement (NRM) restored peace and national unity after decades of instability, where, before 1986, Uganda’s electoral and administrative systems were poorly aligned, leading to marginalization in areas like Karamoja. “Before the coming into power of NRM, there were no permanent constituencies. They would just make ad hoc constituencies to favor certain parties. In 1989, we decided that each constituency must be equal to a county. At that time, there were 149 counties in the whole of Uganda, and something called Upe was one of them with a population of only 20,000. Some of the counties in the south, like Bukoto, had 360,000 people. But we said that for now, let’s start with the counties, and that’s how Upe became a constituency,” President Museveni said. He highlighted Amudat’s recognition as a district stemming from the government’s respect for cultural and linguistic diversity. “These people are Pokot, and their language is different from Karamojong. Let them have their district and speak their Pokot language there. When I come today and see that the population of Amudat has grown to 203,000, I say this is a miracle,” President Museveni said. Disarmament and border security: President Museveni credited Uganda’s peace to firm decisions such as the disarmament of Karamojong warriors in the early 2000s. He dismissed arguments that communities in Karamoja and neighboring Turkana, Pokot, or Toposa areas should be allowed to keep guns to “balance terror.” “Some said if Karamojong and Turkana both stay with guns, they will stabilize by killing each other. But why have a government if people must protect themselves?” he asked. “And this was a false argument because, like in West Nile, there’s peace, despite the wars in South Sudan and Congo, West Nile is peaceful. Even Kasese and Bundibugyo are peaceful, yet there are wars in Eastern DRC. So, that’s when I insisted that you bring the guns; I will protect you against the Pokot of Kenya, Turkana of Kenya, and others,” President Museveni added, noting that when the Turkana killed three people, including surveyors, he banned them from grazing in Uganda. President Museveni said he had since raised the issue with Kenya’s President William Ruto, demanding that the Kenyan government compensate the victims’ families. “I could not accept this impunity of criminality. I told President Ruto that if these criminals don’t have money, the Kenyan government must pay. I will perform a ceremony in Karamoja here with President Ruto for the Kenyan government to pay for the lives of our officers who died,” President Museveni said, adding that the ceremony will also attract elders to cleanse the blood of the people who died, and the bishops and the sheikhs will also come in and contribute spiritually. Turning to infrastructure, President Museveni vowed to ensure all major roads in Karamoja remain passable year-round. “I have warned the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Local Government that I don’t want to hear of a major road that is impassable. It may not be tarmac, but it must be motorable all the time,” he said. Recent road achievements in Karamoja include 180.4 km of newly paved roads, such as Nadunget–Iriiri (65.6 km), Kokeris–Matany (5.5 km), Namalu–Nakapiripirit (17 km), and Akisim–Moroto–Lokitanyala (92.3 km). Currently under construction are the Moroto–Lokitanyala (42 km) and Muyembe–Nakapiripirit (92 km) roads. Several other routes are under procurement, including Kaabong–Kapedo–Karenga (67 km) and Kotido–Kaabong (64 km), while the Moroto–Tochi–Atiang–Opit–Awo (94 km) and Kotido–Abim–Aloi–Lira (99 km) roads are under design. President Museveni said the government would also tarmac the Nakapiripirit–Amudat road, a key artery for trade and connectivity in the region. President Museveni reaffirmed the NRM government’s commitment to universal access to education, saying the ultimate goal is to ensure one primary school per parish and one secondary school per sub-county. Currently, Amudat District has 27 government primary schools, 8 private primary schools, 2 government secondary schools, and 1 private secondary school. Out of 44 parishes, only 11 host at least one government primary school. However, three new Seed Secondary Schools are under construction, which will reduce the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school from 9 to 6. The President said he intends to abolish the practice of charging fees in government schools, calling it an injustice against poor families. “When we introduced UPE in 1996, we wanted children to study for free. But school managers started bringing money again,” he said, adding that in the coming government, he would like to stop the charging of fees in government schools. In the health sector, President Museveni noted that Amudat District currently has one Health Centre IV and three Health Centre IIIs, leaving seven sub-counties without any health facility. To close this gap, the government plans to upgrade and construct several facilities, including: Upgrading Karita HCIV to a General Hospital, upgrading Abilyep HCII, Achorichor HCII, Amudat HCII, Cheptapoyo HCII, and Lokales HCII to HCIIIs and constructing new HCIIIs in Karita and Kongoro sub-counties. Ongoing works include the upgrading of Katabok HCII to HCIII, Karita HCIII to HCIV, and the construction of an operating theatre at Amudat General Hospital. President Museveni used the rally to reinforce his message of wealth creation, urging residents to use the Parish Development Model (PDM) and other government programs to lift themselves out of poverty. He played video testimonials of beneficiaries who have prospered under the PDM, including: George Matongo, a livestock farmer in Ngoma; Dick Korea Ogila, a mango farmer from Abim earning over Shs6 million per harvest; Amos Losengole, a goat farmer from Amudat who invested his Shs1 million PDM fund wisely; and Emmanuel Lokong, a piggery farmer from Nakapiripirit. President Museveni said the government would soon provide vehicles to cooperatives to help farmers transport goods