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05 January 2026

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TASKS WAKISO RESIDENTS TO KEENLY MONITOR UTILISATION OF DEVELOPMENT FUNDS TO ATTAIN INTENDED PURPOSE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flagbearer for the 2026 general elections, has tasked the people of Wakiso district to keenly monitor the utilisation of the government development funds to ensure that they serve the intended purpose. “The money for the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga is there and the people who steal that money can be easily arrested because they are here with us in Uganda,” he said. The President who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni made the remarks today while addressing a campaign rally at Entebbe Municipality playgrounds, Wakiso District. The President revealed that the government has increased the PDM funding to Shs300 million and has also set up a special fund for leaders, markets, mechanics and fisheries, with an aim of improving their livelihoods through wealth creation. “Own up the PDM programme to counter corrupt officials,” he urged. President Museveni also noted that the NRM government has ably laid a stable foundation in different sectors employing millions of Ugandans, thus challenging residents of Wakiso to take advantage of the job opportunities in the planned development aspects such as industries, commercial agriculture, services including tourism, skill and artisanship. The President further assured residents of Entebbe and Wakiso district at large of plans to promptly complete construction works for Kisubi - Nakawuka - Mpigi road, Nakawuka - Nateete road and several other ongoing road construction projects across the district to improve mobility and business operations. On the other hand, he cautioned the electorate against opportunistic opposition politicians who he says constantly frustrate development programs and rallied them to vote for NRM flag bearers for effective service delivery. On her part, Maama Janet attributed the immense developmental achievements for Entebbe and Wakiso district to the NRM's strategic approach founded on peace and stability. She reminded the residents never to forget the critical role of the NRM government in the development of Uganda. “God has used the NRM government, President Museveni and the UPDF to protect the peace, unity and stability in Uganda all these many years,” Maama Janet said as she rallied the people of Wakiso to vote for President Museveni and other NRM candidates in the forthcoming general elections. The NRM First National Vice Chairperson, Alhaji Moses Kigongo tasked the NRM fraternity in Entebbe and Wakiso district to scale up mobilization efforts for the party at the grassroot for a resounding win in the forthcoming elections. He reminded NRM cadres of discipline and respect for each other during and after elections. The NRM second National Vice Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among highlighted the several additional development initiatives in Wakiso district fostered by the NRM government that include the 35 billion shillings Lubugumu - Busabala road project, the 15.5 billion shillings Kitoolo - Kawuku road project, the 23 billion shillings Entebe - Nakiwogo road and the planned bridge at the same location. She rallied the electorate of Entebbe and Wakiso district at large to vote for the NRM for more development interventions in the area.

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04 January 2026

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HOLDS TALKS WITH DIGITAL INFLUENCERS IN “JAZZ WITH JAJJA” CONVERSATION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today held a candid and wide-ranging dialogue with young Ugandans (Bazukulu) during the Jazz with Jajja conversation at State Lodge, Nakasero. The interactive engagement, hosted by the First Daughter, Mrs. Natasha Museveni Karugire, brought together content creators, journalists, digital entrepreneurs and influencers. The event offered the attendees a rare opportunity to directly question the President on leadership, motivation, the digital economy, regional integration and youth livelihoods. In his remarks, President Museveni urged young people to look beyond entertainment and short-term pleasures and instead focus on the fundamentals of economic transformation. “It is interesting that many young people talk about dancing and football, which are good, but rarely talk about the regional market,” President Museveni said. “Those things are pleasure, but you must first have the basics. When I was also young, I would also dance, fight and study. The problem today is dancing all the time.” Responding to a question by TikTok influencer Sean Ibrahim, popularly known as Sean Styles, on what drives his long political journey, President Museveni traced his motivation to identity, history and a deep desire to protect Africa’s freedom. “What motivates me is that I love myself — as a Munyankore, as a Ugandan, and as an African. I love you people. I see you as my children and grandchildren,” he said. He cautioned that history has shown the world can be unforgiving to weak societies, stressing that his generation’s struggle was driven by the need to prevent Africans from disappearing or returning to servitude. “My motivation is freedom for the black race,” he said. The President also attributed his personal stamina and resilience to traditional African livelihoods, particularly cattle keeping, which he said instilled toughness and self-reliance. Broadcaster Isaac Katende, alias Kasuku, raised concerns about limited government support for digital media, particularly following the shutdown of social media platform; Facebook, despite the sector providing livelihoods for many young people. In response, President Museveni explained that Uganda had deliberately invested in undersea fibre-optic cables to reduce the historically high cost of the internet, which had previously relied on expensive satellite communication. “There were attempts by telephone companies to monopolize, and we said no,” he said, noting that government intervention significantly lowered data costs by expanding infrastructure. On Facebook, the President maintained that the shutdown was prompted by misuse of the platform. “We closed it because some people thought they could insult and play around with us,” he said, adding that the government remains open to engagement if platforms operate responsibly. President Museveni also revealed ongoing discussions with tech entrepreneur Elon Musk on the possibility of introducing Starlink satellite internet to Uganda, should it prove affordable. “If the satellite becomes cheaper, we shall allow it,” he said. In a question posed by journalist Simon Kaheru, the President reiterated that prosperity lies at the heart of the National Resistance Movement’s ideology, warning that Africa faces danger if young people fail to understand how wealth is created. “Prosperity does not come from begging. It comes from producing a good or service and selling it sustainably, with calculation — ekibaro.” He explained that Uganda’s diverse, multi-tribal structure created natural economic complementarities, which later informed the NRM’s ideological pillars of Patriotism, loving Uganda as a market, and Pan-Africanism, embracing the wider African market. “Uganda alone is not enough,” he said, noting that the country now produces surplus milk, maize, bananas, cement and steel, which rely on regional and continental markets to remain viable. Economy, Skills and Structural Transformation: Responding to questions from Christine Mawadri on Uganda’s youthful population, the creative sector and innovation, President Museveni traced the country’s economic challenges to the narrow colonial enclave economy based on raw exports. By independence, he said, Uganda’s economy revolved around the 3Cs- Cotton, Coffee and Copper and the 3Ts- Tobacco, Tea and Tourism covering only about four percent of homesteads. “When the NRM came to power in 1986, even that small economy had collapsed,” he said, explaining that the government had to rebuild from scratch. He outlined progress made since then, including restoring and expanding traditional exports, diversifying into dairy, fisheries, fruits and manufacturing, adding value to raw materials, and transitioning into a knowledge economy with local production of vehicles, vaccines and computers. However, he noted that by 2013, 68 percent of homesteads were still outside the money economy, prompting the introduction of Operation Wealth Creation and later the Parish Development Model (PDM). “The key is guiding people into enterprises that make economic sense for their land size,” President Museveni emphasized. On youth migration for work, raised by content creator Osman Kaweesa, popularly known as Jobless Billionaire, the President said many young people had not fully understood where jobs come from. “Jobs and wealth will mainly come from four sectors, commercial agriculture, manufacturing/ artisanship, services and ICT,” he said, once again stressing the Four-Acre Model as a practical pathway to household income. President Museveni also highlighted the role of Presidential skilling hubs and the ongoing education curriculum reform, saying Africa’s biggest challenge remains mindset. “We export coffee at $2.5 per kilo, but after value addition it can earn $40,” he said, noting that while coffee is a $460 billion global business, Africa earns a small fraction because it exports raw materials. “That is the mindset change we are struggling with,” he added. Closing the session, Mrs. Natasha thanked the President for opening space for dialogue and assured participants that similar engagements would continue. “There shall be more interactions like this. Thank you, Your Excellency, for allowing us to have this conversation,” she said.

