News Articles | MINISTRY OF ICT AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE

29 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES COFFEE PROCESSING FACILITY FOR IBANDA, HIGHLIGHTS NRM ACHIEVEMENTS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the party’s flag-bearer for the 2026 elections, has pledged to support coffee farmers in Ibanda District by establishing a coffee processing facility aimed at boosting productivity, improving quality, and raising household incomes through value addition. President Museveni made the commitment on Saturday, 29th November 2025, while addressing thousands of supporters during a campaign rally at Kagongo Demonstration School playground in Ibanda District, as he intensified his campaign trail across the Ankole sub-region. Ibanda, one of Uganda’s significant coffee-producing districts, grows both Arabica and Robusta varieties, with Arabica thriving particularly well in areas that lie within the high-altitude ranges of the Rwenzori Mountain ecosystem. Coffee farming remains one of the backbone economic activities for the district’s households, making the President’s pledge a major development prospect for the region. “You, the people of Ibanda, already know what to do. Therefore, I will help you establish a coffee processing facility that you have proposed here to add value to your coffee,” President Museveni told the cheering crowd. He added that the government would continue supporting farmers under the Parish Development Model (PDM), including providing free coffee seedlings from both government nursery beds and his personal nurseries at Kisozi. “We shall continue with the PDM money and also give you free coffee seedlings from the government nursery beds that we shall establish,” President Museveni said. “PDM will continue where people invest in whatever they want—poultry, pigs, goats, and others.” The NRM Chairperson for Ibanda District, Hon. Jovrine Kaliisa Kyomukama, highlighted the district’s impressive coffee footprint. She noted that the district has 28,062 acres under coffee cultivation, producing an estimated 14,381 tons annually and earning up to Shs 178 billion in revenue. Despite these gains, Hon. Kyomukama said farmers still face challenges, particularly the shortage of modern coffee dryers, hullers, and processing equipment at the parish level, making value addition difficult. “The coffee you gave us through PDM has done wonders, leading to improved coffee production at the household level,” she told the President. “But we need dryers per parish and coffee hullers.” Residents at the rally shared testimonies reflecting the district’s growing prosperity from commercial agriculture. Mr. Mutabaazi Wilbroad, a coffee farmer from Nyabuhikye Sub-county, revealed that he earns more than Shs 40 million per season from his 8-acre coffee farm. “From one acre, I get about Shs 8 million per season, meaning Shs 16 million per year,” he said. President Museveni praised such success stories, saying coffee has transformed the livelihoods of many households across Uganda. He noted that Uganda now earns US$2 billion annually from coffee exports, making it one of the country’s biggest sources of foreign exchange. “Coffee has created wealth for households and for the country as well,” he emphasized. According to official statistics presented at the rally, Ibanda District has shown strong progress in PDM implementation. Ibanda District (40 PDM SACCOs) received Shs 14.39 billion, of which Shs 12.39 billion (86.07%) was disbursed to 12,391 households, while Ibanda Municipality (21 PDM SACCOs) received Shs 7.50 billion, of which Shs 6.45 billion (85.96%) was disbursed to 6,454 households. In total, Ibanda District and Municipality have received Shs 21.9 billion. President Museveni encouraged parish and sub-county leaders to ensure the remaining households also benefited. He, however, cautioned the public against confusing development with wealth creation. “Development is for all of us - schools, roads, hospitals. But wealth and poverty are personal. We need households to embrace wealth creation,” he said, revisiting the 4-acre model that the government introduced in the 1996 manifesto. Under the model, farmers are encouraged to allocate one acre to coffee, one to fruits, one to food crops, and one to zero-grazing livestock, while using backyards for poultry, piggery, or fish farming. President Museveni used the Ibanda rally to highlight the seven key contributions of the NRM as featured in the 2026–2031 manifesto. He reminded voters of the importance of peace in the region, noting that threats from armed groups that previously operated in the Kamwenge forests had been neutralized. “You, the people of Ibanda, know what peace means,” he said. “Those who wanted to disrupt this peace were dealt with.” On development, President Museveni emphasized ongoing and upcoming infrastructure projects, including major road works across the region. He assured residents that the Mbarara–Ibanda road would be repaired afresh, while other routes—including Ishaka–Bushenyi, Ibanda–Kagongo–Kabujogera–Kamwenge, and Nyamarebe–Kyegegwa—would also be fully rehabilitated. He further promised to consider establishing a ferry on Lake George to boost trade between Rubanda, Rubirizi, and Kasese districts. According to Hon. Kyomukama, the absence of a reliable transport system across the lake currently forces residents to use risky alternatives, especially when transporting livestock to markets. On the side of social infrastructure, the President acknowledged that Ibanda performs well in accessibility to government schools and health facilities, but advised residents to prioritize wealth creation alongside development, saying it's through wealth that jobs are created. President Museveni pointed to the growing number of industrial parks—such as Sino-Mbale Industrial Park with 75 factories and Namanve Industrial Park with over 270 factories—as evidence of the NRM’s commitment to job creation. “These employ far more Ugandans than government institutions, which have only 480,000 jobs for a population nearing 50 million,” he said. To illustrate opportunities in commercial agriculture, President Museveni cited success stories such as Johnson Basangwa, a poultry farmer in Kamuli who produces 200 trays of eggs daily and earns Shs 20 million per day, employing 300 workers. Another example was of Mr. George Matongo, a dairy farmer from Ngoma, Nakaseke, who produces over 900 litres of milk daily, earning about Shs 21 million per month, despite living far from tarmac roads or electricity. Ibanda has historically been an NRM stronghold, and in the 2021 Presidential Elections, out of 140,486 registered voters, 90,801 (64.6%) turned up, with President Museveni winning 77,521 votes (87.3%). For the 2026 elections, Ibanda has 153,810 registered voters, an increase of 13,324. Polling stations have grown from 280 in 2021 to 410. Saturday’s rally attracted prominent NRM leaders, including Speaker of Parliament and party's Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Eng. Asiimwe Jonard, district leaders, and other senior party officials.

