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19 September 2025

“NOT SUPPORTING NRM IS VERY RISKY” - PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TELLS BUGANDA NRM CADRES

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has applauded members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the Buganda region who lost in the recently concluded party primaries for their decision to rally behind those who emerged as flag bearers. Speaking on Wednesday, September 17, at State House Entebbe, the President, who doubles as the NRM National Chairman, hailed the move as a demonstration of political maturity and commitment to unity within the party ahead of the 2026 general elections. “I want to congratulate you, and I can see the spirit of the National Resistance Army (NRA) is coming back. Go back and support the flag bearers,” the President said, commending the losing candidates for placing the party above personal ambition. President Museveni noted that the NRM’s performance in Buganda has historically suffered due to divisions. “You hear that the NRM MPs in Buganda have been 31 out of 105, but in about 29 constituencies, the NRM had won by majority, but they divided the vote. If you had not divided your votes, the NRM would have had 60 seats instead of 31,” he observed. The meeting was attended by NRM cadres from the Buganda region, many of whom had lost in the primaries, especially at the constituency level, but had unanimously agreed to support their victorious counterparts. Reminder about Uganda’s political history: President Museveni reminded the gathering of the dangers posed when political actors fail to unite around a common vision. He drew parallels with Uganda’s troubled political past, cautioning against repeating the mistakes of earlier parties. “Not supporting NRM is very risky; the country can be in total chaos, because if you have got people who don’t see that Uganda should be one, suppose they are the ones in charge of the country. What will happen?” H.E. Museveni asked. He revisited the events following the 1980 elections, when divisions between the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and Democratic Party (DP) set the stage for armed conflict. “When we came, we tried to persuade them to go back to the message of unity under the Uganda National Liberation Front (UNLF). They didn’t agree, and they tried to bring back DP and UPC. If they had agreed, there would have been no war from 1981 to 1986,” President Museveni recalled. The President also invoked the 1961 elections, when the Kabaka Yekka (KY) movement clashed with the Democratic Party. “Mengo said that they should boycott the election of 1961; those of the Democratic Party decided to go ahead and register themselves to participate. Those of Kabaka Yekka got annoyed and resolved to cut down on their coffee. That’s what happened in 1961,” he said, drawing a link to more recent violence, such as the killings in Masaka following the 2021 elections, arguing that the same divisive spirit has periodically resurfaced. According to President Museveni, the first obligation of political actors should be to safeguard stability, without which development cannot be sustained. He argued that supporting the NRM is not just about political allegiance but also about ensuring peace, growth, and socio-economic transformation. “Supporting NRM is first of all for stability, but also secondly, for the future, because you can see the factories are now coming. The whole of Matugga is factories, Kawempe factories, in Namanve, they are producing,” President Museveni said, noting that Uganda’s growing industrial base depends on wider markets. “Where are we selling these products? We are not selling them in Uganda. We are selling them in East Africa, South Sudan, and Congo,” he explained, stressing the importance of NRM’s ideological pillars: patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy. “It is politics of aims, not politics of jobs, not politics of groups,” President Museveni said, urging cadres to avoid politics of personal gain. Warning against politics without ideology: The President underscored the dangers of engaging in politics without a clear ideological foundation, terming it “a big danger,” reminding the audience that even the restoration of traditional leaders was undertaken with clarity of purpose. “We told everybody, yes, we are restoring the cultural institutions, but keep out of politics. No powers of administration, no powers of legislation, because these are with the people. Everything is in writing. There’s nothing we say or do that is not deliberate,” he emphasized, urging the cadres to always be guided by the NRM’s foundational aims. “If you are really clear about them, these issues you are talking about, like fighting for positions, cannot be a serious point, because you can sit down and discuss and choose who is fit to lead amongst you,” he said. President Museveni likened politics to medical practice, stressing that it must involve identifying problems and prescribing solutions. He reflected on the struggle against Idi Amin, noting that it was not merely about his brutality but also about a lack of ideological direction. “When we started fighting Idi Amin, some people said we started fighting him because he killed people. I didn’t know that Amin would kill people because even if Amin had not killed people, we would have fought him because he didn’t know what he was doing,” he said. He tied this back to NRM’s long-standing goals of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, East African unity, and socio-economic transformation. “If you go to South Africa now, it is full of Ugandans. I hear there are 1 million Ugandans there. They don’t even know what role Uganda played,” President Museveni noted. NRM cadres pledged support: On behalf of the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) and cadres in Buganda, the party’s Vice National Chairperson for the region, Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, thanked President Museveni for what he described as an “ideological lecture.” “The elections of 2021 didn’t go well in Buganda, but come 2026, we are more than determined to win highly. What we are asking for is your time whenever we ask for advice. We understand that Buganda is the highest beneficiary of development in this country,” Hon. Kasolo said. He assured the President that Buganda cadres now have the answers to the challenges that previously weakened NRM’s support in the region. “We pledge that we shall bring back this team after we have won the election,” he said. The meeting drew several senior government officials and party leaders. Among them were Attorney General Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who is also patron of the “Buganda on Museveni” campaign initiative; NRM Deputy Secretary General Rt. Hon. Rose Namayanja-Nsereko; Buvuma County MP; Hon. Migadde Ndugwa; Gomba District Woman MP; Hon. Sylvia Nayebare; Minister of Energy; Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, and Lwengo District Woman MP Hon. Cissy Namujju.

