PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ATTENDS EAC AND SADC SUMMIT TO TACKLE DRC CONFLICT

The President of the Republic of Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni left Uganda this morning to attend the joint summit of Heads of State and Government from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The purpose of the joint meeting was to find possible solutions for the peace and stability of the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which is currently engaged in armed conflict. The meeting was co-chaired by the Chairman of the EAC and President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. William Samoei Ruto, the Chairman of SADC and President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, H.E. Emmerson Mnangagwa, and their host, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. Also in attendance were His Excellency, Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo; His Excellency, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa; His Excellency, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia; His Excellency, Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda; His Excellency, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia. His Excellency, Lieutenant General Gervais Ndirakobuca, the Prime Minister, representing His Excellency Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi; His Excellency, Ambassador Téte António, Minister of External Relations, Republic of Angola representing H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço President of the Republic of Angola; Honourable Nancy Gladys Tembo, Minister of Foreign Affairs, representing H.E. Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi. Honourable Deng Alor Kuol, Minister of East African Community Affairs, representing His Excellency, Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan; Honorable Lieutenant General Lala Monja Delphin Sahivelo, Minister of the Armed Forces, representing H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar. The opening session of the Joint Summit was also attended by H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission. Giving the welcoming remarks, President Samia emphasised that dialogue is the best way to achieve lasting peace and security in the DRC. She stated that all parties should be engaged in peace dialogue and mediation to find possible solutions to the situation in the DRC. “This meeting provides us with an opportunity to demonstrate our readiness and commitment to seeking peace and security for our brothers and neighbours in the DRC. It is my hope that, through our unity, we will carry out this duty with the highest level of integrity,” said President Samia. Speaking at the meeting, the EAC Chairman and President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. William Ruto, reiterated calls to the parties in the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and take positive actions to allow meaningful dialogue aimed at restoring stability. “We stand together to call on all parties to actualise the ceasefire; and specifically, on the M23 to halt further advancements, and the armed forces of the DRC, to cease all retaliatory measures. An immediate ceasefire is the only way by which we can create the necessary conditions for constructive dialogue and the implementation of a comprehensive peace agreement,” he said. For his part, the SADC Chairperson and the President of Zimbabwe, H.E. Emmerson Mnangagwa, urged the meeting to develop a comprehensive strategy to resolve the long-standing conflict in the DRC, noting that its impact has not only affected the well-being of the DRC but also the entire EAC and SADC. The Heads of State then held a closed-door session and later issued a joint communique which among other resolutions mandated the Chiefs of Defence Forces from EAC and SADC to convene within five days. Their focus will be to establish an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, facilitate humanitarian assistance, and devise a securitization plan for Goma and surrounding areas. Additionally, they will address the reopening of key supply routes, Goma Airport, and recommend further necessary interventions to stabilize the region.

2025-02-09

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MEETS SOMALI PRESIDENT H.E HASSAN SHEIKH MOHAMUD

At the invitation of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E Hassan Sheikh Mohamud paid a one-day official visit to Uganda on Friday, February 7th, 2025. He was accompanied by Somalia’s Minister of Defence and other government officials. At State House Entebbe, President Museveni welcomed H.E Mohamud and commended the strong bilateral relations as well as the enhanced cooperation between the two countries. Recalling the discussion held at State Lodge, Nakasero during H.E Mohamud’s last official visit to Uganda on October 19th 2024, the two heads of State reviewed bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest. They further exchanged views on the security situation in Somalia and the region; underscoring the need to maintain peace, security and stability in the Horn of Africa and the entire continent. The leaders also paid tribute to the Troop and Police Contributing Countries (T/PCCs) to the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and Somali Security Forces for the sacrifices made since 2007 in fighting against Al-Shabaab. President Museveni commended H.E Mohamud, his government and the people of the Federal Republic of Somalia for the commitment, resilience and efforts made in stabilizing Somalia. On his part, H.E Mohamud commended President Museveni, his government and the people of Uganda for the sacrifice and commitment to peace and security in Somalia since 2007. He further appreciated the symbolic gesture of goodwill and warm hospitality accorded to him during the visit. The meeting was also attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Jeje Odongo, the Minister of State for Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Oleru, Amb. Nathan Mugisha, Deputy Head of Uganda Mission in Somalia, Mr. Robert Mugimba, Uganda Embassy’s Counselor in Mogadishu, Lt Gen. Sam Okiding, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (D/CDF), among others.