29 November 2025

“BUHWEJU’S LONG- AWAITED ROAD SET FOR CONSTRUCTION,” PRESIDENT MUSEVENI REVEALS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer for 2026 general elections, today held his first campaign rally of the day in Buhweju District. Addressing thousands of his supporters at Engaju Secondary School in Buhweju, the President announced that the long-awaited Bwizibwera– Nyakambu– Nsiika–Nyakashaka–Nyakabirizi road is going to be constructed. “We have not worked on this road, but now the China Railway 18th Bureau Group is ready. They are securing Shs 30bn to compensate those affected along the road, after which construction will start immediately,” he said. President Museveni emphasized the value of peace in Buhweju, noting that the district borders Kasese, which has experienced insecurity linked to conflicts in neighboring Congo. “I once passed through Buhweju by car and found the people well-rested and enjoying their evening. That’s peace,” he said. “Uganda was never easy to manage in terms of peace. So, when opposition leaders come asking, can you manage peace, I say, Buhweju knows what NRM has done,” he added. Recalling a recent meeting with local leaders, he narrated a story about a man named Ngoma Elanze, born in Congo in 1964 when Patrice Lumumba was killed and the country was in turmoil. “At one time, Uganda was once also ‘Ngoma Elanze’, but NRM restored peace,” he said. The President noted that out of 348 villages in Buhweju, 261 now have safe water, meaning 75% of the district enjoys access to clean water. On health, he highlighted that in 1980, Buhweju’s population was 34,000, growing to 167,000 today. “This growth shows the success of our immunization program. All these children are NRM children,” he said. President Museveni also outlined plans to expand healthcare in the district; upgrade Nsiika HCIV to a General Hospital, upgrade Engaju HCIII to HCIV and construct new HCIIIs in Kashenyi-Kajani, Nyakaziba, Rubengye, and Rwengwe sub-counties. Ongoing works include upgrading Bitsya HCII to HCIII, staff house construction at Kiyanja HCIII, and renovations at Karungu and Burere HCIIIs. Education in Buhweju has also grown, with 56 government primary schools and 130 private primary schools, reflecting the community’s ability to invest in education. He mentioned that the district has seven government secondary schools, with more under construction. “All 140 sub-counties will eventually have government secondary schools,” President Museveni said. The President also highlighted the story of Ms. Mary Getrude Kyomugasho from Nyakashaka Town Council, a primary seven school dropout. With support from a government skilling program, she trained in tailoring and knitting, developed her skills, and started her own workshop. “Today I have three machines and two employees. I pay them Shs 5,000 per day, and I continue growing my business. Thank you, President Museveni, for changing my life,” she said. President Museveni praised Kyomugasho, saying, “She has got a skill and capital, and that is what creates jobs.” The President emphasized that while Uganda has made enormous strides in development, household wealth must now be the focus. He clarified the long-standing confusion between development and wealth creation, noting that urban centres enjoy vast infrastructure, yet some residents remain poor. He outlined the four pillars of wealth creation including; commercial agriculture, manufacturing and factories, services such as hotels and transport and ICT. President Museveni reminded the supporters that after securing peace, the NRM introduced the Four-Acre Model in the 1996 Manifesto as a practical pathway out of poverty. He explained the model; one acre for coffee, one acre for fruits, one acre for pasture for dairy cattle, one acre for food for the family and then backyard poultry or piggery, and fish farming for communities near wetlands. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Buhweju District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, Speaker of Parliament and NRM’s Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), praised the President, saying: “We welcome you, Your Excellency, to Buhweju. Thank you for coming to campaign in our district. We appreciate your leadership and the work you continue to do for our communities.” Rt. Hon. Among specifically commended the President for including the Bwizibwera–Nsiika–Nyakashaka–Nyakabirizi road in the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV). “The road is in dire need of repair, and the people of Buhweju are grateful knowing that work will commence soon,” she said. She further thanked the government for the Buhweju Tea Factory, noting that Shs 310 billion has been provided to support tea farmers and processors. She urged the farmers to continue improving production. Eng. Jonard Asiimwe, the Vice Chairman-NRM Western Uganda, welcomed the President and assured him of strong mobilization efforts in the district. He highlighted achievements in coffee production, tourism, and mining, noting the need for improvements in the mining sector. The Buhweju NRM Chairperson, Mr. Godfrey Kabandize, presented a Memorandum of Understanding that shared detailed insights on the district’s demographics and development progress. He noted that Buhweju has 14 Sub-Counties/Town Councils, 68 Parishes, and 348 villages, with a population of 167,921. In 2025, the district had 77,082 registered voters, an increase of 10,433 since 2021, and now operates 223 polling stations, up from 182. Mr. Kabandize also highlighted the Parish Development Model (PDM), noting that out of 35,305 households, 21,762 households (61.6%) have already benefited from PDM funds totaling Shs 20.8bn. “The remaining 13,543 households (38.4%) are still to benefit, including those already engaged in the money economy,” he said. The district has also made strides through Emyooga SACCOs, which now include 36 SACCOs with 10,020 members, receiving a total of Shs 1.46bn from the government to support small-scale business and entrepreneurship. Buhweju has 56 government primary schools and 103 private schools, yet 29 of 68 parishes still lack access to a government primary school. On the secondary education front, the district has 7 government and 17 private secondary schools, enrolling 2,506 students. All government schools provide Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-Ordinary Level Education and Training (UPOLET). Three Seed Secondary Schools are currently under construction, which will reduce the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school from 7 to 4, a move hailed as critical for improving access to quality education across the district. In healthcare, only one HCIV and nine HCIII facilities currently serve the district, leaving four sub-counties without a health facility. Planned upgrades include Nsiika HCIV to a General Hospital, Engaju HCIII to HCIV, and the construction of new HCIIIs in Kashenyi-Kajani, Nyakaziba, Rubengye, and Rwengwe sub-counties. Ongoing projects such as the upgrade of Bitsya HCII to HCIII and renovations in Karungu and Burere health centers are expected to improve service delivery. Access to safe water has improved significantly, with 261 out of 348 villages (75%) now served. The government has completed multiple interventions, including protected springs, gravity flow schemes, and rainwater harvesting tanks. Piped water systems in Nsiika, Rwamwanja, Kajani-Kasheni, Rutehe, Kayonza, and Kyamuhunga now serve thousands of residents. Efforts in water for production have also begun to pay dividends. Small-scale irrigation schemes in Kyisa (5 acres producing 5.5 tons of tea) and Kyesika (12 acres producing 2.5 tons of tea) now generate Shs 9.9 million and Shs 7 million annually, respectively, benefiting local farmers and demonstrating the potential of irrigation to boost livelihoods. Meanwhile, Buhweju District is now fully connected to the National Electricity Grid, opening new opportunities for businesses, households, and public services. Mr. Kabandize concluded by reaffirming Buhweju’s support for the President. “Through NRM structures, the people of Buhweju are ready to support you 100%. We are committed to ensuring that every development initiative succeeds in our district,” he 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.