to urban markets. Amudat District has so far received Shs13.49 billion under the PDM, of which Shs13.1 billion (97.2%) has been disbursed to 12,118 households, about 28.6% of the district’s 42,310 households. “We shall support cooperatives with group transport to access Kampala markets,” H.E. Museveni pledged. President Museveni told residents that Uganda’s transformation from instability to peace and development over the last 40 years is a testament to the NRM’s resilience. “Now we have peace not only in Karamoja but also in Acholi, West Nile, the Rwenzori, and Kisoro. There’s peace everywhere,” he said. He urged voters to defend the gains made under the NRM government by ensuring continued support for the party in the upcoming 2026 elections. “If anybody asks you why you support NRM, tell them that in our manifesto of 2026–2031, peace is our first contribution. It is the foundation upon which everything else stands,” President Museveni said. First Lady Janet Museveni calls for 100% NRM vote: The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, also addressed the rally, commending the people of Amudat and Karamoja for their steadfast support of the NRM. “The NRM government is your government. It has worked so hard to make sure that Karamoja is peaceful, like any other part of Uganda. Please make it a responsibility to make sure that everybody votes for NRM so that we protect the gains so far and take a qualitative leap into the middle-income status for the whole of Karamoja and Uganda,” The First Lady said, adding that this would enable all the programs in the pipeline to be implemented in the next term of office. “Therefore, I trust that even this time, you’ll make sure that Amudat will vote 100% for the President and the whole lineup of NRM flagbearers,” she added. Amudat District, with a population of 203,358 people, had 43,647 registered voters in the 2021 elections. Of these, 31,453 (72.1%) voted, and President Museveni secured 30,451 votes (97.6%), while the National Unity Platform (NUP) polled 625 votes (2%). As of 2025, registered voters in the district have risen to 58,203, and the number of polling stations has increased from 120 to 164. The event was also addressed by several senior leaders, including Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, NRM Vice Chairperson for Karamoja, Hon. John Baptist Loki, and NRM Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, who urged residents to maintain their loyalty to the ruling party and consolidate the progress achieved under President Museveni’s leadership.

2025-11-28

“PRESIDENT MUSEVENI KICKS OFF ANKOLE CAMPAIGN TRAIL, REAFFIRMS NRM’S COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING ROAD CONNECTIVITY AND OPENING UP MARKETS FOR FARMERS, TRADERS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the Presidential Flag-bearer for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), today kicked off his campaign trail in the Ankole Sub-region, starting with Isingiro District. He was accompanied by the First daughter, Mrs. Patience Rwabwogo Museveni, who joined him in engaging supporters across the district. Addressing thousands of supporters at Isingiro District Headquarters, the President thanked God for the peace and stability the NRM has maintained over the years. “As I introduce to you the 2026/31 Manifesto, I want to thank God. I came here today wearing yellow and without guns. In the past—1972, 1979, and 1985—I passed through here with guns, fighting. But today, we have gathered peacefully, well-dressed, dancing, and united. I thank God, and I thank the NRM for restoring peace in Uganda,” he said. President Museveni highlighted the government’s achievements in road infrastructure within the region. He noted that the NRM Government had already completed key roads such as the Mbarara–Kikagate–Isingiro road and the Kachumbala–Kabale–Ntungamo Road. The President added that the remaining priority roads include; Kikagate–Kitwe–Namahimba road and Kabingo–Rwekubo–Rugaaga–Endizi–Magabi–Rakai–Mutukula road, reaffirming the NRM’s commitment to improving connectivity and opening up markets for farmers and traders. Development Alone Is Not Enough: The President emphasized that while Uganda has made enormous strides in development, household wealth must now be the focus. He clarified the long-standing confusion between development and wealth creation, noting that urban centres like Kampala enjoy vast infrastructure yet some residents remain poor. He outlined the four pillars of wealth creation including; commercial agriculture, manufacturing and factories, services such as hotels and transport and ICT. President Museveni reminded the supporters that after securing peace, the NRM introduced the Four-Acre Model in the 1996 Manifesto as a practical pathway out of poverty. He explained the model; one acre for coffee, one acre for fruits, one acre for pasture for dairy cattle, one acre for food for the family and backyard poultry or piggery as well as fish farming for those near wetlands. To strengthen wealth creation, the President said the government will continue injecting funds into programmes such as Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, and will add new dedicated funds for leaders, ghettos, boda bodas, unemployed graduates, religious leaders, and cultural leaders. Jobs Come from Wealth, Not Government: The President also addressed misconceptions about employment, noting that government jobs alone cannot employ the country’s large population. He explained that Uganda currently has about 480,000 government jobs, compared to a population of 50 million, making it impossible for the state to absorb everyone. “You cannot talk of jobs without talking of wealth. Jobs come from commercial agriculture, factories, services, and ICT,” the President said. He gave the example of Mbale Industrial Park, which now houses over 75 factories and has created thousands of jobs. The President stressed that while the government employs 480,000 people, the new factories across the country have already