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03 January 2026

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ASSURES BUIKWE ON MINIMUM WAGE, SAYS GOVERNMENT MUST FIRST LOWER COST OF DOING BUSINESS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has assured Ugandans that the long-awaited minimum wage will be established once the government completes key interventions aimed at enabling investors to operate sustainably and profitably. Speaking on Saturday 3rd January 2026, during a campaign rally in Lugazi Municipality, Buikwe District, President Museveni said the government is deliberately sequencing reforms to avoid harming businesses and job creation. President Museveni, who is also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearer for the 2026 general elections, was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, as he addressed thousands of supporters who braved a heavy downpour to attend the rally. The President acknowledged growing public concern over low wages, especially among workers in factories, farms, and service industries, but emphasized that introducing a minimum wage prematurely could backfire. “We are still handling the issues of salaries, and we have not concluded. Why? It is because we are still organizing the manufacturing sector, and our job has been to attract more investors,” he said. He explained that Uganda’s strategy has focused on first creating conditions that reduce the cost of production, allowing investors to remain competitive while paying workers better in the long run. “These different forms of wealth — commercial agriculture, factories, hotels, and ICT — have created jobs and wealth for our people but there is the issue of wages or salaries for workers,” he said. President Museveni cited peace and regional market access as the foundation of Uganda’s industrial growth, noting that the East African Community (EAC) market provides a ready destination for locally manufactured goods. “First of all, we created peace. Secondly, we created the East African Community market so that when we produce, we have somewhere to sell,” he said. Lowering production costs: The President outlined three major areas the government is prioritizing before implementing a minimum wage: electricity costs, transport infrastructure, and access to affordable credit. “One of the things we must do is to get enough electricity so that investors can have low electricity costs,” President Museveni said, adding that energy affordability remains a key determinant of factory profitability. He also pointed to transport costs, particularly the movement of goods between Uganda and the Kenyan port of Mombasa. “That’s why our solution is the railway, which has lower transport costs than road transport,” he said, noting that cheaper logistics would allow manufacturers to save costs and improve worker pay. On access to finance, President Museveni said the government is working to reduce interest rates so that businesses can borrow at affordable terms. “The cost of money in the banks must come down so that investors can borrow at a low interest rate,” he said. According to President Museveni, once these structural challenges are addressed, the government will proceed with setting and enforcing a minimum wage. “When you hear people talking about the minimum wage, we are planning for it but we have not implemented it because we still have assignments on our side,” he explained. The NRM candidate cautioned that imposing wage regulations too early could push investors out of the country. “If we become harsh on them now, they will make losses and take their business elsewhere or collapse and go away from Uganda,” he said. The President also clarified the division of responsibility between the government and investors. “The assignment of the investor is to set up the factory using their money and create jobs. Ours is to make sure there is peace in the country, make electricity affordable, provide low-cost transport, and reduce the cost of money in the banks,” he said. Drawing from his guerrilla warfare background, President Museveni likened the government’s approach to military strategy. “We are guerrillas. While in Luwero, we did not attack Kampala immediately, even though it was very near. We could not do it until we were ready,” he said, adding that patience and timing are critical in economic transformation. President Museveni also addressed land disputes, particularly on Mailo land, which have increasingly affected communities in central Uganda. He announced that Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka would be tasked to clarify the matter publicly. “I will ask the Attorney General to clarify the issue of land on TV so that people understand their rights,” President Museveni said. Turning to the NRM’s manifesto, President Museveni outlined what he described as the party’s seven key contributions to Uganda over the last four decades. “The first one is peace. Development is the second — roads, health centers, schools, electricity, and water,” he said, adding that government records demonstrate tangible progress in these areas. The third pillar, he said, is wealth creation at the household level. “The NRM insists on wealth per family and household. You don’t sleep on the tarmac road; you sleep in your house,” President Museveni said, revisiting the Four-Acre Model, first introduced in the 1996 NRM manifesto, which allocates land for coffee, fruits, pasture, and food crops, supported by backyard enterprises such as poultry, piggery, and fish farming. He cited success stories under the Parish Development Model (PDM), including that of Harriet Nampa from Mangaliba village in Mukono District. “This lady feared the Shs1 million PDM money because she had never touched one million in her entire life. She received Shs500,000 and invested in piggery,” he said. According to the President, Nampa’s piggery business grew to over Shs4 million, enabling her to buy a cow and venture into dairy farming. “These are small-scale people who are just starting, and many more are doing well,” he said. President Museveni also cited large-scale agricultural success stories, including Kalera Phillip of Gomba District, who operates a demonstration farm that began in 2003. He said Kalera diversified into Friesian dairy cows, coffee on 50 acres, poultry, and other ventures after initially struggling with poor rearing methods. “He harvests coffee twice a year, earning between Shs18 million and Shs20 million per acre, and Shs9 million from matooke alone per harvest,” President Museveni noted. The farmer reportedly earns over Shs1.5 billion annually in profit. On employment, the President emphasized that jobs are generated through commercial agriculture, manufacturing/artisanship, services, and ICT. He cited Johnson Basangwa of Jeka Poultry Farm in Kamuli District, who earns about Shs20 million daily from egg production and employs over 300 people. “You here in Lugazi have testimonies of sugar factories where many of your children are working,” President Museveni said. He highlighted industrial parks such as Sino-Mbale, which hosts 75 factories employing about 12,000 workers, and Namanve Industrial Park, with 273 factories employing over 24,000 people. “Mukono also has many factories employing our youths,” he added. President Museveni urged citizens to actively monitor PDM funds to prevent misuse. “All of you should ask the SACCO committee where the PDM money is. You need to learn to follow up on what belongs to you,” he said. He acknowledged past challenges with earlier programs such as Entandikwa, NAADS, and Operation Wealth Creation, which were criticized for benefiting a few individuals. “That’s why we decided to work directly with the poor people at the parish level,” President Museveni said. On her part, while addressing the crowd, the First Lady, Maama Janet praised residents for enduring the rain to attend the rally. “Sometimes we stand in the sun, sometimes in the rain, to build Uganda,” she said, crediting Uganda’s progress to peace, stability, and unity, urging voters to renew NRM’s mandate. “We must stretch out our hands and vote for NRM so that our children and grandchildren can be proud of the Uganda we are building,” she said. NRM Second National Vice Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Annet Anita Among informed the President that Buikwe District faces challenges of absentee landlords and alleged theft of PDM funds. She called for investigations into the misuse of public resources. The rally marked his final campaign stop in greater Mukono after canvassing Buvuma, Kayunga, and Mukono districts.

