Latest News Updates

img
27 June 2025
PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TASKS MUSLIMS TO PRAY FOR A PEACEFUL UGANDA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged the Muslim faithfuls to pray for Uganda to remain peaceful. “As you embark on your pilgrimage to Mecca, pray for Uganda to remain peaceful,” he said. The President made the remarks today in his message delivered by the State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye while flagging-off 100 Muslims who are going for Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The flag-off ceremony took place at the Office Of the Prime Minister Conference Hall in Kampala. Hajj is a sacred pilgrimage that is required of every Muslim at least once in their lifetime – it is one of the five pillars of Islam. Each year, millions of Muslims from across the world travel to and perform Hajj in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The Hajj of various Imams, Sheikh, Sheikats, among others, was fully-funded by the State House under the directive of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Ms. Barekye also revealed that the President requested believers, especially the leaders to preach the gospel of wealth creation to ensure that Ugandans get out of poverty. Ms. Barekye further informed Muslims that if they have land, President Museveni encourages them to fight poverty through commercial agriculture. “Embrace the four acre model for those with small land Holdings. You can put coffee on one acre, another acre grow fruits, the third acre grow pasture for zero grazing, then on the fourth acre grow food crops,” she said. “But as a leader you should lead by example, create avenues of wealth creation so that people can take a leaf from you.” During the same event, Ms. Barekye delivered President Museveni's financial support of USD500 to each beneficiary which they will use as upkeep while on pilgrimage. “H.E the President also thanked you for loving God and it's the reason why he sponsored you for Hajj. Everything has been fully funded,” she noted. The Senior Presidential Advisor for Political Mobilization, Mr. Moses Byaruhanga commended President Museveni for having a listening ear and ensuring that he works for all people, especially the ordinary Ugandans. He also thanked Ms. Barekye for being a hardworking public servant who works around the clock to ensure that President Museveni’s pledges and directives to Ugandans are fulfilled. “President Museveni takes the Hajj program in high esteem, that's why he offers 100 slots each year.” He also informed the beneficiaries that President Museveni will host them for Shukuru (thanksgiving) at State House Entebbe when they come back from Hajj. Mr. Byaruhanga further urged believers to embrace President Museveni’s wealth creation programs like the Parish Development Model to fight poverty and improve their livelihoods. He assured Muslims that PDM does not contravene the Islamic teachings against riba. He said the small interest is not profit from grant, but it's meant to keep the program afloat amidst inflation challenges. The Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Hafidh Haroon Muhammad Bukenya, on behalf of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) thanked the government of Uganda and President Museveni for the continued support towards Islam. “We thank President Museveni for making this offer annually. As Muslims, we are very happy for the support from this government. They have really supported us financially and socially,” he said. “We cannot thank President Museveni enough apart from praying for him. Let us continue praying for our government and our President so that they stay in power peacefully.” Sheikh Bukenya also called upon Muslims to always respect the government and their leaders because, “Leadership comes from God”. “We pray for the good health of our President so that he can continue serving this nation.” Hajjat Mariam Namayanja, The Special Presidential Assistant in charge of Monitoring the Parish Development Model programs expressed gratitude to President Museveni for supporting the Muslims to go for Hajj annually. Sheikh Saidi Kasawuuli, the Chairman of the National Association of Imams and Duats of Uganda thanked President Museveni for loving Muslim faithfuls and always supporting them in various initiatives including funding Hajj for several muslims annually. Hajji Sadat Kisuyi, the Director of Anwaary Travel Agency which offers Hajj and Umrah services, thanked Allah for enabling the selected few to fulfil the 5th pillar of Islam. “When you go to Mecca, pray for our President and thank Allah for him. He gives Muslims in Uganda 100 Hajj slots annually,” he said.

img
12 June 2025
“UGANDA’S ECONOMY HAS TAKEN OFF,” PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AFFIRMS AS HE UNVEILS SHS 72 TRILLION BUDGET

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today unveiled Uganda’s 2025/2026 national budget, declaring that the economy has taken off and rallied leaders to match financial allocations with performance and accountability. The Shs 72.376 trillion budget was delivered under the theme: “Full Monetization of the Ugandan Economy Through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialization, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation and Market Access”. In fulfillment of Article 155(1) of the Constitution and on behalf of His Excellency the President, Hon. Matia Kasaija, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, presented the Budget for the Financial Year 2025/26 to Ugandans as approved by Parliament. The ceremony took place at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. Referring to the Finance Minister’s presentation, the President said: “Here the size of Uganda’s economy is now $61 billion by the exchange rate method and $174 billion by the purchasing power parity method. Given our population, which is about 45 million Ugandans, we are no longer a least developed country. We are now a lower middle-income country.” President Museveni emphasized economic stability indicators that signaled progress as indicated by the Finance Minister stating: “GDP growth, and price stability: Are the prices stable or not? Currency stability, is the currency stable or not? Are jobs being created or not? Are export earnings going up or not? And finally, are foreign direct investments coming in or not? I thought we should note that.” President Museveni underscored that in 1986, Uganda’s GDP was just $3.9 billion noting that, “You can see the economy has grown more than 20 times, I thought you should mark that, because in a long speech like this you may not notice the big picture.” This year’s budget is anchored in the Fourth National Development Plan (NDPIV) 2025/26–2029/30, with strategic investments categorized into ATMs priority sectors such as agro-industrial development, tourism, minerals (including oil and gas), ICT and “Enablers” which are public infrastructure and services critical for business growth. But beyond the numbers and planning frameworks, President Museveni used his address to spotlight mismanagement and inefficiencies in budget execution, warning that Uganda’s transformation cannot be undermined by negligence. “I heard the veterans of Luweero in Lyantonde on Heroes Day raising issues. When I checked, we had already provided Shs 218 billion or something like that for the kasimo, and it was flipped to be Shs5 million for elders each and Shs1 million for the supporters. So, what happened to this money?” President Museveni asked. He demanded clarity on the long-standing cattle compensation for conflict-affected regions. “For Teso, Lango, Acholi, we have always spent Shs 200 billion on that, and we have already budgeted Shs 80 billion. So, leaders, follow up that money.” The President also turned his attention to public investments in sports saying, “Then you get things like stadiums. The National Council of Sports needs to explain to us. I hear some money has gone to Kakyeka and a number of them to do some work, others are going to be done massively, and so on. So, the Council of Sports should also explain and brief Maama about this money.” On matters of security, President Museveni issued a stern warning about growing misconceptions over digital number plates. “I saw some issues about the digital number plates, that people are being fined. I don’t know for what, but the issue about the number plates is not about fines. It’s anti-crime,” he said. Citing the recent murder of Wayengera Godfrey, 45, a resident of Namumira village in Mukono town, who was killed on June 10, 2025, President Museveni said, “I can’t accept our Ugandans dying because of incomplete infrastructure. Remember when I addressed you in Parliament in 2019, I told you about the cameras you were there with your policemen asking, “Ani eyamulabye?” He explained that the digital number plates are central to crime-fighting, not revenue collection. “Let’s go technical. Let’s have smart means. They have helped us solve a number of things. These are digitized number plates with a central command not collecting fines and so on,” he said. “I think the confusion about fines could be because we didn’t have money and we told these people to put number plates and recover money. The issue is about the number plate being diagnosed. Every vehicle must have a digital number plate traced by a central command to know which cars, which boda was in the area. The issue is not about money. No. It’s about security. They are acting with impunity. This is not about fines. It’s about security.” President Museveni also reaffirmed the central role of government-led initiatives such as NAADs, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), the Parish Development Model (PDM), and Emyooga in transforming lives. “The Government, through the budgets, is the one that can help the people to solve their problems. Programs like NAADs, OWC, PDM, Emyooga, etc., have already shown that they can liberate people from poverty,” he said. He cited tangible examples of economic transformation driven by government science and innovation. “The current Coffee boom was on account of the Government scientists who developed the improved Clonal Coffee, different from the old variety that people in Bushenyi had abandoned for the Dairy industry. The Dairy industry in the cattle corridor, the Kalangala Palm oil projects, are projects pushed by the government that have transformed people’s lives,” the President noted. REJECT BRIBERY, PROTECT YOUR POWER AS VOTERS: President Museveni sharply criticised the growing trend of political bribery and vote-buying disguised as fundraising, warning that it is undermining the electorate’s power and sabotaging national progress. “Not petty money from MPs for fundraising or bribes. The voters need to know that these practices of bribes and fundraising are overthrowing the voters’ power to elect leaders that will work with the Central Government to solve their problems,” he said. President Museveni was emphatic about the need for voters to resist being seduced by envelopes of cash and instead focus on choosing leaders who will protect their interests. “Do not accept petty money from politicians and throw away your power to elect a leader that can kwemerera (supervise) the money sent to you through the Parish, fight corruption, etc. Once we solve the political corruption that has paralyzed the populist politicians, it will be easy to fight the corruption of the Public Servants,” he said. Drawing on Uganda’s history of civic engagement, President Museveni called upon the people to be vigilant, insisting that the masses are the true whistleblowers in the fight against corruption. “It is because we have a reliable source for kurega (whistleblowing). These are the people, the victims of the corruption.” He further outlined the key drivers of Uganda’s transformation, crediting the NRA/UPDF, the wealth creators in agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT, government scientists, and patriotic members of the political class who support the NRM programs. “The big changes that are happening in Uganda, are by the following actors: the NRA/UPDF that liberated the country and has been ensuring peace ever since; the wealth creators in the four sectors. the Government scientists that make innovations, and the responsible members of the political class that have been supporting the NRM programs. It is, therefore, not fair for some actors to spoil these great successes,” the President said. “Some people say that they give bribes because Museveni is always giving the khaki envelope to members of the population. Do not draw water and mud; do not mix up issues. The brown envelopes I give are part of the ancient traditions here. It is called okurongoora. It is the King who does that to the singers, or wrestlers, etc. President is the modern ‘King’. You are not ‘Kings’. I have a budget for that. I do not sell my cows to get money to kurongoora singers.” He condemned the exploitative culture of individual fundraising pushed by politicians, describing it as unsustainable and misleading. “Fundraising was and is premature. The healthy fundraising is okusonda, whereby you make small equal contributions but by many contributors,” he said. Recalling a humble past, President Museveni invoked a childhood example from his father, Mzee Kaguta, saying, “In the 1950s, Mzee Kaguta sometimes would participate in kusondera (contribute) for enjogga (a potful) of rwaagwa (banana alcohol). At that time, enjogga was 5 shillings. Five people would contribute Shs 1 each.” He criticized politicians who create false impressions of wealth and burden themselves with unsustainable donations. “With the rampant fundraising, the MP carries the whole burden. It is really extortion, but it was instigated by the MPs who created the impression that they had the type of money which they did not have,” the President noted. Challenging the culture of silent approval of suspicious wealth, President Museveni urged elders and church leaders to question the source of lavish donations from young politicians. “Even the church leaders and other elders should ask those young mistake makers: ‘Naye mwana wange, esente zino zonna, ozigyawa?’ That is what a responsible parent should ask omwana (son or daughter) or omuzukulu (grandchild) if he/she sees him or her throwing around money,” he said. The President concluded with a firm moral warning: “The responsible parents do not accept stolen gifts from their children.” On her part, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among applauded the President for fulfilling his constitutional duty by presenting the national budget for the 2025/2026 financial year, describing the moment as a reaffirmation of Uganda’s democratic and constitutional principles. “Once again, we are honoured to host His Excellency the President as he fulfills his constitutional obligation to deliver the National Budget Speech. We thank him for his unwavering commitment to this important duty,” Speaker Among said. She emphasized that the presentation of the budget is not a one-man affair but the result of a collaborative and consultative process involving multiple stakeholders across government, civil society, and the citizenry. “Today’s budget reading is a culmination of inclusive engagement. It is the result of cooperation among all stakeholders, and we commend the participatory and transparent nature in which this process has been undertaken,” she said. As a Parliament that prides itself on being people-centred, Rt. Hon. Among rallied stakeholders to go beyond participation and ensure active involvement in the implementation phase of the budget. “We urge all players in the budget process to ensure civic awareness, execution, and above all, accountability. Participation should not end with planning. It must carry through to real impact,” she stressed. Rt. Hon. Among said Parliament remains fully cognizant of the critical role that people’s participation plays in shaping Uganda’s development path, describing it as a cornerstone of national progress. “Participation of our people is not a formality, it is a principle. It reflects the true spirit of our beloved nation,” she affirmed. Highlighting key milestones, the Speaker noted Parliament's significant contributions in shaping the financial year 2025/2026 budget. She said the legislature had diligently scrutinized and approved ministerial policy statements during the period of April 9th to 16th, ensuring alignment with national priorities. “During this period, Parliament approved ministerial statements that provided a strong foundation for the budget,” she revealed. Further, she highlighted that the House passed seven crucial revenue bills aimed at boosting government capacity to raise and manage revenue sustainably. “These revenue bills are instrumental in enabling the realization of the targets set for the new financial year. They are not just laws, they are economic tools designed to fuel transformation,” said Rt. Hon. Among. While presenting the budget, Hon. Kasaija stated that Uganda’s economy is no longer defined by fragility, but by resilience and stability, saying that this has attracted investors and fueled sustained growth. “Uganda’s economy has fully recovered from previous global, regional, and domestic shocks and is firmly on a path of transformation. We expect to grow by 6.4 percent this coming financial year,” the minister declared. Hon. Kasaija attributed this economic strength to Uganda’s sound fiscal policies, targeted infrastructure investments, improved access to affordable credit, and strong private sector development, all of which have helped reduce the cost of doing business across the country. Tracing Uganda’s economic journey since 2010, the Minister highlighted the government’s long-term strategy anchored in patriotism, Pan-Africanism, democracy, and socio-economic transformation—the four key principles that continue to guide Uganda’s development. “The early years of the NRM government were focused on restoring peace, stabilizing a broken economy, and addressing extreme poverty. Today, we are firmly in the phase of socio-economic transformation, “Hon. Kasaija explained. “For the first time, Uganda also met the UN criteria for graduation from the least developed country status in March 2024. This achievement reflects our commitment to inclusive development,” he said. He noted that Education and health remain top priorities, with Shs 11.4 trillion allocated under the Human Capital Development Program, noting that funds will support teacher salary enhancements, classroom construction, digital learning infrastructure, and reforms in the lower secondary curriculum. “We are also investing in youth skilling through the Presidential Industrial Hubs and the Skilling Uganda Program, to boost employability and productivity,” Hon. Kasaija added. He further highlighted that Debt servicing takes a significant share of the budget, with Shs 28.5 trillion allocated, Shs 11.3 trillion for interest payments, shs 4.9 trillion for external debt, and shs 1.4 trillion for clearing domestic arrears. The Minister clarified that the budget has been financed by Shs 37.2 trillion in domestic revenue, Shs 11.3 trillion in domestic borrowing, Shs 11.3 trillion from external project support, and Shs 10 trillion for domestic debt refinancing. The minister mentioned that Transport infrastructure has been allocated Shs 6.8 trillion, with Shs 2.2 trillion going to roads and bridges and Shs1.17 trillion earmarked for the Standard Gauge Railway, noting that it will enhance regional equity. “We shall prioritise road projects as highlighted by His Excellency the President, including: Puranga-Acholibur (65km), Kampala-Gayaza-Kalagi (33km), Lugazi-Kiyindi (28km), Kabwohe-Nyakabirizi (92.2km), Busega-Mpigi (10kms),” he said. “On the railway, the government has completed the refurbishment and commissioning of the Mukono-Kampala Metre Gauge Railway. In addition, 375 kilometres of the Tororo-Gulu line are being rehabilitated and will be completed by February 2026.” To drive household incomes and economic inclusion, key wealth creation programs remain central, he said that the Parish Development Model will receive Shs 1.075 trillion, while Emyooga has been allocated shs 100 billion, and the informal sector Shs 3 billion. “The Uganda Development Bank will receive Shs 414 billion to support agro-industrial and manufacturing ventures, ensuring access to affordable capital for local enterprises,” Hon. Kasaija announced. On inflation, the minister said that it is under control. “Despite global uncertainties, the Uganda shilling has been among the few most stable currencies in Africa.” The event was also attended by the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, His Lordship Alfonse Owiny Dollo, the Chief Justice, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Members of parliament, members of the Diplomatic Corps, among others.