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19 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI EXTENDS SUPPORT TO KAMPALA EVENING MARKET VENDORS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today extended support to over 9,000 evening market vendors operating under the Toninyila Market initiative in Kampala. Each vendor, mainly dealing in cooked food sold on city streets, received UGX 100,000 to boost their businesses. The State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye, delivered the package on behalf of the President and commended the vendors for their resilience in working with limited capital to sustain their livelihoods. She urged them to use the funds strictly for business growth, emphasizing that the program is ongoing and will cover all divisions of Kampala. The rollout began in the Central Division and will later extend to other divisions. Ms. Barekye noted that the President’s directive is to reach “the last person” by directly supporting small-scale traders, particularly those often excluded from mainstream government initiatives. She praised President Museveni for prioritizing household income enhancement through support to small businesses. Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, Mr. Moses Byaruhanga also addressed the vendors, highlighting that while the NRM government has established broad anti-poverty measures such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, evening street vendors had not been adequately included. He said the President specifically tasked his team to organize and support the evening market, recognizing its role in Kampala’s economy. Mr. Byaruhanga further called on the vendors to rally behind President Museveni and the NRM flag bearers in the forthcoming elections, stressing that their continued support would ensure the sustainability of such people-centered programs.

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18 September 2025

ROADSIDE MARKET VENDORS HAIL PRESIDENT MUSEVENI FOR EMPOWERING THEM

Roadside market vendors yesterday expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for supporting their businesses with seed capital. Through the State House Political Department, the President extended a contribution of UGX 100,000 to each vendor at Watuba Daily Market in Lwamata Town Council (Kiboga District), Bukwikiri Daily Market (Kyankwanzi District), and Kasana Bakusekka Magenda Market (Luwero District). A total of 638 vendors benefited from the Roadside Market Vendors empowerment project. The beneficiaries, who mainly trade in groceries such as watermelons, pineapples, onions, chapatis, and chips, received the support after appealing to the President that they had been sidelined from government development programs such as Emyooga and the Parish Development Model (PDM). The President encouraged the traders to use the additional capital wisely while continuing to pursue benefits from mainstream government programs, emphasizing that those funds also belong to them. Delivering the package on behalf of the President, the Senior Presidential Advisor-Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo called on the traders to invest the money productively to improve household incomes. She explained that while the NRM government has delivered infrastructure, electricity, and road networks, President Museveni now wants to ensure every home gets out of poverty. She further cautioned vendors against abandoning their work for politics and rallies that do not improve their livelihoods. Nassolo urged them to vote for leaders who deliver community interests rather than self-seekers, adding that supporting President Museveni and the NRM government would safeguard their progress. At Kasana Bakusekka Magenda Market, Chairperson Zubair Kasana thanked the President for the financial support, saying it would greatly boost the vendors’ businesses. He, however, raised concern about gaps in mobilization, stressing the need for leaders who can effectively communicate the NRM government’s achievements, warning that the opposition often exploits this weakness to mislead the public.