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02 January 2026

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TASKS KAYUNGA RESIDENTS TO USE THEIR POWERS TO HOLD LEADERS ACCOUNTABLE, ADDRESSES BAKUKU CITIZENSHIP CONCERNS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flagbearer for the 2026 general elections, has today kicked-off his campaign trail in Greater Mukono where he tasked the residents of Kayunga District to use their power to hold leaders accountable and ensure effective service delivery in their area. “What I'm telling you is that all the powers are within your hands. The NRM government gave you powers to elect LCIs, LCIIIs, LCVs and Members of Parliament to represent your interests,” he said. The President who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni made the remarks today while addressing a campaign rally at Busaana Town Council grounds, Kayunga District. According to President Museveni, when voters elect leaders, they have a responsibility to hold them accountable in that when they fail to fulfil their mandate, they vote them out. “We are proposing ways of dealing with non-performing leaders,” he noted. He challenged the electorate to vote for NRM leaders with the ability to monitor the implementation of government programs. The President also challenged the people of Kayunga to fight poverty and create wealth through embracing government poverty alleviation programs, among other initiatives. “I don't want poverty in homes,” he asserted. President Museveni warned against neglect of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds and tasked Kayunga residents to follow up with operationalization of the fund and report corrupt PDM officials. On the other hand, President Museveni tasked the residents of Kayunga to locate free vast land for the establishment of an industrial park in the area in order to increase job opportunities for them, especially the youth. He further unveiled job opportunity sectors fostered by the NRM government in aspects of commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. The President also emphasized the viability of skills training as a job creation avenue demonstrated by graduates of the Presidential Zonal Industrial Skilling Hubs. Furthermore, President Museveni instructed the NRM Secretariat to extract land legislation provisions by the Constituent Assembly that safeguard tenants from unlawful evictions by landlords. He tasked the residents to comprehend their land safety legal provisions to counter land grabbers and evictions. He explained that the Constitution addresses all forms of land tenure and guarantees settlement for all including tenants without any disruptions. President Museveni further addressed the citizenship concerns by the Bakuku community who claim to be denied passports by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He tasked Maj. General Apollo Gowa the Chief of Citizenship and Immigration Control to explain the different categories of Ugandan citizenship and redress the Bakuku community concerns. On her part, Maama Janet called for unity and strengthening of grassroots mobilisation for all NRM flag bearers until polling day. “We should ensure that on the 15th of this month, we all go out one by one, stand at that polling station and vote for the NRM,” she said. “Don't forget your grandmother at home, she also has a vote. Help her to go to the polling station and vote on her own. Each one of us has a vote. Our vote is a brick that we put on the house of Uganda.” The NRM first National Vice Chairperson Alhaji Moses Kigongo also warned “double faced” and indiscipline leaders to change their ways for the good of the party. He also talked the people of Kayunga to vote for President Museveni and other NRM flagbearers for continued development in the area. The NRM second National Vice Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among highlighted development strides in Kayunga District accomplished by the NRM government including improved infrastructure in the area. Mr. Moses Karangwa the Kayunga district NRM Chairperson read the district memorandum on behalf of the residents.

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01 January 2026

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILS PROPHET DAVID ISANGA FOR PRIORITISING WEALTH AND JOB CREATION MESSAGE AMONG BELIEVERS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commended Prophet David Isanga, the overseer and spiritual leader of the Universal Apostles Fellowship Church of Righteousness for prioritising the message of wealth and jobs creation in his ministry. “I thank you for encouraging the believers to work hard and embrace the government programs aimed at eradicating poverty,” he said. President Museveni made the remarks on Wednesday 31st December, 2025 in his message delivered by the Special Presidential Assistant- Press and Mobilization also Deputy Press Secretary, Haji Faruk Kirunda during the Church's End of Year Glorification and Thanksgiving Convention, held in Kilama, Kaliro District. The President explained that human beings have both spiritual and physical needs, which are equally important in life. “The spiritual needs are satisfied through praying to God, studying the scriptures, listening to religious and moral instruction, fasting, praise and worship, etc. These enable a believer to draw closer to God and impart good morals and discipline in relating with other people,” he said. “However, there are also physical needs that must be satisfied in order to achieve a happy, fulfilling and productive life. These include: food, water, shelter, medicine, hospitals, schools, clothes, transport, a job, etc. In a modern economy, you cannot obtain the goods and services which are necessary to sustain life without money.” He explained that to achieve a productive life, an individual or household must eliminate moneylessness or subsistence living, which satisfies only one need i.e. food. He said moneylessness can be eliminated by undertaking a profitable enterprise in one of the four sectors of: commercial agriculture, industries, services and ICT. “These are the four sectors where you can create jobs and wealth.” President Museveni further urged religious leaders to encourage the believers to work towards achieving decent and better standards of living. “This is a crucial point which some believers fail to understand and put into practice. In the process of working for heaven, some of the faithful become negligent about their earthly responsibilities and thereby end up perpetuating and entrenching socio-economic backwardness and poverty in their respective families and societies,” he said. The President implored the faithful to emulate Jesus Christ who prayed, healed the sick, fed the hungry and earned his bread by working alongside his earthly father Joseph as a carpenter. “He worked for both the spiritual and socio-economic uplift of his family and society. This is what all Christians must emulate,” he noted. President Museveni also thanked God for the continued peace, unity and stability in Uganda. “It is gratifying that Uganda has remained peaceful; and there is a lot of agricultural and industrial production. The shops are full and the markets are full. Yes, there is still poverty among the 30% of the households still outside the money economy (Abakolera ekiddakyoonka, tic me ic keken), but the way-out for them is well laid out and the resources to support the process are available and up-scalable (PDM, Emyooga, ghetto funds, bodaboda fund, etc.),” he said. “Finally, the future is bright. Let us pray for peace in the whole of Africa and more economic and political integration in Africa to continue to solve the problem of markets for our products and services and strategic security.” On his part, Prophet David thanked President Museveni for steering Uganda’s socio-economic transformation through various programs such as Parish Development Model and Emyooga. He also applauded him for consistently guaranteeing freedom of worship in Uganda, explaining that it's the reason why the Universal Apostles Fellowship Church of Righteousness exists. Prophet David further rallied believers to vote for President Museveni and other NRM flagbearers in the 2026 general elections for more development. The event was also attended by the Minister of State for Bunyoro Affairs, Hon. Jenipher Namuyangu, Bulamogi County MP, Hon. Bwiire Sanon, Kaliro Woman MP, Hon. Brenda Namukuta, among other leaders.

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30 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMISSIONS PRO INDUSTRIES ETHANOL PLANT IN LUWERO

His Excellency, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today commissioned PRO Industries Pte Limited, an ethanol and extra-neutral alcohol (ENA) manufacturing plant located in Ndibulungi Village, Luwero District. The President, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataha Museveni, praised the company for its role in agro-industrialization, value addition, and the promotion of cleaner energy solutions. President Museveni reaffirmed the government's commitment to improving workers’ welfare, lowering the cost of production inputs such as electricity and transport, and strengthening industrial growth as a pathway to job creation and economic transformation. The President also called on Ugandans to support the NRM in the forthcoming elections to consolidate gains made in industrialization and national development. The Managing Director of PRO Industries Pte Limited, Ms. Ridhi Always, welcomed the President and noted that PRO Industries is the largest extra-neutral alcohol (ENA) and ethanol plant in East Africa, with a production capacity of 120,000 litres of ENA per day and 35,000 litres of ethanol per day. She disclosed that the company has invested USD 100 million in the Luwero plant and works directly with more than 2,000 farmers in Luwero District and surrounding areas who supply maize to the facility. Ms. Always highlighted Uganda’s leadership in mandating ethanol blending in all petroleum products sold nationwide starting January 2026, in line with Vision 2040 and the Biofuels Act, 2020. She explained that ethanol blending is expected to reduce Uganda’s USD 2 billion annual petroleum import bill, and promote environmental sustainability through cleaner energy use. She thanked the Government for the peace, security, and policy consistency that have enabled PRO Industries and other investors to thrive and contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

