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03 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILS PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT GAINS IN SOROTI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today received a warm reception in Soroti City as he addressed residents and leaders of both Soroti City and District during his campaign rally. Recalling the difficult days before the NRM government brought peace, President Museveni said, “I remember when I was here fighting, they ambushed me in Acholi, but it was in Teso where I defeated the rebels; in Anyara, we killed their commander Tabuley. That’s how eventually we got peace in Soroti and across Uganda. But it’s not only about weapons; the main thinking is that we do not believe in politics of sectarianism, tribe, or religion. We love Uganda.” The President explained that the NRM’s second contribution to Uganda’s transformation is development, particularly economic and social infrastructure. “In Soroti, we have repaired major roads, including Tororo up to here, Katine to Otuboi, Soroti to Amuria and Ochapi, Serere to here, and Katakwi-Toromo to Bisna. All Sub-County headquarters in Soroti District and Soroti City now have electricity,” he said. On water, President Museveni said, “Out of 359 rural villages in Soroti District, 263 now have access to safe water, representing 73% coverage, while Soroti City has 83,615 people served by piped water supply. Work is ongoing to drill nine new deep boreholes, rehabilitate 11 boreholes, and construct new piped water systems in Tubur and Kamuda towns. We are committed to expanding access to clean and safe water for all.” The President emphasized education, noting that Soroti District has 69 government primary schools across 54 parishes, while Soroti City has 29 government primary schools across 25 parishes. “Some parishes still lack a school, and we must ensure every child has access. When it comes to secondary education, Soroti District has 5 government secondary schools and 17 private schools, with 7 sub-counties still without a government secondary school,” he said. “Soroti City has 5 government secondary schools and 52 private schools, covering all its sub-counties. Additionally, three new Seed Secondary Schools are under construction, and we are rehabilitating Teso College Aloet, Soroti Secondary School, and St. Francis Schools for the Blind.” On health, President Museveni said in Soroti District, out of 12 sub-counties, one has a Health Centre IV, five have HCIIIs, and six sub-counties still lack higher-level facilities. “We are upgrading Tirinya HCIV to a general hospital, Kamuda HCIII to HCIV, and several HCII facilities to HCIIIs across sub-counties. In Soroti City, the Regional Referral Hospital, one HCIV, and five HCIIIs provide coverage across the city. Soroti RRH has a functional ICU with three beds, X-ray and ultrasound services with three radiologists, and a functional oxygen plant. We are continuing immunization programs, expanding health services, and ensuring all government health units are properly equipped.” President Museveni also emphasized wealth creation. “Development is brought by the government, but wealth must be created by you in your homes. Our manifesto outlines activities that can help people transition from poverty — planting coffee, fruits, food crops, pasture, poultry, piggery, or fish farming depending on the land you have. Programs like NAADS, PDM, and Emyooga are here to support you, and I urge you to take advantage of them.” On cattle restocking, the President said the NRM government has already found a fair solution for cattle compensation in Lango, Acholi and Teso sub-regions. “These areas were disturbed by insurgency and cattle rustling, and after the war, we started restocking. We had given Shs.159 billion, but I did not see the change on the ground. I therefore proposed giving each household five cows. I brought the idea to the leaders, sent them to discuss it with you, and I was told you accepted it. We have therefore adopted the idea — it is very expensive, but we shall do it.” He also stressed that jobs come from wealth creation in commercial agriculture, industries, ICT and services, giving examples of local farmers creating employment. “NRM always wants politics of knowledge, not politics of propaganda. Some try to give you the impression that jobs come from the government, but there are only 480,000 government jobs — how can they serve 50 million people?” he noted. “We are providing security, transport, and other services, but where programs fail, we propose that locally elected leaders like LC1, LC3, and LC5 supervise and are held accountable. On markets, Uganda needs East African integration because the internal market is not enough. Education is critical, we now provide free six-month skilling programs to equip youth with skills to produce items that were previously imported from China and Italy,” he said. Rt. Hon. Anita Among, Second National Vice Chairperson of NRM, thanked President Museveni for granting Soroti city status and commended the development and infrastructure improvements in the district and city. Mr. Calvin Echodu, NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, assured the President of the support of Soroti residents and thanked him for the prevailing peace in Soroti City, noting that business is now booming and the city is ready for further development, including a first-class golf club. Mr. Enomu John, NRM Chairperson for Soroti City, pledged massive support for President Museveni in the forthcoming elections and thanked him for the establishment of skilling hubs that have equipped the youth with practical skills. Hon. Herbert Edmund Ariko, NRM Chairperson for Soroti District, commended the President for Soroti University, the city status, and other development achievements, noting that Soroti City is now fully back within the NRM family and that the President and party are poised for a resounding victory in the upcoming polls.