created 1.3 million jobs—nearly three times more than the public sector. President Museveni further guided banana farmers in the area to embrace modern agricultural practices and use of irrigation to boost productivity. Isingiro District is predominantly a banana growing district with a wider market reach for bananas which the President intends to further improve through irrigation and better land management practices. President Museveni also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairpersons, councillors, and other party candidates in Isingiro District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. The Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among also the Second National Vice chairperson NRM urged the people of Isingiro to maintain their overwhelming support for the NRM, saying the district remains a shining example of good organization and accountability. She revealed that earlier in the day, leaders had launched a workers’ SACCO to boost incomes and promote wealth creation in the district. “We do not have audit queries in Isingiro, and that speaks to the discipline and transparency in this area,” she said. Hon. Among also appreciated ongoing government efforts to provide clean water to the sub-region, including the Kagera and Doctor Deep water projects, which serve both host communities and refugee settlements. “This is a refugee-hosting district, and we thank you, Your Excellency, for the peace and stability that allow these communities to thrive,” she said. This party is not just for President Museveni; it is for all of us.” The State Minister for Agriculture and Animal Industry, Hon. Lt. Col. Bright Rwamirama, reassured President Museveni of massive support in the district. “Thank you, Your Excellency, for standing with the people of Isingiro. We appreciate everything you do for us, and we commit to support you immensely,” he said. NRM District Chairperson Lt. Moses Mushabe welcomed the President, recalling that Isingiro delivered 94% of the vote in the 2021 general elections. He pledged to close the gap further. “This time, the remaining votes will also go to you, Your Excellency,” he said. He highlighted the district’s demographic profile—30 Sub-Counties/Town Councils, 131 Parishes, 901 villages, and a population of 635,077—noting the district’s rapid growth and increasing needs, particularly in health facilities since the area hosts refugees. Lt. Mushabe reported that Isingiro has received Shs. 47.1 billion under the Parish Development Model, including the latest funds released in November 2025. So far, 41,131 households, representing 27.7% of all households, have benefited. Under Emyooga, the district has 89 SACCOs with 31,901 members, supported by government financing totaling Shs. 3.35 billion, helping artisans, traders, and service providers expand their enterprises. Isingiro’s education footprint has grown significantly, with; 197 government primary schools and 543 private primary schools and 21 government secondary schools and 75 private secondary schools. However, some parishes and sub-counties still lack government institutions. To close these gaps, the district is constructing seven new Seed Secondary Schools. Once completed, the number of sub-counties without government secondary schools will drop from 16 to 9. The district also benefits from the Presidential Industrial Skilling Hubs, with the Ankole hub located in Mbarara City. So far, 1,226 youth have been trained, and 247 learners are currently enrolled in trades such as carpentry, tailoring, metal fabrication, hairdressing, baking, and construction. Out of the 30 Sub-Counties, Isingiro currently operates 4 HCIVs and 26 HCIIIs, leaving 8 sub-counties without a government health facility. To address this, the government plans to upgrade multiple HCII facilities to HCIII and construct new HCIIIs in Kabingo and Kagarama. Water access stands at 51%, with 461 out of 901 villages having safe water sources. In recent years, government has delivered; major piped water systems in Nyarubungo, Rugaga, Kihiihi, Isingiro Town Council, Kaberere, and other areas, serving over 100,000 residents, construction of 15 protected springs, 41 rehabilitated boreholes, and multiple gravity-flow schemes, boreholes drilled in water-stressed areas such as Kagaga, Karunga, Ntenga, Kyarwanshashura, and Kihanda. Ongoing works include the construction of the Isingiro piped water and sanitation system, expansions of the Nyamisindo and Rumuri systems, and new protections for natural springs in Mahaama, Nyakisheshero, and Nyakabingo. The government has invested heavily in water for production infrastructure, including; Kamwema (10,000m³) and Kyakashana (5,000m³) valley tanks, Small-scale irrigation schemes in Ruhimbo, Bugarika, and Kibwera, rehabilitation of Kagango dam and construction of large-capacity valley tanks like Nyamarungi. The flagship of Kabuyanda Multipurpose Dam and Irrigation Scheme, covering 3,300 hectares, is underway and will benefit 32,000 farmers across 38 villages. The district leadership confirmed that Isingiro is now fully connected to the national electricity grid, boosting businesses, schools, health centres, and households. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

2025-11-27