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18 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI URGES RELIGIOUS LEADERS TO MOBILIZE THE FAITHFUL IN WEALTH CREATION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on religious leaders across the country to actively mobilize their congregations in the struggle for wealth creation as part of Uganda’s wider economic transformation agenda. The President made the call on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, while meeting a delegation of Born-Again leaders led by Bishop Dr. Moses Odongo, the General Overseer of the National Fellowship of Born-Again Pentecostal Churches in Uganda (NFBPC), at State House, Entebbe. Addressing the gathering, President Museveni emphasized that economic empowerment and spiritual growth should move hand in hand. He said faith-based leaders are strategically placed to guide Ugandans on practical ways of lifting themselves out of poverty. “If you have two acres, and you put one acre under cassava for food, you remain with only one acre for money. If you choose the wrong enterprise, you never get out of poverty,” H.E. Museveni explained. He drew on Uganda’s experience with low-value crops such as cotton, which he said could not sustain families. “At that time, farmers harvested about 200 kilograms of cotton an acre, selling at 200 shillings. That meant 40,000 shillings a year. How can a family survive on that? That is why I recommended foods, because foods can actually make a lot of money, even up to 30 million shillings an acre,” President Museveni said. The President reiterated his long-held view that Uganda’s prosperity lies in the correct use of land and enterprise selection, citing examples of high-value crops like coffee and fruits. President Museveni likened the principles of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to those of the Christian faith, saying both stand for non-sectarianism, unity, and reconciliation. “The NRM is like a church because we came with non-sectarianism, no revenge; these are Jesus’s teachings. Traditionally, Africans believed in revenge, in blood settlement. But we came with forgiveness and unity. That is why I said if my people are not truly Christians, let me start my own church, combining earthly issues with spiritual transformation. That is how NRM was founded,” President Museveni said. Bishop Dr. Odongo welcomed the President’s message, pledging that the fellowship of Born-again churches would stand firmly with the government in mobilizing Christians for wealth creation. “We will continue to help Christians interpret your dream of wealth creation, asking ourselves: how do we get money in our pockets and communities? That is where our churches are located. For instance, we have already started the coffee project as a way of mobilizing our people,” Bishop Odongo said. He added that through the church’s influence, entire communities, not just Christians, could be reached with programs like coffee planting and other agribusiness ventures. President Museveni assured the delegation that the government was ready to support such initiatives, including providing free seedlings. “We can help you to develop seed beds, to give free seedlings to your Christians, and when you mobilize from the church, you can also target the whole community,” the President said, noting that the high cost of seedlings from private suppliers had created barriers for ordinary Ugandans. “Seedlings were once at 400 shillings, but now I hear they are at 2000 shillings. That is why we must go back to government channels, directly or through institutions, to ensure free seedlings for our people. We can start with coffee, then move to fruits, which I introduced in Soroti,” President Museveni explained. Bishop Odongo also briefed the President on the fellowship’s plans to establish a permanent headquarters in Kasangati on six acres of land. The facility, he said, would include a training school for pastors with a structured curriculum. “If you feel God is calling you, come and study. Come and know how to do it like a doctor or a driver; you must study first. We want to set up a place where our leaders can be equipped with knowledge and skills to serve effectively,” Bishop Odongo said, appealing for government support in the project. He further commended President Museveni and First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni for preserving religious freedom in Uganda. “We have had an environment where we worship God freely. From our neighbors, we are highly regarded because of you and your family’s love for God and service to Him. Your efforts for wealth creation are amazing, and we are following that example,” Bishop Odongo said. The President welcomed Bishop Odongo’s efforts to unite the Balokole across denominations, saying such unity was crucial for both spiritual and socio-economic transformation. He reiterated that religion should not be divorced from practical efforts to improve livelihoods.

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17 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI BOOSTS HOIMA ROADSIDE MARKET VENDORS WITH ADDITIONAL CAPITAL

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday extended a lifeline to roadside market vendors along Hoima Road by providing each with seed capital of UGX 100,000 through the State House Political Department, led by Princess Pauline Nassolo and the Special Presidential Assistant in charge of Women Affairs, Ms. Flora Kabibi. The initiative comes after vendors raised concerns about being sidelined from mainstream government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga. The support specifically targets small traders dealing in food items and groceries who have long struggled with limited working capital. Mr. Kakande David, the Vice Chairperson of Ggobero Market traders, hailed the President for the intervention, saying the support would go a long way in expanding their businesses. He further appealed for government assistance in constructing a permanent market and improving transport facilities, noting that many vendors source produce like plantain from the Democratic Republic of Congo. At Bukomero Parkyard Market, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Kiboga, Mr. Ssempala Kigozi, thanked the President for remembering the ordinary people, while chapati seller Makuye Denis expressed gratitude, saying the boost would significantly increase his daily income. Leaders of the Bukomero Daily Market also commended the gesture. They emphasized that the support was especially impactful for women, whose household incomes would see immediate improvement. The Vice Chairperson Abubaker Bukenya pledged continued support for the President and the NRM flag bearers. In Roma Roadside Market at Lwamata Town Council, vendors dealing in groceries such as carrots and onions welcomed the additional capital. The Market Chairperson Christine Nabasita applauded the President for supporting poor families and single mothers, stressing that the assistance would ease their daily struggles. Overall, 623 roadside traders benefited from the program, which aims to uplift small-scale vendors and strengthen grassroots economic activity along Hoima Road.