img
12 June 2025
MINISTER KASOLO URGES YOUTH TO EMBRACE GOVERNMENT WEALTH CREATION PROGRAMS TO ENSURE PROSPERITY FOR ALL

The Minister of State for Microfinance and Small-Scale Enterprises, Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune has urged the youth to embrace government wealth creation programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Fund and the Presidential Skilling Hubs to ensure prosperity for all. “The government wants you to fully utilize its programs as youth because they are intended to get all of you out of poverty which is the reason as to why the President guided that we send shs100 million per parish every year. If you get the Shs1 million, you can buy pigs, goats, even a calf or rear chicken or do fish farming and life will never be the same,” Hon. Kasolo emphasized. The Minister made the remarks yesterday while delivering a lecture to 200 youth undergoing an ideological orientation and patriotism development training course at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi district. He also challenged them to become agents and ambassadors of change in their districts by enlightening those still unaware of these programs. “I encourage you to be ambassadors of change in your communities, because you now know the truth but above all help the government to report those who misuse the funds,” he added. Hon. Kasolo further emphasized the importance of responsible fund management, hard work, investment, and saving to build sustainable household livelihoods and incomes, ultimately securing a better future for their children. “As youth, I encourage you to love money the way you love yourselves, have enough for yourself, create wealth by having a side business that can give you daily income,” he said. He further urged the youth to stop listening to selfish individuals who discourage them from participating in government programs. “Do not listen to leaders who encourage you to eat the money provided to you by the government meant for capital, claiming that it is little while they are comfortably earning millions of money but they are not extending any assistance to you,” Hon. Kasolo noted. He also underscored that good leaders work for the betterment of everyone. “Unfortunately, some individuals with selfish interests are manipulating the youth into vandalizing property, further impoverishing the community. This allows them to maintain control by distracting the masses and shifting the blame for their problems and poverty onto the government.”

img
12 June 2025
PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES SUPPORT TO BUNYORO-KITARA AS KINGDOM MARKS 31ST CORONATION ANNIVERSARY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today officiated at the 31st Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty Dr. Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, the Omukama of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, at Karuzika Palace in Hoima City. Addressing the gathering, President Museveni congratulated Banyoro upon reaching this significant milestone and commended the Kingdom for its role in the development of both Bunyoro region and Uganda at large. The President expressed concern over Omukama's ill health, calling upon Ugandans to keep him in their prayers. Reflecting on the restoration of cultural institutions by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government in 1993, President Museveni said the decision was deliberate because of the important role kingdoms play in the cultural and socio-economic development of society. “The Government is responsible for legislation, administration, and economic planning, but there are things that modern governments cannot do. Cultural institutions, for example, should take the lead in preserving and promoting indigenous languages, with support from the government,” he explained. President Museveni emphasized that culture encompasses more than just customs surrounding marriage; it includes food and tools that define people. He attributed his good health at 80 years of age to traditional foods such as cassava, mingled millet, and milk, adding that he avoids foods like bread and rice. He further cautioned cultural leaders against involvement in partisan politics, urging them instead to leave electoral processes to the people. President Museveni identified four key areas where cultural institutions should focus: the preservation of indigenous languages, promotion of traditional foods, safeguarding rational customs, and supporting socio-economic transformation. These, he said, were the reasons behind the restoration of cultural institutions in Uganda. “Cultural institutions must focus on preserving indigenous languages because modern governments mostly use English and Kiswahili. If you don’t take it up, who will teach your people their languages?” he challenged. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom in its development efforts. The Minister of State for Public Service, Hon. Grace Mary Mugasa also congratulated the Kingdom and thanked President Museveni for his continued support to Bunyoro-Kitara. The celebrations were attended by Kingdom officials, government officials, and thousands of jubilant subjects.