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES SPECIAL FERTILISER FUND AS HE RALLIES KANUNGU ON WEALTH CREATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced that the government will establish a dedicated special fund to enable tea farmers in Kanungu District to access affordable fertilisers, saying the intervention will boost productivity and strengthen the district’s tea-driven economy. Addressing thousands of supporters during a campaign rally at Rwere Playground in Kanungu District on Wednesday, 26th November, 2025, President Museveni, also the NRM Presidential flag bearer, said the high cost of fertilisers had become a major constraint for growers, especially those managing large estates. “My people – the tea growers – are saying that the cost of fertilizers is too high and it is becoming unaffordable for large-scale growers. We are going to start a special fund for them so that they can easily access these fertilizers,” President Museveni said. He added that the financing would be channeled through farmers’ SACCOs, similar to the model the government is preparing for sugarcane growers and fishermen. Tea growing is the economic backbone of Kanungu District, supported by large factories that process both estate tea and out-grower leaf. President Museveni noted that the crop is best suited for people with extensive acreage, just like maize, sugarcane, and cotton, which require substantial land to generate meaningful income. For smallholder farmers, the President emphasized the 4-Acre Model, introduced in the 1996 NRM manifesto, as a proven pathway out of poverty. At the same rally, President Museveni placed peace at the top of what he termed the “seven contributions of NRM”, arguing that national stability remains the most essential achievement of his leadership. He reminded residents of Kanungu - situated near the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) - that they understand better the value of peace, given the insecurity that persists across the border. “You, the people of Kanungu who are near the Congo border, know better what peace means,” he said, contrasting Uganda’s decades of stability with the turmoil faced by neighbouring countries. The President said Uganda’s peace-building success was achieved without reliance on international forces. “Uganda - we don’t need the United Nations to protect us. We do it ourselves because we emphasize prioritization of what is essential in defence and not high salaries or good houses,” he noted. President Museveni credited the NRM government with transforming Uganda’s road network and linking border points to major economic routes. He announced that more roads in the Kigezi sub-region would be upgraded, including the 149-kilometre Hamurwa–Kerere–Kanungu–Butogota–Hamayanza–Ifasha–Ikunza stretch. “We are going to work on that road,” he assured. Local leaders had earlier thanked the President for the Rukungiri–Kanungu road, which they said had significantly improved trade and movement in the area. Turning to the subject of household wealth creation, President Museveni warned against confusing government development projects, such as roads, electricity and schools, with personal prosperity. Using a popular Busoga proverb, “Akange kakira akaife,” he explained that although public infrastructure benefits everyone, wealth remains a private responsibility. “The tarmac road is ours, but wealth and poverty are yours personally,” he told the crowd. “You may leave a rally like this one and find poverty waiting for you at home.” President Museveni cited long-tarmacked roads such as the Kabale–Mbarara–Masaka–Tororo highway, noting that despite the road’s longevity, many residents living along it remain poor. He stressed that while development enables economic opportunity, it does not guarantee wealth. To illustrate his wealth creation message, the President showcased several success stories across Uganda. One of these is George Matongo of Nakaseke, who produces 900 litres of milk daily and earns over Shs 21 million every month, despite living far from a tarmac road. “This man is far away from the tarmac road. Development is not there but wealth is there,” President Museveni said, noting the contrast between infrastructure and household productivity. He also shared the story of Joseph Basangwa from Kamuli, who after listening to the NRM wealth message, started JEKA Farm on a 50×100 ft plot. The enterprise now produces 200 trays of eggs daily, generating Shs 20 million per day and Shs 7.2 billion annually. Basangwa now employs more than 300 people. Another example was Mr. Dickson in Abim, Karamoja, who planted mangoes using seedlings from Operation Wealth Creation (OWC). After harvesting, he earned over Shs 12 million in 2023 and now anticipates Shs 36 million annually as Soroti Fruit Factory has contracted his produce. He also invested PDM funds into goats and cassava. “That man is in Karamoja—no tarmac road, but electricity is there. OWC was for the whole country, but some of you never minded about it,” he remarked. The President underlined that Uganda’s real engine of employment is not government but commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT. With a national population of 50 million, only about 480,000 jobs are within government structures. “Factories in industrial parks now employ over 1.3 million people,” he said, citing Sino-Mbale, Kapeeka, and Mukono Industrial Parks as examples. “The jobs in manufacturing and industrialization are three times more than those in government.” On education, the President expressed disappointment with individuals who continue to frustrate free education in government schools. He reminded the audience that the government launched Universal Primary Education (UPE) in 1996, followed by Universal Secondary Education (USE), yet many children are still being sent away over school fees. To demonstrate that free education is possible, President Museveni said he had established 19 Presidential Skilling Hubs across the country to train youths who dropped out of school. For Kanungu District, the regional hub for Kigezi is located in Kabale, offering training in tailoring, welding, baking, carpentry, automotive mechanics, and several other trades. The President heard testimonies from beneficiaries, including Kushemererwa Bosco, who studied welding and now employs four people, and Flavia Akankunda, who trained in tailoring after dropping out of school due to fees. Kanungu District, carved out of Rukungiri in 2001, comprises 27 sub-counties and town councils, 102 parishes, and 525 villages. According to the 2024 census, the district has a population of 310,062. In the 2021 presidential election, Kanungu had 146,064 registered voters, of whom 60.5% turned up to vote. President Museveni garnered 72,126 votes (84.2%), while