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16 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI WELCOMES THREE NEW AMBASSADORS-DESIGNATE TO UGANDA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today, Tuesday, September 16, 2025, formally received credentials from three new Ambassadors-designate to Uganda, pledging stronger bilateral cooperation with Ireland, France, and Thailand in areas of education, infrastructure, security, trade, and socio-economic transformation. The new envoys include Ms. Margaret Gaynor of Ireland, Mrs. Virginie Leroy of France, and Ms. Morakot Janemathukorn of Thailand. Uganda–Ireland ties In his meeting with Ireland’s Ambassador-designate, Ms. Gaynor, President Museveni emphasized Uganda’s ongoing commitment to women's empowerment and girl-child education as critical pillars for the country’s development. “That FGM (Female Genital Mutilation) is bad biology, but it is fading away. We are expanding and emphasizing girl-child education and women empowerment programmes. Previously, women were excluded and reduced to being housewives and dependents all the time, and when the husband dies, the family depends on the eldest son in the family. This is going to stop,” the President remarked. On economic development, Museveni underscored Uganda’s strategy of driving socio-economic transformation through four key sectors: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. Ambassador Gaynor, who succeeds H.E Kevin Colgan, brings wide diplomatic experience, having served as Deputy Head of Mission and Cooperation at the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania. She was accompanied by her spouse, Mr. Jean-Louis Brudey, Deputy Head of Mission Ms. Jill Clements, Second Secretary Ms. Caoimhe O’Hagan, and Economic Adviser, Mr. Peter Michael Oumo. Uganda and Ireland have enjoyed diplomatic relations for over three decades, with Ireland’s support playing a pivotal role in strengthening education systems, particularly in enhancing access, quality and equity. Uganda–France relations President Museveni also welcomed back Mrs. Virginie Leroy, France’s new Ambassador-designate, who previously served in Uganda between 2014 and 2019. Expressing gratitude to France for its consistent support in infrastructure development, Museveni noted: “I not only want infrastructure, but also support in wealth creation.” He further commended France for its role in training the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in mountain warfare, which he described as vital for strengthening national security. Ambassador Leroy said she was delighted to return to Uganda. “I’m so delighted to return to the Pearl of Africa as France's new Ambassador-designate to the Republic of Uganda. Looking forward to reconnecting with old friends, meeting new ones, and further advancing the long-standing Uganda-France partnership.” She was accompanied by Deputy Head of Mission, Mrs. Janyce Obrecht, Defence Attaché LCL, Mr. Sebastien Berger, Head of Economic Service, Mr. Gregory Sidrack and Mr. Marc Trouyet, the Country Director of the French Development Agency (AFD) in Uganda. Uganda–Thailand partnership The President also received credentials from Ms. Janemathukorn, Thailand’s new Ambassador-designate to Uganda. She was accompanied by First Secretary, Mr. Thitiwoot Techapun, Uganda’s Honorary Consul, H.E. Barbra Mulwana, and Administrative Assistant, Mr. Andrew Orwenyo Mokua. Discussions focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between Uganda and Thailand, with emphasis on trade, investment, and cultural cooperation. The ceremony, held at State House Entebbe, was attended by senior government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odong Jeje Abubakhar.

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16 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ENDORSES TOORO KINGDOM’S AGRICULTURAL AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVES