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30 December 2025

NAKASONGOLA: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI REAFFIRMS NRM’S COMMITMENT TO EQUALITY AND INCLUSIVITY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for the 2026 general elections, has urged Ugandans to support the NRM, emphasizing the party’s long-standing commitment to equality and inclusivity. Accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, President Museveni made the remarks today during a campaign rally at Wabinyonyi Playground in Nakasongola. “Please vote for the NRM as you have always done, because the NRM believes in equality,” President Museveni said. The President also expressed joy at seeing the growth of the Abaruuli community. “Whenever I come to Nakasongola, I feel happy and grateful to God for the progress here. When I first came, the population was only 50,000. Today, it is over 226,000. This is because of the guided leadership of the NRM. Our children grow up and do not die from preventable diseases,” he said. President Museveni further announced ongoing and planned infrastructure projects in the district. “We shall work on the Kikusa–Kazwama–Kalungi–Nakasongola road and the Rwampanga–Amolatar road. The issues of land grabbing have also reduced, and I am proud of the work we have done,” he said. On healthcare and education, the President noted progress while highlighting areas that need attention. “There are 114 government primary schools and 177 private schools, 10 government secondary schools and 37 private secondary schools. The district has a hospital, two HCIVs, and nine HCIIIs. We plan to upgrade Batuusa HCII to HCIII in Kakooge, Kazwama HCII to HCIII in Kazwama, and construct new HCIIIs in Migyera and Mayirikiti,” he said. The President outlined the key sectors expected to generate jobs in the district, highlighting the Four-Acre Model as a tool for household wealth creation. “Jobs will mainly come from four key sectors: commercial agriculture, manufacturing/artisanship, services and ICT supported by industrial hubs across the country. I again stress the importance of the Four-Acre Model. With calculation, that is how we talk of one acre of coffee, one acre of fruits, one acre of pasture, and one acre of food crops. Households can also earn from backyard poultry, piggery for non-Muslims, and fish farming near the wetlands,” he said. He also urged responsible resource use. “Even at Namboole Stadium, not all spectators can fit. The same applies to our fishing sites, overcrowding must be avoided to ensure sustainability,” the President said. President Museveni concluded by reiterating the NRM’s commitment to inclusive development. “The Abaruuli today are able to develop themselves. We shall continue working to ensure every community across Uganda benefits from development and equality,” he said. On her part, the First Lady applauded the people of Nakasongola for their strong support of the NRM, requesting them to vote in high numbers in the forthcoming general elections, in favour of the ruling party. Maama Janet emphasized the importance of active participation in the upcoming elections, urging all Ugandans to turn out on January 15, 2026. “Nobody should stay at home. Your vote is your brick in building Uganda. We are shaping Uganda for the future, and every citizen – young and old, men and women, owes it to themselves and their families to vote,” she said. She called on Ugandans to embrace their civic responsibility, highlighting that the collective effort of all citizens is crucial in building a prosperous and stable nation. The Speaker of Parliament and NRM Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, thanked President Museveni for the development initiatives in Nakasongola. “Your Excellency, we are grateful for all the development in this area and for the peace you have brought to our country,” she said. She highlighted the need for improved infrastructure to boost local business, particularly the road connecting to Zengebe Landing Site. Nakasongola District NRM Chairperson, Mr. Christopher Nkoyoyo, lauded President Museveni and Maama Janet for visiting Nakasongola District, describing their presence as a significant morale booster for residents. “We thank the President and Maama for honoring Nakasongola with their presence. It shows their commitment to the people of this district,” Mr. Nkoyoyo said. While acknowledging the government’s development strides, Mr. Nkoyoyo raised pressing issues affecting the district, including land wrangles. Nakasongola District comprises 15 Sub-Counties/Town Councils, 68 Parishes, and 360 villages, with a population of 226,074 according to the 2024 census. Mr. Nkoyoyo highlighted the progress of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in the district. “Out of 68 Parish SACCOs, Nakasongola has received Shs. 24.2 billion. So far, 20,589 households—representing 39.8% of our population—have benefitted,” he said. The district has 36 SACCOs with 8,479 members under the Emyooga initiative. “The government has already disbursed Shs. 1.68 billion to support these groups,” Mr. Nkoyoyo reported. Access to safe water has reached 74% of the district’s 360 villages. “The Ministry has completed piped water supply projects in Nakasongola, Kakooge-Katuugo, and Migyera, benefiting tens of thousands of residents,” Mr. Nkoyoyo said. Multiple valley tanks and solar-powered irrigation schemes have also been constructed, enhancing water availability for production. Nkoyoyo reported that 14 out of 15 sub-counties are now connected to the national electricity grid, with plans to extend power to Lwampanga Sub-County. He urged residents to continue supporting government programs. “We are grateful for the progress made but we must also confront issues like land grabbing and infrastructure gaps to ensure sustainable development for all,” he concluded. 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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30 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ASSURES NAKASEKE FOREST SETTLERS OF SECURITY, PLEDGES LEASE ARRANGEMENTS AS HE INTENSIFIES 2026 RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has assured residents of Nakaseke District, particularly those living in forest reserve areas, that the government will not evict them but will instead formalise their stay through lease arrangements that promote wealth creation alongside environmental conservation. Addressing a packed campaign rally at Nakaseke District headquarters in Butalangu on Tuesday, 30 December, 2025, President Museveni who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, stated that the government would engage with settlers occupying forest reserve land and allow them to use it under long-term leases of up to 49 years, provided they participate in tree planting and adopt sustainable land use practices. “We are going to arrange to enable you to enter an agreement with the government to give you a lease on that land for something like 49 years,” President Museveni said. “As you carry out your wealth creation activities, such as commercial farming and grazing animals, you will be required to preserve that land by planting trees.” The President clarified that the land in question had originally been set aside by the government for forest establishment, but noted that forest restoration could still be achieved through the active participation of communities already settled there. “If it was a traditional forest like Budongo Forest, I would have chased you,” President Museveni added, drawing laughter from the crowd, as he distinguished between protected natural forests and degraded reserves that can be restored through agro-forestry. The assurance followed concerns raised earlier by the NRM Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Annet Anita Among, who warned that residents in forest reserves such as Kanyogoga, Kamusenene, Wakyato, and parts of Ngoma trading centre were facing imminent eviction by the National Forestry Authority (NFA). She told the rally that many of the settlements had over time developed into fully-fledged communities with schools, health centres, places of worship, and other public amenities, making eviction socially and economically disruptive. Nakaseke District hosts several central forest reserves, including Kapimpini and Kamusenene, which have come under pressure from human settlement, agriculture, and grazing. President Museveni, who is also the National Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the party’s presidential flag bearer for the 2026 general elections, said he was pleased to return to Bulemeezi, describing it as a historically diverse and significant region. “This is our traditional place with people from all walks of life — Baganda, Banyankore, Lugbara and others,” he said. Nakaseke lies at the heart of the Luwero Triangle, which was a major battleground during the 1981–1986 NRA bush war. Using the rally to campaign for renewal of the NRM mandate, President Museveni outlined what he described as the party’s seven major contributions to Uganda over the last four decades, urging voters to use them as a basis for the 2026 decision. At the top of the list, he placed peace and security. “Uganda was in wars for a long time, even before Europeans came but it has been 40 years since the NRM has kept Uganda peaceful.” He argued that sustained peace had provided the foundation for development, investment, and wealth creation across the country, including in previously war-ravaged areas like Nakaseke. On infrastructure, President Museveni recalled that for a long time, the Kampala–Luwero–Gulu road was the only major road serving the region. Since then, the government has invested in new and upgraded roads, including the Matugga–Semuto–Kapeeka road. “We have added on Kampala–Luwero–Butalangu, and we are going to expand it to Ngoma up to Masindi,” he said. The President urged voters to elect leaders who understand government priorities and can effectively lobby for development. “Ask the Members of Parliament you will elect to listen to my message, especially on the issue of prioritisation,” he said. He noted that Nakaseke previously had no electricity but now enjoys near-universal access, with plans to extend power to remaining unserved areas. In education, President Museveni said the district now has numerous primary, secondary, and technical institutions, including a teachers’ training college, compared to just a handful in the past. Wealth creation beyond subsistence: However, President Museveni cautioned residents against relying solely on social services and subsistence farming, emphasising that wealth creation at the household level was critical. “NRM has been telling you from the beginning that you must also work for the pocket, not only for eating,” he said. He cited the example of George Matongo of Ngoma in Nakaseke, who transformed his life through commercial dairy farming. “That man collects 900 litres of milk per day, earning Shs21 million per month and over Shs200 million in a year,” President Museveni said. The President also challenged local dairy farmers, many of whom own large tracts of land, to adopt intensive farming practices instead of extensive grazing, which he described as under-utilisation of land. “Use your land profitably by planting grass and feeding many cows in a small place,” he advised. To reinforce the message, President Museveni highlighted Joseph Ijara, who runs both poultry and dairy farming on just 2.5 acres. Ijara started with four cows, which have grown to eight, producing between 20 and 36 litres of milk per cow per day. He also sells 600 trays of eggs monthly. “He earns Shs6 million from eggs and about Shs800,000 from milk, totaling Shs6.8 million per month,” President Museveni said. “What you need to understand is to use small amounts of land and earn more. On one acre, you can put eight dairy cows and get out of poverty.” Lessons from Karamoja: President Museveni also cited examples beyond Nakaseke to show that wealth creation is possible even in less developed regions. He pointed to Korea Dick Ogira, a model farmer in Abim District, Karamoja sub-region, who received 200 mango seedlings under Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and Shs1 million through the Parish Development Model (PDM). Ogira planted mangoes alongside cassava on two acres and earned Shs12 million in the first year by selling mangoes at Shs1,000 each. “Next year I expect to get Shs18 million, and in a year Shs32 million after two harvests,” Ogira said in a video clip shown at the rally. “That man is in Abim, where there is no tarmac road, but he is creating wealth,” President Museveni said. “Development may not be there, but wealth is there.” Jobs come from wealth: The President said wealth creation leads directly to job creation, dismissing claims that government is the main source of employment. “Government jobs are only 480,000 against a population of 50 million,” he said. “Jobs are in commercial agriculture, manufacturing, artisanship, services and ICT.” He cited Johnson Basangwa of Jeka Poultry Farm in Kamuli District, who produces 2,000 trays of eggs daily, earning about Shs20 million per day. “Basangwa employs 300 people,” President Museveni said. “He started poultry on a 50 by 100 plot. His wealth has created jobs.” The President also referenced industrial parks such as Sino-Mbale, which hosts 75 factories employing about 12,000 workers, and Namanve Industrial Park with 273 factories employing over 24,000 people. Closer to Nakaseke, President Museveni pointed to Kapeeka Industrial Park as evidence of NRM’s commitment to industrialisation and employment. During the rally, President Museveni acknowledged additional concerns, including land grabbing, land use conflicts, the welfare of veterans and former fighters, and outdated road equipment in the district. He pledged continued engagement to address the issues. On her part, Maama Janet thanked residents for turning up in large numbers and urged them to protect the gains achieved under NRM. “The people of Nakaseke must not forget that the rally should continue on January 15 by voting for Museveni and other NRM flag bearers,” she said. “Vote for NRM to continue working for Uganda to be an example in Africa — a country with families transforming themselves into wealth.” NRM Deputy Secretary General, Hon. Rose Namayanja hailed the transformation of Bulemeezi from a war zone to a thriving commercial area with milk coolers and commercial dairy production. NRM Vice Chairperson for Central Region, Hon Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune thanked Gen. Salim Saleh for guiding Nakaseke residents on NRM ideology and praised local leaders for avoiding NRM-leaning independents. Nakaseke NRM Chairperson Hajji Mohammed Ggubya welcomed President Museveni and highlighted post-war recovery. “Before the war, towns like Kiwoko, Nakaseke, Kapeeka and Semuto existed, but the war destroyed them,” he said. “Now they are back with storied commercial buildings.” He noted that the district had one secondary school in 1986 but now has 17 government secondary schools, several technical institutions, and over 114 government primary schools, alongside 256 private schools. NRM Vice Chairperson for Nakaseke, Hajjat Saida Bbumba, appealed to President Museveni to resolve land challenges hindering development. The rally was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee members, Ministers, Members of Parliament, former national leaders, party flag bearers, and district officials.