the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) scored 7.8%. In 2025, the number of registered voters had risen to 164,992, while polling stations increased from 309 to 442. Local NRM leaders thanked President Museveni for the Parish Development Model (PDM) project, which they said had significantly benefited the district. Kanungu has 102 parishes, 98 of which have received PDM funds, since four were created after the program’s launch. To date, the district has received Shs 30.05 billion for PDM, of which 98.89% has been disbursed to 29,726 beneficiary households. Through Emyooga, Kanungu has 36 SACCOs comprising 29,545 members, with the government releasing Shs 2.42 billion to support enterprise groups. The NRM 2nd National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon Anita Among praised Kanungu residents for consistently supporting President Museveni, whom she credited for restoring peace in the Kigezi sub-region and across Uganda. Former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi also addressed the rally, saying President Museveni “understands Uganda more than everyone else” and urged voters to extend his mandate in 2026. Mr. Caleb Kipande, the NRM chairperson for Kanungu District, thanked the President for peace, the Rukungiri–Kanungu road, and the Matanda Irrigation Scheme, which he said will enhance agricultural resilience. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including NRM Central Executive Committee members led by Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, cabinet ministers, MPs, and NRM historicals.

2025-11-26

“NRM IS A TESTED FORCE THAT HAS DELIVERED PEACE AND STABILITY,” SAYS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the Presidential flag bearer for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has today reaffirmed that the party remains the only political force with a proven record of steering Uganda from instability to peace and development. Addressing thousands of supporters during a campaign rally in Rukungiri, the President said the people of Kigezi understand better than most citizens what it means to live without security. Communities in areas such as Kanungu–Kihihi, he noted, once lived under constant fear due to insecurity spilling over from the DR Congo border. “We are a tested force. We have walked Uganda through every challenge and delivered stability,” President Museveni said, emphasizing that peace remains the foundation on which all national progress is built. The President underscored NRM’s approach to development , prioritizing essentials and working steadily within available resources. He explained that government spending begins with security, followed by key services such as roads, electricity, schools, and health facilities. The President pointed to completed works such as the Ntungamo– Rukungiri– Kihihi–Ishasha–Kanungu Road. He also announced new projects including the Muhanga– Kisiizi– Rwamucucu–Kebisoni Road and the Kabwohe–Kitagata–Kabira–Rukungiri Road. “NRM prioritises what matters. We don’t lie, and we don’t promise miracles, we are not Jesus,” he said. He highlighted major gains in rural electrification, noting that areas which previously had no power are now fully connected, including Bushenyi, Rwashamaire, Rukungiri, Kabale, and Kisoro. “The government is now working to ensure every sub-county is connected so that no household or enterprise is left behind,” he said. President Museveni also praised the resilience of the Bakiga in overcoming geographical hardship. He promised further investment in irrigation systems capable of lifting water uphill so farmers can grow crops throughout the year. This, he said, will help families break the cycle of seasonal poverty. While celebrating the infrastructural transformation of the region, the President reminded residents that development alone cannot create prosperity without personal effort. He urged families to embrace wealth creation using available government initiatives such as Entandikwa, NAADS, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Emyooga, and the Parish Development Model (PDM). “Poverty is personal, and so is wealth. These opportunities are not for the rich, they are for ordinary people,” he said. President Museveni explained that jobs in government are limited to only 480,000 compared to the population of 50 million while industrial parks already employ 1.3 million Ugandans. “Therefore, let us focus on household income and wealth and transform our lives,” he noted. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Rukungiri District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. He further welcomed converts from the opposition, including long-time FDC diehards, who joined the NRM. A testimony of Transformation: Among the many who turned up for the rally was Ms. Immaculate Aturinda from Kebisoni, whose life story embodies the impact of skilling and government programmes. She dropped out of school in Senior Three and worked as a house girl before joining the Kigezi Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub. At the hub, she received free training, food, medical care and all the materials needed to study tailoring. Today, Immaculate owns a small sewing business in Kebisoni and employs two young people. She now earns about Shs300,000 per month, income she says has restored her dignity and independence. The former Prime Minister, Hon. Amama Mbabazi, speaking at a campaign rally, said the people of Rukungiri have consistently demonstrated strong support for the NRM because they have witnessed tangible results. “We came here to ask you for your votes. Rukungiri has always stood firm with the NRM,” he said. The Minister of Security and NRM District Chairman for Rukungiri, Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, echoed the call, saying the district’s transformation is visible across all sectors: roads, schools, water, health, and household incomes. “Rukungiri has gained a lot, and these gains must be protected,” he said. He then presented an extensive fact-sheet outlining the achievements