28 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI RALLIES KIRUHURA AND KAZO TO EMBRACE PROFITABLE DAIRY FARMING

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged residents of Kiruhura and Kazo districts to fully exploit their vast land for commercial dairy farming, saying the cattle corridor has the potential to become Uganda’s largest hub of milk-based wealth creation if farmers abandon free-range grazing and adopt intensive production systems. Addressing thousands of supporters at Nyakasharara playground in Kiruhura District on Friday, 28th November 2025, President Museveni, accompanied by the First Daughter, Pastor Patience Rwabwogo, praised the community for gradually shifting from nomadic livestock rearing to commercial dairy farming but insisted that greater transformation is still possible. “The people of Kiruhura and Kazo, and the entire cattle corridor, thank you for heeding our advice on working and grazing cows for wealth creation. But do not stop,” he said. “Free-range grazing makes the land underutilized. On one square mile, you are managing only about 130 cows. But if you adopt zero grazing, you can keep thousands of cows on the same land,” the President emphasized, adding that wealth creation, not mere ownership of land or livestock, is central to Uganda’s household prosperity agenda. President Museveni illustrated his message with success stories of farmers who have built thriving enterprises on small pieces of land by adopting modern practices. One such farmer is Joseph Ijala, a former taxi driver who now runs an integrated farm on 2.5 acres. Ijala started with poultry and expanded into dairy farming. He keeps 10,000-layer chickens, producing 310 trays of eggs per day and earning more than Shs 3 million daily. On just 1.5 acres of land, Ijala also practices zero-grazing dairy farming with eight cows, producing a substantial amount of milk daily. Combined, he earns about Shs 6.8 million per month from eggs and milk. President Museveni said Ijala’s example demonstrates how zero grazing drastically increases productivity. “Ijala keeps eight cows on one acre. If that were a square mile, he would keep over 4,000 cows,” he said. Another example is Richard Nyakaana, a farmer in Kabarole whose Kana Farm sits on only 1.2 acres. Nyakaana runs a range of enterprises, including layer poultry, zero grazing, feed processing, and manure production. With only six milking cows, he produces 120 litres of milk per day, earning Shs 110,000 daily, amounting to Shs 20 million annually in profit. “You people in the cattle corridor have a lot of land. Use that land profitably,” President Museveni urged. “The third contribution of the NRM is wealth creation. Development benefits everyone, but wealth and poverty are yours as a household.” President Museveni also cited George Matongo, a dairy farmer from Ngoma in Nakaseke, as a symbol of the transformative power of commercial agriculture. Matongo, who reportedly never attained formal education and lives far from infrastructure such as tarmac roads or electricity, produces over 900 litres of milk per day and earns an estimated Shs 21 million monthly. “Matongo is extremely prosperous, yet he lives far from a tarmac road or electricity,” H.E. Museveni said. “Meanwhile, people are living next to smooth tarmac roads, but poverty is the order of the day.” The President said Matongo’s success underscores his long-held message that wealth is created by individuals, not by the government, and that the presence of roads or electricity alone cannot guarantee household income. “When I came to Rwakitura many years ago, I followed the grass and invested in farming. People laughed at me. But by the time the tarmac road and electricity arrived, I was already rich,” he said. President Museveni reminded the gathering that upon taking power in the mid-1980s, the new government prioritized mobilizing citizens to embrace the money economy. “In the 1996 manifesto, we introduced the four-acre model,” he said. “We told people: one acre for coffee, one for fruits, one for family food crops, and one for zero grazing. Then use the backyard for poultry, piggery, or fish farming.” Kiruhura District is one of Uganda’s leading milk producers, supported by cattle-keeping communities and emerging processing facilities. The President urged farmers to push for even higher productivity. “Learn to plant grass for zero grazing and avoid free-range grazing. You have the land; use it,” he said. He hailed farmers who embraced this model early on, including those in Nyabushozi, Kiruhura, and Ssembabule. But he also cited examples from other regions, such as Joseph Basangwa of Kamuli, a commercial poultry farmer producing about 200 trays of eggs daily and earning an estimated Shs 20 million per day—translating into billions annually. Basangwa employs more than 300 workers. “People say jobs-jobs-jobs - but where do jobs come from? Agriculture, factories, services, and ICT—not the government,” President Museveni noted. He stressed that while the government continues to deliver security and development, families must take responsibility for creating wealth within their households. “Development is for all of us, but wealth is yours as a family,” he repeated. He highlighted the massive growth of industrial parks, including the Sino-Mbale Industrial Park with over 75 factories, and the Namanve Industrial Park with over 270 factories. These, he said, employ far more Ugandans than government institutions, which have only 480,000 jobs for a population nearing 50 million. While reviewing social services, President Museveni noted that the district has 74 government primary schools and 165 private primary schools. For secondary education, Kiruhura has 7 government secondary schools and 11 private secondary schools. He said the proliferation of private schools in Kiruhura reflects improved household incomes in the region. “It shows wealth among the people, because they can afford school fees in private schools,” he noted. On health services, President Museveni observed that Kiruhura’s 14 sub-counties have one Health Centre IV and 13 Health Centre IIIs. However, Akayanja Sub-County currently has no health facility. The President assured the residents that the government plans to construct a new HCIII there. He also pledged to improve the road network connecting districts in the greater Ankole region. Earlier, Speaker of Parliament and NRM Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt Hon. Anita Annet Among welcomed President Museveni to Kiruhura and thanked residents for supporting the ruling party. “We want to thank you, the people of Kiruhura, for bringing up a son—President Museveni—who has taken Uganda from despair to hope,” she said. “Your son has brought peace to Uganda. The Bible says: ‘We shall know them by their deeds,’ and we have seen President Museveni’s deeds.” Speaker Among credited the President for introducing free education, saying it enabled many Ugandans, including herself, to rise to positions of responsibility. “All we can do is continue praying for you and thanking you for respecting the people of Kiruhura by coming to ask them for their vote,” she said. The event was attended by several NRM leaders, ministers, Members of Parliament, and party flag bearers.