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged his full support to Tooro Kingdom’s ambitious agricultural and youth empowerment programs, describing them as a timely intervention to transform livelihoods at the grassroots level. The President met His Majesty King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV and his delegation at State House, Entebbe, on Monday, September 15, 2025. The Tooro Royal Family was represented by Queen Mother Best Kemigisa and Princess Ruth Komuntale Akiiki. Others in attendance were the Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire and senior government officials, including the Minister of State for Youth and Children, Hon. Balaam Barugahara. Presenting the Kingdom’s vision, Prime Minister Rwomiire outlined a robust plan targeting Tooro’s nine counties with agriculture and youth-centered programs. The initiative includes the establishment of coffee and cocoa nursery beds, demonstration gardens, and hatcheries in all nine counties. “What this does is it brings services close to the people, gives them income, and generates economic activities and employment,” Mr. Rwomiire said, noting that the Kingdom was seeking a budget of 4.6 billion shillings to kick-start the programs. He further revealed that Queen Mother Best Kemigisha would serve as the brand ambassador of the initiative to enhance visibility and mobilization. “The Kingdom has been there with you since, and we know the struggles we have gone through together. His Majesty the King has always acknowledged the support you have given him, including during his coronation. We know the problems, and we believe we also know the solutions,” Mr. Rwomiire added. In response, President Museveni strongly welcomed the proposal, particularly the coffee project, which he described as a “good intervention” that aligned with government efforts to commercialize agriculture under the Parish Development Model (PDM). He observed that private suppliers currently sell a single coffee seedling at 3,000 shillings, which is unaffordable for most farmers. “There’s no reason why the Kingdom can’t also do it. Government institutions have the seeds. The Kingdom can get them, multiply them, and distribute them for free to farmers,” H.E. Museveni said. The President emphasized the Parish Development Model (PDM) as the backbone of wealth creation, explaining that farmers organized under Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) would directly benefit from the seedlings distributed through the Kingdom. “This is a good intervention, provided you concentrate on the parish,” he said. President Museveni reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the 100 million shillings per parish allocation under the PDM, adding that an extra 15 million shillings would be available for local leaders who often fall outside direct parish benefits. “The Shs100 million is for the poor people. But leaders who are not part of the groups also need support. So, we are adding Shs15 million for them,” he explained. Zero Tolerance for Corruption: Responding to concerns over mismanagement of PDM funds, President Museveni issued a stern warning against theft, promising tough action against culprits. “Those stealing PDM money will vomit it. That’s not a problem. We shall lock them up until they return it. If there is monitoring and facts are established, we shall arrest them, and they will vomit the money,” H.E. Museveni declared, further insisting that despite corruption risks, the PDM remained a vital instrument for poverty eradication and would not be abandoned. Minister Barugahara briefed the President on issues raised during a Baraza in Fort Portal held ahead of the Empango celebrations. He reported irregularities in fund disbursement, including instances where money was given to non-residents of a parish. “In one parish, money was given to 50 people who didn't belong there. This has been a very big problem. We need to fix these gaps and ensure transparency,” Hon. Barugahara said. He assured the President that his ministry would step up efforts to enforce accountability through open dispute resolution and closer supervision. The Tooro Prime Minister also introduced a Youth Economic Empowerment Program, designed to be cost-effective and impact-driven. He said the initiative seeks to restore the Kingdom’s relevance to its subjects by working hand-in-hand with the government. “It is not just about the Kingdom but also about government delivery. We shall sensitize communities through radio, field visits, and kingdom structures. This is our mobilization strategy to ensure high impact and visibility,” Mr. Rwomiire said. The meeting also featured presentations from international partners working with the Tooro Kingdom on development projects. Mr. Nicolas Geoffrey, a Ugandan-born resident of the United Kingdom and special envoy of the Tooro Royal Family, revealed plans to build a university campus in Tooro specializing in agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and tourism. “We have identified land in the Kingdom and secured interest from investors. We have even engaged Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, through his envoy Claudia Pinto. However, our partners want a letter of support or directive from you to guarantee Uganda’s commitment,” Geoffrey told the President. Dr. Niel Holder, Tooro’s special envoy from Barbados and a UN Global Peace Ambassador, emphasized opportunities for trade and cultural exchange between Uganda and the Caribbean. “The Caribbean has many people who have never visited Africa. They go to Europe and the USA, spending lots of money in countries that don’t value them. With Uganda Airlines now operating flights to Britain, we can connect Britain to Barbados and open up new avenues for tourism, food trade, and cultural diplomacy,” Dr. Holder said. He pledged to work closely with King Oyo and President Museveni to develop bilateral relations that would unlock trade opportunities for Ugandan farmers and position Tooro as a hub of international partnerships. King Oyo’s delegation reaffirmed the Kingdom’s historic partnership with the central government, pledging to align its programs with national priorities. “The Kingdom has been consistent in supporting your leadership and programs. With this initiative, we want to demonstrate that we are partners in delivering transformation to our people,” Prime Minister Rwomiire said. President Museveni, visibly impressed with the proposals, praised the Kingdom’s proactive approach, particularly in anchoring its plans at the parish level, which he said would ensure inclusivity and sustainability.

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14 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MARKS 81ST BIRTHDAY AS HE OFFICIATES AT FIRST-EVER BODA UNION FESTIVAL

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today celebrated his 81st birthday at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala City. The birthday celebrations were held concurrently with the first-ever Boda Union Festival and Expo. During his address, the President who was in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, thanked boda boda riders for celebrating his birthday with him. He also highlighted the government's efforts to protect boda boda riders from exploitative boda loans and moneylenders. “My agreement with the Boda Bodas is that it is criminal for someone to give you a rabbit and then demand a cow in return. Moneylenders give you Shs5 million and expect Shs15 million back. That is robbery,” he said, adding that high interest rates have made moneylenders “enemies of progress” across sectors, including agriculture. He explained that this is why the government introduced the Parish Development Model (PDM), which offers low-interest financing. “If we give you Shs1 million, you pay back just Shs1,125,000 after two years. We have applied the same arrangement for the ghetto and now for the Boda Bodas,” he said. The President also announced support to the industry and revealed that the State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye will certify all Boda Boda SACCOs to ensure accountability and prevent selfish individuals from misusing funds. Maama Janet congratulated the President for reaching his 81st birthday. She also urged Ugandans to embrace unity as the bedrock of transformation. “Africa was blessed with abundant resources, but we have remained poor because we fight among ourselves. Now, by God’s grace, Uganda has been given the wisdom to form a union — to bring us together. When we unite, we will be unstoppable,” she said. The First Lady also noted that while unity is key, Ugandans must also “learn to serve what we produce,” so as to build their own banks, wealth, and future. “God has used the President to lay a firm foundation for the Boda Bodas, the taxis, and for families across Uganda. It is now upon us to build on that foundation and create a nation that is truly unstoppable,” Maama Janet added. The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among also congratulated the President on his 81st birthday and praised him for making Uganda “the country everyone wants to live in.” She also thanked him for creating a conducive environment that has enabled the boda boda industry to flourish. On their part, boda boda leaders hailed the President for his support towards the industry. Mr. Frank Mawejje, Chairperson of the United Riders Cooperative Union, revealed that the recent patriotism training at Kaweweta gave riders the knowledge to run their unions more professionally. He said unlike in the past when SACCOs would collapse, they now employ accountants and lawyers to ensure proper management. Mr. Mawejje however, urged the government to deal with moneylenders who still confiscate the riders’ National IDs despite a Presidential directive banning the practice. Union Business Products Advisor, Mr. Fred Ssenoga called for unity between the taxi and boda boda sectors, saying their combined numbers in Kampala could lobby for life-transforming projects. He announced plans to establish “Union Villages” to help members own homes instead of spending their entire lives riding without a place to call their own. Mr. Ssenoga also appealed for government review of the Shs 700,000 digital number plate registration fee, arguing it was unfair for riders to pay the same as luxury car owners. Mr. Sekindi Rashid, Chairperson of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation (UTOF) requested the President to officially launch the new taxi park in Kampala and thanked him for expanding the road network and harmonizing the previously divided taxi industry. Events promoter Abbey Musinguzi alias Abtex also requested President Museveni to support events promoters through SACCOs, citing heavy exploitation by moneylenders. The celebrations ended with renewed calls for unity, discipline, and innovation within Uganda’s transport and entertainment industries, with leaders pledging to build on the foundation laid by the President.

