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09 December 2025

STATE HOUSE EXTENDS LIFE-SAVING MEDICAL SERVICES TO KASENSERO LANDING SITE

The State House medical team is carrying out a major health outreach at Kasensero Landing Site. Stationed at Muyomba Gardens, Kyotera District, the State House's health camp is reaching out to hundreds of residents from both the mainland and Kasensero Island. The camp, which started yesterday, is scheduled to run until December 12, 2025. Held under the theme: “Building a Sustainable HIV/AIDS and TB Response to End HIV/AIDS and TB as a Public Threat”, the integrated medical camp aims to strengthen community-based prevention, screening, and treatment in Kasensero landing site. Residents are receiving a wide range of free health services, including breast, cervical, and prostate cancer screening, a fully equipped TB mobile clinic, and testing for malaria, hypertension, and diabetes, among other conditions. After screening, patients are given medication and follow-up advice to ensure continuity of care. In her speech delivered by the Assistant Director- State House Health Monitoring Unit-Central region, Dr. Ponsiano Jjumba during the opening of the medical camp, the State House Comptroller, Ms. Jane Barekye noted that it is the policy of the government to promote proper health. “As you might all be aware, it is the policy of the government and H.E the President to promote proper health to all Ugandans. As the government of Uganda, it’s important to sustain the good health and wellbeing of our people, that is why this health activity was organised,” she said. Ms. Barekye also called upon the residents to take advantage of this opportunity by taking full participation. “Our goal is to reach out to the people in far hard-to-reach areas and support the health needs of the community. I therefore encourage all of you to participate and take advantage of this opportunity.” On his part, Dr. Jjumba advised the residents of kasensero to be very cautious about diseases. “You can always use preventive measures like using condoms to avoid HIV,” he remarked. He also warned fishermen using mosquito nets for fishing to rather use them for prevention of diseases like Malaria. “The government is giving out mosquito nets for prevention, so don't use them for fishing,” he said. Nakachwa Viola, the HIV and TB focal person from State House noted that Kasensero island was chosen for the medical camp because most people are sometimes unable to access health services like cancer screening because such services are expensive and unavailable in the area. The Regional coordinator on leprosy programmes, Ms. Nyirazihawe Isabella Marble thanked the organizing committee of the camp, noting that it helps people in far-to-reach areas to access health services. “I want to thank the organizing committee because this is very beneficial to the people of Kasensero since they will get early screening, early diagnosis and early treatment,” she said. She also urged the government to continue promoting such camps annually, stating that this will help in prevention of diseases in communities. The Resident District Commissioner of Kyotera, Mr. Apollo Mugume thanked the government of Uganda for extending medical services to Kasensero island saying that it has helped residents to get an opportunity to get screened for diseases like breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer, among others which are hard to be diagnosed in small clinics. He also called upon the residents to stop using mosquito nets for fishing. The residents also expressed gratitude to the State House for the medical camp. Mr. Bwambale Alex thanked the government of Uganda for organizing the medical camp and requested for more such camps on an annual basis. Ms. Nakawoya Leticia also thanked the government for thinking about them and bringing the camp to Kasensero, saying that she has got an opportunity to screen for cancer. Kasensero remains a historical epicentre of Uganda’s HIV/AIDS epidemic, and health experts say the ongoing camp is part of a renewed push to curb persistent infection rates, end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 and build a more resilient community health system. The camp will continue providing services throughout the week as mobilisation teams encourage more residents to turn up for screening and treatment. The event was attended by government officials, representatives from Uganda Cancer Institute, and Infectious Disease Institute Uganda, local leaders, among others.