2025-02-07

“WITH OIL, OUR RATE OF GROWTH WILL GO INTO DOUBLE DIGITS”- PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ASSURES UGANDANS AT THE 44TH TAREHE SITA ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is also the Commander-In-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has assured that Uganda’s economy will grow into double digits when the country starts producing its oil. “After June (this year), our economy will grow by 7.3 percent without oil. That's a high growth speed, very few countries can achieve that. With oil, our rate of growth will go into double digits; more than 10 percent,” he said. The President who was in the company of the First Lady and the Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, made the remarks today during the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary celebrations at Kasasa Township Grounds in Kyotera District. The celebrations ran under the theme: “Celebrating Pan African Solidarity and People’s Sacrifice in the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy for Socio-Economic Transformation”. Tarehe Sita is observed annually on 6th February, and it is a symbol of the founding of the people’s army. The day commemorates the heroic efforts of the founding fathers and the people’s revolution. The President noted that the economy of Uganda is growing progressively, all in the account of the five phases that the economy and society have gone through since 1986. “As a consequence of all this, although we still have a lot to do, our economy will be USD59.3 billion by June 2025 using the Foreign Exchange Method but USD168.5 billion by the Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) method. Remember we started with USD4 billion in 1986,” he said. “The phases include minimum economic recovery by bringing back the 3Cs (Coffee, cotton and copper) and 3Ts (Tobacco, Tea and Tourism) of the colonial economy which Idi Amin has destroyed, the second phase was to expand this small economy, that is why with coffee now, we are at 9 million bags, we used to be at 2 million bags. Phase three is to diversify the economy, phase four is adding value and lastly, phase five, we have entered the knowledge economy which include automobile and vaccines.” The President also pledged to handsomely award local scientists who have been able to come up with different innovations like vaccines. “We must congratulate our people. Our university and some factories are now manufacturing most of the diagnostics we need. We are self-sufficient in sanitizers.” Additionally, President Museveni urged Ugandans to ensure value addition to their products if they are to benefit more from their economic sweat. “The value addition with coffee we are moving. We are supporting a number of groups. Therefore, when we tell you that we are targeting an economy of USD 500 billion, in the next few years, take serious note of what we are saying,” he said. “The Greater Masaka area is moving forward in terms of commercialization of coffee, palm oil and milk. Add irrigation to your efforts and the sky will be the limit. In the Katonga flood plain we can do a lot of fishing. This rice I see there, I don't think it's a good idea, we shall talk about it.” President Museveni further revealed that the National Resistance Army (NRA) from the beginning was fighting for certain philosophical, ideological and strategic principles and targets, citing them as some of the reasons why Uganda has been peaceful all these years. “I assert that the philosophical, ideological and the strategic stand has enabled Uganda to be peaceful all these years by building a strong army and other state institutions, expanding education and health services, modernising infrastructure, electricity, ensuring freedom of speech and worship and emphasising Pan-Africanism through regional and political integration,” he said. He also congratulated Ugandans for reaching the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary when the NRM attacked Kabamba in 1981. “I congratulate the combatants and the people of Uganda on the victories we have scored since that day. We thank God for these victories,” he said. “Since we are in Kakuuto, I cannot fail to thank the people of Greater Masaka for their support to the liberation in 1972, 1979, 1985-86. Big and historical battles were fought here, I thank you for your support.” On the other hand, President Museveni directed the Ministry of Works and that of Finance and Planning to start consolidating the old roads before working on new ones. “But I need to apologize to the people of this area, we have done many roads in Uganda but the people in the planning Ministry and that of the Ministry of works had made some mistakes. They build new roads and forget old ones. That is how this road from Mutukula to Masaka deteriorated, and they came to work on it when it's a bit late. We have now told them very clearly that we should consolidate the old roads before you work on new ones. That scattered planning, we have stopped it.” President Museveni concluded his speech by reiterating UPDF’s capacity to protect Ugandans and their property. “Like the CDF Gen. Muhoozi has assured you, the UPDF has all the capacity to protect you, supported by you as well as protecting your property.” The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth informed the President that as the political leadership at the Ministry, they work closely with the leadership of the army to achieve the goal of maintaining peace and security in Uganda. “The only thing I should say is that all of us should guard and protect the achievements by the NRM without fear or favor,” he said. “Your Excellency, you took the risk to stage an armed struggle with less equipment and now the CDF has said that our capability as a country has been enhanced so as Ugandans we should stay put and safeguard what God has given us.” The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba said during the event, Uganda commemorates the day the liberation struggle against dictatorship was launched by Gen. Museveni and 27 other gallant fighters. “This event marks a significant day in the history of the UPDF and the NRM and it demonstrates how far we have come and where we aim to go as a country. Ours has been a journey of continuous growth, some challenges notwithstanding,” he said. “We honour and revere all those who sacrificed their lives in the Struggle for this country. With the guidance of our seniors and experience, we shall continue with the agenda of fundamental change in our country as best as we can including by granting security to all our citizens.” Gen. Muhoozi also expressed deep gratitude to President Museveni and all those who believed in his [the President] vision of a liberated, free and prosperous Uganda and Africa. “To everyone who contributed to the liberation struggle, we owe you our heartfelt thanks. Tarehe Sita is special in our hearts, not only for its historical significance in the eventual NRA victory but also for the enduring achievements we continue to witness in our nation,” he said. “As UPDF we have continued to work tirelessly to consolidate the fruits of the liberation struggle to ensure not only peace and security within our border but also supporting our brothers and sisters across the continent. This Pan-African spirit will remain a cornerstone of our mission as UPDF.” At the same function, 41 individuals were awarded with medals for their exceptional contribution towards Uganda’s liberation. The event was also attended by the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, NRM First National Deputy Chairman, Alhajj Moses Kigongo, the NRM Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Senior security officers, among others.