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03 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ANNOUNCES MASSIVE FISH FARMING DRIVE AS HE CAMPAIGNS IN SERERE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, on Monday, 3rd November 2025, announced an ambitious nationwide fish farming program. Speaking during a campaign rally at Serere District Headquarters, Serere District, President Museveni unveiled a fish farming plan designed to restore wetlands, generate irrigation water, and create wealth among rural households. “We’re going to develop a massive fish farming program along the edges of the wetlands because we want the wetlands to regain water so that we get water for irrigation. We shall earn more, but also use the water for irrigation,” he said. The NRM candidate showcased a video of his model fish project in Lango, where he said he generates Shs140 million per year in profits. “This is the answer for the fishing people. If you listen to my advice, we’re going to have so much money from fish farming,” he said. President Museveni added that the government will introduce a special fund for fishermen, separate from the Shs100 million under the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds sent to parishes. “We are adding a fund for fishermen because their needs are bigger than the Shs 100 million under the PDM. They need good boats, fishing nets, and engines. We shall have a special fund for them,” President Museveni emphasized. Peace and Stability: President Museveni reminded the people of Serere of the NRM’s historical role in restoring peace and stability across Uganda, particularly in regions once affected by insurgencies. “Lakwena disturbed this very area of Serere alongside other rebels, and your being here is testimony that we defeated them,” he said. “This is the first time Uganda has had peace for such a long time. In the past, there was trouble everywhere. NRM has a strong system; when we get problems, we deal with them,” he added, attributing the current development momentum in Teso to the dividends of peace. President Museveni used the rally to highlight extensive road works and infrastructure projects across the Teso region over the last decade. He recounted how the government extended tarmac roads from Soroti to Lango and Karamoja, and from Pallisa to Kumi, bypassing Mbale. “We now have money for the Kumi–Ngora–Serere–Kagwara road. The contractor is being procured,” H.E. Museveni said, adding that the road from Serere to Soroti will also be done because it’s a shorter route. “Once we get the money, the rest is easy,” he noted. President Museveni revealed ongoing plans to rehabilitate the old railway line through Soroti and construct a new one from Tororo to Kampala, to facilitate trade and movement of goods. He further listed a string of completed and ongoing roads in the sub-region, including: Tirinyi–Pallisa–Kumi (111km), Kumi–Mukongoro–Pallisa (111km), Arapai–Katakwi (44km), Katakwi–Irrir (40km), Kumi–Ladot (26km), Soroti City Roads (7.2km), Kumi Town Roads (12.2km), and Katakwi Town Roads (10km). Other national roads under rehabilitation include Soroti–Dokolo–Lira–Kamdini (189km) and Tororo–Mbale–Soroti (150km), and those currently under procurement include Kumi–Ngora–Brooks Corner–Serere–Kagwara (102km) and Katine–Ochero (69.9km). Designs are also underway for Soroti–Amuria–Abim (76.7km), Soroti–Serere–Pingire–Mugarama (64km), and Soroti (Arapai)–Amuria–Acan Pii (88km). On electricity, President Museveni commended authorities for extending power to almost all parts of the district. “I am happy that all sub-counties have electricity except two. That is very good,” he said. Water supply and sanitation also featured prominently in the President’s address. According to government figures, out of 277 villages in Serere District, 235 have access to safe water, representing 85% coverage, leaving only 42 villages without clean water. President Museveni observed that urban piped water projects are already operational in Serere Town Council (serving 25,967 people), Ocapa Town (19,513 people), Kyere Town (29,897 people), and Kasilo (4,025 people). Ongoing water projects include the Agule Parish system in Kasilo Sub-county, while new systems are planned for Kidetok Town Council, Kadungulu, and Mugarama. For irrigation and water for production, the President cited the Ongor Small Scale Irrigation Project in Atira, the Opapa Irrigation Scheme in Kateta Sub-county (32 acres), and the Owiiny Valley Dam in Bugondo Sub-county, completed in December 2024 for Shs 4.3 billion. Education: President Museveni was happy to learn that Serere District currently has 98 government primary schools with 115,935 pupils and 119 private primary schools. There are twelve (12) government secondary schools enrolling 9,406 students, and 41 private secondary schools. Condemning the persistent collection of school charges in government schools, President Museveni reiterated his long-standing commitment to free education, which he first introduced in 1996, and vowed to strengthen it in his next term. “In the coming government, I want all Ugandans to support my free education program,” H.E. Museveni urged. Regarding health, President Museveni noted that out of Serere’s 15 sub-counties, two have Health Centre IVs and ten have Health Centre IIIs, leaving only three without any government health facility. He told supporters that the government is constructing new HCIIIs in Kidetok Town Council, Kadungulu, and Ocaapa, while upgrading Omagoro HCII in Kyere to HCIII. Turning to wealth creation, President Museveni cautioned citizens not to confuse development (public infrastructure) with wealth (personal income). “There’s a difference between development and wealth. Development is government work, but wealth is personal,” he said. “People are fighting for nothing because they’re poor. But if we all join the money economy, everyone will benefit,” the President noted, citing one Joseph Ijala from Serere as a success story of the four-acre model. Ijala, who started poultry farming four years ago, now collects 814 litres of milk daily, earning UGX 800,000 per day, and gets Shs 6 million from eggs daily. “We have 33 farmers producing milk with me, and I employ 38 people, including four-degree holders,” Ijala told President Museveni, who praised him as an example of NRM’s wealth creation vision. “You don’t have a tarmac road here, but Ijala is already rich. In Kampala, there’s everything, but many people are poor. Work for wealth, and development will find you,” President Museveni stated. The NRM presidential candidate also revisited the issue of cattle compensation for Teso, Lango, and Acholi, where livestock was lost during insurgencies and cattle rustling. “This area was disturbed by wars and cattle rustling. We started restocking, but some people went to court, and we withdrew after spending Shs139 billion without clear results. We have now resolved to handle it once and for all,” he said. “We have discussed this matter with your leaders and will implement it once and for all. Support NRM, and we shall complete it,” President Museveni promised. According to government records, 11,056 claimants in Teso have been compensated with Shs 55.9 billion, of which 923 beneficiaries in Serere received Shs 6.18 billion. The rally was attended by senior NRM leaders, including Rt. Hon. Anita Among, the Second National Vice Chairperson, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to infrastructure and health investments in Serere. “The road from Kumi–Ngora–Brooks Corner–Serere has already been funded, and works will begin soon. The construction of Serere District Hospital is also captured in the National Development Plan IV,” she said. Mr. Echodu Calvin, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, welcomed the President, recalling that “Serere is special” to him because it’s where he first met President Museveni 45 years ago. He requested a review of fishing policies to support local communities. NRM’s support base in Serere: Serere, with a population of 358,123 (2024 census), has 15 sub-counties, 70 parishes, and 284 villages. In the 2021 Presidential Elections, the district had 130,290 registered voters, with 79,152 (60.6%) voting. President Museveni polled 38,555 votes (51.2%), Patrick Amuriat (FDC) got 26,722 (35.5%), and NUP’s Robert Kyagulanyi secured 6,013 (8%). For the 2026 elections, the district has 162,646 registered voters—an increase of 32,356—and 374 polling stations, up from 240 in 2021.

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02 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMISSIONS CONSTRUCTION OF HIINGA KARIS MEDICAL HOSPITAL AND KARIS NURSING UNIVERSITY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today commissioned the construction of Hiinga Karis Medical Hospital, a multi-million, modern health facility established to provide specialised medical care and improve access to quality health services for Ugandans, especially those around Gayaza and Wakiso. Located in Magere, Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including 125 bed spaces, emergency care services such as MRIs, scans and X-rays, surgical theatres, four maternity delivery suites, diagnostic laboratories, and a specialised Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with 18 beds. Upon completion, Karis Medical Hospital is expected to employ over 1,000 doctors and medical staff, creating significant employment opportunities. Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, President Museveni commended the involvement of the private sector in the provision of health services, praising them for maintaining effective supervision of their employees, which he said ensures better service delivery. “Private hospitals have some efficiency; they know how to do things in a simpler way. They control their staff better, and sometimes their supervision is even better than that of government hospitals,” he said. The President further noted that there is no harm in supporting private hospitals because they help to reduce pressure on government facilities. He urged Ugandans to focus on what is important and not be distracted by divisions such as tribe or religion, emphasising that when one seeks medical care, a patient’s tribe does not determine the quality of treatment received. “So, when you hear somebody spending their time talking about tribe or religion, those are your enemies. It means they are lazy people who do not work and who do not understand the anatomy of wealth creation,” President Museveni remarked. The President also urged Ugandans to remain focused on the NRM manifesto agenda of peace, development, jobs, wealth creation, service delivery, market expansion, and political integration of East Africa. Mr Ikiriza Davis, Chairman of Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University, thanked President Museveni for creating a peaceful and enabling environment that provides opportunities for investors. “Your Excellency, this not only represents a dream but a firm commitment and visionary leadership where investors can build and thrive,” he said. He went on to clarify the ownership and vision of the hospital. “Your Excellency, I would like to clarify the ownership and vision of this hospital. This project has attracted a lot of visibility in this area, and inevitably, some political elements have tried to distort the truth about its ownership,” he emphasised. Mr. Ikiriza encouraged Ugandans to let Karis Medical Hospital unite them rather than divide them. “We have deliberately chosen not to engage in political discourse because we believe that healthcare should unite us, not divide us as Ugandans,” he noted. He further explained that Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University aim to empower Ugandans with practical skills through professional nursing training. He emphasised their commitment to strengthening the health system through infrastructure development and the training of nurses with sufficient skills to represent Uganda on the international market — part of their long-term plan once the hospital is completed next year. “Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University, which sit on three acres of land, aim to equip Ugandans with the necessary nursing skills,” he added. Mr. Moses Mayanja, the NRM Chairman for Wakiso District thanked President Museveni for creating a conducive environment that has continued to attract investors to the country. “I want to thank President Museveni for the peace and stability he brought, which have given investors opportunities. That is why we are also able to stand firm,” he emphasised. He added that the NRM government has made service delivery more effective and expressed optimism that this facility will greatly benefit people in the surrounding areas. The commissioning ceremony was attended by several government officials, health professionals, and community leaders.