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29 December 2025

MPIGI: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PROPOSES ENACTMENT OF LAW RECALLING NON-PERFORMING LEADERS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flagbearer for 2026 general elections, has proposed the enactment of a law recalling non-performing leaders from their assumed positions. “Now I have a suggestion, there's what we call “right to recall” where you recall an elected leader before the end of their term in office. If a leader fails to deliver results, we recall him/her. We can enact it into the constitution because the provision was there during the time of the National Resistance Council (NRC),” he said. The President who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, made the remarks today during a campaign rally in Mpigi district. President Museveni’s proposal followed reports of absenteeism by opposition politicians holding leadership positions in Mpigi. According to the President, similar provisions were proposed in the Constituent Assembly as a cure to leaders who fail to perform after their election, but the law was never approved. “The NRM government gave you powers to fight for yourselves, but you don’t use them. You have powers to elect LCIs, LCIIIs, LCVs and Members of Parliament. You say you elect them, but when they assume power, they forget about you,” he said. “We can discuss it. Instead of waiting for five years, we can use the law as citizens, and we recall him if he fails to deliver on what he is supposed to do even before the 5 years elapse.” However, President Museveni explained that even before such a law is put in place, citizens have a mandate to report non-performing leaders so that the law takes its course. “You report them and see what I will do to them,” he warned. “I will be meeting the youth in this area and we will discuss more.” On the other hand, he blamed the electorate for voting ideologically disoriented opposition politicians into leadership who in turn fail to deliver services effectively. He also urged the residents of Mpigi to utilize the land laws to defend their tenure and promised to fast track landlord compensation funds. The President noted that the NRM government at inception clearly outlined land rights for tenants and landlords distinctively. The President also pledged to set up a Presidential industrial skilling hub in Greater Mpigi to train more youth in the area. “I'm going to set up one hub here in Mpigi and another one in Greater Luwero,” he stated. He further confirmed plans to establish a district General hospital in Mpigi, set up a ferry for Buyiga Islanders and a public market for the district. On her part, Maama Janet tasked the people of Mpigi to translate the high numbers during the rally into real votes on the polling day. She also tasked voters to end the opposition politicians rhetoric in the district because they hinder service delivery. The NRM second National Vice Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among highlighted development strides by the NRM government in Mpigi district. The NRM Vice Chairperson for the Central region, Hon. Haruna Kasolo decried opposition politicians' corruption tendencies that have hindered development aspirations for Mpigi district. He asked the electorate in the district to vote for NRM flag bearers at all levels for improved service delivery.