28 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI RECEIVES HEROIC WELCOME IN KAZO, UNVEILS NRM’S 40-YEAR ACHIEVEMENTS AND NEW COMMITMENTS FOR THE DISTRICT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today received a heroic welcome in Kazo district where thousands of jubilant supporters gathered as he continued his campaign trail across the Ankole Sub-region. Accompanied by the First Daughter, Mrs. Patience Rwabwogo Museveni, the President addressed the rally with a detailed breakdown of the NRM’s achievements over the past 40 years and the commitments contained in the 2026–2031 NRM Manifesto. President Museveni told the supporters that the NRM’s first and most important contribution to Uganda is peace, which he said was achieved by rejecting sectarian politics based on religion and tribe. “Because we rejected sectarianism, we were able to build a national political party, a national army, a national police force and ensure stability across the country,” he said. On development, the President outlined progress in both economic and social infrastructure. He cited Kazo’s major tarmac road, part of the Lyantonde–Fort Portal corridor, as a key achievement under the NRM government. President Museveni pledged to extend water to Kazo the same way the government connected Kiruhura through Kakyeera and obtained water from the Kagera River for Mbarara. “We shall get water for Kazo from the Katonga River,” he assured residents. President Museveni also praised progress in the education sector, noting that Kazo now has 63 government primary schools and 254 private primary schools, compared to the years before NRM when many of these schools did not exist. The district also has six government secondary schools and 32 private secondary schools, serving a combined total of more than 36,000 learners. He said this transformation is a result of deliberate NRM investment in social infrastructure, which must be protected and expanded. Turning to the health sector, President Museveni noted that Kazo has one Health Centre IV, seven Health Centre IIIs and 11 Health Centre IIs, but urged residents to appreciate the progress made from the era when health facilities were scarce. He reaffirmed government plans to upgrade Kazo Health Centre IV into a District Hospital, along with upgrading Rwamuranga and Migina Health Centre IIs. Ongoing projects such as the construction of medical stores and a mortuary at Kazo HCIV, funded by the World Bank, were highlighted as timely additions for improving service delivery. The President then spoke on the NRM’s third pillar—wealth creation—and why households must differentiate it from development. He reminded residents that development benefits everyone, but wealth belongs to each family. President Museveni reiterated the Four-Acre Model and criticised the continued practice of free-range grazing in Ankole. “When you do free grazing, one square mile can graze only 200 cows. But when you plant pasture, one acre can feed eight cows, meaning a square mile can handle 500 cows,” he explained, thus encouraging zero-grazing and warned against the habit of selling large ancestral lands and later buying more unproductive land elsewhere. President Museveni further hailed the transformation of Uganda’s dairy and coffee sectors, attributing success to Operation Wealth Creation under Gen. Salim Saleh and to farmers who embraced commercial agriculture. He said the NRM’s fourth contribution—job creation—has flourished through commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT, noting that factories already employ 1.3 million people, far more than the 480,000 employed in government institutions. He also cited the impact of skilling hubs that support youths who dropped out of school but have since gained practical skills and created employment for themselves and others. The Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), Rt. Hon. Anita Among praised the President for the development he has brought to Kazo, including improved roads, expansion of the technical institute in the area, and strengthened public services. Western Region NRM Vice Chairperson, Hon. Jonard Asiimwe, told the rally that all the concerns raised by Kazo residents had been captured by the party and would be addressed. He encouraged the district to continue supporting the NRM as the only party with a clear and consistent development agenda. Kazo District NRM Chairperson, Mr. Nkeija Wilson, thanked the President for elevating Kazo to district status and said government services had become more accessible as a result. He saluted the President for developments in education, health, electricity and other sectors, pledging that Kazo would vote President Museveni “100 percent” in the upcoming elections. Former Kazo County MP, Hon. John Nasasira, also paid tribute to the President for his contribution to national liberation and development, noting that administrative elevation and improved service delivery have greatly benefitted the people of Kazo. He also credited the NRM’s household-income approach for empowering families and reducing poverty levels.