2025-02-06

“AFRICA SHOULD NOT IMPORT ANY FOOD,” SAYS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has re-emphasized the need for Africa to achieve self-sufficiency in food production rather than relying on imports. “You shouldn't import any food. You can grow and then also process, because we have a lot of raw materials,” H.E. Museveni said, while emphasizing the need to add value to other non-food agricultural products and earn more. “If I sell a kilo of cotton, I may get $1, but if the kilo of cotton is made into shirts, I will get something like $20 from the same kilo. So, when you export cotton, you are donating money to Asians and also jobs,” he added. The President made the remarks on Monday, February 3, 2025, while meeting a group of Gabonese military officers who have been undergoing refresher training at the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka, in Jinja. They included Major Jason Dimitri Raivire, Captain Stephen Obouba, Captain Stephane Meboung and Captain Mathieu Collard. According to the President, to get rid of this sense of dependency, it will require strong government policies to leverage the good climate and fertile soils to invest in agriculture. “Here we don't import any food, except what is not eaten by us. I don't eat rice because I'm not an Asian. I don't eat bread because I'm not European. I eat my food, cassava and millet. But some of these people eat rice. They're the ones who import some rice. Otherwise, all the other foods we have in plenty,” he added. After their training, the Gabonese Army officers also toured several agricultural institutions in Uganda to appreciate their critical role in achieving food security through enhancing food production, improving farming techniques, and ensuring sustainable agricultural development. About security, President Museveni emphasized the need for Africa to take responsibility for its own security and defense rather than relying on Western nations. “Why don't you defend yourself? Really bad mentality. It's not good if you have children. When the child is beginning to grow and to walk, you encourage him to walk on his own. You don't say, don't walk. I will carry you. Then you enable the child. Why doesn't the West want their allies in Africa to walk on their own?” the President wondered. “Here, we don't have any foreigners with us. They can train and go. But to defend us? That's a vote of no confidence in ourselves.” The meeting was also attended by officials from Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and scientists from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO).

2025-02-03

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TAKES FIRM ACTION AGAINST CORRUPT OFFICIALS IN LANGO

In a decisive move to combat corruption within the ranks of local officials, His Excellency the President, Gen. (rtd). Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to revoke police bonds granted to officials implicated in corrupt practices related to the Parish Development Model (PDM) beneficiaries in the Lango sub-region. In a statement released today on his Twitter (X) account, the President emphasised his commitment to ensuring that public officials uphold their responsibilities and act in the best interest of the Ugandan people. Following his recent visit to the Lango sub-region and the disturbing report by the late Brig. Gen. Charles Oluka (RIP) dated 25 January 2025, which detailed the extortion of funds from PDM beneficiaries by corrupt officials, the President has made it clear that accountability must prevail. “Any official who does not do their duty in prosecuting those thieves(suspected) will be held accountable,” said President Museveni. The President's directive aims to restore public confidence in governance and protect the rights of PDM beneficiaries. The government remains steadfast in its fight against corruption and is committed to enhancing transparency and integrity within its institutions.