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02 November 2025

NRM SUPPORTERS CAUTIONED AGAINST PERSUADING MEMBERS TO STAND AS INDEPENDENTS AFTER LOSING IN PARTY PRIMARIES

The First National Vice Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Alhaji Moses Kigongo has urged the party supporters against persuading fellow members who lost in the party primaries to stand as independents. According to Alhaji Kigongo, this creates disunity and divides support for the party. Alhaji Kigongo who was accompanied by the Special Presidential Assistant-Press and Mobilization also Deputy Spokesperson, Haji Faruk Kirunda, made the remarks on Saturday 1st November, 2025 while meeting NRM flag bearers in Luuka district. The meeting took place at Budhabangula village in Bulongo Sub County. He tasked the NRM members to support and vote for the party flagbearers for continuity of the ruling party. “Vote for someone with the NRM flag if you don’t want your vote to be wasted. Don’t engage in other people’s battles,” he said. Alhaji Kigongo further cautioned the party members against political cliques, explaining that they are a source of internal conflicts. On the other hand, the NRM First National Vice Chairperson commended Haji Kirunda for having Busoga at heart and for his tireless efforts in supporting the sub-region. “Kirunda has Busoga at heart, and he always minds about it. The spirit of that kind is good, and we need to emulate him,” he said. On his part, Haji Kirunda tasked the people of Luuka to vote for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other NRM flagbearers at all levels so that the ruling party protects the gains achieved so far. “I am requesting you to vote overwhelmingly, and you give us strength to return and support you as well. Luuka has always voted for the NRM, and I assure you that we shall camp here and support all of you if you vote well from top to the grassroot,” Haji Kirunda said. The Archdeacon of Kiyunga Archdeaconry, Rev Can. Moses Dhikange beseeched the NRM members to unite, reconcile and avoid infights. Luuka Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Kibwika Micheal implored the NRM flag bearers to promote the party Manifesto as they campaign ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

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01 November 2025

AMURIA: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILS ARROW BOYS FOR RESTORING PEACE IN TESO, PLEDGES MORE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Presidential flag bearer of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has today commended the people of Teso for their resilience and contribution to peace. Speaking during a campaign rally in Amuria District, President Museveni, who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, said the people of Teso were key partners in the struggle to restore peace in Uganda. “You people of Amuria and Teso are witnesses to what happened here. There is a place called Apopong where the UPDF destroyed Kony’s army. That was the turning point of the war against Kony,” the President recalled. “In Anyara, Kalaki, we killed one of the notorious rebels called Tabuley. I want to thank the Arrow Boys who joined me in bringing peace here.” The Arrow Boys were a local self-defense militia in Uganda, particularly in the Teso region, formed in the early 2000s to fight the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). Composed of ex-soldiers and local residents who used basic weapons like bows and arrows, they were tasked with protecting their communities from LRA attacks. Their efforts helped drive the LRA out of the region and led to the rescue of many abducted children. The President emphasized that peace was the foundation for the region’s current and future progress. “Without peace, no development can take place. That’s why we always emphasize peace first. It’s the reason you can now talk of roads, schools, hospitals, and electricity,” he said. President Museveni also outlined the NRM’s achievements in improving road infrastructure in Teso, noting that the tarmacked roads from Soroti to Katine, Otuboi, and Lira, and from Soroti to Katakwi, Usuku, and Karamoja have transformed movement and trade in the sub-region. He announced plans to close the remaining “gaps” in Teso’s road network. “We have already provided money to take the road from Katine to Ochero. But there are two more big gaps which we are going to work on — Soroti–Amuria–Achanipi all the way to Otuke, and Kumi–Ngora–Serere up to Bugondo,” he said. “When I tell people in Kampala about those roads, they don’t know them. But I know them because I used them when I was fighting Kony,” he added. President Museveni added that power has already reached most areas in Amuria and what remains is the extension of distribution lines. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand access to safe water, noting that 401 out of 528 villages in Amuria now have boreholes, while Amuria Town Council has a piped water system serving over 7,200 residents. Under the NRM government’s education policy, Amuria District now has 68 government primary schools and eight government secondary schools, providing Universal Primary and Secondary Education. The goal, according to the President, is to ensure every parish has a primary school and every sub-county has a secondary school. On health, President Museveni said the government is upgrading several facilities to improve service delivery. Currently, one hospital and 10 Health Centre IIIs serve the 18 sub-counties in Amuria. “Plans are underway to upgrade Olwa, Abia, and Amolo HCIIs to HCIIIs, and to construct new facilities in Ogongora, Asamuk, Wera, and Orungo,” he announced. The ongoing projects include upgrading Wera HCIII to HCIV and constructing a theatre at Orungo HCIII. “We are working to ensure that every Ugandan has access to quality health services within a reasonable distance,” he said. “We shall continue upgrading facilities, building staff houses, and using ICT to track medicines and reduce absenteeism among health workers.” President Museveni also explained the importance of wealth creation and production in sustaining development, urging the remaining households outside the money economy to join productive activities. “Twelve years ago, only 32% of Ugandans were engaged in wealth creation. The rest were outside the money economy,” he noted. “I am glad that through our efforts, that figure has now dropped to 33%. I now appeal to the remaining 33% to join the journey of modern wealth creation.” He highlighted examples of model farmers such as Joseph Ijala of Serere, whose success demonstrates the benefits of embracing commercial agriculture. The President emphasized the four sectors of wealth creation; commercial agriculture, industry, services, and ICT as key pillars of Uganda’s transformation. “When we talk of roads, schools, hospitals, and security, it is the wealth creators who make these possible through the taxes they generate,” he explained. President Museveni concluded by reaffirming his commitment to protecting the gains made over the last 40 years of NRM leadership while steering Uganda toward a high middle-income status. “Let us protect the gains we have made and aim for a qualitative leap into a high middle-income country,” he said. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairpersons, councillors, and other party candidates in Amuria District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. In her remarks, Maama Janet praised the people of Teso for their loyalty to the NRM and encouraged them to safeguard Uganda’s future through unity and responsible voting. “We are proud of you, you look beautiful in yellow. We have come here to remind each other that we are one big NRM family,” she said. “We have a responsibility to our country and to future generations. On voting day, ensure that every family member and neighbor turns up to vote for the NRM so that we can continue building a stronger and united nation,” she said. The NRM chairperson for Amuria District, Mr. Simon Peter Okello, thanked President Museveni for restoring peace in Teso and for the numerous development projects implemented under his leadership. “Your Excellency, allow me to appreciate the peace and security that we now enjoy in Amuria. We also thank you for improving road infrastructure, creating administrative units, and establishing a value addition park in Amuria,” Mr. Okello said. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

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01 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI SALUTES KATAKWI RESIDENTS FOR UPHOLDING PEACE AND SUPPORTING DEVELOPMENT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, today held a campaign rally at Katakwi Booma Grounds, Katakwi Town Council in Katakwi District. Addressing thousands of enthusiastic supporters, President Museveni commended the people of Katakwi for being steadfast witnesses to the peace ushered in by the NRM government. “The people of Katakwi are the best witnesses of peace because I camped here when everyone had fled to IDP camps. I remember visiting Ngariam, where people were massacred by the Karamojong, and Achowa camp. Today, all that is history. The NRM defeated the rebels and cattle rustlers, and we removed 41,000 guns from Karamoja. That is why people are back in their villages,” President Museveni said. The President explained that the NRM’s first major contribution to Uganda’s transformation was peace—followed by development in both economic and social infrastructure. “In Teso, we have worked on major roads such as Soroti–Moroto and Soroti–Lira. We also intend to construct the Katine–Ochero road and the Soroti–Amuria–Obalanga–Achanipi–Otuke road. I’m glad that the Katakwi–Toroma road now has a ferry. We are going to be strict with the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Local Government to ensure the Shs 1.3 billion sent annually for marram road maintenance is properly utilized,” he stated. On water access, President Museveni said Katakwi has 550 villages, of which 342 have boreholes—representing 52% coverage. He pledged that in the next government, every village would get at least one borehole to ensure clean drinking water for all. He further listed existing piped water systems at Abwenget, Kapujan, Usuk–Koritok, Toroma, Magoro, and Katakwi Town Council, noting that expansion plans are underway for the Usuk–Koritok, Toroma, and Magoro systems. He also highlighted completed and ongoing water projects, including the construction of irrigation systems in Ongongoja and Usuk sub-counties, and flood-mitigation valley tanks in Aleles, Magoro, and Okuronyo. On education, the President revealed that Katakwi has 78 government primary schools and 10 government secondary schools, yet the district has 109 parishes and 20 sub-counties. “We shall ensure that every parish has a government primary school and that the remaining 11 sub-counties without secondary schools get them,” he pledged. In the health sector, the President noted that Katakwi has one hospital, one Health Centre IV, and 10 Health Centre IIIs. Ten sub-counties still lack Health Centre IIIs, but the government has already embarked on upgrades, including Aakum, Omodoi, Opeta, Okocho, Akurao, and Ongongoja, as well as the construction of new health facilities in Amusia, Getom, Okore, and Angodingod sub-counties. Ongoing works include theatre constructions at Toroma HCIV, Akurao HCII, and Katakwi General Hospital, alongside the installation of a solar-motorized borehole at Koritok HCIII. The President also highlighted recent upgrades at Palam, Koritok, and Akoboi health centres. On wealth creation, President Museveni cautioned citizens to distinguish between development and wealth. “NRM brings development—roads, schools, electricity—but wealth must be created by you in your homes. Development is ours; wealth is yours,” he said. He revealed that government restocking efforts were initially delayed by legal challenges but that, following consultations with local leaders, each household will now receive five cows. On youth empowerment, the President said he established skilling hubs to provide free six-month skills training for youth who had lost hope. “These youth are now producing hospital beds, shoes, and other items that were being imported from China and Italy. This is the practical way to fight poverty,” he said. On her part, Maama Janet thanked God for the opportunity to meet the people of Katakwi and for the unity and strength demonstrated by the NRM family. She urged Ugandans to rededicate themselves to serving their country under the spirit of peace and patriotism. She praised President Museveni for his exemplary leadership, saying he continues to inspire young people through his unwavering commitment and selfless service to the nation. She encouraged NRM supporters to emulate his example by working together to build and sustain peace across Uganda. Maama Janet noted that God has used President Museveni and the NRM government to establish a firm foundation of peace and unity that has enabled national stability. She called on all members of the NRM to extend a hand of friendship to Ugandans who have not yet joined the Movement, emphasizing that growth in numbers strengthens both the party and the nation. The First Lady urged supporters not to view those outside the NRM as enemies but as fellow Ugandans who may not yet understand what the Movement has done for the country. She concluded by encouraging all citizens to vote for President Museveni and all NRM candidates in the upcoming election to continue building on the peace and progress that Uganda enjoys today. The Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, also the Woman MP for Katakwi District, thanked the President for his visionary leadership and his continued commitment to transforming Katakwi. She praised him for the establishment of Soroti University and the implementation of wealth creation programs that have improved livelihoods in the district. Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, the Second National Vice Chairperson (NRM), assured the President of 100% support from Teso, citing his appointment of many leaders from the sub-region, including the Vice President. She commended him for ending cattle rustling in Teso. Hon. Calvin Echodu, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, said Katakwi is a special district that has always stood firmly with the NRM. He praised the President for establishing skilling centres that have empowered the youth to create wealth. Mr. Okiror John Robert Claire, the NRM Chairperson for Katakwi District, also assured the President of overwhelming support in the forthcoming elections, saying the people of Katakwi are enjoying peace and prosperity because of his leadership. He commended the PDM and Emyooga programs for transforming lives across the district.