img
03 June 2025
PRESIDENT MUSEVENI DIRECTS ANNUAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT TO MARTYRS DAY CELEBRATIONS, CALLS FOR RELIGIOUS HARMONY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today directed that government funding for Martyrs Day celebrations be included in the national budget annually, acknowledging the spiritual significance and massive participation of Ugandans across all religious denominations. “This year, the government gave the Catholics Shs 2 billion, the Protestants Shs 2 billion and the Muslims Shs 200 million for this occasion,” he said. “I have directed the government to make this contribution part of the government budget annually, since many Ugandans participate.” President Museveni, who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Sports and Education, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, made the remarks while addressing thousands of Christians at the Namugongo Anglican site during Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The celebrations were led by the Northern Uganda Cluster, under the theme: “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good (Galatians 6:9–10)”. The President emphasized the government’s continued investment in religious infrastructure. “As you all know, the government spent billions modernizing this infrastructure you see today at both the Catholic and Protestant sites. When the Muslims are ready, we shall also support them because I am told some Muslim followers were also killed by Mwanga. May God bless all of you,” he said. Historical reflection: President Museveni gave a historical reflection on the arrival of new religions in Uganda, tracing Islam’s introduction in 1841 by Ahmad bin Ibrahim, Anglicanism in 1877, and Catholicism in 1879. These religions, he noted, offered new understandings of the divine, complementing Uganda’s indigenous faith traditions. “It was wrong for Mwanga to try and kill this new perspective about the supernatural realm,” said the President. “It is good that young boys and some girls, I am told, were ready to give up their lives for freedom of worship,” he said. The President also saluted this spirit of sacrifice. “This is what all and sundry should know about Africans of this area: they can sacrifice for the legitimate causes they believe in,” he noted. He also linked this historical sacrifice to modern struggles, referencing the 1981 resistance in Kikandwa against Bazilio Okello. “Luttamaguzi Edidian, their leader, told them: ‘Temulajana’ Do not lament.” President Museveni reiterated the importance of religious freedom and the secular character of the Ugandan state. “We believe in the freedom of worship and not coercing people to believe in this or that, as long as they do not break the law. We also believe in separating denominational issues from government matters, which are for all citizens and even non-citizens in Uganda,” he added. He invoked scripture to support this principle. “Jesus helped us in Mark 12:17: ‘Give unto God what is God’s and unto Caesar what is Caesar’s,” he said. The President also reminded Ugandans of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) historical missions: creating prosperity, ensuring continental security, and leveraging African unity for mutual growth. “If all adults become wealth-creators, who will buy their products and services? Tribal and sectarian markets are not enough. The national market of Uganda is better, hence our first ideological principle: Patriotism- love Uganda, because you need it for your prosperity,” he said. “But even Uganda’s market is not big enough. Have you heard of East Africa? Have you heard of Africa? They can buy your surplus. That’s why we embrace Pan-Africanism- love Africa.” He added Social-Economic Transformation and Democracy as core guiding principles. President Museveni urged believers to never mix politics with denominational loyalty. “Politics is about our welfare on Earth. Denominations and religion are about spirituality on Earth and life after, which religious leaders can explain better,” he said. Drawing on his past experience as President of the Scripture Union (1965–1966), he quoted from Luke 10:30-35, the Parable of the Good Samaritan, to highlight religious tolerance and service. “The Samaritan helped the injured man while his fellow Jews, who were religious leaders, passed him by. Jesus praised the Samaritan. We shall know them by their fruits,” he said. He quoted the Church of Uganda Prayer Book, page 207. “Let your light so shine before men that they see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Lessons from the Bush: Recalling his days in the liberation struggle, President Museveni shared how religious diversity was harmonized through shared knowledge and practical survival. “In the bush, I lived with Catholics, Anglicans, Muslims, and traditional believers. We united them around science, a bullet kills. Prayers help, but a reed won’t stop a bullet,” he said. The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who also chairs the National Organizing Committee, delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the Northern Cluster. “On this sacred ground, faith has truly surpassed fear. The Northern Cluster is deeply honoured to have led this year’s commemoration. It is not only a privilege, but a testimony to unity across religions,” she said. She celebrated the commitment of pilgrims from diverse backgrounds who walked long distances in faith. “Their feet were weary, but their spirits were lifted. Their presence affirms shared faith, unity, and the strength of commitment.” Dr. Aceng praised President Museveni’s focus on education, health, peace, and economic empowerment. “Your Excellency, your dedication to peacebuilding has been felt throughout the nation. Let this Martyrs Day renew our commitment to build a nation anchored on love, justice, and unity.” She called for the completion of pending infrastructure at the Anglican Shrine, underscoring the importance of sustaining such spiritual landmarks. Hon. Martin Mugarra, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, hailed the growth of Uganda as a faith tourism hub. “I thank the clergy for welcoming His Excellency and Maama Janet. I commend the organizing committees for making this a success,” he said. The Minister highlighted that the celebration now draws international pilgrims from Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, South Africa, Burundi, Europe, Asia and many others. “They spend weeks in Uganda, contribute to our economy, and return spiritually renewed.” Hon. Mugarra applauded President Museveni for his foresight in signing the Museum and Monuments Act, which protects spiritual heritage sites like Namugongo. “Without your support, Your Excellency, this wouldn’t be possible. It’s because of your directives that these developments have taken shape.” On his part, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, led the main service with a powerful message of resilience, hope, and spiritual recommitment. “The appeal today is simple: it’s a verdict to stand for Jesus. Those who died here would not regret their sacrifice if they see what Namugongo has become. What was meant for evil, God has turned into a blessing,” he said. He congratulated the Northern Uganda Cluster for a successful lead and thanked the international pilgrims for their devotion. “We are celebrating 140 years of God’s faithfulness, mercy, love, and providence. This is not just an event, it's a powerful reminder of sacrifice, faith, and the Lord’s love,” he noted. The Archbishop urged Ugandans to take action in addressing social issues, particularly substance abuse and mental health. “Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco and other substances are destroying lives. As a Church, we commit to advocating against these vices in schools, communities, and even in Butabika Hospital,” he declared. He further appealed to the government of Uganda to consider a National Health Insurance Scheme. “Some may argue it’s financially impossible but where there is a will, there is a way.” Archbishop Kaziimba also highlighted the Church’s humanitarian role, such as recent aid deliveries to Nakivale Refugee Camp. “Let us continue these good deeds. Our work is not only spiritual but practical,” he noted. He applauded the government’s support to the faith sector, especially the sh10.7 billion funding for Phase I construction of the Anglican shrine. “We thank Your Excellency for supporting faith-based tourism. The shrine has attracted thousands and generated income. The Church remains committed to holistic transformation,” he noted. Archbishop Kaziimba ended his speech with a strong message of civic duty ahead of the 2026 elections. “I call upon all Ugandans to support peace, resist the politics of violence, and go out to vote. Let’s be good stewards of this nation,” he added. The preacher of the day, Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, delivered his sermon from Galatians 6:5, Galatians 6:9–10, and 3 John 11, encouraging believers not to be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good. “The foundation of the Church in Uganda is based on the sacrifices and the blood of the martyrs,” he affirmed. The Rt. Rev. Godfrey Loum, Bishop of Northern Uganda and Chairperson of the Northern Uganda Cluster, expressed gratitude for being chosen to lead this year’s national celebration. “We are grateful for the trust placed in us. The Northern Cluster which includes the dioceses of Lango, Kitgum, Nebbi, West Lango, Madi and West Nile has worked together in unity,” he noted. He emphasized the region’s commitment to growing Uganda’s religious tourism and faith-based programs. “Our hope is to contribute to the growth of faith in the Anglican Church and to position Namugongo as a global faith destination,” he said. He also thanked the President for his ongoing support towards Church activities and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Uganda Martyrs Day is a national religious holiday observed every year on June 3rd. It honors the 45 young Christian converts - 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans who were killed between 1885 and 1887 in the historical kingdom of Buganda (now part of modern-day Uganda). As the calendar turns to June, a sacred rhythm takes hold across Uganda and neighboring countries. In the quiet early mornings and under the scorching afternoon sun, thousands of men, women, and children make their way on foot many for hundreds of kilometers to Namugongo. They come to commemorate Uganda Martyrs Day, a solemn yet powerful celebration of sacrifice, conviction, and enduring faith. The Namugongo Martyrs Shrine has evolved into a global religious landmark, attracting pilgrims from across East Africa and as far afield as Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Kenya. On the other hand, the church of Uganda also commemorates 140 years of the Uganda Martyrs, this year. The celebrations were also attended by Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Patrick Amama Mbabazi, the former Prime Minister of Uganda, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. David Bahati, the Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (Industry), Hon. Hellen Asamo, the Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hon. Persis Namuganza, the Minister of State for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Esther Anyakun, the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, various Members of Parliament, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, cultural leaders, among others.

img
30 May 2025
GREATER LUWERO ROADSIDE MARKET VENDORS TIPPED ON HOUSEHOLD INCOME AS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI OFFERS THEM MORE FINANCIAL SUPPORT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday extended more financial support to roadside market vendors in Luwero and Nakasongola Districts. For the last three years, President Museveni through State House has been offering support to various roadside market vendors along major Highways like Gulu, Hoima and Mityana roads to boost their household incomes. The 928 vendors who benefited from this latest business booster package were drawn from Kakooge Daily Market in Nakasongola, Kiyenje Daily Market and Balikyewunya Market (both in Luwero). The vendors who received Shs100,000 each, generally ply their trade in agricultural produce, roasted chicken and muchomo as well as beverages. The package was delivered by State House officials led by the Senior Presidential Advisor-Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo and Private Secretary to H.E the President, Ms. Flora Kabibi. Princess Nassolo revealed that President Museveni extended the financial support to the vendors with an aim of improving their household incomes. “Mzee wants you to work and improve your livelihoods that's why he always empowers you economically,” she said. “The last time we came here, you told us that some of you have never benefited from the Parish Development Model or Emyooga programs so H.E the President decided to offer you this support of Shs100,000 to each one of you as you wait to benefit from other government programs.” Princess Nassolo also cautioned the vendors against unconstructive politicking, advising them that they should instead focus on fighting poverty through stabilizing their homestead incomes. “When time for politics comes, go and vote then come back to your workstations and always support someone who supports you. I'm very sure Mzee has played his part, now it's your time to reciprocate,” she added. Additionally, Princess Nassolo urged the parents to take good care of their children and groom them to be responsible citizens of Uganda. “Our country is facing a lot of challenges when it comes to morality. Advise your children against immorality and criminality. We want to have morally uplift citizens of Uganda.” In a special way, the Senior Presidential Advisor appreciated the youth of Greater Luwero for listening to President Museveni’s message of wealth creation. “Thank you for joining the money economy. Mzee is proud of you.” On her part, Ms. Kabibi called upon the vendors to appreciate President Museveni for being a visionary leader who cares for the wellbeing of all Ugandans. “Because he cares, that's why he sends this financial support to you to grow your businesses,” she stated. “Although the package is small, please utilise it well. H.E the President will send you more support,” she assured. The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Luwero District, Mr. Richard Bwabye Ntulume asked the vendors to utilise the financial support from the President well. He said the package is meant to empower them economically and that they should vote for the President again in 2026 for more development. On the other hand, the vendors expressed gratitude to President Museveni for offering additional capital to their enterprises. The Chairperson of Kakooge Daily Market, Ms. Sofia Namusisi hailed President Museveni for always extending a helping hand to ordinary Ugandans. “He has done us good. Some of us even received PDM and again he has offered us more support. All I can say is that our people are so happy. Long live President Museveni,” she said. “Your Excellency, thank you also for sending a trustworthy and transparent team, the package has been well received.” Ms. Namusisi further disclosed that she was going to use the money to add capital into her business. On the other hand, she requested President Museveni to set up a modern market for them, saying that the current one is in a poor state. Ms. Betty Nazziwa, 75, a vendor at Kakooge Daily Market also thanked the President for the financial support. “Thank you, President Museveni, for helping a poor woman like me. I'm going to use this money to grow my business so that I can properly look after my family,” she said. Another vendor at Kakooge Daily Market, Mr. Joseph Kato Tebandeke also expressed gratitude to the President for helping ordinary Ugandans like him to improve their household incomes. “This support from President Museveni is going to boost my matooke business,” Mr. Kato said. Mr. Muhammad Ssonko, the Chairperson of Kakooge Chapati Operators Association thanked President Museveni for the various programs meant to help Ugandans fight poverty. “As youths, we are now able to make money and look after our families because of President Museveni’s support. We are with him, and we shall support him again come 2026 general elections,” he noted. Furthermore, Ms. Juliet Nababi, the Chairperson of Kiyenje Daily Market prayed for the good health of President Museveni so that he can continue leading and developing Uganda. “We thank you, Your Excellency, for supporting us, especially women. This market is generally occupied by women, and we are your ardent supporters.” Another vendor in Kiyenje Daily Market, Ms. Nabukenya Madinah called on fellow youths to desist from being idle and work towards improving their welfare. “We are lucky that President Museveni supports us by giving us financial support. We should utilise this chance to create wealth.” Mr. Nsimbe Livingstone, the Secretary of Kiyenje Daily Market said, “We are grateful to President Museveni for the support. We are going to utilise this money to grow our businesses.” At Balikyewunya Market, Mr. Mark Ssesazi said President Museveni has always supported the vendors of Luwero and that it was the second time he was sending support to vendors of Balikyewunya. Ms. Asiat Nankinga who first received President Museveni’s financial support in March 2023, said she used the money to add capital in her matooke business. “Even today I have received the money from our President and I'm so grateful. This money is playing a vital role in helping us to develop, we are now able to look after our families. Thank you, President Museveni.” The LC1 Chairperson of Binyonyi Village in Luwero West, Luwero Town Council, Mr. Kabaale Joseph Ssentongo on behalf of leaders in Luwero thanked President Museveni for supporting their people economically. He said the financial package is a very big empowerment tool to vendors and it will go a long way in helping them grow their businesses. “When our people get such money, they don't need money from lenders who often give out loans with very high interest rates.”