registered across the district and municipality. Rukungiri District and Rukungiri Municipality together have 16 sub-counties and town councils, 105 parishes and 831 villages. According to Gen. Muhwezi, the Parish Development Model (PDM) has made strong strides in the areas; Rukungiri District (93 parishes) received Shs 23.16 billion, and Shs 23.20 billion has already been disbursed to 23,611 households. Rukungiri Municipality (12 parishes) received Shs 4.92 billion, and Shs 4.93 billion has reached 4,951 households. Out of 87,193 households, 28,562 (32.7%) have already benefited from PDM. He emphasized that these numbers show real progress in uplifting ordinary families. The district and municipality have 54 Emyooga SACCOs with a combined membership of 22,334 people. The government has injected Shs 2.56 billion into these groups to stimulate enterprise growth. Rukungiri’s education sector has registered some of the fastest improvements in the region; 178 government primary schools and 181 private primary schools. 30 government secondary schools and 29 private secondary schools; 28 of the 30 government secondary schools offer USE and UPOLET. Out of the 105 parishes, 83 already host a government primary school, though 22 still lack one. At secondary level, Rukungiri District has 25 government secondary schools, all providing USE and UPOLET to 16,577 learners, Rukungiri Municipality has five government secondary schools, three of which offer USE to 1,298 learners. Construction of two new Seed Secondary Schools is ongoing. Once completed, only one sub-county in the district will remain without a government secondary school. Out of the 16 sub-counties, four have HCIVs, 13 have HCIIIs, leaving only one sub-county without any health facility. Planned interventions include:Upgrading Rwerere HCII to HCIII, expanding immunization programmes, strengthening malaria eradication efforts, Deploying ICT tools to monitor medicines and health worker attendance and building staff houses and equipping all health units. Safe water access in Rukungiri now stands at 85%, with 709 out of 831 villages having a functional safe water source. Completed water projects include; six protected springs, full designs for Omukatooma and Kashenyi piped systems, construction of Kateramo Piped Water System (serving 1,200 residents), rehabilitation of Kashenyi system, a public latrine at Nangara P/S and installation of a small piped system in Burombe and 45 rehabilitated boreholes. Piped water supply systems are now operational in major town councils including Rukungiri Municipality, Kebisoni, Buyanja, Bikurungu, and several Rural Growth Centres such as Nyakagyeme, Nyarushanje, Kisiizi, Bwanga-Kiyenje, Kabuga, among others. Ongoing works include expansion of piped systems in the three town councils and the construction of the Kikarara–Garuka Piped Water System. Other completed projects include; Rwakabengo communal valley tank (5,000 m³) serving 1,539 livestock, Garuka Solar Irrigation Scheme (15 acres), producing 8.4 tonnes of tomatoes annually and earning farmers about Shs 13.2 million and Rwengyero Solar Irrigation Scheme (6 acres), yielding 4.8 tonnes of bananas and coffee annually, worth Shs 10 million. Gen. Muhwezi noted that Rukungiri is now fully connected to the national electricity grid, enabling more households and businesses to access reliable power. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

2025-11-26

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI URGES UGANDANS TO JUDGE NRM BY ITS VISIBLE CONTRIBUTIONS AS HE RALLIES SUPPORT IN RUKIGA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on Ugandans to renew their trust in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) by evaluating the party’s performance over the past four decades, saying the party’s legacy is anchored in visible and tangible contributions that have transformed the country. Addressing thousands of supporters on Tuesday 25th November 2025, at Rushebeya playground in Rushebeya Sub-County, Rukiga District, President Museveni, who is also the NRM presidential flag bearer, said Ugandans have every reason to vote for NRM because its record is grounded in achievements rather than promises. “If you support NRM, you’re on the right path because NRM talks about the visible contributions it has made to Uganda,” President Museveni said, during his address that centered on peace, development, infrastructure, and wealth creation. The rally formed part of his ongoing campaign trail in Western Uganda as he seeks re-election in the 2026 general elections. President Museveni placed peace at the top of what he called the “seven contributions of NRM,” arguing that national stability remains the most critical achievement of his government. “What is important is to tell you the seven contributions of NRM, starting with peace. Uganda is peaceful because of NRM,” the President said. He pointed to ongoing instability in neighbouring countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where communities face daily insecurity. In contrast, he said, Ugandans have enjoyed decades of stability. “Yesterday in Kisoro, people spoke about the suffering their neighbours in the DRC continue to face due to insecurity. Ugandans today enjoy stability because of the peace built over the years,” he added, emphasizing that peace has allowed the country to prioritize development, attract investment, and grow the economy. The President said that when the NRM came into power in 1986, electricity supply in the western region was scarce and unreliable. “When the NRM came into power, this side of Kabale had no electricity from Jinja. The power line stopped in Kasese, and Kabale relied on a small dam at Kariba,” President Museveni explained. He noted that today, nearly the entire region is connected, with Rukiga boasting four of its six sub-counties on the national grid. “Plans are underway to electrify Bukinda and Mparo sub-counties in the next term,” he said. Regarding safe water access, President Museveni said he was pleased to learn that Rukiga