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13 September 2025

COL. NAKALEMA DELIVERS KEY SPEECH AT UK-AFRICA BUSINESS SUMMIT, UGANDA LAUDED AS BEST INVESTMENT DESTINATION

The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema has underscored the role of transparency and accountability in promoting investments in a country. According to Col. Nakalema, investor confidence hinges on predictable regulation, fair processes and robust oversight. “Transparent governance reduces risk perception, lowers borrowing costs and mobilizes capital whereas accountability mechanisms deter misuse, thus strengthening institutional trust,” she said. Col. Nakalema made the remarks on Friday 12th September 2025 while delivering a closing message of assurance to investors on behalf of Uganda’s leadership during the UK-Africa Business Summit 2025, London. The UK-Africa Business Summit, Trade and investment was established to strengthen commercial, diplomatic and development ties between the UK and African nations. Now in its 15th year, the summit provides a high-level platform for government leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and diaspora stakeholders to explore trade and investment opportunities. She underscored Uganda’s commitment to protecting investors through an enabling investment climate created by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government through the able leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Col. Nakalema also revealed that as SHIPU, technology is key in their operations. “Digital documentation reduces physical paperwork, expedites processing times, and minimizes the potential for human error, whereas secure communication ensures the confidentiality and integrity of all exchanges protecting investors from potential cyber fraud. Real time investment insights also enable investors to receive immediate updates on the investment process, protection and support.” During the same event, Uganda was lauded as the best investment destination and SHIPU’s Investors Protection Portal (EIPP) was referred to as a great investment catalyst due to its efficiency. “Uganda’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) capture leads the East African Community with 24 percent of the total regional foreign direct investment between 2019-2023,” she added. “Uganda was consistently named Africa’s top investment destination by AIM UAE in both 2023 and 2024 and also the investment catalyst award at the Go Global Awards in 2023 by the International Trade Council. This reflects investor confidence in policy stability and market reforms.” Col. Nakalema further noted that as stakeholders, they can build a prosperity bridge between Uganda and the UK that transforms both economies while establishing new standards for international investment partnerships in Africa. In his welcome remarks, the founder and chairman, UK-Africa Summit, Mr. Willy Mutenza said this year's programme continues to build on their core priorities, with a sharper focus on practical solutions and partnerships that deliver measurable outcomes. “Our engagement now extends beyond our long-standing trade relationship with the UK to include new and dynamic partners in Türkiye, India, the Caribbean, and across Africa and Europe. In Africa, we are actively promoting intra-continental trade, supporting regional integration and growth led by African enterprises and institutions,” he said. “We meet at a critical moment for global trade. Renewed tariffs from the United States under President Trump, alongside shifting geopolitical alliances, are reshaping how business is done across borders.” Mr. Mutenza noted that despite these challenges, Africa’s resilience continues to define its outlook. “With expanding markets, a youthful population, and growing infrastructure, the continent holds vast potential for investors seeking long-term opportunity,” he said. “This summit brings together global and regional voices committed to that vision.” Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba - Deputy Governor Bank of Uganda also made a much-appreciated presentation on Uganda’s steadfast economic growth. The summit was also attended by Uganda’s senior leaders who included, the 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, the Permanent Secretary, Internal Affairs Ministry, Lt. Gen. Joseph Musanyufu, the Director Citizenship & Immigration Control, Maj. Gen. Apollo Kasiita-Gowa, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Juliana Kagwa, among others.