27 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AND FIRST LADY JANET RALLY NTUNGAMO TO BACK NRM IN 2026 GENERAL ELECTIONS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, was today received by thousands of supporters at Kyamate Secondary School grounds in Ntungamo District. The rally focused on the presentation of the 2026-2031 NRM manifesto and intensifying mobilisation ahead of the 2026 general elections. The President reiterated the seven contributions the NRM has delivered to Uganda over the last 40 years, beginning with peace. He said the entire country is now stable and secure, with citizens going about their activities because “God used the NRM to bring peace to Uganda.” He emphasised that peace remains the foundation for all national progress. On infrastructure development, President Museveni clarified ongoing and planned road works in the region, including the rehabilitation of Kanungu Road; the upcoming works on the Ntungamo–Kanungu Road; and the improvement of the Mirama Hills–Kitwe–Ruborogota–Kikagati corridor. He further highlighted the already completed Kafunjo–Mirama Hills–Kagitumba route. He added that the government will expand irrigation infrastructure to support farmers, noting that water for production is now a key priority. The President also pointed to improvements in schools and health centres, recalling that Ntungamo once had only three dispensaries. On wealth creation, President Museveni encouraged families to adopt the Four-Acre Model and warned households not to rely on government development alone, emphasizing that wealth creation is a personal responsibility. He explained that PDM does not require land ownership and cited Mr. Ayesiga Kenneth of Kanungu, who used PDM funds to start a restaurant by renting premises. “PDM is not for the rich; it is for the poor,” he stressed. He said job creation continues to expand, noting that while the government employs only 480,000 people, factories already provide 1.3 million jobs. President Museveni further pointed to the impact of skilling hubs that equip youths—many of whom once dropped out of school—with hands-on skills that allow them to start work and employ others. On the other hand, the President reminded voters to protect the peace brought by the NRM and encouraged reconciliation among leaders, praising Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa for successfully mediating with independents to support NRM flagbearers in Ntungamo. On her part, Maama Janet who also serves as the NRM Chairperson for Ntungamo District, delivered the district's memorandum, noting the district’s growth to 552,786 people, its 34 sub-counties and 135 parishes, and its increased voter register from 268,541 in 2021 to 310,539 in 2025. She said Ntungamo leaders remained united and did not split the district, following the President’s guidance. The First Lady detailed government investments amounting to UGX 53 billion under the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga and other programs, and outlined progress in health, education, water provision, irrigation, and electricity expansion. She also listed priorities needing attention in the next term, including upgrading health facilities, eliminating school charges in government schools, expanding water access, adding more secondary schools, addressing tick-borne diseases, and increasing market access for farm produce. Both the President and the First Lady urged residents to begin vigorous mobilisation ahead of the January 2026 elections, with a target of delivering 99 percent support for the NRM. At the same rally, the Second National Vice Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, delivered a message of gratitude, thanking Maama Janet for her steadfast role as a “prayer warrior” for the Movement. She commended the First Lady for her spiritual leadership and unwavering contribution to Uganda’s stability, unity, and education sector. The NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda, Hon. Jonard Asiimwe, also addressed the gathering, celebrating individuals who recently crossed from opposition parties to join the NRM. He said they had “seen the light” and assured them that they would not regret their decision, adding that the Movement’s values of stability, development, and reconciliation continue to draw Ugandans back to the party.