Latest Press Releases

Opinion Posts

author's photo
07 June 2025
A SPIRITED NORBERT MAO’S WIN; HOLDING BREATH FOR NRM PRIMARIES

A hollow win, perhaps, but congratulations nevertheless are in order to Norbert Mao for extending his tenure as President General of the Democratic Party (DP). The ever-jocular Mao, also Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs in the NRM government, just won a landslide to retain, or rather continue his controversial leadership of the DP, born in 1954 but still struggling to find its way in Uganda’s politics. Mao’s high political ground has been ebbing slowly for a while now although he doesn’t admit so, which is all fine in the market of free thought, speech and association. Mao’s close allies in DP’s long-running obfuscated internal political disagreements, Mukasa Mbidde and Gerald Siranda also easily retained their seats as vice president, and Secretary General respectively, leaving their main nemesis Lulume Bayiga and MP Buikwe South gnashing teeth. It is still too early to know how deep the political fallout will be, but in any case, DP is now, only a shell nestled, more as a tribal enclave mainly in Buganda. But before it all ended, fist-fights, first at their headquarters hidden on Balintuma road, in Lubaga, Kampala, and later at what passed for DP delegates conference in Mbarara, set the pace, which was rounded up with ballot boxes being snatched away. It has remained unclear if the police that were seen carrying away the ballot boxes were rescuing, or aiding in a possible irregularity. For those untrained in DP history, what has just replayed last week, has been the main trend in DP since its founding seven decades ago. The 1984 Paul Kawanga Ssemogerere’s DP delegates conference, birthed Tiberio Okeny Atwoma’s National Liberal Front that never saw light. Since 1986, DP has had splinter factions named DP Mobilizer’s Group led by Michael Kaggwa, Tap Dialogue of Omulongo Wasswa Zziritwawula, and since 2010 when Mao outwitted Hajji Nasser Ssebbaggala (RIP) in Mbale, DP has been in a free fall. Unsympathetic people on X, formerly Twitter, were left to derisively mock DP, and Mao’s win saying ‘democracy has fled the party’, although I know my friend Mao, will say otherwise. Some in DP and the wider political opposition accuse Mao of being a ‘sale-out’ to the NRM, but more appropriately President Yoweri Museveni for a meal ticket. Mao sees himself as a ‘bridge-builder’ in what he calls a peaceful transition of power from the President to another person in the near future. We, in the NRM laugh off or just sneer at his suggestions that he is the one to change our political course. Meanwhile, the tremors in NRM so far, going by the past one month of elections to renew party leadership from the grassroots, punctuated by shoving, fist-fights and open shouting matches, portend what may happen during the coming primaries to select MP and Local Council 5 (LCV) flag-bearers will be. The upbeat, at collection of nomination forms during this week, and past records, indicate enthusiasm and strong liking for the party which attracts close to five thousand candidates contesting for the 529 parliamentary and 146 district chairperson seats available respectively. Ugandans are holding their collective breath, but it is neither too much, nor too late to ask NRM members, especially the candidates and their principal agents to redeem NRM’s electoral image that has been tattered with every electoral circle. Hopefully too, NRM has this time round, mapped out the usual election trouble spots like Sembabule, Kazo, Namutumba and Tororo districts for easy management. And NRM internal election registrars, perennially either out of incompetence or personal petty greed have accustomed to fiddling with processes and poll results, ought to style up, if the party and its collective membership are to avoid unnecessary embarrassments. Otherwise, let there be a robust and tranquil electoral contest within political parties.

author's photo
07 June 2025
HOW THE UPC GOVERNMENT UNWITTINGLY RECRUITED FOR MUSEVENI DURING THE BUSH WAR OF 1981-1986

By Obed K Katureebe The year was 1981 when President Yoweri Museveni launched Bush War to oust the rogue regime of then President Milton Obote. This was after a fraudulent general election. Panic engulfed the UPC government and in their imprudent response to this challenge they switched on the red baton of complete self-destruction. Security agencies and some radical UPC minions panicked and responded by unleashing terror on those they suspected to be Museveni supporters. Indeed, this was a shallow and dangerous approach completely devoid of critical thinking on the part of the UPC security actors. They assumed that whoever came from certain parts of Western Uganda were all Museveni supporters/sympathisers. Whereas it is true that most NRA freedom fighters were a byproduct of FRONASA movement which began its recruitment against Id Amin in 1970s and had picked most recruits from Western Uganda, the truth of the matter was that NRM/A Bush War fighters were from all corners of Uganda. The misrule of the Paulo Muwanga and his mentor Milton Obote were felt across the whole country. Therefore, it was completely wrong for the UPC functionaries to randomly victimise and brutalise most people from parts of Western Uganda. Wanton abductions of people and never to be seen again became the norm on unverifiable suspicions. The saddest bit was that all those abducted were either killed or starved to death in the infamous holding centre in Katikamu in Luwero District. Those that were lucky to survive after torture would be asked to pay huge ransoms to be released. Katikamu became a nightmare to families in Central and Western Uganda. The hatchet man in the mid-western Buganda was one Sergeant Shokolo. It became worse when regime operatives began arresting young school going children and disappearing them for ransoms. This later became a form of crude extortion. If they arrested your children and you wanted them not killed you would be told to pay huge ransoms to save them. This left most parents with no other option but to encourage their children especially the youth to find their way to the Bush than being killed for no good reason. Most of them had dropped out of schools for fear of being picked and tortured. The feeling was we would rather join Museveni and fight this phoney government than being killed like grasshoppers. People began to quietly get in touch with those who were recruiting the Bush War fighters and handed them their youthful sons and daughters. Dr Milton Obote and his hatchet men were unwittingly busy recruiting for Yoweri Museveni. In Isingiro District, the infamous roadblock was manned at the current main roundabout in the middle of Isingiro Town. The famous Wavamuno buses that used to ply the Isingiro route would be stopped and ransacked on a daily. Every young woman who risked travelling on that route would be rapped and those that dared to resist would be shot and killed. And why was Isingiro a spot of suspicion and therefore “gifted” with that terrible roadblock….?, simply because Isingiro was hosting two Rwandese Refugee camps i.e Oruchinga and Nakivale and therefore these were seen as Museveni supporters. The wrong assumption again was that all Rwandese speaking people were supporting Museveni just because few Rwandese fighters i.e President Paul Kagame and the late Fred Rwigyema were with Museveni in the Bush War. That naivety of the UPC government made them commit another political and probably intelligence mistake. In 1982, the UPC government led by the radical politicians from Western Uganda i.e Chris Rwakasisi and Edward Rurangaranga took a decision to expel all Rwandan speaking people in Western and Central Uganda from their private lands and forced them into the two refugee camps in Isingiro. This action was intended to economically subjugate them from funding Museveni’s Bush War. Wrong assumption again. This was a crude method of stealing their wealth and sending them into refugee and starve them to death. Indeed, most of them did die of starvation. Their cows were stolen, their property looted, and their chunks of land was redistributed among the UPC gangsters. What was mind boggling, these disposed and displaced people were the indigenous Ugandan Rwandan speaking who have lived in Uganda for over a century now. The killing and looting of the wealth from these Rwandan speaking community became another enormous mistake by the UPC government. The young men and woman especially whose life was now at stake took a unanimous decision of joining the Bush and die fighting the UPC government than dying of starvation or suffer arbitrarily arrests. When UPC radicals were celebrating the looting of cows and redistributing of huge chunks of land that these disposed Rwandan speaking people had lost, they didn’t understand the political mistake they had committed. Any sensible person should have known that land is an emotive possession. One would rather die fighting than losing his/her land through such criminal schemes. Whereas many people joined the Bush War because they had been ideologically mobilised especially by their charismatic leader Yoweri Museveni, there is also another group of people who joined the struggle because they had nothing to live for. When President Yoweri Museveni refers to some leaders as being ideologically bankrupt, exactly this is what he means. As we continue to reconcile and heal as a country, we must learn from our past mistakes. History is very rich to teach us very hard lessons. Happy Heroes Day. The author is the Acting Executive Director Uganda Media Centre