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09 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES NEW INDUSTRIAL PARK AND SKILLING HUB FOR BUNYORO SUB-REGION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced that Bunyoro will receive a new industrial park and an additional skilling hub as part of the government's continued efforts to expand industrialisation and youth empowerment. The President made the pledge today during his first campaign rally in Bunyoro sub region at Buyanja Village, Kamurasi Ward, Kibaale Town Council in Kibaale District, where he also presented the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s core contributions to Uganda over the last 40 years. President Museveni said peace— the first NRM contribution— remains the foundation of Uganda’s progress, reminding residents that they directly witnessed ADF incursions in Muzizi before the government defeated them. He also praised the Church of Owobusobozi Bisakka for promoting unity, which he said complements the NRM’s rejection of sectarian politics. On development, the President dismissed past claims that his government neglected Bunyoro, saying the NRM prioritises projects based on strategy, not populism. He pointed to completed infrastructure such as the Hoima–Kyegegwa road and other major economic and social facilities across the region. President Museveni emphasised that development must go hand in hand with wealth creation— the third NRM contribution. He advised residents to adopt the four-acre model for small landholders, which focuses on coffee, fruits, pasture, food crops, poultry and fish farming. The President cited success stories such as Ms. Deziranta Tumusime of Rubirizi and Mr. Johnson Basangwa of Kamuli, whose incomes transformed after adopting NRM-guided enterprise approaches and PDM support. For those with vast land, he recommended ventures like tea and cotton. On job creation, President Museveni said most employment comes from private enterprise—factories, ICT, services and commercial agriculture—highlighting the impact of existing industrial parks in Namanve, Mbale and Kapeka. Responding to local demands, President Museveni said Kibaale deserves its own industrial park to add value to regional products. He noted that while Kabalega Industrial Park exists for petroleum-related industries, Bunyoro now needs another park dedicated to broader production. “We need about 10 square miles for the industrial park, and we shall get it,” he assured, adding that the government will also construct an additional Skilling Hub to equip young people with employable skills. The Second National Vice Chairperson- NRM and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among thanked the President for sustained development in Bunyoro and urged residents to support him in the upcoming election. The Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja hailed the President for championing women emancipation, saying her own rise to Parliament and premiership reflects the opportunities women now enjoy. The NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Region, Hon. Jonard Asiimwe pledged to follow up on the industrial park implementation. Kibaale District NRM Chairperson, Mr. Matovu Fred thanked the President for the transformative projects in Bunyoro such as Kabalega International Airport, Hoima City Stadium, the regional public university and improved road networks. He reaffirmed the district’s readiness to enhance development, noting that 110 acres have already been secured for the proposed industrial park in Kibaale.