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13 September 2025

LUWERO ROADSIDE MARKET VENDORS TIPPED ON HOUSEHOLD INCOME AS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI OFFERS FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Roadside market vendors in Luwero district have been urged to ensure that they work towards stabilizing their household income and creating wealth. “H.E the President always advises us to join the money economy through the four sectors; commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. If we heed his message, we will be able to improve and stabilize our household income, thus creating wealth,” the Senior Presidential Advisor In-charge of the Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo said. Princess Nassolo made the remarks on Friday 12th September, 2025 as she led a team from State House to deliver President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s business booster package to the vendors of Balikyejusa Market in Luwero. At least 640 vendors benefited from the package and each one of them received Shs100,000. They majorly deal in agricultural produce, roasted gonja, roasted chicken and meat, beverages, among other items. According to Princess Nassolo, President Museveni received a report that most of the vendors have never benefited from the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, so he decided to first send them additional capital to their businesses as they wait to benefit from other government programs. “H.E the President has sent us to deliver this money to you directly. It's meant to boost your businesses. Use it well,” She advised. Princess Nassolo also called upon the vendors to always hold their leaders accountable if they want to benefit from government programs. “If you hold your leaders accountable, you will be able to get the right services from the government,” she said. “More so, you should vote for the right leaders who will be able to deliver on their promises. These leaders belong to the NRM party,” she added. On her part, the Special Presidential Assistant on Women Affairs, Ms. Flora Kabibi cautioned the vendors against politicking, urging them to mainly focus on working and improving their livelihoods. “As we head to the political season, vote for your candidates then go back and work, don't involve yourself in politicking,” she urged. “H.E the President always encourages all of us to work so that we improve our livelihoods. He has even extended financial support to you so that you can boost your businesses.” Ms. Kabibi also appealed to parents to nurture their children well to be responsible citizens in the country. The Chairperson of Balikyejusa Market, Mr. Nyombi Yakub Zziwa who also serves as the Chairperson of NRM Workers League - Luwero district, revealed that the money from the President is a big addition to them and that they were going to use it to expand their enterprises. “We thank the NRM government for its numerous poverty alleviation programs aimed at uplifting the lives of Ugandans.” Mr. Kayindo Musisi Ali, the Vice Chairperson of the market was also among the beneficiaries. He thanked President Museveni for extending support to the vendors and promised that they will utilise the funds well to grow their businesses. “Mzee we are so happy that you have given us this money to add into our businesses. Some of our people have inadequate capital but this support from H.E is going to solve that challenge,” he said. Ms. Nakibuule Sylvia, another vendor at Balikyejusa Market also expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the financial support, explaining that she is going to use it to boost her small business. Another excited vendor, Namugenyi Sandra, assured President Museveni that as vendors who have benefited from his financial support, they were going to reward him by voting him back to power in 2026. “We are going to vote for President Museveni again and again.” Mr. Ssimbwa Nelson, a vendor dealing in pineapples was also grateful to President Museveni for the kind gesture to the ordinary people like him. “Your Excellency, I can't thank you enough apart from praying for your good health. We pray that God enables you to lead and serve Ugandans for more years,” he stated.

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12 September 2025

CDF CUP: WINNING TEAM HANDS OVER TROPHIES TO SFC COMMANDER

The Elite force winning team has handed over all its trophies won during the 17th edition of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Cup Tournament to the Special Forces Command (SFC) leadership. SFC was crowned the overall champion of the 2025 CDF Cup after winning 13 prizes in this year’s tournament which was hosted by the Armoured Division in Masaka. The victory celebrations were held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the SFC Headquarters. In his address, the Commander SFC, Maj. Gen. David Mugisha, attributed the historic achievement to the guidance and encouragement of the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, whom he praised for nurturing talent, enforcing discipline, and strengthening the professional capacity of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). He said the CDF’s support through sports and range competitions, which drew 20 teams from across the UPDF, created a platform for talent growth and healthy competition. Maj. Gen. Mugisha commended his troops for their discipline and resilience, which enabled them to defeat all opponents and secure every prize in the competition. “This remarkable performance has elevated the name of SFC in UPDF sports history and truly reflects our motto, ASIYE KIFANI (Next to None),” he said. He urged the command to begin preparing for the 2026 edition while remaining focused on its core mandate of protecting the President, the First Lady, the First Family, and other Very Important Persons (VIPs). Brig. Gen. Richard Karemire, UPDF Joint Staff in charge Formal Education Sports and Culture, congratulated SFC on the victory and applauded the commander for hosting a memorable celebration. He revealed that his office is concluding on a big project that will see the commencement of the construction of Ruhengyere Primary school, alongside plans for a secondary school at SFC Headquarters in Entebbe. The SFC Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Paul Namawa, applauded the team for the job well done during the tournament. He noted that the only trophy missed was in the girls’ netball, where SFC did not field a team. “Otherwise, it would also have been here with us,” he remarked, while commending the Head of Sports and all players for their teamwork. Maj. Moses Kajimbi, who captained both the football and range teams in Masaka, thanked the leadership for trusting him with responsibility. “We train hard and push beyond limits not for individual glory, but for the pride of our mighty SFC,” he said. Lt. Bethel Muhereza, SFC Head of Sports and Education, credited the victory to rigorous training and preparatory friendlies that sharpened the football team. He thanked the leadership for consistent support in terms of welfare and resources. Among the prizes won were the Overall Winner’s Trophy, Football Trophy, Range Trophy, and several individual awards. Lt. Enid Kesaasi emerged as both the overall and female best shooter, while Edward Konde was named Best Football Player and Golden Gloves winner.