author's photo
31 May 2025
FALLOUTS, KAWEMPE NORTH ELECTION NULLIFICATION PILE MISERIES ON NUP

The Monday High Court nullification of Kawempe North byelection result, recently won by Luyimbazi Elias Nalukoola of the National Unity Platform (NUP), a rubble rouser opposition party, piles additional miseries to an organisation many already see as facing down the political abyss. The shallowness of its leadership and lack of real policy platform, get exposed daily, and apparently there is no turning back from the high horse they climbed. High Court Judge Bernard Namanya, ruled that the election was marred by multiple irregularities like the disenfranchisement of up to 16,640 eligible voters including then candidate, and petitioner Faridah Nambi Kigongo out of 27,000 registered. Also, that candidate Nalukoola personally campaigned on polling day at some polling stations in contravention of the electoral law. And while the ruling might have served justice to the petitioner, Faridah Nambi, and also given the NRM some temporary reprieve, looking at the unfolding judicial appeal, and general election political terrain, it would appear all will amount to nothing more than hubris. With the legal antics, and knowing Uganda’s judiciary dragging feet, it is unlikely the appeal can be concluded before August. As has been the case in many similar circumstances, Nalukoola, the loser in court, has appealed against the judgement, and will remain the sitting MP except if, the Court of Appeal upholds the same judgment, in which case there shall be no by-election as the duration will certainly be less than six months before the next general election. Otherwise, if the Appeals Court cancels the High Court judgment, Nalukoola will keep his seat until the term of the current parliament expires in May 2026. The lawyers would call this, litigating in vain, but from a media perspective, it has provided free political publicity for Nalukoola and NUP, leaving NRM gritting teeth. A better stratagem, rather than appeal, NUP could have dared NRM into an immediate byelection to keep in momentum for 2026. With almost ten of its 57 MPs deserting or being threatened with expulsion in a high-handed style of a public fallout, on mostly unsubstantiated accusations, many pundits think that NRM only needed to provide more ropes to NUP to tighten the noose around its own neck. The court route, although legitimate and fair, coming on the backdrop of unexplained controversies is likely to be seen by the broader political groupings merely as a political witch hunt by NRM, unwilling to cede even the smallest ground of its dominance. Yet with Mathias Nsamba Mpuuga (former LoP), Abed Bwanika MP Kimanya-Kabonera, and Juliet Nakabuye Kakande MP Masaka City all from the greater Masaka, getting kicked out, NUP even with the bravado being brazenly and noisily executed by an ever-frothing Muwanga Kivumbi, appears heading towards a self-prepared graveyard. Of course knowing the gullibility of voters especially in Buganda and few urban areas where on account of ethnic undertones, and economic issues, NUP won, it is still early to write off its sensational election survival in 2026. Afterall, even the much-despised Democratic Party (DP), loathed Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC), and the recently down-graded Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) can still attract some voters. But the failure of NRM to learn from its own recent and recurring election miscalculations on itself which bolstered the rise of NUP and Robert Kyagulanyi is both uncanny and as well mystifying. NRM, at least officially, does not appear to notice the slow wave of disappointments gathering even among its own voters and supporters because of the lackluster style that matters, otherwise very serious, are being handled. Many hope that NRM doesn’t turn around in future to claim it was not forewarned. And as the old saying goes, a stitch in time saves nine. We still hope and work for the best, although some would say, it is all politics stupid.

author's photo
30 May 2025
UGANDA'S POLITICS OF DO OR DIE; WE NEED TO RETHINK THIS WHOLE MUDDLE

Yes, we are now into that political season where the elite are seeking various political offices. Political service is no longer a calling to serve people. Make no mistake. Political offices are now the most paying ones both in remunerations but also the authority and power the bearers of those jobs carry. Indeed, the political season is near the corner. Primary elections for the various political parties that intend to pick those that will be flagbearers are beginning in August 2025. Come January of February 2026, the General elections will take place for the various political offices. These will include presidential, parliamentary and local council elections. So far there are all indications that these elections are going to be so hotly contested. There are also fears from most corners including security that there are so far all indications of threats violence and intimidation during this period. Intending candidates are already crisscrossing their constituencies informally canvassing for votes even when official nominations by the Electoral Commission have not yet taken place. Such early canvassing of votes involves spending a lot of money. This is the period for the voters to harvest back from those that want their votes come 2026. Candidates for the various political offices are already making grandstanding pledges to the voters. And it can only get hotter and hotter as we roll closer to the nomination days. The unfortunate thing is that we have crudely commercialized our politics and as a result, seeking an elective political office is becoming a matter of life and death. This is largely because of the accruing benefits that people enjoy once they win such contests. Truth is, they become instant billionaires. The stakes are so high, and one wonders how the situation will be early 2026. It is not surprising therefore, that the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) requested for an additional Shs 138 billion to provide increased security during the 2026 general elections. This was while presenting their next financial year budget, 2025/26. Equally, the Uganda Police requested for an additional Shs 300 billion in the next financial budget, 2025/2026 to also provide sufficient security during the 2026 general election. To those who are naïve they might think that this is an unnecessary financial request, but going by what is bubbling so far, we are in for the most hotly and violent election unless something is done to reverse the current trends. By refusing to change procedures, we are inviting political turmoil and instability and undermining our young democracy. And it is not too late. The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs is in the process of bringing on board several bills for electoral reforms to parliament. One hopes that among those many electoral reforms bills, we include strong punitive measures that will be meted to those that are bastardly commercializing our politics. Maybe, it is time we made political rewards and remunerations so modest to disinterest many who are looking for quick enrichment. The abnormally enhanced political rewards, especially for members of parliament could be the reason this is becoming a do or die contest for those vying to become members of parliament. The commercialization of elections significantly undermines the essence of democratic integrity by giving financial influence an edge over the collective will of the population. The second aspect that impacts the conduct of free and fair elections is the commercialization of politics, particularly the electoral processes. This has indeed, over time, become a cancer in our democratic journey. In Uganda today, one requires over Shs 1 billion to win as a member of parliament. This inevitably drives aspirants to look for these bags of money. Some of them even go to the extent of selling off their hard-earned, obtained property so as to bribe voters and be voted into office. Uganda is in the same ‘elite’ league as Nigeria in terms of highly commercialized politics. We must curb this because the cost of this recklessness is very costly for us to live with. Because of such desperation, the contending candidates have gone to the gutters by making inciting statements and hence charging the voters into violent actions. Others have descended into tribal and ethnic incitements just to win voters. To them the end justifies the means. The events that are unfolding in Sembabule so far are alarming. The two camps of Hon. Theodore Sekikubo and Brig. (rtd) Emmanuel Rwashande must be restrained. Everything is pointing to a nasty contest. The Electoral Commission should be much empowered through tough legislation so that they are able to bite hard those that are debasing our electoral democracy. Such tough actions should include among others disqualifications at any stage if one veers off the electoral guidelines as set by the Electoral Commission. Uganda is bigger than some selfish political actors who think anything dirty should be unleashed onto the masses for them to occupy those juicy political offices. We have much to lose than gain if we allow such recklessness to continue. Democracy is not the problem in Uganda. Voting is the problem. We need a reasoned voice of the people in all this. Citizens should have the chance to obtain the best possible information and engage with each other and decide collectively upon their future. They should not be harassed and intimidated or even harmed. Every effort should be utilized by those of us in leadership to protect the masses from being exploited by those competing for various political offices. Unregulated elections can fuel nasty politics. If unregulated it can ruin our economies, create instability and the outcome can cause colossal problems for us all. We need to urgently reconsider the nature of our politics. This highly commercialized trend we are taking can fuel a systemic crisis. And as a result, we will undermine the democratic progress so far attained. Hon, Norbert Mao and team, you have a lot on your table as u prepare to table the various Electoral Reform bills to parliament. The Author is the Acting Executive Director Uganda Media Centre

author's photo
24 May 2025
RUNNING FOR PARLIAMENT; MY OWN STORY AND STRENGTHENING THE NRM VOICE

A month has passed since I declared my intention to run for a seat to represent Older Persons (Eastern Region) in the 12th Parliament slated for 2026-2031, and the haggling with voters starting at the very bottom in Mulanda-Ayago village has been refreshing, if not daunting. Out of political discipline and courtesy, I had to consult directly, in a face-to-face, with President Yoweri Museveni, my appointing for the last quarter of a century, and then other senior colleagues. And I have to state, none disagreed with the decision for which am grateful as it reflects a broad support for my new journey. To the uninitiated, Older Persons in Uganda refers to people of 60 years and above, and in my case, Eastern Uganda stretches from the banks of river Nile in Jinja and bordering the plains of Karamoja, thus comprising the forty districts in Busoga, Bukedi, Bugisu, Sebei and Teso sub-regions. From Mulanda-Ayago I have had to get elected by NRM registered members to the parish, sub-county, and into the Tororo NRM Older Persons league to qualify as a member of the region electoral college for the MP flag-bearer. On the ground in Tororo, one feels pulpable support, and even unanimous consensus. Most certainly, by the time you read this column, I would have been elected to the district team. This race is more like a chess-game that I must now play in the forty districts up to February 2026 to win the MP seat. For some reason, my announcement seemed to have taken many, including my supposed friends and political colleagues by surprise, but well, that is how it ought to be. No singing your future plans to every Tom, Dick, Harry and Jerry. In any case, they rarely, if at all, keep their own plans with you. But for a fact, after 39 years, since 1986, as an NRM cadre, ideologue, and work-horse, I came to the conclusion that I needed, something politically more challenging than assignments by presidential appointments, although they have been rewarding as they put me much closer to the real corridors of hot power. As Spokesperson for the Movement Secretariat, President Yoweri Museveni and NRM election Taskforces, publicist for the NRM party, and Government for a combined and unbroken twenty-five years since 2000, man, one needs a new tour of duty. I could have gone to go rear ducks, grow coffee and beans, but on second consideration, very close friends said some tasks still remain undone. Now with loud parrots, and empty opposition political vessels, drumming even noisily, perhaps dangerously too, a parliamentary seat, especially as an NRM backbencher, there is certainly going to be a toast, to toss. Many, including from the few charitable opposition leaders and activists have publicly admitted that I would be a worthy opponent to face on that parliament floor. I will, when elected, certainly strengthen the NRM voice, where it matters most today and in the future. For the Older Persons, my direct constituency, it would be prudent to send a little younger minds, bodies, voice and legs that can still vigorously advocate, successfully follow up, and raise alternative policy platforms of the issues that matter most to this dwindling generation. In my view, issues of immediate concern include health insurance, adequate and flexible pension and social security benefits adjusted to inflation rates, discounted utility bills, and food-stamps for the most vulnerable especially those living rural and peri-urban single lives. Some of these policy issues will need to be included in the forthcoming NRM election manifesto. And of course there are the perennially thorny issues of delayed, diverted, or often stolen benefits meant for older persons. Looking at my long career in security, ideological mentorship, journalism and media, I count myself an allrounder capable of making a good legislator.