now has 83% rural safe water coverage, supported by gravity flow schemes, solar-powered irrigation, rainwater harvesting systems, and ongoing sanitation upgrades. President Museveni also credited the NRM government with transforming Uganda’s road network, particularly linking major regions and border points. “We worked on the road network right from Kampala to Kabale up to the Katuna border. We also did the Kabale–Kisoro Road, then the road from Mbarara–Rukungiri–Kanungu up to Kihiihi,” he said. He announced that new works will commence on the long-awaited Muhanga–Rwamucucu road, connecting Kamwezi, Rubale, Rukungiri, and eventually joining the Kanungu road. The announcement was met with loud applause, as road infrastructure remains one of Rukiga District’s key concerns. In a candid moment, President Museveni addressed the challenges of balancing public expectations and limited government resources. “I need you to help me with one thing—prioritization of resources, and to do one thing at a time, not everything at once,” he said, while defending the government’s decision to increase salaries for science teachers before addressing the demands of arts teachers. “We increased the salaries of science teachers because we need them urgently. We need all teachers, but we have to prioritize what benefits everybody before returning to the arts teachers. But the arts teachers want the salaries now-now,” President Museveni said. Drawing parallels with the military, he argued that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) prioritizes equipment and welfare over salaries. “In the UPDF, we prioritize equipment and the welfare of soldiers, not salary. They don’t have good houses; they still sleep in grass-thatched homes. In other countries, they prioritize salary first - that is why they can’t defend themselves,” he added. Environment and Irrigation: President Museveni praised residents of Rukiga for protecting wetlands and avoiding environmental destruction. “I thank you for not destroying the environment and keeping the swampy areas intact,” he said, promising a major government-funded irrigation project in the swamp to boost agricultural productivity. “I’m going to start a big project on this swamp to enable you to start irrigation and get good yields like Dr. Muranga of Bushenyi,” the President said, highlighting Dr. Muranga’s success—harvesting 53 tons of bananas per acre annually—as evidence of what irrigation can achieve as opposed to 5 tons harvested by the rest of the people. Household Wealth: President Museveni revisited a recurring theme in his campaigns: the distinction between wealth (a personal economic gain) and development (public infrastructure and services). “Development is for everyone—like roads, schools, hospitals. Wealth is personal and private,” President Museveni told the supporters, further reminding them that the wealth creation message began as early as the 1960s in the cattle corridor, long before he became President. He cited success stories such as George Matongo from Nakaseke, who produces 900 litres of milk daily and earns over Shs 21 million monthly despite living far from the nearest tarmac road. “That is why we tell you to create wealth, and the tarmac road will find you,” he said. President Museveni further revisited the 4-Acre Model, first introduced in the 1996 NRM manifesto, which guides small landholders on how to use limited land to generate consistent income through diversified enterprises such as: coffee, fruits, pasture for zero-grazing, and food crops, in addition to poultry for eggs or piggery in the backyard, and fish farming for those near wetlands. He spoke at length about Joseph Basangwa, a former LC5 aspirant in Kamuli whose poultry enterprise, JEKA Farm, became one of Uganda’s best examples of wealth creation. Basangwa produces 200 trays of eggs daily and earns Shs 20 million per day, translating into Shs 600 million per month and Shs 7.2 billion per year. “Somebody who had no job is now employing 300 people. Wealth creates jobs,” President Museveni said. The President also urged the people of Rukiga to take advantage of the Parish Development Model (PDM), which he said is designed to lift households out of poverty. Rukiga District has so far received Shs 9.2 billion in PDM funds, with 99.46% of the money disbursed to 9,163 beneficiary households. The district has 29,495 households, meaning only 31% have benefited from PDM so far. “These remaining households must also get out of poverty. Even those already in the money economy should expand,” President Museveni said. The President also emphasized that the real driver of employment is not government but agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. “Uganda has a population of 50 million people, yet government jobs are only 480,000,” he said, adding that factories, like those in industrial parks, now employ over 1.3 million people. He cited Sino-Mbale Industrial Park, which hosts 75 factories, as an example of industrialization creating new opportunities. Free Education: The President said free education in government schools continues to be undermined by head teachers who impose illegal fees on vulnerable families. “When I saw this, I launched the Presidential Skilling Hubs where youths train for free in carpentry, welding, tailoring, hairdressing, baking, leather work, and other practical skills,” he said. He reiterated plans to recruit 5,000 new teachers to reduce the need for schools to charge extra fees to hire additional staff. Turning to oil discovery, President Museveni said Uganda’s oil discovery was possible because of the NRM government. “Europeans were here for many years but never discovered the country’s oil. It was during the NRM government that Uganda identified its commercially viable petroleum resources,” he said. He assured Ugandans that oil development will drive Uganda’s economy to greater heights. The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, also the NRM Second National Vice Chairperson, rallied Rukiga residents to vote