27 November 2025

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

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

26 November 2025

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

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

26 November 2025

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

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

25 November 2025

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

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

25 November 2025

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

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

21 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMISSIONS USD50 MILLION CASSAVA STARCH PROCESSING PLANT IN NAMASAGALI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Thursday 20th, November ,2025, commissioned a USD50 million cassava starch processing plant in Namasagali, Kamuli District, marking a major milestone in Uganda’s push toward industrialization and pharmaceutical self-reliance. The facility, spearheaded by Ugandan scientist and entrepreneur Dr. Matthias Magoola under Dei BioPharma Ltd., forms the first phase of what is projected to become Africa’s largest industrial park dedicated to pharmaceutical and food-grade processing. In a ceremonial gesture to mark the official opening, President Museveni who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, cut a ribbon before touring the state-of-the-art facility, which is expected to drastically reduce Uganda’s import bill for pharmaceutical raw materials such as starch, glucose, maltose, and fructose, inputs that the country has historically relied on from foreign markets. The Namasagali plant is designed to create over 40,000 direct and indirect jobs, support cassava farmers with a guaranteed market, and stimulate local industry by supplying key materials essential for drug manufacturing. Dr. Magoola noted that the plant sits on over 5,000 acres and that partners had already mobilized approximately USD150 million for the project, with an ambitious long-term goal of transforming the area into a USD10 billion new city anchored by industrial science and innovation. “We are producing five products - pharmaceutical grade starch, food grade starch, glucose, maltose, and fructose, and this is the largest on the African continent,” Dr. Magoola said. President Museveni praised Dr. Magoola for his resilience and innovation, sharply criticizing individuals who had previously frustrated the scientist’s efforts. “I want to congratulate Magoola as a very innovative young person,” President Museveni said. “Africans don’t like innovation. They are used to sleeping. They don’t want new things. Africans need to critique themselves and support new individuals with innovative ideas because I know young people can have very good ideas. Even when I started fighting, some people thought I was mad,” H.E. Museveni added, saying that Uganda’s indigenous knowledge, long overlooked, was increasingly proving its global value. “These Americans have come here to support this work. Now all these other foreigners should know there is ancient knowledge here, and this knowledge can help the whole world. Regarding cassava, all these are gold mines because they are needed in the world. This is all wealth. But Africans are sleeping.” However, President Museveni cautioned small landholders against blindly turning to cassava production for industrial use without understanding profitability. “We must be clear about the earnings per acre per year. If it’s not much, we shouldn’t repeat the mistake of sugarcane, where people with small land copied those with huge chunks of land,” he advised. On his part, Dr. Magoola revealed several groundbreaking projects under development at the industrial park. He disclosed that the company had secured a global patent for a foot-and-mouth disease vaccine - the first of its kind in the world, and was preparing to manufacture and supply the vaccine across Africa. “We own a patent on a foot and mouth vaccine for the first time in the world. We’re going to be able to supply foot and mouth vaccines on the African continent for the first time,” Dr. Magoola noted. He further announced plans for a 1,000-bed sickle cell hospital equipped to administer a cure approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), though currently unavailable in Africa due to high treatment costs. Dr. Magoola also highlighted progress in developing Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs, among the most profitable pharmaceutical products globally because of their widespread use in diabetes and weight management. According to him, the USFDA had approved their development plan, and the products could potentially inject USD15 billion into the Ugandan economy. “This is his vision,” Dr. Magoola said of President Museveni, expressing gratitude for the Head of State’s support over the years. “He has guided me as a young boy when I went to him with an innovation to treat malaria, and he believed in me. When taken to the United States, the malaria drug was found to kill more parasites than known drugs on the market.” Dr. Magoola also confirmed that the government had committed more than USD200 million towards developing the Dei BioPharma facility in Matugga, another flagship pharmaceutical project. The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga commended the President and the innovators for the milestone, describing it as a testament to the NRM’s 2026 campaign theme of “protecting the gains.” “In all the places you have moved into, this place emphasizes the NRM’s campaign theme of protecting the gains. This is one of the gains we are protecting because this was not here previously,” Rt Hon. Kadaga said, urging the government to expedite the power line from Isimba to support the expanding industrial base in the region. The commissioning ceremony was attended by ministers, Members of Parliament, government officials, and leaders from the Busoga sub-region.