National News

article img

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TASKS MUSLIMS TO PRAY FOR A PEACEFUL UGANDA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged the Muslim faithfuls to pray for Uganda to remain peaceful. “As you embark on your pilgrimage to Mecca, pray for Uganda to remain peaceful,” he said. The President made the remarks today in his message delivered by the State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye while flagging-off 100 Muslims who are going for Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The flag-off ceremony took place at the Office Of the Prime Minister Conference Hall in Kampala. Hajj is a sacred pilgrimage that is required of every Muslim at least once in their lifetime – it is one of the five pillars of Islam. Each year, millions of Muslims from across the world travel to and perform Hajj in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The Hajj of various Imams, Sheikh, Sheikats, among others, was fully-funded by the State House under the directive of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Ms. Barekye also revealed that the President requested believers, especially the leaders to preach the gospel of wealth creation to ensure that Ugandans get out of poverty. Ms. Barekye further informed Muslims that if they have land, President Museveni encourages them to fight poverty through commercial agriculture. “Embrace the four acre model for those with small land Holdings. You can put coffee on one acre, another acre grow fruits, the third acre grow pasture for zero grazing, then on the fourth acre grow food crops,” she said. “But as a leader you should lead by example, create avenues of wealth creation so that people can take a leaf from you.” During the same event, Ms. Barekye delivered President Museveni's financial support of USD500 to each beneficiary which they will use as upkeep while on pilgrimage. “H.E the President also thanked you for loving God and it's the reason why he sponsored you for Hajj. Everything has been fully funded,” she noted. The Senior Presidential Advisor for Political Mobilization, Mr. Moses Byaruhanga commended President Museveni for having a listening ear and ensuring that he works for all people, especially the ordinary Ugandans. He also thanked Ms. Barekye for being a hardworking public servant who works around the clock to ensure that President Museveni’s pledges and directives to Ugandans are fulfilled. “President Museveni takes the Hajj program in high esteem, that's why he offers 100 slots each year.” He also informed the beneficiaries that President Museveni will host them for Shukuru (thanksgiving) at State House Entebbe when they come back from Hajj. Mr. Byaruhanga further urged believers to embrace President Museveni’s wealth creation programs like the Parish Development Model to fight poverty and improve their livelihoods. He assured Muslims that PDM does not contravene the Islamic teachings against riba. He said the small interest is not profit from grant, but it's meant to keep the program afloat amidst inflation challenges. The Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Hafidh Haroon Muhammad Bukenya, on behalf of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) thanked the government of Uganda and President Museveni for the continued support towards Islam. “We thank President Museveni for making this offer annually. As Muslims, we are very happy for the support from this government. They have really supported us financially and socially,” he said. “We cannot thank President Museveni enough apart from praying for him. Let us continue praying for our government and our President so that they stay in power peacefully.” Sheikh Bukenya also called upon Muslims to always respect the government and their leaders because, “Leadership comes from God”. “We pray for the good health of our President so that he can continue serving this nation.” Hajjat Mariam Namayanja, The Special Presidential Assistant in charge of Monitoring the Parish Development Model programs expressed gratitude to President Museveni for supporting the Muslims to go for Hajj annually. Sheikh Saidi Kasawuuli, the Chairman of the National Association of Imams and Duats of Uganda thanked President Museveni for loving Muslim faithfuls and always supporting them in various initiatives including funding Hajj for several muslims annually. Hajji Sadat Kisuyi, the Director of Anwaary Travel Agency which offers Hajj and Umrah services, thanked Allah for enabling the selected few to fulfil the 5th pillar of Islam. “When you go to Mecca, pray for our President and thank Allah for him. He gives Muslims in Uganda 100 Hajj slots annually,” he said.

2025-06-27

article img

“UGANDA’S ECONOMY HAS TAKEN OFF,” PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AFFIRMS AS HE UNVEILS SHS 72 TRILLION BUDGET

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today unveiled Uganda’s 2025/2026 national budget, declaring that the economy has taken off and rallied leaders to match financial allocations with performance and accountability. The Shs 72.376 trillion budget was delivered under the theme: “Full Monetization of the Ugandan Economy Through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialization, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation and Market Access”. In fulfillment of Article 155(1) of the Constitution and on behalf of His Excellency the President, Hon. Matia Kasaija, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, presented the Budget for the Financial Year 2025/26 to Ugandans as approved by Parliament. The ceremony took place at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. Referring to the Finance Minister’s presentation, the President said: “Here the size of Uganda’s economy is now $61 billion by the exchange rate method and $174 billion by the purchasing power parity method. Given our population, which is about 45 million Ugandans, we are no longer a least developed country. We are now a lower middle-income country.” President Museveni emphasized economic stability indicators that signaled progress as indicated by the Finance Minister stating: “GDP growth, and price stability: Are the prices stable or not? Currency stability, is the currency stable or not? Are jobs being created or not? Are export earnings going up or not? And finally, are foreign direct investments coming in or not? I thought we should note that.” President Museveni underscored that in 1986, Uganda’s GDP was just $3.9 billion noting that, “You can see the economy has grown more than 20 times, I thought you should mark that, because in a long speech like this you may not notice the big picture.” This year’s budget is anchored in the Fourth National Development Plan (NDPIV) 2025/26–2029/30, with strategic investments categorized into ATMs priority sectors such as agro-industrial development, tourism, minerals (including oil and gas), ICT and “Enablers” which are public infrastructure and services critical for business growth. But beyond the numbers and planning frameworks, President Museveni used his address to spotlight mismanagement and inefficiencies in budget execution, warning that Uganda’s transformation cannot be undermined by negligence. “I heard the veterans of Luweero in Lyantonde on Heroes Day raising issues. When I checked, we had already provided Shs 218 billion or something like that for the kasimo, and it was flipped to be Shs5 million for elders each and Shs1 million for the supporters. So, what happened to this money?” President Museveni asked. He demanded clarity on the long-standing cattle compensation for conflict-affected regions. “For Teso, Lango, Acholi, we have always spent Shs 200 billion on that, and we have already budgeted Shs 80 billion. So, leaders, follow up that money.” The President also turned his attention to public investments in sports saying, “Then you get things like stadiums. The National Council of Sports needs to explain to us. I hear some money has gone to Kakyeka and a number of them to do some work, others are going to be done massively, and so on. So, the Council of Sports should also explain and brief Maama about this money.” On matters of security, President Museveni issued a stern warning about growing misconceptions over digital number plates. “I saw some issues about the digital number plates, that people are being fined. I don’t know for what, but the issue about the number plates is not about fines. It’s anti-crime,” he said. Citing the recent murder of Wayengera Godfrey, 45, a resident of Namumira village in Mukono town, who was killed on June 10, 2025, President Museveni said, “I can’t accept our Ugandans dying because of incomplete infrastructure. Remember when I addressed you in Parliament in 2019, I told you about the cameras you were there with your policemen asking, “Ani eyamulabye?” He explained that the digital number plates are central to crime-fighting, not revenue collection. “Let’s go technical. Let’s have smart means. They have helped us solve a number of things. These are digitized number plates with a central command not collecting fines and so on,” he said. “I think the confusion about fines could be because we didn’t have money and we told these people to put number plates and recover money. The issue is about the number plate being diagnosed. Every vehicle must have a digital number plate traced by a central command to know which cars, which boda was in the area. The issue is not about money. No. It’s about security. They are acting with impunity. This is not about fines. It’s about security.” President Museveni also reaffirmed the central role of government-led initiatives such as NAADs, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), the Parish Development Model (PDM), and Emyooga in transforming lives. “The Government, through the budgets, is the one that can help the people to solve their problems. Programs like NAADs, OWC, PDM, Emyooga, etc., have already shown that they can liberate people from poverty,” he said. He cited tangible examples of economic transformation driven by government science and innovation. “The current Coffee boom was on account of the Government scientists who developed the improved Clonal Coffee, different from the old variety that people in Bushenyi had abandoned for the Dairy industry. The Dairy industry in the cattle corridor, the Kalangala Palm oil projects, are projects pushed by the government that have transformed people’s lives,” the President noted. REJECT BRIBERY, PROTECT YOUR POWER AS VOTERS: President Museveni sharply criticised the growing trend of political bribery and vote-buying disguised as fundraising, warning that it is undermining the electorate’s power and sabotaging national progress. “Not petty money from MPs for fundraising or bribes. The voters need to know that these practices of bribes and fundraising are overthrowing the voters’ power to elect leaders that will work with the Central Government to solve their problems,” he said. President Museveni was emphatic about the need for voters to resist being seduced by envelopes of cash and instead focus on choosing leaders who will protect their interests. “Do not accept petty money from politicians and throw away your power to elect a leader that can kwemerera (supervise) the money sent to you through the Parish, fight corruption, etc. Once we solve the political corruption that has paralyzed the populist politicians, it will be easy to fight the corruption of the Public Servants,” he said. Drawing on Uganda’s history of civic engagement, President Museveni called upon the people to be vigilant, insisting that the masses are the true whistleblowers in the fight against corruption. “It is because we have a reliable source for kurega (whistleblowing). These are the people, the victims of the corruption.” He further outlined the key drivers of Uganda’s transformation, crediting the NRA/UPDF, the wealth creators in agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT, government scientists, and patriotic members of the political class who support the NRM programs. “The big changes that are happening in Uganda, are by the following actors: the NRA/UPDF that liberated the country and has been ensuring peace ever since; the wealth creators in the four sectors. the Government scientists that make innovations, and the responsible members of the political class that have been supporting the NRM programs. It is, therefore, not fair for some actors to spoil these great successes,” the President said. “Some people say that they give bribes because Museveni is always giving the khaki envelope to members of the population. Do not draw water and mud; do not mix up issues. The brown envelopes I give are part of the ancient traditions here. It is called okurongoora. It is the King who does that to the singers, or wrestlers, etc. President is the modern ‘King’. You are not ‘Kings’. I have a budget for that. I do not sell my cows to get money to kurongoora singers.” He condemned the exploitative culture of individual fundraising pushed by politicians, describing it as unsustainable and misleading. “Fundraising was and is premature. The healthy fundraising is okusonda, whereby you make small equal contributions but by many contributors,” he said. Recalling a humble past, President Museveni invoked a childhood example from his father, Mzee Kaguta, saying, “In the 1950s, Mzee Kaguta sometimes would participate in kusondera (contribute) for enjogga (a potful) of rwaagwa (banana alcohol). At that time, enjogga was 5 shillings. Five people would contribute Shs 1 each.” He criticized politicians who create false impressions of wealth and burden themselves with unsustainable donations. “With the rampant fundraising, the MP carries the whole burden. It is really extortion, but it was instigated by the MPs who created the impression that they had the type of money which they did not have,” the President noted. Challenging the culture of silent approval of suspicious wealth, President Museveni urged elders and church leaders to question the source of lavish donations from young politicians. “Even the church leaders and other elders should ask those young mistake makers: ‘Naye mwana wange, esente zino zonna, ozigyawa?’ That is what a responsible parent should ask omwana (son or daughter) or omuzukulu (grandchild) if he/she sees him or her throwing around money,” he said. The President concluded with a firm moral warning: “The responsible parents do not accept stolen gifts from their children.” On her part, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among applauded the President for fulfilling his constitutional duty by presenting the national budget for the 2025/2026 financial year, describing the moment as a reaffirmation of Uganda’s democratic and constitutional principles. “Once again, we are honoured to host His Excellency the President as he fulfills his constitutional obligation to deliver the National Budget Speech. We thank him for his unwavering commitment to this important duty,” Speaker Among said. She emphasized that the presentation of the budget is not a one-man affair but the result of a collaborative and consultative process involving multiple stakeholders across government, civil society, and the citizenry. “Today’s budget reading is a culmination of inclusive engagement. It is the result of cooperation among all stakeholders, and we commend the participatory and transparent nature in which this process has been undertaken,” she said. As a Parliament that prides itself on being people-centred, Rt. Hon. Among rallied stakeholders to go beyond participation and ensure active involvement in the implementation phase of the budget. “We urge all players in the budget process to ensure civic awareness, execution, and above all, accountability. Participation should not end with planning. It must carry through to real impact,” she stressed. Rt. Hon. Among said Parliament remains fully cognizant of the critical role that people’s participation plays in shaping Uganda’s development path, describing it as a cornerstone of national progress. “Participation of our people is not a formality, it is a principle. It reflects the true spirit of our beloved nation,” she affirmed. Highlighting key milestones, the Speaker noted Parliament's significant contributions in shaping the financial year 2025/2026 budget. She said the legislature had diligently scrutinized and approved ministerial policy statements during the period of April 9th to 16th, ensuring alignment with national priorities. “During this period, Parliament approved ministerial statements that provided a strong foundation for the budget,” she revealed. Further, she highlighted that the House passed seven crucial revenue bills aimed at boosting government capacity to raise and manage revenue sustainably. “These revenue bills are instrumental in enabling the realization of the targets set for the new financial year. They are not just laws, they are economic tools designed to fuel transformation,” said Rt. Hon. Among. While presenting the budget, Hon. Kasaija stated that Uganda’s economy is no longer defined by fragility, but by resilience and stability, saying that this has attracted investors and fueled sustained growth. “Uganda’s economy has fully recovered from previous global, regional, and domestic shocks and is firmly on a path of transformation. We expect to grow by 6.4 percent this coming financial year,” the minister declared. Hon. Kasaija attributed this economic strength to Uganda’s sound fiscal policies, targeted infrastructure investments, improved access to affordable credit, and strong private sector development, all of which have helped reduce the cost of doing business across the country. Tracing Uganda’s economic journey since 2010, the Minister highlighted the government’s long-term strategy anchored in patriotism, Pan-Africanism, democracy, and socio-economic transformation—the four key principles that continue to guide Uganda’s development. “The early years of the NRM government were focused on restoring peace, stabilizing a broken economy, and addressing extreme poverty. Today, we are firmly in the phase of socio-economic transformation, “Hon. Kasaija explained. “For the first time, Uganda also met the UN criteria for graduation from the least developed country status in March 2024. This achievement reflects our commitment to inclusive development,” he said. He noted that Education and health remain top priorities, with Shs 11.4 trillion allocated under the Human Capital Development Program, noting that funds will support teacher salary enhancements, classroom construction, digital learning infrastructure, and reforms in the lower secondary curriculum. “We are also investing in youth skilling through the Presidential Industrial Hubs and the Skilling Uganda Program, to boost employability and productivity,” Hon. Kasaija added. He further highlighted that Debt servicing takes a significant share of the budget, with Shs 28.5 trillion allocated, Shs 11.3 trillion for interest payments, shs 4.9 trillion for external debt, and shs 1.4 trillion for clearing domestic arrears. The Minister clarified that the budget has been financed by Shs 37.2 trillion in domestic revenue, Shs 11.3 trillion in domestic borrowing, Shs 11.3 trillion from external project support, and Shs 10 trillion for domestic debt refinancing. The minister mentioned that Transport infrastructure has been allocated Shs 6.8 trillion, with Shs 2.2 trillion going to roads and bridges and Shs1.17 trillion earmarked for the Standard Gauge Railway, noting that it will enhance regional equity. “We shall prioritise road projects as highlighted by His Excellency the President, including: Puranga-Acholibur (65km), Kampala-Gayaza-Kalagi (33km), Lugazi-Kiyindi (28km), Kabwohe-Nyakabirizi (92.2km), Busega-Mpigi (10kms),” he said. “On the railway, the government has completed the refurbishment and commissioning of the Mukono-Kampala Metre Gauge Railway. In addition, 375 kilometres of the Tororo-Gulu line are being rehabilitated and will be completed by February 2026.” To drive household incomes and economic inclusion, key wealth creation programs remain central, he said that the Parish Development Model will receive Shs 1.075 trillion, while Emyooga has been allocated shs 100 billion, and the informal sector Shs 3 billion. “The Uganda Development Bank will receive Shs 414 billion to support agro-industrial and manufacturing ventures, ensuring access to affordable capital for local enterprises,” Hon. Kasaija announced. On inflation, the minister said that it is under control. “Despite global uncertainties, the Uganda shilling has been among the few most stable currencies in Africa.” The event was also attended by the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, His Lordship Alfonse Owiny Dollo, the Chief Justice, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Members of parliament, members of the Diplomatic Corps, among others.