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31 October 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI SALUTES KALAKI RESIDENTS FOR THEIR ROLE IN RESTORING PEACE, PROMISES FURTHER DEVELOPMENT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today, in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, held a campaign rally at Kalaki Primary School in Kalaki Town Council, Kalaki District, where he saluted the people in the district for their bravery and contribution to peace in the Teso sub-region. “The Manifesto of the NRM has seven points — what the NRM has done for Uganda and what it intends to do. The first one is peace. We fought the rebels and cattle rustlers, and I must salute Kalaki because you helped us to defeat Tabule. He once tried to ambush me but escaped before I got him. I thank you, the Arrow Boys,” the President said. He noted that the peace enjoyed today in Teso and across Uganda is a result of the cooperation between the NRM and patriotic citizens who stood firm against insecurity. “Because of your courage, we now have peace. Peace is the foundation of everything — without it, there can be no development,” he added. The President said the next pillar of the NRM’s contribution is development — focusing on economic and social infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water, ferries, and telecommunications. “You can check what has been done for Teso. The road from Lira through Katine and Kamdin is already done, and we are going to work on the road from Katine to Kalaki and Ochero — that money is already available,” he said. “I am also going to look for money to work on the road from Ochero to Amolatar, and the one from Buyende to Kagwara. On the side of electricity, we shall find out why it sometimes goes off, because the country now has enough supply. The railway is also being worked on from Tororo through Kampala and Lira up to Pakwach,” the President said. He revealed that key road projects have been identified for upgrading and rehabilitation to improve trade and transport within the district and beyond with Katine–Kalaki–Ochero Road – already funded and ready for construction. He also explained that the government is going to look for money to construct Ochero–Amolatar Road – to improve access to Lake Kyoga landing sites. He also explained that there has been a mistake from the Ministry of works and Transport of not supervising and monitoring the roads. “When roads are in good condition, farmers and traders can easily move their goods. The Ministry of Works must supervise them well; roads must be passable, even if they are marrum,” he added. On water, President Museveni commended Kalaki District for achieving significant progress under government support. “Water coverage in Kalaki is now at 80.8%. The district has constructed 32 new boreholes, rehabilitated 22, and has two piped water systems already operational,” he said. The President also highlighted the ongoing Lake Kyoga Multi-Purpose Gravity Flow Water Supply System, which he said will provide sustainable clean water for both domestic and agricultural use across the district. He explained that development is the work of the government, while wealth creation is the responsibility of individual households. “In the 1960s, we disagreed with some leaders, even professors, because they didn’t understand this difference. I tell you now — the road is mine to build, but the wealth from that road is yours to create,” he told the crowd. President Museveni reminded local leaders of their accountability role. “When we came into government, I insisted on having LC3s and LCVs — elected so that people can hold them accountable. If God gives you a chance to guide people and you do it for selfish reasons, He is not pleased,” he said. On education, the President reiterated his commitment to free education and skilling. “From 1996, I started free education in government schools, but some people refused to implement it properly. That’s why I started the Skilling Hubs. You’ve seen these young people — after only six months of training, they are now making products we used to import from China and Italy. Let us stop killing our children with unnecessary school charges,” he said. He also reaffirmed his support for the creation of Otuboi County and pledged to strengthen the fisheries sector with hatcheries to support fish farming in the area. On health, President Museveni promised to upgrade Kalaki Health Centre IV to a General Hospital, and Ochelakur Health Centre II to a Health Centre III, as well as construct new Health Centre IIIs in Kalaki, Ogwolo, and Otuboi Sub-Counties to ensure equitable access to medical services. The President concluded by encouraging Ugandans to use their peace and freedom productively. “Yes, it is campaign time, but I am giving you knowledge that can help you. Let us use the peace the NRM brought to create wealth,” he said. Maama Janet thanked the people of Kalaki for turning up in large numbers. “There is no place like Uganda on earth, and there are no people who hold peaceful elections like Ugandans. I thank God for using the NRM and the President to bring peace. Every adult Ugandan has a responsibility to protect this peace,” she said. She also encouraged the citizens to vote for President Museveni and all NRM candidates to consolidate the gains achieved under the Movement government. She hailed the Speaker of Parliament also NRM Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), Rt. Hon. Anita Among for pointing out shoddy work done by contractors who were constructing the Seed Schools in Kalaki. “When we fail to point out shoddy work, we cheat ourselves and the next generation. When you are given government work, do it properly — you are doing it for yourself and those who come after you,” she added. Rt. Hon. Among, assured the people of Kalaki that the road from Katine through Kalaki to Ochero will be worked on soon. “Every town in Kalaki District will have at least 2.9 kilometres of tarmac,” she said. She requested the President to provide tractors to farmers in Kalaki to ease agricultural work and praised Maama Janet for ensuring the construction of seed secondary schools. She, however, called for close supervision to ensure quality work. The NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, Mr. Calvin Echodu, also appealed to the President to fix the Katine–Kalaki–Ochero road, noting its importance to trade and historical ties, as many people in the area were recruited into the former FRONASA liberation force. The Kalaki District NRM Chairperson, Mrs. Maria Gorret Ajilo, thanked the President for visiting and reminded him that Kalaki is historically significant in the NRM’s struggle, as he camped there in 1986. She requested that Kalaki Health Centre IV be elevated to hospital status and that the district be granted an additional constituency — Otuboi. Kalaki District, which now has 10 Sub-Counties, 34 Parishes, and 224 villages, has made notable progress under government programmes. It has achieved 80.8% access to safe water, with 32 new boreholes constructed, 22 rehabilitated, and two piped water systems operational. Under the Parish Development Model, Kalaki has received Shs. 10.4 billion, benefiting 10,640 households — 34.9% of the district’s total. In education, the district has 49 government primary schools and six government secondary schools offering Universal Secondary Education and Post-Ordinary Level Training. One new Seed Secondary School is under construction, which will reduce the number of sub-counties without government secondary schools from five to four. In health, the government plans to upgrade and expand facilities across the district, including new HCIIIs in underserved areas and improved infrastructure for health workers. Through the Emyooga programme, the government has disbursed Shs. 700 million to 18 SACCOs with 6,409 members, while under the cattle compensation initiative, 807 claimants in Kalaki have received Shs. 5.27 billion.