24 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI VOWS TO ENHANCE INFRASTRUCTURE AND HOUSEHOLD WEALTH IN RUBANDA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential flag bearer, has today pledged to strengthen peace, improve key road networks and deepen household income initiatives in Rubanda District. Speaking at a campaign rally in Rubanda, the President said the NRM’s 2026–2031 Manifesto will focus on the continuation of Uganda’s journey of peace, development, and prosperity for all Ugandans. He told residents that communities in Kisoro and Rubanda understand the value of stability because of their proximity to conflict-affected areas in the Democratic Republic of Congo. “After defeating Kony and the other rebel groups that once disturbed our people, we secured this peace. And we must protect it,” he said. The President highlighted infrastructure development as a major pillar of his next term, citing completed works such as the Kabale–Kisoro Road. He confirmed that the government has secured funding for the Katuna–Muko–Kamuganguzi Road. He assured residents that the Kisoro–Nkuringo–Buguri–Buko Road, the Kabale–Bunyonyi–Kisoro–Mgahinga route and the Hamurwa– Kerere– Kanungu– Kanyantorogo–Butogota–Buhoma/Ifasha–Ikumba stretch will all be upgraded. “These strategic roads will boost tourism, improve access to markets and increase incomes,” he said. Reiterating a campaign he began in the 1960s, the President praised the cattle corridor communities who heeded his early call for economic transformation. “I’m very glad the dairy farmers of 1964–65 listened. We told them to stop moving from place to place trying to run from foot and mouth disease. They listened and now, they’re earning big,” he said. He then advocated for intensive agriculture, especially for families with limited land. “If you have a small piece of land say two acres and you grow cotton or tobacco, you get little per year. But you must produce a good or service for sale and you must do it with ekibalo (calculation),” he said. Explaining the Four-Acre Model first introduced in the 1996 NRM Manifesto, he elaborated, “If you have four acres, do seven things: One acre for coffee , it can bring you Shs15 million a year. The second acre for fruits, the third for pasture you can support cows on one acre.” “The fourth for food crops for the family. In the backyard, do poultry for eggs, piggery if you're not a Muslim, and fish farming if you're near swamps. Fish farming brings a lot of money. One acre accommodates four ponds which make up to Shs80 million a year.” On the Parish Development Model (PDM), the President reminded beneficiaries that the funds are not giveaways but community-owned investments. “This PDM is your bank. It is not a handout, it’s a revolving fund meant to uplift you from poverty, those who have received the money must ensure it is put to good use and repaid after two years so that others can also benefit,” he noted. He also issued a stern warning against misuse or neglect of the program. “This money belongs to you and your community. If you misuse it or fail to repay, you deny others a chance to improve their livelihoods. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Rubanda District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. The Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development (General Duties), also member of Parliament, Rubanda East Constituency, Hon. Henry Musasizi thanked the President for expanded services in education, health, water and electricity. He reported progress in government schools, health centre upgrades and rural water systems. “However, Your Excellency, we request that you enforce the police to curb crime like theft in the villages. This is one of those issues we are facing here,” he noted. Former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda welcomed President Museveni to Kigezi and urged residents to maintain their support as they have always done. NRM impact in Rubanda: Rubanda District has registered notable progress in the education sector, with 110 government primary schools and 81 private ones now serving learners across the district. The area also has nine government secondary schools and 29 privately run institutions. Government-aided secondary schools continue to offer Universal Secondary Education and UPOLET, with current enrolment standing at 5,381 students. Out of the district’s 70 parishes, 45 have at least one government primary school, while ongoing construction of two Seed Secondary Schools is expected to reduce the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school from ten to eight once completed. The district has outlined a series of interventions to improve the health centers, including the upgrading of Muko HCIV and the elevation of Kiyebe, Kaara, Ihunga, Kagarama, Mugyera and Kashasha health centres to HCIII status. New HC IIIs are also planned for Bubaare, Kacere and Katojo. Rubanda West currently hosts a general hospital, while Rubanda East has a functioning HCIV, each staffed with two medical doctors. Access to water and sanitation remains mixed. Of the 476 villages in Rubanda, 54% have access to a safe water source, leaving 46% unserved. Recent improvements include the protection of twelve springs, construction of the Nyakasazi Gravity Flow Scheme and completion of the Burimbe piped water system. The district has also rehabilitated the Rwanseza and Ruboroga gravity flow schemes and expanded town water systems in Rubanda, Hamurwa, Bubaare, Bufundi, Muko, Kacerere, Nyamweru and several other centres, delivering safe water to tens of thousands of residents. Ongoing works involve additional protected springs, installation of rainwater harvesting tanks in selected institutions and an expansion programme in Butare–Katojo aimed at extending safe water to hard-to-reach villages. Future plans include new piped water systems for Nshanjare, Katojo and Mugyera town councils. In the energy sector, Rubanda is now fully connected to the national grid. The government says its next phase will focus on extending electricity to the remaining ten sub-counties which Hamurwa, Bubare, Ikumba, Bufundi, Bubaare, Butare–Katojo, Habuhutu–Mugyera, Kacerere and Ruhija. On economic empowerment, district data shows Rubanda has 63,754 households, of which 20,733 have so far benefited from the Parish Development Model. The district has cumulatively received Shs 21.1bn under the programme, with 96.66 percent of the funds already disbursed to beneficiaries. Rubanda further hosts 32 Emyooga SACCOs with a combined membership of 20,963 people, and these have collectively received Shs 1.76bn to support enterprise growth. 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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Uganda Media Centre