2025-06-12

article img

MINISTER KASOLO URGES YOUTH TO EMBRACE GOVERNMENT WEALTH CREATION PROGRAMS TO ENSURE PROSPERITY FOR ALL

The Minister of State for Microfinance and Small-Scale Enterprises, Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune has urged the youth to embrace government wealth creation programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Fund and the Presidential Skilling Hubs to ensure prosperity for all. “The government wants you to fully utilize its programs as youth because they are intended to get all of you out of poverty which is the reason as to why the President guided that we send shs100 million per parish every year. If you get the Shs1 million, you can buy pigs, goats, even a calf or rear chicken or do fish farming and life will never be the same,” Hon. Kasolo emphasized. The Minister made the remarks yesterday while delivering a lecture to 200 youth undergoing an ideological orientation and patriotism development training course at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi district. He also challenged them to become agents and ambassadors of change in their districts by enlightening those still unaware of these programs. “I encourage you to be ambassadors of change in your communities, because you now know the truth but above all help the government to report those who misuse the funds,” he added. Hon. Kasolo further emphasized the importance of responsible fund management, hard work, investment, and saving to build sustainable household livelihoods and incomes, ultimately securing a better future for their children. “As youth, I encourage you to love money the way you love yourselves, have enough for yourself, create wealth by having a side business that can give you daily income,” he said. He further urged the youth to stop listening to selfish individuals who discourage them from participating in government programs. “Do not listen to leaders who encourage you to eat the money provided to you by the government meant for capital, claiming that it is little while they are comfortably earning millions of money but they are not extending any assistance to you,” Hon. Kasolo noted. He also underscored that good leaders work for the betterment of everyone. “Unfortunately, some individuals with selfish interests are manipulating the youth into vandalizing property, further impoverishing the community. This allows them to maintain control by distracting the masses and shifting the blame for their problems and poverty onto the government.”

2025-06-12

article img

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES SUPPORT TO BUNYORO-KITARA AS KINGDOM MARKS 31ST CORONATION ANNIVERSARY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today officiated at the 31st Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty Dr. Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, the Omukama of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, at Karuzika Palace in Hoima City. Addressing the gathering, President Museveni congratulated Banyoro upon reaching this significant milestone and commended the Kingdom for its role in the development of both Bunyoro region and Uganda at large. The President expressed concern over Omukama's ill health, calling upon Ugandans to keep him in their prayers. Reflecting on the restoration of cultural institutions by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government in 1993, President Museveni said the decision was deliberate because of the important role kingdoms play in the cultural and socio-economic development of society. “The Government is responsible for legislation, administration, and economic planning, but there are things that modern governments cannot do. Cultural institutions, for example, should take the lead in preserving and promoting indigenous languages, with support from the government,” he explained. President Museveni emphasized that culture encompasses more than just customs surrounding marriage; it includes food and tools that define people. He attributed his good health at 80 years of age to traditional foods such as cassava, mingled millet, and milk, adding that he avoids foods like bread and rice. He further cautioned cultural leaders against involvement in partisan politics, urging them instead to leave electoral processes to the people. President Museveni identified four key areas where cultural institutions should focus: the preservation of indigenous languages, promotion of traditional foods, safeguarding rational customs, and supporting socio-economic transformation. These, he said, were the reasons behind the restoration of cultural institutions in Uganda. “Cultural institutions must focus on preserving indigenous languages because modern governments mostly use English and Kiswahili. If you don’t take it up, who will teach your people their languages?” he challenged. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom in its development efforts. The Minister of State for Public Service, Hon. Grace Mary Mugasa also congratulated the Kingdom and thanked President Museveni for his continued support to Bunyoro-Kitara. The celebrations were attended by Kingdom officials, government officials, and thousands of jubilant subjects.