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31 October 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES ACCELERATED DEVELOPMENT IN KABERAMAIDO

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flagbearer for the 2026 general elections, has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to consolidating peace, advancing development, expanding social services, and ensuring wealth creation for every Ugandan household. The President, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, made the assurance today while addressing thousands of supporters in Kaberamaido District during his campaign trail in Teso sub-region. President Museveni told residents that peace remains the cornerstone of Uganda’s transformation under the NRM. He recalled that parts of Teso, including Kaberamaido, once suffered from insecurity caused by rebel activity and cattle rustling, problems he said the NRM decisively ended. “Peace has returned to this area after years of insecurity when rebels used to kidnap our children from schools like Lwala Girls. The NRM has been able to bring peace to the whole country, and that’s our first contribution to Uganda,” he said. Highlighting the government’s achievements in infrastructure, President Museveni said the NRM has focused on building a solid economic foundation. He cited the ongoing upgrade of the Katine–Kaberamaido Road (73.5km), for which funds have already been secured, and the upcoming MV BKK Ferry project, which will connect Teso and Busoga sub-regions via Lake Kyoga through Buyende and Kaberamaido. “The tarmac road used to stop at Soroti, but we have extended it through Lira–Dokolo–Kamdini. Now we are bringing the tarmac closer to you. We already have the money for Katine–Kaberamaido, and soon a contractor will start work,” the President said. He also pledged to follow up on concerns over intermittent power supply in the district, noting that the issue could stem from outdated wiring being replaced countrywide. On water access, President Museveni applauded the district’s 91% rural safe water coverage, with 217 of 234 villages already having clean water sources. He noted the completion of solar-powered mini-piped schemes in Obur and Adudul, each serving hundreds of residents, and announced new projects for Ocero and Apapai Town Councils to ensure full coverage across all parishes. Additionally, two small irrigation schemes—Obajaj in Kobulubulu and Ochero SSI Project in Swagere Parish—are under construction to boost water for production. Turning to education, the President said Kaberamaido has made great progress with 45 government primary schools enrolling over 43,000 pupils and six government secondary schools providing Universal Secondary Education (USE). “Our goal is to have at least one government primary school per parish and one secondary school per sub-county,” President Museveni emphasized, announcing that his next government will prioritize free education in all government schools, a reform aimed at eliminating hidden school costs that have burdened parents. “Let’s all agree that we can provide free education in the government schools,” he said, prompting a resounding “Yes!” from the crowd. He added that the Presidential Skilling Hubs initiative would continue to equip youth with technical skills to earn a living and join the money economy. On health services, President Museveni reported that Kaberamaido has one hospital and four health centre IIIs out of nine sub-counties. Plans are underway to upgrade Murem and Kaburepoli Health Centre IIs to HCIIIs and construct new HCIIIs in Oriamo and Kaberamaido sub-counties. “We are going to ensure that all health units are well equipped and that health workers have proper housing,” he assured. The President cautioned residents against equating public infrastructure with personal wealth, urging households to engage in productive enterprises. “You cannot sleep on the tarmac road. The road is for all of us, but wealth is personal. Seek first the homestead income and the rest will follow,” he said. President Museveni showcased examples of successful individuals who have embraced the NRM’s wealth creation message. Among them was George Matongo of Nakaseke, who earns over UGX 29 million monthly from dairy farming, and Joseph Ijala of Taifa Farm, who abandoned his transport job to start a poultry and soap-making enterprise earning UGX 3 million daily. He encouraged Kaberamaido residents to utilize local resources such as wetlands and swamps for fish farming and pledged to establish a Fish Fund to support aquaculture and discourage illegal fishing of young fish. “My fishpond at Barlege earns me UGX 140 million per year from one acre. You can do the same here,” he said. President Museveni also announced a special fund for church and Muslim district projects alongside the ongoing Parish Development Model (PDM) program. Kaberamaido has so far received UGX 8.9 billion under the PDM, with 8,864 households (31% of all district households) already benefiting. The district has also received UGX 1.31 billion under Emyooga, benefiting 33 SACCOs with over 7,000 members. Maama Janet commended the people of Kaberamaido for their steadfast support for the NRM and urged them to safeguard Uganda’s stability through the ballot. “I thank God for using the President and the NRM to lay a strong foundation of peace and development. I urge you to vote for the President and the entire NRM team so that Uganda can continue to progress,” she said. The NRM Second National Vice Chairperson also Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among praised the President for his unwavering leadership and highlighted the district’s inclusion in the newly approved US$270 million NUSAF IV program aimed at transforming livelihoods in Northern Uganda. “Thank you, Mr. President, for the UGX 500 million for a modern theatre at Kaberamaido Hospital. The women here are very happy,” she said. The NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, Mr. Calvin Echodu commended President Museveni for “braving both rain and heat” during the campaign, a gesture he said symbolized renewed energy and dedication. “We in the eastern region are ready to protect our gains and ensure continuity,” Mr. Echodu affirmed. Kaberamaido’s voting record: In the 2021 general elections, President Museveni garnered 18,589 votes (56.4%) out of 34,278 valid votes cast in Kaberamaido. The district now has 64,167 registered voters and 147 polling stations, up from 95 in 2021. The rally was attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, security chiefs, religious and cultural leaders.