2025-02-02

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TO INTRODUCE NEW SKILLING COURSES AT THE PRESIDENTIAL INDUSTRIAL HUBS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appreciated the work done by the presidential skilling Industrial hubs spread across the country for their role in combating unemployment by equipping youth with practical skills for self-employment and job creation. The President, who is in the Lango subregion on a regional tour to assess the performance of the Parish Development Model (PDM) and wealth creation programs, today commissioned the Lango Presidential Skilling Hub in Ayere Cell, Barapwo Ward, Lira West Division, Lira District, and pledged to expand the skilling courses offered in the skilling hubs across the country. “I’m glad that you, the parents, have responded very well to the initiative of training these young people for free. We are going to expand the skills here to include motor mechanics, plumbing and electric installation so that they (the children) have a bigger base of skills,” H.E. Museveni said. Currently, the 19 Presidential Industrial Hubs across various regions under the Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Youth are focusing on practical fields such as building and construction, carpentry, welding, hairdressing, baking, tailoring & fashion design, leatherwork, and agriculture with an aim to equip over 12,000 youths annually. President Museveni was happy to learn that the new curriculum introduced by the Ministry of Education has an element of practical studies that were taught to them even during colonial times. “So please, if you appreciate what is happening here, go and spread it out in the primary schools and secondary schools,” he added. However, President Museveni continued to express concern over schools that continue to undermine the objectives of Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) programs, which were established to provide free education to all Ugandan children. He says the imposition of unnecessary charges in government schools is a contributor to high dropout rates among students. “But I’m also not happy because we had started this effort in 1996 when we introduced UPE and later USE. We wanted the children of the poor to study free in government schools, but you did not implement it. You went on introducing charges in schools. As a consequence, many children went on dropping out of schools. That mistake of blocking children from education must be stopped,” H.E. Museveni stated. “Now here I’m providing free education for these children and yet what I’m doing here is much more expensive than it would have been if you implemented UPE and USE.” A primary school per parish and then a secondary school per sub county, according to President Museveni were meant to accommodate children who study from home to cut on the costs of feeding and accommodation where the government would concentrate on paying teachers, putting up the infrastructure and equipping them with text books and laboratory needs. The President also promised to support children who have been skilled through their SACCOs established per district such that they can borrow and create wealth after acquiring skills. He gave Shs 30 million to the three skilled finalists who shared their testimonies and promised another Shs30 million to the SACCO of the regional chairpersons. The Vice President of Uganda, H.E Jessica Alupo welcomed President Museveni and the First Lady also Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni to Lango and re-affirm the NRM’s vision of securing the future of all Ugandans through wealth creation and shared prosperity, while emphasising the priority areas which include; creating wealth and jobs, delivering quality education, provision of health and safe water of Ugandans, ensuring Justice and equity, protecting life and property for all Ugandans and achieving economic and political integration. “Your Excellency, there’s no doubt that the NRM under your leadership is honoring the promises of the people of Uganda,” she said, adding that significant progress has been made in ensuring that all Ugandans join the money economy through various inclusive government programs such as, Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Program, the GROW project for women entrepreneurs, and now the Parish Development Model. The Zonal chairperson of the Lango regional Presidential Skilling hub, Mr. George Abudul, informed the President that the hub is shared equally among the 11 administrative units of Lango sub region. A total of 243 youths, 30 of whom come from the ghetto areas, are recruited every 6 months with each district sending 21 children for training and to date a total of 910 youths, 453 of whom are female, have been trained. “Since the majority of the jobs are in the private sector and since our economy is private sector led, I would like to thank you for the vision of establishing the presidential skills hubs in all the zones of this country. Not only to close the skills gaps but also to enable our young people to acquire skills and competencies for the world of work. This is in line with your vision of jobs and wealth creation,” he said. He requested President Museveni to increase the number of trainees per intake from 240 to at least 500, given the ever-increasing need and demand for skilling. The ceremony was attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, the Vice Chancellor of Lira University, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng, RDCs from the region, the LC5 Chairpersons, district NRM chairpersons, CAOs, District security officers, the youth leadership, among others.

2025-01-30