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09 December 2025

KYENJOJO: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CONCLUDES RWENZORI-TOORO CAMPAIGN TRAIL, MAKES CASE FOR WEALTH CREATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, has today concluded his campaign rallies in the Rwenzori and Tooro sub-regions with a major address in Kyenjojo District. He expressed satisfaction with the turnout and reiterated the NRM’s commitment to peace, wealth creation and accountable leadership. “I am glad to have concluded my campaign rallies in both the Rwenzori and Tooro sub-regions here in Kyenjojo today. I thank you for the massive support,” President Museveni said. The President, who was accompanied by the First Daughter, Mrs. Natasha Karugire Museveni, made the remarks while addressing thousands of supporters at Katoosa Primary School playground. Speaking on wealth creation, President Museveni drew from historical records to underline that Uganda has always been a wealthy country, even before the advent of modern infrastructure. He cited the writings of explorer Henry Morton Stanley, who passed through parts of Bunyoro-Kitara during the Emin Pasha Relief Expedition between 1887 and 1889. President Museveni noted that Stanley observed the abundance of wealth in the region despite the absence of electricity or tarmacked roads. “He wrote that this country was rich at a time when there was no electricity and no tarmac roads. The wealth was already here,” the President said, adding that this historical reality explains why the NRM places emphasis on wealth creation at household level. He further referenced Stanley’s later reflections in 1889, when the explorer described the vast banana plantations he encountered, noting that their shade ‘covered a multitude of huts’, observations that reminded him of Uganda and Buganda in particular. President Museveni reminded the gathering that peace remains the foundation of all development, especially for communities bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has experienced prolonged insecurity. “The parents of these young people know the history. They witnessed insecurity here and in the neighbouring Congo? For the last 40 years, the NRM has maintained peace, and you can see the difference,” he said, adding that sustaining peace requires continued public support. On infrastructure, the President outlined key road projects undertaken in the region, including the Karuma–Masindi–Hoima–Kagadi–Kyenjojo corridor. He said upgrading works are ongoing on the Kyenjojo (Kihura)–Bwizi–Rwamwanja–Kahunge road, covering 68 kilometres, as well as the Mpara–Bwizi road. He also announced that the government is set to commence works on the Fort Portal–Kijura road. “If you were to give marks at this point, you should give us about eight out of ten,” President Museveni remarked. He also acknowledged challenges on the Mubende–Fort Portal road, noting that rehabilitation works have started after delays caused by poor planning and lack of prioritisation. “We must always begin with basics like roads and electricity. Even God took six days to create the world,” the President said. He added that the government allocates about Shs1.2 billion annually for murram road maintenance, but cautioned that the funds must be properly utilised. Turning to the Parish Development Model (PDM), President Museveni reaffirmed the government's zero tolerance to misuse of the funds, stressing that they are strictly meant for poor households. “The PDM funds are for uplifting the poor. Anyone who diverts or mismanages this money will be held accountable,” he said. The President emphasized that PDM remains a cornerstone of the government's strategy to move households from subsistence into the money economy through productive income-generating activities. He also reminded communities that leadership of parish SACCOs is elected by adult members and urged wananchi to take responsibility. “If the SACCO committee is not performing well, call a general meeting and remove them,” he said. President Museveni further noted that widespread access to mobile phones is itself a sign of development. “Today, almost everyone has a phone in their pocket. That is progress,” he said. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Kyenjojo District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. The rally also featured testimony from Ms. Cedon Kokugonza, a beneficiary of the Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub in Kyenjojo. Ms. Kokugonza said she dropped out of school in Senior Two and remained stranded until she learnt about the skilling hub, where she was admitted to train in hairdressing at no cost. “Everything was free, accommodation, food and training,” she said. After completing the course, she secured employment and earned Shs400,000, which she supplemented with support from her parents to raise start-up capital of Shs500,000. She now owns a salon, keeps poultry and employs three workers. “My life changed forever,” Ms. Kokugonza said. On her part, the Speaker of Parliament and National Resistance Movement Second National Vice Chairperson (Female), Rt. Hon. Anitah Among praised President Museveni for championing critical infrastructure development and supporting improved service delivery in the district. Rt. Hon. Among thanked the people of Kyenjojo for the warm reception and acknowledged the presence of religious leaders, local authorities and party structures. “I thank you all for coming and for the warm welcome. I also recognise our religious leaders who are here with us today. Your presence reflects the unity and faith of the people of Kyenjojo,” she said. She also thanked the President for prioritising road infrastructure in the region, noting that several key routes linking Kyenjojo to neighbouring districts are currently under construction or rehabilitation. She also acknowledged the government's commitment to upgrading the Kyenjojo–Kyakatwire–Kamwenge road, noting that while the pledge has been long-standing, its inclusion in the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) is a significant step towards its eventual construction. “We thank