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01 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI KICKS-OFF PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN IN TESO, ADDRESSES ROAD MAINTENANCE CONCERNS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, today kicked-off campaigns in Teso sub-region. The rally took place at St. Francis Secondary School, Acumet, Kapelebyong District, and was attended by thousands of supporters. President Museveni was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni. Addressing the crowd, President Museveni spoke extensively about road maintenance challenges and accountability in local government. “On the roads, there is some little problem, which I have ordered the Ministry of Works to stop, and also the Ministry of Local Government. They delay in maintaining tarmac roads and even the murram roads. For the local government, we are giving them Shs 1.3 billion per district per year. You find some of the local government roads are not maintained,” he said. “I carried out some sample investigations, and it seems there is some corruption in local government, and instead of maintaining the roads, they divert the money to other things.” He emphasized that the allocated funds are meant for maintaining existing roads, not constructing new ones. “That Shs 1.3bn for the local government is supposed to maintain the murram roads, not make the new ones. If there is a need to do new roads, then there is a need to bring more money. We had calculated that the money would be enough to maintain the existing roads without any problem,” he said. “But some roads are not maintained, and even when they try to maintain them, they do it carelessly. They just bring a grader and grade, and they don’t do drainage. When it rains, water collects on the road. So, you wonder, are these people making roads or swimming pools? I am going to deal with them because that money is coming. If the money is not enough, then say so.” On tarmac roads, President Museveni acknowledged some improvement but stressed the importance of focused action. “On the tarmac roads, there has been some learning by some of the actors. Some tackle too many things at a go. We, the bush fighters, concentrate on a few things and do them well. You have seen our soldiers staying in grass-thatched houses. This is because we don’t have enough money to do all things at a go. That’s how we are able to maintain peace in Uganda, by doing one thing at a time and not too many things,” he noted. He also highlighted social and educational infrastructure progress in the region. “On social infrastructure, I am happy to know that there are 10 secondary schools in Kapelebyong alone. When I come here and see that, it shows how far we have come. Some schools like Sir Samuel Baker and Teso College were only O’ level schools, not A-level. This progress gives me hope.” Reflecting on the NRM’s achievements and political journey, President Museveni said, “Maama and I are happy to come here to present the manifesto of the NRM 2026-31. We have been active in politics for the last 65 years, some of the elders have gone to be with the Lord.” “On peace, you know what was happening here: the rebels, the cattle rustlers, the IDPs. This was a new Uganda. We had been in wars for a long time, but since 2007, we have been able to defeat and bring peace in Uganda and disarm the cattle rustlers in Karamoja.” On economic infrastructure, President Museveni highlighted major road projects in Teso. “In Teso, we have been able to do quite a bit. We have tarmac roads all the way from Soroti to Moroto, Soroti to Katine to Dokolo-Lira to Kamdin, the road to Mbale, the road through Tirinyi to Kumi. We are planning to do the other roads from Soroti to Amuria to Obalanga to Achanpi all the way to Otuke to Abim and other roads.” President Museveni also announced plans to restock livestock in Teso, Lango, and Acholi, proposing five cows per homestead as a democratic and transformative approach. “Recently I called your leaders and asked why we don’t have a democratic formula for restocking. I proposed five cows per homestead. The majority supported it, and I have instructed the government to plan for it,” President Museveni said. “Thank you so much for your love and for really standing in the rain and supporting NRM. NRM is Uganda’s party; it is building Uganda. It is trying to ensure that all our children can live a better life than we, their parents, lived. That’s why NRM wants all school-going children to access education. That’s why it introduced UPE and USE,” he said. “The intent hasn’t worked so well as it was meant to do, because when it opened its doors for all children of Uganda, the numbers of children multiplied and tripled. The teachers were no longer enough for the numbers of children in schools, and because of that, the headteachers and the PTAs started bringing in private teachers, but then they had to start asking parents to pay salaries of teachers.” On her part, Maama Janet emphasized the government's plans to address the challenge of charging fees in government schools. “That is why the President is saying in the coming Kisanja government, we will make sure that all teachers will be paid by the government and there will be no costs in the UPE and USE schools.” “Therefore, that’s why it is so important that we support and vote for the President and the NRM, so that the NRM can continue to lead this nation and make it better by the day. That is our responsibility as all Ugandans above 18 years to support NRM with our votes,” she added. She concluded with a call for civic participation and nation-building. “And families, as you are saying, will be building better homes, and so it is our responsibility, please, to make sure that you vote for the NRM. God bless Kapelebyong, God bless Teso, God bless Uganda.” NRM impact in Kapelebyong: Kapelebyong District has registered steady progress in infrastructure, social services, and community development programmes, according to the latest government report outlining achievements across key sectors. Located in eastern Uganda, the district has one constituency, 11 sub-counties and town councils, 56 parishes, and 341 villages with a total population of 143,536 people as per the 2024 census report. The government has continued to make good on its promise to compensate families affected by past cattle raids. In Kapelebyong, 402 compensation claims were submitted, with 228 claimants already paid a total of Shs 3.9 billion, while 174 claims remain pending. Under the Parish Development Model (PDM), Kapelebyong District which has 55 parishes has so far received Shs 17 billion, of which Shs 16.8 billion (98.96%) has already been disbursed to 17,014 beneficiary households. With a total of 31,529 households, this means 53% of all households in Kapelebyong have benefited directly from the PDM programme, while the remaining 14,515 households include those already participating in the money economy. Through the Presidential Emyooga Initiative, the district’s single constituency has established 18 SACCOs with 11,029 members. To date, the government has disbursed Shs 920 million to these groups to support enterprise development and savings. The education sector has also registered notable improvement. The district currently has 41 government primary schools enrolling 39,027 pupils, and eight government secondary schools with 3,285 students — all benefiting from Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-Ordinary Level Education and Training programmes. However, gaps remain of the 56 parishes, only 28 have a government primary school, leaving 28 parishes still without one. Similarly, out of 11 sub-counties, only six have a government secondary school. Plans are underway to construct an additional secondary school under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UgIFT) and the Uganda Secondary Education Expansion Project (USEEP). In line with President Museveni’s skilling initiative, the Teso Zonal Industrial Hub, located in Soroti District, has so far trained 951 youths in fields such as welding, carpentry, tailoring, construction, hairdressing, bakery, and leather design. Kapelebyong has one Health Centre IV and five Health Centre IIIs, leaving five sub-counties without a facility of HCIII level or higher. Plans are in place to upgrade Angerepo HCII (Acowa Sub-county) and Okoboi HCII (Kapelebyong Sub-county) to HCIII status, while new HCIIIs are planned for Acinga, Obalanga, and Akore sub-counties. Water access remains a major focus. Out of 341 villages, 109 have access to safe water, representing 35% coverage, while 232 villages (65%) still lack clean water. The Kapelebyong Town Piped Water Supply and Sanitation Project, now complete, serves 3,178 people. Additionally, two production wells have been established to boost water availability. Ongoing efforts include a new piped water system under design and construction, with future plans to expand the Kapelebyong system and develop a new water supply project in Obalanga Town. Under the Water for Production initiative, the government has completed feasibility studies and constructed major facilities such as the Odukul Flood Mitigation Valley Tank (30 million litres) and the Odimai Valley Tank (30 million litres) to support irrigation and livestock. In the last eight years, a total of 203 kilometres of roads have been paved in and around the district. Completed projects include: Tirinyi–Pallisa–Kumi and Kumi–Mukongoro–Pallisa (111km), Soroti–Arapai (8km), Arapai–Katakwi (44km), Katakwi–Irrir (40km), Kumi–Ladot (26km) and Kumi Town roads (12.2km). Ongoing national road works include the Soroti–Lira–Kamdini (189km) and Tororo–Mbale–Soroti (150.8km) highways, among others. Other roads such as Amuria–Amucu–Kapelebyong (35.8km) are under procurement, while designs are underway for Amuria–Kuju–Obalanga–Alito (39km) and several key inter-district links to improve connectivity across the region. The campaign is running under the theme: “Protecting the Gains, As We Make a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status.” The event was graced by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