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29 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI KICKS-OFF CAMPAIGN TRAIL IN GREATER MPIGI, CAUTIONS VOTERS AGAINST POLITICIANS FRUSTRATING DEVELOPMENT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flagbearer for 2026 general elections, has cautioned the electorate against voting inexperienced politicians especially from the opposition side whose focus is frustrating government's development initiatives. “Don't take decisions by gambling which you will later regret. Vote the NRM to be sure because our track record on development is known and seen,” he said. The President who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni made the remarks today as he kicked-off his campaign trail in Greater Mpigi, beginning with Butambala District. President Museveni noted that it's crucial for voters to elect ideologically oriented leaders aligned to the NRM party to support all development interventions. He also emphasized that the NRM’s pledges were not mere promises, but extensions of the achievements already delivered. “What we are talking about are not promises; we show that we have delivered over the years, and now we are adding on to our promises,” he said. On peace, the President reflected on Uganda’s turbulent past and the unity achieved under NRM leadership. “Uganda was ungovernable at some point. Today, we are all united regardless of tribes, religion, or gender. Everyone can see it—it’s not about saying, it’s about doing,” he added. Highlighting Butambala’s progress, the President pointed to infrastructure, electricity, and water supply. “We passed here in Butambala while working on the Kisozi- Mpigi- Kibibi- Gombe-Kyanje-Mpenja-Kanoni-Kabulasoke road,” he said. “All sub-counties in Butambala now have electricity, and 82 percent of villages enjoy safe water.” President Museveni also outlined projects that shall be worked on very soon; including the Mitala-Maria and Bulo-Kanoni roads, as well as water initiatives in Butambala District. On personal initiatives, the President shared his own example of productive farming. “I have a personal model farm, one acre for coffee, one for bananas, one for pasture, and one for cattle and fish. I earn Shs 100 million per year and after costs, I remain with Shs 70 million.” He also underscored the NRM’s role in promoting coffee farming in Buganda, saying, “Masaka, Sembabule, and Rakai people are coffee growers because of the NRM. Those who claim they introduced coffee are not telling the truth.” President Museveni further highlighted the importance of wealth creation as a complement to development. He cited Rashidah Namubiru, a PDM beneficiary from Butambala, who transformed her life using PDM funds. “I visited Rashidah myself. She started with goats and land, and today she has multiplied her livestock and income. She is a living example of how PDM changes lives,” he said. Addressing misconceptions about employment, the President noted the limits of government jobs. “Uganda has about 480,000 government jobs for a population of 50 million. You cannot talk about jobs without talking about wealth. Jobs come from commercial agriculture, factories, services, and ICT,” he said. He cited Mbale Industrial Park, which houses over 75 factories and has created thousands of jobs. “While the government employs 480,000 people, new factories across the country have already created 1.3 million jobs—nearly three times more than the public sector.” President Museveni revealed that the government was going to set up a Presidential Zonal Industrial Skilling Hub in Greater Mpigi to train the youth in the area. The President also heard the story of Sarah Nagayi, a young woman from Kayunga who lost her mother and dropped out of school. Through the Kayunga Presidential Skilling Hub, she trained in hairdressing at no cost, graduated, and secured employment before starting her own salon. “Today, Nagayi is skilled, a wealth creator, and an employer. She has three employees, pays each Shs 150,000, earns Shs 1.5m per month, and owns land. This is the Uganda we are building, where government programs empower citizens to create wealth,” he said. Furthermore, President Museveni urged Ugandans to embrace the opportunities provided by NRM programs, emphasizing that peace, development, and wealth creation remain the pillars of the party’s agenda. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Butambala District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. On her part, Maama Janet called on residents of Butambala to turn out in large numbers and support President Museveni and the NRM, saying the party remains the strongest guarantor of Uganda’s unity and peace. “As you come here today, remember that this enthusiasm should translate into votes. We are looking at 70% and above,” she said. She cautioned supporters against limiting mobilisation to rallies, urging them to ensure that no one is left behind on polling day. “These numbers you see here should not be for this rally only. When January 15, 2026, comes, go out and vote. Do not leave anyone at home. Let everyone participate,” she said. Maama Janet reminded the crowd of the historical mission of the NRM, saying the party fought to restore unity in a country once torn apart by division and conflict. “The NRM government went to fight for unity. Our National Anthem reminds us that Uganda is united for freedom and that together we shall always stand as one nation,” she said. “When you vote for the NRM, you are voting for unity and peace.” She warned that instability remains a reality in many neighbouring countries, forcing thousands of refugees to seek safety in Uganda. “Many countries around us do not have peace, which is why we host refugees. I am sure you do not want Uganda to be like that,” she said. Maama Janet emphasised that Uganda’s strength lies in its unity beyond religion and tribe, urging citizens to safeguard that legacy for future generations. “Today, Ugandans are united. We are not divided by tribe or religion. We want our children to find this unity intact because that is where development is built,” she said, urging the people of Butambala to overwhelmingly support President Museveni and the NRM. The NRM First National Vice Chairperson, Alhajji Moses Kigongo also rallied residents to support the ruling party, describing it as a movement founded on truth, discipline and service to the people. “We have come here at the right time to ask for your votes. We need disciplined people who are patriotic and love their country,” Alhajji Kigongo said. He warned residents against engaging in activities that promote chaos, urging them to instead protect peace and national stability. “Do not be part of groups that cause confusion. Love your country and protect its peace,” he said. The Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson of the NRM (Female), Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, thanked the residents for turning up in large numbers and reiterated government commitment to service delivery in the area. She also acknowledged calls from leaders and residents to upgrade Gombe Hospital into a regional referral hospital to serve the greater Mpigi sub-region and neighbouring districts. Rt. Hon. Among praised President Museveni for consistently encouraging leaders to develop their home areas and lead by example. “Even when you lose an election, you remain a leader to your people. Leadership is about service, setting an example and developing your community,” she said. The Butambala NRM Chairperson, Mr. Herbert Mugarura hailed President Museveni for what he described as “tangible and life-changing government interventions” that are steadily transforming the district, particularly in women empowerment, wealth creation, education, health and water access. Mr. Mugarura thanked the President for prioritising ordinary Ugandans through programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, which he said have restored hope among households previously trapped outside the money economy. “Butambala is grateful for your leadership, Your Excellency. The empowerment of women and households through PDM and Emyooga has strengthened families and reduced vulnerability,” the chairperson said. He noted that Butambala District, with a population of 146,516 people according to the 2024 census, is administratively composed of seven sub-counties and town