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12 September 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI SET TO ASSUME CHAIRMANSHIP OF APR FORUM NEXT YEAR

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will assume the chairmanship of the African Peer Review (APR) Forum of Heads of State and Government in February 2026, a role that will see Uganda take the lead in guiding continental governance and development priorities. President Museveni will take over the chairmanship from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. He will serve as Chairperson of the APR Forum for two years, from February 2026 to February 2028. The announcement was made today during a briefing at State House Entebbe with a delegation from the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Continental Secretariat, led by Ambassador Marie-Antoinette Rose Quatre, Secretariat’s Chief Executive Officer alongside Uganda’s APRM Focal Point, Hon. Amos Lugoloobi, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development. The APR Forum of Heads of State and Government is the highest decision-making body of the African Peer Review Mechanism, bringing together African leaders to evaluate governance practices and promote political, economic, and corporate reforms across the continent. Ambassador Quatre, explained: “At the opening ceremony, H.E. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, President of Algeria and current Chairperson, will hand over the APRM and AU flags, as well as the gavel to Your Excellency.” “You will then deliver your inaugural statement as Chairperson, guide the closed Summit session, and later present the Forum’s report to the AU Summit.” She added that Uganda’s leadership will extend to various APRM structures. “Your Excellency, the APRM Focal Point of Uganda will automatically assume the Chairmanship of the APRM Focal Points Committee, while the National Governing Council and Secretariat will also take on leadership roles at continental level. We feel privileged that this great responsibility will be under your stewardship.” In his response, President Museveni welcomed the chairmanship, describing the APRM as a good initiative that allows African leaders to share ideas and correct historical mistakes. “I thank you for the brief. The APR was a good initiative because it gave us a chance to share ideas. The biggest mistake since independence has been the issue of ideas people were groping in the dark, touching here and there, and with a false sense of sovereignty, they feared that sharing ideas would be seen as interfering in internal affairs. As a result, we lost a lot of time until this opportunity came up,” the President said. President Museveni, drawing on six decades of political and economic observation, likened Africa’s challenges to Europe’s intellectual struggles during the renaissance. “I have been watching and involved for the last 60 years, and I have seen all sorts of conceptual mistakes. This is not new even Europe went through the same. At the time of the Renaissance, they ran up and down with confused ideas. Those who studied economics thought mercantilism was the solution, believing that if they had gold and silver, they had made it,” he said. The President noted that it took the writings of Adam Smith to correct this direction. “Smith pointed out that the critical issue was division of labour, specialization and exchange. Once that was understood, people began to wake up. It stressed micro-economic operations, which are the building blocks of wealth creation,” he explained. “That is why this APR platform is important; it gives us the opportunity to exchange and refine our thinking.” Looking ahead to the February session where he will chair, President Museveni highlighted market integration as a key aspect for discussion. “It will be good to audit in February, and I am sure market integration will be one of the ten points for discussion. If businesspeople don’t have a guaranteed market, how do they expand? That is the problem of Latin America. It has more resources than the USA; rivers, forests, minerals but because of poor organization, business cannot succeed. Meanwhile in the USA, if I produce a product in New York, it can reach California with ease, backed by numbers and purchasing power,” he explained. On industrialization, the President issued a stern warning against Africa’s continued export of raw materials. “Selling raw materials is a disaster. For every raw material you sell unprocessed, you are donating money and jobs. If you want copper, process it to 99.9% purity. Some can serve our local industries, and the rest can be exported. That way, we benefit through vertical and horizontal integration,” he said. He added that Africa’s competitiveness depends on reducing production costs. “You must have low transport costs, low electricity costs, and affordable bank credit. Without these, how can manufacturing survive?” the President emphasized. President Museveni also expressed confidence in Uganda’s readiness to chair the forum. “I am very happy and looking forward to this responsibility,” he said. Hon. Lugoloobi, in his remarks, praised the timeliness of Uganda’s preparations. “These consultations come at the right time as we align with continental initiatives such as the rationalization of African credit rating agencies and the African Migration Governance Conference, already approved by Cabinet,” he said. The Minister assured the delegation that the government had mobilized fully to support the President’s leadership. “We propose that during Uganda’s tenure, the Forum focuses on addressing the bottlenecks hindering social transformation including weak infrastructure, governance gaps and insecurity,” he said. Hon. Lugoloobi added that Kampala will automatically become the APRM Capital once President Museveni assumes the chairmanship. “We look forward to significant milestones that will cement Your Excellency’s legacy. With your leadership, we are certain the APRM will reach another level,” he said.

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