2025-06-12

article img

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI DIRECTS ANNUAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT TO MARTYRS DAY CELEBRATIONS, CALLS FOR RELIGIOUS HARMONY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today directed that government funding for Martyrs Day celebrations be included in the national budget annually, acknowledging the spiritual significance and massive participation of Ugandans across all religious denominations. “This year, the government gave the Catholics Shs 2 billion, the Protestants Shs 2 billion and the Muslims Shs 200 million for this occasion,” he said. “I have directed the government to make this contribution part of the government budget annually, since many Ugandans participate.” President Museveni, who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Sports and Education, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, made the remarks while addressing thousands of Christians at the Namugongo Anglican site during Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The celebrations were led by the Northern Uganda Cluster, under the theme: “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good (Galatians 6:9–10)”. The President emphasized the government’s continued investment in religious infrastructure. “As you all know, the government spent billions modernizing this infrastructure you see today at both the Catholic and Protestant sites. When the Muslims are ready, we shall also support them because I am told some Muslim followers were also killed by Mwanga. May God bless all of you,” he said. Historical reflection: President Museveni gave a historical reflection on the arrival of new religions in Uganda, tracing Islam’s introduction in 1841 by Ahmad bin Ibrahim, Anglicanism in 1877, and Catholicism in 1879. These religions, he noted, offered new understandings of the divine, complementing Uganda’s indigenous faith traditions. “It was wrong for Mwanga to try and kill this new perspective about the supernatural realm,” said the President. “It is good that young boys and some girls, I am told, were ready to give up their lives for freedom of worship,” he said. The President also saluted this spirit of sacrifice. “This is what all and sundry should know about Africans of this area: they can sacrifice for the legitimate causes they believe in,” he noted. He also linked this historical sacrifice to modern struggles, referencing the 1981 resistance in Kikandwa against Bazilio Okello. “Luttamaguzi Edidian, their leader, told them: ‘Temulajana’ Do not lament.” President Museveni reiterated the importance of religious freedom and the secular character of the Ugandan state. “We believe in the freedom of worship and not coercing people to believe in this or that, as long as they do not break the law. We also believe in separating denominational issues from government matters, which are for all citizens and even non-citizens in Uganda,” he added. He invoked scripture to support this principle. “Jesus helped us in Mark 12:17: ‘Give unto God what is God’s and unto Caesar what is Caesar’s,” he said. The President also reminded Ugandans of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) historical missions: creating prosperity, ensuring continental security, and leveraging African unity for mutual growth. “If all adults become wealth-creators, who will buy their products and services? Tribal and sectarian markets are not enough. The national market of Uganda is better, hence our first ideological principle: Patriotism- love Uganda, because you need it for your prosperity,” he said. “But even Uganda’s market is not big enough. Have you heard of East Africa? Have you heard of Africa? They can buy your surplus. That’s why we embrace Pan-Africanism- love Africa.” He added Social-Economic Transformation and Democracy as core guiding principles. President Museveni urged believers to never mix politics with denominational loyalty. “Politics is about our welfare on Earth. Denominations and religion are about spirituality on Earth and life after, which religious leaders can explain better,” he said. Drawing on his past experience as President of the Scripture Union (1965–1966), he quoted from Luke 10:30-35, the Parable of the Good Samaritan, to highlight religious tolerance and service. “The Samaritan helped the injured man while his fellow Jews, who were religious leaders, passed him by. Jesus praised the Samaritan. We shall know them by their fruits,” he said. He quoted the Church of Uganda Prayer Book, page 207. “Let your light so shine before men that they see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Lessons from the Bush: Recalling his days in the liberation struggle, President Museveni shared how religious diversity was harmonized through shared knowledge and practical survival. “In the bush, I lived with Catholics, Anglicans, Muslims, and traditional believers. We united them around science, a bullet kills. Prayers help, but a reed won’t stop a bullet,” he said. The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who also chairs the National Organizing Committee, delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the Northern Cluster. “On this sacred ground, faith has truly surpassed fear. The Northern Cluster is deeply honoured to have led this year’s commemoration. It is not only a privilege, but a testimony to unity across religions,” she said. She celebrated the commitment of pilgrims from diverse backgrounds who walked long distances in faith. “Their feet were weary, but their spirits were lifted. Their presence affirms shared faith, unity, and the strength of commitment.” Dr. Aceng praised President Museveni’s focus on education, health, peace, and economic empowerment. “Your Excellency, your dedication to peacebuilding has been felt throughout the nation. Let this Martyrs Day renew our commitment to build a nation anchored on love, justice, and unity.” She called for the completion of pending infrastructure at the Anglican Shrine, underscoring the importance of sustaining such spiritual landmarks. Hon. Martin Mugarra, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, hailed the growth of Uganda as a faith tourism hub. “I thank the clergy for welcoming His Excellency and Maama Janet. I commend the organizing committees for making this a success,” he said. The Minister highlighted that the celebration now draws international pilgrims from Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, South Africa, Burundi, Europe, Asia and many others. “They spend weeks in Uganda, contribute to our economy, and return spiritually renewed.” Hon. Mugarra applauded President Museveni for his foresight in signing the Museum and Monuments Act, which protects spiritual heritage sites like Namugongo. “Without your support, Your Excellency, this wouldn’t be possible. It’s because of your directives that these developments have taken shape.” On his part, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, led the main service with a powerful message of resilience, hope, and spiritual recommitment. “The appeal today is simple: it’s a verdict to stand for Jesus. Those who died here would not regret their sacrifice if they see what Namugongo has become. What was meant for evil, God has turned into a blessing,” he said. He congratulated the Northern Uganda Cluster for a successful lead and thanked the international pilgrims for their devotion. “We are celebrating 140 years of God’s faithfulness, mercy, love, and providence. This is not just an event, it's a powerful reminder of sacrifice, faith, and the Lord’s love,” he noted. The Archbishop urged Ugandans to take action in addressing social issues, particularly substance abuse and mental health. “Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco and other substances are destroying lives. As a Church, we commit to advocating against these vices in schools, communities, and even in Butabika Hospital,” he declared. He further appealed to the government of Uganda to consider a National Health Insurance Scheme. “Some may argue it’s financially impossible but where there is a will, there is a way.” Archbishop Kaziimba also highlighted the Church’s humanitarian role, such as recent aid deliveries to Nakivale Refugee Camp. “Let us continue these good deeds. Our work is not only spiritual but practical,” he noted. He applauded the government’s support to the faith sector, especially the sh10.7 billion funding for Phase I construction of the Anglican shrine. “We thank Your Excellency for supporting faith-based tourism. The shrine has attracted thousands and generated income. The Church remains committed to holistic transformation,” he noted. Archbishop Kaziimba ended his speech with a strong message of civic duty ahead of the 2026 elections. “I call upon all Ugandans to support peace, resist the politics of violence, and go out to vote. Let’s be good stewards of this nation,” he added. The preacher of the day, Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, delivered his sermon from Galatians 6:5, Galatians 6:9–10, and 3 John 11, encouraging believers not to be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good. “The foundation of the Church in Uganda is based on the sacrifices and the blood of the martyrs,” he affirmed. The Rt. Rev. Godfrey Loum, Bishop of Northern Uganda and Chairperson of the Northern Uganda Cluster, expressed gratitude for being chosen to lead this year’s national celebration. “We are grateful for the trust placed in us. The Northern Cluster which includes the dioceses of Lango, Kitgum, Nebbi, West Lango, Madi and West Nile has worked together in unity,” he noted. He emphasized the region’s commitment to growing Uganda’s religious tourism and faith-based programs. “Our hope is to contribute to the growth of faith in the Anglican Church and to position Namugongo as a global faith destination,” he said. He also thanked the President for his ongoing support towards Church activities and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Uganda Martyrs Day is a national religious holiday observed every year on June 3rd. It honors the 45 young Christian converts - 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans who were killed between 1885 and 1887 in the historical kingdom of Buganda (now part of modern-day Uganda). As the calendar turns to June, a sacred rhythm takes hold across Uganda and neighboring countries. In the quiet early mornings and under the scorching afternoon sun, thousands of men, women, and children make their way on foot many for hundreds of kilometers to Namugongo. They come to commemorate Uganda Martyrs Day, a solemn yet powerful celebration of sacrifice, conviction, and enduring faith. The Namugongo Martyrs Shrine has evolved into a global religious landmark, attracting pilgrims from across East Africa and as far afield as Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Kenya. On the other hand, the church of Uganda also commemorates 140 years of the Uganda Martyrs, this year. The celebrations were also attended by Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Patrick Amama Mbabazi, the former Prime Minister of Uganda, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. David Bahati, the Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (Industry), Hon. Hellen Asamo, the Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hon. Persis Namuganza, the Minister of State for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Esther Anyakun, the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, various Members of Parliament, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, cultural leaders, among others.

2025-06-03

article img

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

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday extended more financial support to roadside market vendors in Luwero and Nakasongola Districts. For the last three years, President Museveni through State House has been offering support to various roadside market vendors along major Highways like Gulu, Hoima and Mityana roads to boost their household incomes. The 928 vendors who benefited from this latest business booster package were drawn from Kakooge Daily Market in Nakasongola, Kiyenje Daily Market and Balikyewunya Market (both in Luwero). The vendors who received Shs100,000 each, generally ply their trade in agricultural produce, roasted chicken and muchomo as well as beverages. The package was delivered by State House officials led by the Senior Presidential Advisor-Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo and Private Secretary to H.E the President, Ms. Flora Kabibi. Princess Nassolo revealed that President Museveni extended the financial support to the vendors with an aim of improving their household incomes. “Mzee wants you to work and improve your livelihoods that's why he always empowers you economically,” she said. “The last time we came here, you told us that some of you have never benefited from the Parish Development Model or Emyooga programs so H.E the President decided to offer you this support of Shs100,000 to each one of you as you wait to benefit from other government programs.” Princess Nassolo also cautioned the vendors against unconstructive politicking, advising them that they should instead focus on fighting poverty through stabilizing their homestead incomes. “When time for politics comes, go and vote then come back to your workstations and always support someone who supports you. I'm very sure Mzee has played his part, now it's your time to reciprocate,” she added. Additionally, Princess Nassolo urged the parents to take good care of their children and groom them to be responsible citizens of Uganda. “Our country is facing a lot of challenges when it comes to morality. Advise your children against immorality and criminality. We want to have morally uplift citizens of Uganda.” In a special way, the Senior Presidential Advisor appreciated the youth of Greater Luwero for listening to President Museveni’s message of wealth creation. “Thank you for joining the money economy. Mzee is proud of you.” On her part, Ms. Kabibi called upon the vendors to appreciate President Museveni for being a visionary leader who cares for the wellbeing of all Ugandans. “Because he cares, that's why he sends this financial support to you to grow your businesses,” she stated. “Although the package is small, please utilise it well. H.E the President will send you more support,” she assured. The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Luwero District, Mr. Richard Bwabye Ntulume asked the vendors to utilise the financial support from the President well. He said the package is meant to empower them economically and that they should vote for the President again in 2026 for more development. On the other hand, the vendors expressed gratitude to President Museveni for offering additional capital to their enterprises. The Chairperson of Kakooge Daily Market, Ms. Sofia Namusisi hailed President Museveni for always extending a helping hand to ordinary Ugandans. “He has done us good. Some of us even received PDM and again he has offered us more support. All I can say is that our people are so happy. Long live President Museveni,” she said. “Your Excellency, thank you also for sending a trustworthy and transparent team, the package has been well received.” Ms. Namusisi further disclosed that she was going to use the money to add capital into her business. On the other hand, she requested President Museveni to set up a modern market for them, saying that the current one is in a poor state. Ms. Betty Nazziwa, 75, a vendor at Kakooge Daily Market also thanked the President for the financial support. “Thank you, President Museveni, for helping a poor woman like me. I'm going to use this money to grow my business so that I can properly look after my family,” she said. Another vendor at Kakooge Daily Market, Mr. Joseph Kato Tebandeke also expressed gratitude to the President for helping ordinary Ugandans like him to improve their household incomes. “This support from President Museveni is going to boost my matooke business,” Mr. Kato said. Mr. Muhammad Ssonko, the Chairperson of Kakooge Chapati Operators Association thanked President Museveni for the various programs meant to help Ugandans fight poverty. “As youths, we are now able to make money and look after our families because of President Museveni’s support. We are with him, and we shall support him again come 2026 general elections,” he noted. Furthermore, Ms. Juliet Nababi, the Chairperson of Kiyenje Daily Market prayed for the good health of President Museveni so that he can continue leading and developing Uganda. “We thank you, Your Excellency, for supporting us, especially women. This market is generally occupied by women, and we are your ardent supporters.” Another vendor in Kiyenje Daily Market, Ms. Nabukenya Madinah called on fellow youths to desist from being idle and work towards improving their welfare. “We are lucky that President Museveni supports us by giving us financial support. We should utilise this chance to create wealth.” Mr. Nsimbe Livingstone, the Secretary of Kiyenje Daily Market said, “We are grateful to President Museveni for the support. We are going to utilise this money to grow our businesses.” At Balikyewunya Market, Mr. Mark Ssesazi said President Museveni has always supported the vendors of Luwero and that it was the second time he was sending support to vendors of Balikyewunya. Ms. Asiat Nankinga who first received President Museveni’s financial support in March 2023, said she used the money to add capital in her matooke business. “Even today I have received the money from our President and I'm so grateful. This money is playing a vital role in helping us to develop, we are now able to look after our families. Thank you, President Museveni.” The LC1 Chairperson of Binyonyi Village in Luwero West, Luwero Town Council, Mr. Kabaale Joseph Ssentongo on behalf of leaders in Luwero thanked President Museveni for supporting their people economically. He said the financial package is a very big empowerment tool to vendors and it will go a long way in helping them grow their businesses. “When our people get such money, they don't need money from lenders who often give out loans with very high interest rates.”

2025-05-30