councils, 25 parishes and 141 villages. The district currently has 66,932 registered voters, an increase of 11,119 voters, while polling stations have risen from 123 in 2021 to 169, a sign of growing civic participation. On wealth creation, Mr. Mugarura revealed that all 25 parishes in the district have benefited from the Parish Development Model, receiving a cumulative Shs8.9 billion, of which Shs7.46 billion (86.2%) has already been disbursed to 7,461 beneficiary households. He added that the district also has 18 Emyooga SACCOs with 8,116 members, which have so far received Shs780 million from the government. In education, the Chairperson reported that Butambala has 68 government primary schools enrolling 24,284 pupils, and 12 government secondary schools with 9,607 students. Of these secondary schools, nine offer Universal Secondary Education and Universal Post-O Level Education, serving 6,110 learners. While 22 of the 25 parishes have at least one government primary school, three are still lacking. Similarly, six of the seven sub-counties have a government secondary school. However, he said the ongoing construction of two seed secondary schools will ensure that every sub-county has a government secondary school once completed. In the health sector, Mr. Mugarura said the district has one hospital and six Health Centre IIIs, ensuring that every sub-county has at least one public health facility. He further highlighted significant progress in the water sector, noting that 123 out of 141 rural villages now have access to safe water, translating into 87.2 percent coverage. He cited completed projects such as the Gombe–Kyabadaza Townships Piped Water Supply and Sanitation System, which serves over 55,000 people, alongside several water supply systems in Ngando, Kibibi, Bulo, Kirokola and Kabasanda. Ongoing and planned projects include new boreholes, extension of piped water systems, rehabilitation of old water sources, and the Greater Gomba Piped Water Supply and Sanitation System, which will further improve access in underserved areas. On water for production, the Chairperson said government-funded solar-powered irrigation schemes in Bulo, Ngando, Kalamba and Gombe sub-counties have expanded irrigation acreage, increased crop yields and boosted household incomes. He noted that one scheme in Gombe is already producing six tonnes of coffee and beans annually, earning farmers about Shs9.6 million. Mr. Mugarura concluded by thanking the President for connecting Butambala to the national electricity grid, saying the milestone has opened new opportunities for agro-processing, trade and industrial growth. The rally 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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28 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TO INJECT SHS1 BILLION IN EACH MECHANICS SACCO IN KAMPALA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged that the government will inject Shs 1 billion in each of the five mechanics SACCO in the five divisions of Kampala City. The President also noted that the Metropolitan Area Districts such Wakiso, and Mukono will as well benefit from the project with each district receiving Shs1 billion. “We can even say Shs1 billion per division. If you say Shs5 billion for Kampala, then Wakiso Shs1 billion and Mukono Shs1 billion, that's not too much money,” he said. The President, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, made the pledge today while meeting a group of mechanics and garage operators in Kampala City and Metropolitan Area at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. During the engagement, the mechanics presented their sector priorities including insurance coverage, structured representation, and access to tools and capital. According to the President, the money will be borrowed by individual mechanics to buy tools to help them ease their operations. “You will be able to borrow money like Shs700,000, Shs2 million or Shs4 million to buy tools. You borrow, you use and pay back with a simple interest of 6 percent per annum,” he stated. President Museveni also revealed that he took the decision to increase the funds after realising that the recent Shs100 million the government gave them is not enough. He further urged the mechanics in the five divisions of Kampala to form one SACCO for easy management of the funds. “Even during this period before elections, we are going to first add you Shs200 million. Then after elections, we shall see what we can do more in the next budget,” he said, further informing the mechanics that he is meeting them as the current President of Uganda, not as a Presidential candidate. President Museveni also confirmed government plans to purchase land and establish garages for mechanics to operate with fully equipped common user facilities such as modern equipment, breakdown services and wheel loaders. He emphasised that when the government donates the equipment, they should not be owned by individuals, and that they should be used to benefit all the intended groups. “All that you are requesting is possible. We are going to purchase land for you. The most important issue you raised is that when we buy these equipment, they will remain in the government's name,” he said. “Properties which we donate, like the land, should remain in the name of the government. Now the question is when we set up the garage and equipment, who will be responsible for these machines?” he inquired. President Museveni also questioned the use of funds he directed to garage and mechanics’ associations in Kampala and Masaka some years back. “I sent funding to mechanics and garage associations 10 years ago. Now I have come to demand for accountability,” he said. “We are here and we are still alive, we shall soon know who mismanaged those equipment,” he said before ordering for a probe into the utilisation of the funds disbursed to mechanics in Kampala and Masaka. Furthermore, he dismissed claims that the government neglected garage operators and mechanics, citing several earlier support initiatives to the sector. President Museveni also hinted on the planned health insurance scheme under review and promised to initiate a separate fund to support women working in motor garages as well as funds to help sex workers quit that occupation and embrace decent job opportunities. The Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda assured the President that most of the mechanics in Kampala are supporting the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. She also underscored their role in the socio-economic transformation of Uganda and assured them of more government support. “We should work together to steer more development in Uganda,” she said. On her part, the Commissioner of the National Secretariat for the Patriotism Corps and Private Secretary to H.E the President in charge of Youth Affairs, Ms. Hellen Seku hailed President Museveni for empowering mechanics in Kampala and for accepting to meet them to discuss challenges and progress in their work. “I thank you for the Shs100 million you invested in each mechanics SACCO across the five divisions of Kampala which has overwhelmingly empowered them economically. Today marks yet another step towards transforming this group to greater heights,” she said. The Special Presidential Assistant, Kisakyamukama Yiga commended President Museveni for supporting the mechanics to fight poverty and improve their livelihoods. “Mzee, you gave Shs500 million to the Mechanics & Garage Operators SACCOs in Kampala. However, we also thought you would support us by purchasing a 100-by-100 plot of land in the name of the Presidential Initiative for Garage Owners and Mechanics Association,” he appealed. The Kampala Central Division Mayor and NRM Chairperson for Kampala, Mr. Salim Uhuru informed the President that due to the good leadership of the National Resistance Movement government, places like Kiseka Market which were known for chaos are now peaceful. “There is no more chaos or burning of tires in Kiseka Market. The place is now peaceful, the mechanics are organised, and many of them proudly support the NRM and your leadership, Mr President,” he said. Several Division mechanic representatives from Kampala, Wakiso and Mpigi who included Nayika Musa, Charles Obbo, Kabogoza Toffa, Zzimbe Hudson, among others submitted their support requests to President Museveni during the engagement.