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31 October 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ENDS KARAMOJA CAMPAIGN TRAIL WITH CALL FOR PEACE, WEALTH CREATION AND FREE EDUCATION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni braved a heavy downpour on Thursday 30th October 2025, as he addressed his final campaign rally in Karamoja, delivering a passionate appeal for peace, wealth creation, and the consolidation of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) achievements in the region. The rally, held at Matany Grounds in Napak District, drew thousands of enthusiastic supporters who cheered as President Museveni, soaked but undeterred, declared, “I've been a cattle keeper since the age of four and I don’t fear the rain. In Ntungamo, when you abandon the cows to go for shelter, the cows will go to the gardens, destroy people’s crops, and that becomes a crime.” The NRM Presidential candidate reflected on peace and stability, revisiting the painful history of insecurity in Karamoja and the struggle to disarm armed warriors. “There were arguments that we should leave you with guns to protect yourselves from fellow rustlers from neighboring countries,” President Museveni recalled. “But I said No, that is suicide. You have now seen the results.” He thanked the people of Karamoja for supporting the disarmament campaign, describing it as a historic contribution to national unity and security. “I remember a function at Kangole where many people came to hand over guns, and women played a big role for the peace of Karamoja. Recently, even the Karachunas came out and handed over guns, thank you so much,” he said, noting that peace in Karamoja has contributed to harmony across Uganda. President Museveni emphasized that Uganda’s progress rests on the NRM’s founding principles of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy. He described himself as a “wealth creator” who depends on his own labor and the markets of fellow Ugandans. “I have looked after my ancestors’ cattle since I was four. I depend on myself. All I need from other Ugandans is a market to buy my milk, beef, and bananas. Anyone who buys my products is helping me to be rich,” he said. “I’m glad the NRM accepted this ideology, and that’s why Uganda is stable and developing,” President Museveni said, drawing applause from the crowd. Highlighting progress in education, candidate Museveni outlined that Napak District has 30 government primary schools, 44 private primary schools, 3 government secondary schools, and 1 private secondary school. He said the government was constructing five new secondary schools, which will leave only six sub-counties without a government secondary school upon completion. “The plan is to have one government secondary school per sub-county and one technical school per district. What has been achieved is noted, and what has not been done will be done. That’s why we are asking you for your support,” President Museveni told supporters. However, he expressed disappointment at those sabotaging his vision for free education. “For a long time, I wanted free education in government schools,” he lamented. “But some school managers have turned everything into money. They charge unnecessary fees and block children from studying.” To counter this, H.E. Museveni said he started Presidential Skilling Hubs, one of which is in Napak to train youth for free. “These children had lost hope because they lacked school fees. But after six months of training, they are making shoes, furniture, hospital beds, and bags - items that were being imported from China and India,” he said. He urged voters to insist on free education in government schools, warning that school charges were “destroying the future of young Ugandans.” On health, President Museveni said Napak’s 14 sub-counties had only five Health Centre IIIs, leaving nine sub-counties without a health facility. He announced plans to upgrade several facilities such as Nabawal HCII to HCIII, Ngoleriet HCII to HCIII, Lokiteded HCII to HCIII, and Morulinga HCII to HCIII. Some of the ongoing works include upgrading Iriiri HCIII to HCIV. “In the next term, every sub-county will have at least a health centre III, and Napak will have its own hospital,” President Museveni promised. Shifting to household income and wealth creation, the President drew a sharp contrast between development and wealth, explaining that while development projects are government-led, wealth creation is personal. “There’s a tarmac road in Matany. But do you sleep on a tarmac road? No. You sleep in your houses, and the poverty you left there welcomes you back. Development is ours, but wealth and poverty are yours,” he emphasized. President Museveni reiterated the NRM’s long-standing message of commercializing small-scale farming through the four-acre model, which encourages families to engage in dairy, poultry, horticulture, and cash crops. He cited success stories from across Uganda, including George Matongo of Nakaseke, an uneducated farmer who earns UGX 250 million annually from selling 900 litres of milk per day, and Korea Dick of Abim, who earns UGX 12 million annually from mango farming, selling to the Soroti Fruit Factory. “These are examples of people who listened to our message. So, I appeal to you, chase poverty from your homes,” he said. Regarding the issue of jobs, the President emphasized that jobs come from wealth, not merely from government employment. He cited Hon. Fred Byamukama of Kakumiro District, who runs a four-acre model farm with cows, poultry, bananas, and piggery. From eggs alone, Hon. Byamukama earns UGX 55 million in profits per month, about UGX 700 million a year, and employs 26 people. “This man, who had no job himself, is now employing 26 people. The wealth of Byamukama is creating jobs for 26 other Ugandans. So, if you want to know where jobs come from, they come from wealth creation, like commercial agriculture,” H.E. Museveni said. He contrasted this with the limited 480,000 government jobs, compared to the 1.3 million jobs created by Uganda’s growing factories. President Museveni praised the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni for her voluntary work in Karamoja. “I appointed a minister for Karamoja, but he declined, thinking it was a demotion. But Maama Janet accepted and worked hard. She built water dams and improved food security. When she was here, Karamoja even started sending food to Mbale,” H.E. Museveni said. He announced a new plan to expand individualized water systems for commercial farmers in Karamoja to promote irrigation and resilience against drought. “I appeal to you to continue supporting the NRM so that we can consolidate what we have done and also do more. The rest will be done,” President Museveni said. Taking the podium, Maama Janet thanked Napak residents for their unwavering support for NRM. “All Ugandan adults have a responsibility to protect this peace and unity for the continuation of development,” she declared, urging the residents to re-elect President Museveni and NRM leaders in the 2026 elections. “Remember, we all have the responsibility to vote for this President and all NRM leaders so that we can build and transform Uganda. God bless Napak, Karamoja, and Uganda. Arakara noi!” The NRM Vice Chairman for Karamoja, Hon. Lokii John Baptist, congratulated President Museveni for successfully concluding the regional campaigns. “Napak and Karamoja are celebrating the achievements of NRM over the years,” he said, adding that Napak is willing to push close to 100% vote. The NRM Chairman for Napak District, Mr. Mark Longole presented a report showing visible transformation in Napak’s sectors such as education, health, water, security, and peace. He revealed that UGX 17.83 billion in Parish Development Model (PDM) funds had been disbursed to 17,867 beneficiaries across 57 SACCOs, representing 42.8% of households in the district. Napak has also benefited from programs such as Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), Women Entrepreneurship Programme, and SAGE for the elderly. On the Emyooga, the district has 34 SACCOs with 9,195 members, who have so far received UGX 1.16 billion. Mr. Longole thanked the government for integrating 2,114 former warriors after disarmament, noting that peace has unlocked development potential across the district. Despite the progress, he tabled several requests to the President which included, creation of a new district, Iriiri separate from Napak, construction of a district hospital, restocking of households affected by disarmament, and strengthening youth SACCOs with UGX 2.5 billion as a revolving fund. Other requests were the extension of electricity to the remaining sub-counties and the resolution of the long-standing land dispute between Napak and Teso. Napak district remains one of NRM’s strongest areas. In the 2021 Presidential Elections, out of 56,678 registered voters, President Museveni secured 32,490 votes (94.1%), while the National Unity Platform (NUP) managed to get 912 votes (2.6%). According to the 2024 census, Napak has a population of 211,830, and the number of registered voters has increased to 62,688 in 2025, up by over 6,000 new voters. The district now has 181 polling stations, up from 145 in 2021, signaling administrative expansion and voter mobilization progress. Several government officials attended the rally, and they included Hon. Peter Lokeris (Minister for Karamoja Affairs), Hon. Florence Nambozo (State Minister for Karamoja), Hon. Balam Barugahara (State Minister for the Youth and Children Affairs), and Hon. Akello Rose Lilly (Ethics & Integrity). Others were Members of Parliament, local district leaders, and security chiefs.

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30 October 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI DECLARES: “CRIMINALS WILL NEVER BE A PROBLEM AGAIN IN KARAMOJA”