overwhelmingly for President Museveni. “We appeal to the people of Rukiga to vote for President Museveni 100%. On voting day, go and vote for the old man with a hat—and also vote for everyone with the bus,” she said. She thanked President Museveni for restoring peace, strengthening development, and improving livelihoods across the country. She criticized opposition politicians who she said lack the capacity to lead the country. “This country is not trial-and-error,” she said. Former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda praised President Museveni’s lifelong service to Uganda. “He has offered all his life and energy to serve this country. He is the only candidate Ugandans should entrust with leadership,” Dr. Rugunda said. He attributed Uganda’s increased life expectancy, from 43 years in 1986 to 68 years currently, to NRM-led health interventions such as immunization. Presenting the district memorandum, Rukiga NRM Chairperson, Mr. Frank Besigye Kyerere welcomed President Museveni and praised his leadership. He reminded the President that in the previous elections, he garnered 81.8% of the votes cast in Rukiga. “We expect at least 90% voter turnout, and we highly believe that more than 90% of these votes will be for His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,” he said. He listed key achievements in the district, including peace and security, a district status for Rukiga, improved rural water access, and wealth creation programs (PDM, Emyooga, UWEP, YLP, PWD initiatives). Mr. Besigye presented several requests to the President, including the need for a district hospital, a technical school, and tarmacking of key roads, including Muhanga–Rwamucucu–Kisiizi and Rutobo–Kamwezi–Kyogo–Muhanga roads.

2025-11-25

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PRESENTS NRM MANIFESTO TO KABALE AS HE DRUMS UP SUPPORT AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today presented the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Manifesto for 2026-2031 to residents of Kabale ahead of the 2026 general elections. Addressing a massive campaign rally at Kigezi High School Primary Lower School Playground in Kabale Municipality, President Museveni who is also the NRM Presidential flagbearer reiterated the seven key contributions the ruling party has delivered to Uganda over the last 40 years. “Our first contribution is peace,” he said, noting that the previous day’s visit to Kisoro reaffirmed how deeply people appreciate peace, especially given the instability in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. On wealth creation, the President expressed satisfaction with efforts by religious leaders in Kigezi who had earlier consulted him about their internal differences. “I advised them to go and see the work being done by Nyakana of Fort Portal and Hon. Fred Byamukama of Bugangaizi West, in line with the four-acre model,” he said. “I am happy they are doing a great job.” The President emphasized that those with small pieces of land should undertake intensive farming through the four-acre model’s seven activities, while those with large landholdings should practice extensive farming such as cotton, tobacco, or free-range livestock. “What causes poverty now is people with small pieces of land trying to do extensive farming,” he noted. He also highlighted Uganda’s rising coffee production. “We now have 12 million coffee bags because many Ugandans have woken up.” On job creation—the fourth NRM contribution—the President clarified common misconceptions. “Most people think jobs come from the government, which is wrong. Government jobs are only 480,000,” he explained. He cited the story of Mr. Basangwa from Busoga, who had initially sought a government position but instead embraced commercial agriculture. “From his wealth, he has been able to create 300 jobs. You can’t talk about jobs without talking about wealth creation.” President Museveni added that factories, services, and ICT are also major job creators, with new factories employing more than 1.3 million Ugandans. The President also addressed land use challenges in Kabale, revealing that government plans to establish an iron and steel factory in the district. “We need 150 acres. The Bible says a nation without a vision perishes. Land in Kabale has been fragmented, and now I have a factory but nowhere to put it,” he said. He stressed that the coming industrial town would focus on manufacturing and value addition—not retail trading. The President also highlighted development as the NRM’s second major contribution, citing progress in roads, electricity, telecommunications, schools, and hospitals. “Those that are not yet done will be done,” he assured. At the same event, several NRM leaders delivered remarks. The Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, Second National Vice Chairperson of the NRM, urged the people of Kabale to support President Museveni in the upcoming election. She cautioned them not to be swayed by other presidential candidates, saying, “He is the only hope Uganda has,” and applauded his commitment to establishing an iron and steel industry in Kabale. The NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Hon. Asiimwe Jonard, thanked the President for empowering the youth. With youth comprising 70% of Uganda’s population, he said, “They need to be empowered more to join production.” Former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda praised the President for taking a bold stand against bad regimes and securing Uganda’s peace. He credited President Museveni for defeating insurgent groups such as Kony, Lakwena, and the ADF, leading to the stability the country enjoys today. Asinga Bridget Tumwesigye, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Kabale District thanked the President for maintaining peace and security in the district. She commended government support for road maintenance, the establishment of government seed schools, and the Presidential Skilling Hub in Kigezi, which has equipped many youths with practical skills.

2025-11-25