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24 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMISSIONS HOIMA CITY STADIUM, HAILS AFCON 2027 AS CATALYST FOR UGANDA’S SPORTS AND INFRASTRUCTURE BOOM

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today officially commissioned the Hoima City Stadium, marking a major milestone in Uganda’s preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Kenya and Tanzania. The commissioning ceremony, held in Hoima City, Bunyoro sub-region, was attended by thousands of residents, sports fans, government officials, and dignitaries from across the country and abroad. The President was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, who oversaw the project’s implementation. Constructed by Turkish firm Summa International Construction Company Inc, the Hoima City Stadium is a $129 million (approximately Shs463 billion) multi-sports complex that was completed in a record 12 months, four months ahead of schedule. The Government of Uganda signed the construction contract with Summa in June 2024 as part of preparations for AFCON 2027, which Uganda will co-host under the “Pamoja Bid” with Kenya and Tanzania. Addressing the gathering, President Museveni praised Summa for what he described as exceptional workmanship and efficiency, noting that the project stood as evidence of what Uganda can achieve with proper planning, discipline, and prioritisation. “I want to thank the Turkish company for the good work. I have seen the stadium, and I have also seen some of the roads they have constructed. They are very good workers, and we are going to do more with them,” President Museveni said. “It is now my pleasure to officially commission the Hoima City Stadium,” he added, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. To symbolically launch the stadium, the President stepped onto the pitch and juggled a football three times at the centre circle, amid ululations and applause from thousands of football fans who had packed the stands. Built on a 34-acre piece of land on the outskirts of Hoima City, the stadium complex comprises a 20,000-seater outdoor stadium designed to host football, rugby, and athletics, as well as a 2,000-seater indoor arena for indoor sports such as basketball, netball, volleyball, and other disciplines. President Museveni commended the family of the late Dr. Rujumba, who donated 10 acres of land towards the project. “I want to start by thanking the family of the late Rujumba for the land to construct the stadium. Thank you, the Rujumba family, for your patriotism,” the President said. President Museveni also clarified public concerns regarding the financing of the stadium, stressing that the project was fully funded by the Government of Uganda, following a strategic decision to avoid high-interest pre-financing arrangements. “Initially, the Summa company was supposed to pre-finance the project, but we found that their money came with a lot of interest. So, we said no — let us fund the project ourselves,” the President explained. He used the occasion to address public debate around government spending on sports infrastructure, arguing that Uganda’s ability to undertake such projects was anchored in the country’s strong economic fundamentals. “I have been seeing people in the media talking about this and that — things they are not sure about. The truth is that we have constructed this stadium with our own money in the shortest time possible because we have the money,” President Museveni said. “Uganda has the money, but we cannot do everything at once. Development requires prioritisation.” The facility meets international and FIFA-compliant standards, making it suitable for hosting continental and international competitions beyond AFCON 2027. In addition to the main stadium, the complex includes training areas, athlete facilities, administrative blocks, media zones, parking areas, and modern security and safety installations. President Museveni linked Uganda’s capacity to invest in major infrastructure projects to decades of economic restructuring under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. He highlighted agriculture as the foundation of Uganda’s economy, noting that the country is among the few globally that does not rely on food imports. “Agriculture is very strong. We don’t import food. Bananas, maize, milk, beef — all these are produced here. That is the base of our economy,” he said. From agriculture, President Museveni said, Uganda had expanded into manufacturing — including vehicle assembly — and services such as tourism, hospitality, music, dance and drama (MDD), and now sports. “We had not concentrated so much on sports before because we were busy with security, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. But now sports are also part of the economy,” he explained. President Museveni described Uganda’s successful bid to co-host AFCON 2027 as a turning point that compelled the country to fast-track sports infrastructure development. “When we took on the responsibility of hosting AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Tanzania, we realised we could not afford to be embarrassed,” he said. “We said we must do what it takes so that when visitors come, we have everything ready.” He added that Hoima City Stadium exemplified what he termed the “NRM method of work” — identifying priorities and mobilising resources to deliver results within set timelines. “This AFCON has stimulated us to do something here. If you want to understand prioritisation, come to Hoima and look at this stadium,” President Museveni said. A Christmas gift to Uganda: On her part, Maama Janet described the commissioning of Hoima City Stadium as a historic moment for Uganda and a “marvellous Christmas gift” to the nation. “This is a great day of rejoicing for our only homeland, Uganda, and a day of joy for the Bunyoro region,” she said. “Knowing where we have come from as a country, Hoima City Stadium is a testament to what we can accomplish together when peace and stability prevail. We simply become unstoppable.” She credited President Museveni’s leadership for the project’s success, noting that his guidance ensured the timely procurement of the contractor and the release of funds. “All that we see here was because of your tireless effort and guidance, Mr. President,” Maama Janet said. The First Lady also revealed that when the government signed the contract with Summa on June 7, 2024, the expectation was that the project would be completed by December 31, 2025 — a 16-month construction period. “SUMMA completed the works in just 12 months, four months ahead of schedule. This sets a new benchmark for government project execution in this country,” she said. She praised the contractor for patience and professionalism, noting that the company had been ready to hand over the facility earlier. “This is something that should be emulated across all government projects — delivering on time, within budget, and with excellence,” she said. Benefits for Bunyoro Region: Maama Janet urged residents of Bunyoro to take pride in the facility and utilise it responsibly, describing it as both a national asset and a catalyst for regional development. “Though this is a national asset, it will bring immediate benefits to the Bunyoro community because you host it here,” she said. She also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to establishing a public university for the Bunyoro region, alongside ongoing investments in oil infrastructure and transport. “Be good stewards of these national assets — the oil wells, this stadium, and the upcoming public university. Let them unite us as a people with a shared homeland,” she urged. Expansion of Sports Infrastructure Nationwide: Maama Janet disclosed that Hoima City Stadium is part of a broader plan to construct at least ten sports facilities within 18 months, by June 2027, to support AFCON hosting and long-term sports development. She said additional training and competition grounds will be developed at Hoima Boma Grounds, Masindi Stadium, and Sir Tito Winyi Senior Secondary School. Meanwhile, Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira City is progressing well and will be supported by training fields at Gulu University, Lira University, and Pece Stadium. Other facilities under development include Kyambogo University, Makerere University, and FUFA Kadiba Stadium to support Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. “All these facilities are being fully funded by the Government of Uganda. This demonstrates that our economic fundamentals are strong,” she said. The First Lady emphasised that such large-scale infrastructure development would not be possible without sustained peace and security. “Younger generations who have known only peace must not take it for granted. These developments are possible only in a stable and secure nation,” she said. Maama Janet thanked the Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA) for initiating the AFCON 2027 bid, describing it as “positive pressure” that accelerated government action. She assured Ugandans that the government would take concrete steps to ensure the stadium is well-maintained and operates as a revenue-generating facility. “The National Council of Sports will ensure this facility is professionally managed so that it maintains itself,” she said. She also encouraged young people across the country to use the stadium as a platform for talent development. “We shall rejoice when we see more medals being won by our young people because of facilities like Hoima City Stadium,” she said. Maama Janet wished Ugandans a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year, urging them to support the NRM in the upcoming elections. “Come out and vote massively for the NRM flagbearers — from President Yoweri Museveni to all party candidates,” she said. State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang described Hoima City Stadium as one of the best-executed government projects in recent years. He traced the project’s origins to early 2023, when President Museveni introduced Summa to the Ministry of Education and Sports to plan phased sports infrastructure development, initially focusing on Lugogo Sports Complex. “However, when CAF announced in September 2023 that Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania had won the AFCON hosting rights, priorities shifted, and Hoima City Stadium became the starting point,” Hon. Ogwang said. He noted that public feedback on the project had been overwhelmingly positive, attributing this to transparency and regular public access to the construction site. Turkish-Ugandan Partnership: Turkish Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Mehmet Fatih described the stadium as a symbol of ambition, partnership, and shared belief in the future. “This stadium is more than steel and concrete. It reflects the strength of Turkish-Ugandan relations and the professionalism of Turkish construction companies,” he said. He revealed that thousands of Ugandans were employed during construction, working alongside Turkish engineers in a process that ensured skills and technology transfer. Summa Construction Chairman, Mr. Selim Bora said the stadium’s completion in 12 months was achieved through disciplined planning and extraordinary commitment, despite over 150 days of heavy rainfall during construction. “More than 2,500 people worked on this project, 80 percent of them Ugandans. This is not just infrastructure — it is capacity building and human capital development,” Mr. Bora said. Historic Opening Match: The stadium’s commissioning was capped with an opening football match in which Kitara FC, the home team from Hoima District, defeated KCCA FC 1–0, sending fans into celebration. Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament, cultural leaders, and thousands of football enthusiasts from across the country.

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