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has assured Ugandans that insecurity and cattle rustling in Karamoja are permanently defeated, declaring that criminals will never be a problem again under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. The President made the remarks while addressing journalists in Karamoja subregion at the Morulinga State Lodge, Napak District on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. The address was part of his ongoing campaign trail ahead of the 2026 general elections. In his detailed briefing, President Museveni traced the historical roots of cattle rustling and the resurgence of insecurity in Karamoja, attributing them to systemic failures in earlier administrations and corruption within local security structures. He noted that upon his direct intervention, the government restored order and neutralized the rustlers who had destabilized the sub-region. “But when we came, there was corruption in the army, starting with the failure to pay the vigilantes. When we came to Barlegi, we found the real problems, and of course, the army had the capacity to defeat these people, and we defeated them,” the President said. H.E. Museveni explained that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), working hand-in-hand with local communities, managed to restore security in the region. He revealed that during an earlier period when the UPDF 5th Division went for training, some rustlers tried to take advantage of the temporary gap, but they were swiftly defeated. “They learnt a lesson, and anybody who tries will be defeated as long as the NRM is in charge,” H.E. Museveni said firmly. The President underscored the need for effective community policing and robust communication systems at the grassroots. He expressed concern that some sub-counties in Karamoja still lacked a sufficient police presence, despite a standing directive that each sub-county should have at least 18 police officers. “The lack of community policing in some areas has been due to incomplete deployment of police officers,” he noted, adding that improved communication technology provides a new frontier in crime prevention. “It’s not really difficult to deal with these criminals, especially now that we have a good network of telephones. This good network is very important in anti-crime efforts,” President Museveni said, adding that every sub-county should center security around the police station, where everyone knows the emergency telephone number. “If anything happens, people should ring immediately,” he said, emphasizing that the police must be well-equipped with means of mobility, such as motorcycles and pickup vehicles, to respond swiftly to incidents. In addition, he recommended the deployment of police dogs and surveillance technology such as drones and aircraft to track criminal activity. “If the criminal has already left, the police dog can follow. At another level, we have surveillance equipment like UAVs and aircraft that can fly by day or night. There’s no way criminals can manage. If you combine all this, there’s no way they can survive,” the President stated. President Museveni added that modern surveillance technology has made it nearly impossible for rustlers to hide. “Some commanders said these rustlers are now staying in the bush instead of their homes, but that’s even easier because if they use a telephone, you can locate it. That telephone becomes a death trap for them,” he warned. Regarding national politics, candidate Museveni attributed the NRM’s enduring popularity to its consistent ideological foundation built on four key pillars — patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy. “The big support of NRM that you are seeing is because of our work for the last 65 years. I have been active since 1960. Initially, I was a member of the Democratic Party (DP), which was promoting a sectarian cause. I told them that the federal system they were talking about was dangerous for a young country like Uganda. We needed unity,” he said. He recounted the political chaos of the early 1960s, when sectarianism dominated Uganda’s politics through parties like DP, UPC, and Kabaka Yekka, explaining that the coalition politics of that time sowed seeds of division that later erupted into violent conflict. “By 1964, Obote discovered that what he had promised Buganda could not be done, things like having its own High Court and police force. Those were ridiculous ideas. When he failed to implement them, the fallout led to the 1966 crisis,” he explained. President Museveni linked the NRM’s political philosophy to its development agenda, saying Uganda’s transformation is anchored on household wealth creation and value addition through agriculture and industry. “My first plan is wealth. That’s what I did in the cattle corridor in the 1960s. For economics, I say: Seek ye first the homestead incomes, and the rest shall be added unto you," he said, outlining a detailed model for household prosperity based on the “four-acre model plan”, urging every family to engage in commercial agriculture. “Each home must engage in commercial agriculture, using high-value enterprises. The first acre can go to coffee, the second to fruits, the third to pasture for zero-grazing cows, and the fourth to food crops like cassava. Then you can add backyard poultry, piggery for those who eat pork, and fish farming in wetlands,” he elaborated. The President highlighted the NRM’s ongoing push for industrialization, particularly agro-processing industries that add value to agricultural produce. “The factory is based on agriculture. If you produce a lot of milk, coffee, and fruits, you must process them,” he said, adding that agro-processing will link with the rural economy. He also mentioned that Karamoja and its surrounding regions have vast potential for mineral-based industrialization. In addition to agriculture and industry, the President identified tourism as another key economic pillar for Karamoja’s development. “We have natural beauty and culture here that can attract visitors. Tourism will complement agriculture and mining,” he said. President Museveni reiterated that Uganda’s progress cannot be isolated from Africa’s unity and economic integration. He said the NRM’s vision extends beyond national borders and seeks to promote a self-sustaining African market.

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30 October 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI IMPRESSED BY IMPROVED WATER ACCESS IN NAKAPIRIPIRIT, APPLAUDS NRM’S TRANSFORMATIVE WORK

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has expressed delight over the remarkable improvement in water access across Nakapiripirit District. He described it as proof of how the National Resistance Movement (NRM)'s long-term investments in infrastructure are transforming lives in Karamoja. Speaking during a campaign rally at Namboole II Grounds in Nakapiripirit yesterday, President Museveni, who is also the NRM Presidential flag bearer, said he was impressed to learn that 82% of villages in the district now have access to safe water, one of the highest coverage levels in the subregion. “I was looking at water coverage, and I’m happy to see that Nakapiripirit is doing well. Out of 209 villages, 172 have access to water. This 82% is very good. Some districts like Amudat and Abim are still lower, but we shall study why and address it,” said President Museveni who was in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni. He noted that the progress reflects the government’s deliberate effort to provide economic and social infrastructure to all corners of Uganda, especially previously marginalized regions. Under the NRM government’s Water for Production initiative, he mentioned that several major facilities have been completed in Nakapiripirit, including the Aooyalet Valley Tank in Loregae Sub- County with a capacity of 40 million litres, and the Komaret Valley Tank in Moruita holding 20 million litres. “Four additional valley tanks Karengeze, Lomogol, Lokitela-Alokwa, and Lomosomosoi as well as a wind-powered abstraction system have also been completed,” he said. Looking ahead, the President revealed that the government is finalizing plans for the Namalu Large Scale Irrigation Scheme, which will store 11.8 billion litres of water and irrigate up to 750 hectares under Phase One. “These are the kinds of interventions that ensure water is not just for drinking but for production to support farming and livestock,” the President said. President Museveni emphasized that the NRM’s development philosophy rests on building economic and social infrastructure to create the foundation for wealth creation. He pointed out that Nakapiripirit has benefited from new roads, electricity connections, and telecommunication networks that have opened up the area to trade and services. Among key road projects completed in the district are Namalu–Nakapiripirit (17 km), Akisim–Moroto–Lokitanyala (92 km), and the ongoing Muyembe–Nakapiripirit (92 km) road upgrade. “These roads are not just for decoration, they are for movement of goods, services, and people. They are the arteries of the economy,” he said. On social infrastructure, the President highlighted the construction of schools and health centers to bring essential services closer to the people. “Nakapiripirit currently has 27 government primary schools and seven government secondary schools, while the Ministry of Health is upgrading several lower-level facilities to Health Centre IIIs and IVs to improve service delivery,” he said. Turning to household income, President Museveni called on the people of Nakapiripirit to embrace commercial agriculture and enterprise development, saying that wealth creation must begin at the homestead. He cited examples like Hon. Fred Byamukama, the State Minister for Transport, who earns over Shs 55 million per month from poultry farming, as proof that agriculture can be highly profitable when approached commercially. “Please listen carefully to the NRM message. Plan number one is commercial agriculture. From there, we go to manufacturing and then services, including digital. These are the pillars that will transform Uganda,” he said. He also praised the impact of the Presidential Zonal Industrial Hubs, where youth are acquiring practical skills for self-employment. Gloria Nayol, a beneficiary from Napak Industrial Hub, shared her story of how a tailoring course changed her life. “After completing my training, I started my own small business with friends. We later received Shs 50 million through the Graduate SACCO. We are buying materials and expanding. Thank you, President Museveni, for supporting us,” she said. Karamoja is Home: On her part, Maama Janet described her visit to Nakapiripirit as a “homecoming,” expressing gratitude for the warmth and progress she witnessed in the region. “Coming to Karamoja is always a homecoming for me. I thank you for the traditional love and warmth of the Karamoja people that I cherish so much,” she said. Maama Janet noted that the transformation in Karamoja from insecurity and hunger to stability and productivity reflects God’s grace and the NRM’s commitment to inclusive development. “The new generation of Karamoja must live in better houses, have better food and livelihoods. Karamoja has always been a blessing to me. God bless Karamoja, and God bless Uganda,” she added. The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, who also serves as the NRM’s Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), commended the government for improving social services in the subregion. She particularly praised the district’s new mobile laboratory and the modern emergency units at Moroto Hospital, describing them as life-saving facilities that reflect tangible progress. “When you see the road from Mbale–Muyembe–Nakapiripirit, it is one of the best roads. We have security, development, and a conducive environment to create wealth. We thank you, Mzee, for your leadership,” she said. Mr. Lochap Daniel Matovu, the NRM Chairperson for Nakapiripirit, said residents remain firmly behind President Museveni, citing the district’s 94.8% support in the 2021 elections. He said Nakapiripirit’s progress under NRM from education and health to water and roads is visible and unmatched. According to district data; Nakapiripirit has 9 sub-counties, 35 parishes, and 209 villages with a population of 111,681 people. Through the Parish Development Model, the district has received Shs 10.5 billion, benefiting over 10,300 households. Under Emyooga, 35 SACCOs with 8,635 members have received Shs 1.78 billion to support small enterprises. “We are determined to protect these gains as we move towards achieving middle-income status,” Mr. Matovu said. As the campaign rally concluded, President Museveni urged the people of Nakapiripirit to stay on the course with the NRM, assuring them that the government will continue expanding infrastructure and wealth creation programs to uplift every household. “What we have done here in Nakapiripirit shows what happens when people and the government work together. Let’s continue building on these foundations,” he said. Meanwhile, the campaign is running under the theme: “Protecting the Gains, As We Make a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status”. The event was graced by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

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