you for ensuring that this road has been captured under NDP IV. It gives us confidence that the people of Kyenjojo have been heard,” she said. On health services, Rt. Hon. Among expressed concern about congestion at Kyenjojo General Hospital, noting that the facility continues to receive a high number of patients from within and beyond the district. She appealed for support to secure additional land to allow expansion and modernization of the hospital. “Kyenjojo General Hospital is increasingly overcrowded. We humbly request support to acquire more land so that it can be expanded into a more modern facility,” they said. The Speaker also asked to consider increasing funding for road maintenance in the district, with district leaders noting that Kyenjojo’s size and road network are comparable to major regional districts such as Fort Portal and Kasese. “Given the size of Kyenjojo, we may need to double the district road maintenance fund to keep our roads in good condition,” they said. The NRM Chairperson for Kyenjojo, Mr. Edward Nkonge Rwamwaro credited President Museveni’s leadership for sustaining peace, unity and steady socio-economic transformation in the district and across the country. Mr. Rwamwaro said Uganda’s 40 years of peace have created a firm foundation for development, allowing communities in Kyenjojo to focus on wealth creation and service delivery. “We thank President Museveni for the peace that has prevailed in Uganda for all these years. For four decades, our country has remained stable, and this has enabled our people to work, invest and plan for the future,” Mr. Rwamwaro said. He commended the President for consistently championing national unity since 1986, noting that the message of working together has helped Ugandans overcome divisions and concentrate on shared progress. “Since 1986 up to today, the President has continuously preached unity. He united Ugandans and reminded us that development can only come when we work together as one people,” he added. He said the government’s wealth creation agenda is now bearing visible results in Kyenjojo, citing interventions under the Parish Development Model and Emyooga programmes. He also thanked the President for the construction of Kyenjojo Presidential zonal Skilling hub that has benefitted many unprivileged youth that had lost hope after dropping out of school. “Your Excellency, we thank you for this hub because so far about 175 youth have benefited. This has saved and changed lives forever because they get skills at a free cost,” he said. Mr. Rwamwaro reported that Kyenjojo District, which has 31 sub-counties and town councils, 167 parishes and 892 villages, has so far received over Shs51.6bn under PDM, benefiting 51,799 households, representing 39.5% of the district’s total households. “The wealth creation gospel that President Museveni introduced is working. Thousands of households in Kyenjojo are already benefiting, and more will continue to be reached,” he said. Under the Emyooga programme, he noted that the district has 54 SACCOs with 25,336 members, which have collectively received Shs2.76 billion, boosting small businesses and household incomes. Mr. Rwamwaro also highlighted progress in infrastructure and agriculture, thanking the government for coffee value-addition machines and the construction of community access roads which have improved market access and rural connectivity. In the education sector, he said Kyenjojo now has 128 government primary schools enrolling nearly 79,000 pupils, and 11 government secondary schools offering Universal Secondary Education and post-O-Level training. He welcomed the ongoing construction of three seed secondary schools, describing it as a major step toward expanding access to secondary education, especially in underserved sub-counties. Health service delivery has also improved, according to Mr. Rwamwaro, with the district hosting a hospital, a Health Centre IV and multiple Health Centre IIIs. He said government plans to construct additional Health Centre IIIs in several sub-counties and it would further reduce the distance residents travel to access healthcare. On water and sanitation, the NRM Chairperson said the government investments have significantly expanded access to safe water through boreholes and piped water systems, benefiting tens of thousands of residents in both rural and urban areas. He acknowledged ongoing projects and rehabilitations aimed at addressing remaining gaps, particularly in hard-to-reach villages. Mr. Rwamwaro further welcomed the extension of electricity to Kyenjojo District, saying it has boosted businesses and service delivery, and expressed optimism that the remaining sub-counties will be connected in the next government term. “All these achievements show what peace, unity and focused leadership can deliver. As Kyenjojo, we remain grateful and committed to supporting programs that uplift our people and transform our district,” he said. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

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09 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI VOWS CRACKDOWN ON PDM FUND THEFT AS HE CONCLUDES RWENZORI–TOORO CAMPAIGN TRAIL

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Monday, December 8, 2025, issued a stern warning to government officials and local leaders accused of mismanaging the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds, promising a nationwide crackdown to protect the poor and restore public confidence in the programme. Speaking during a media address at Kabarole State Lodge in Fort Portal City, where he concluded the Rwenzori and Tooro campaign trail, the President said he had received overwhelming reports indicating that many intended beneficiaries were receiving less than the mandatory one million shillings. “That’s very easy. I have done my job, which is to get a solution to help the poor by sending them money directly, but unfortunately, some of the leaders have decided to do their own thing,” the President said. “That mistake is not in Congo or Sudan. We are going to check.” President Museveni, who is also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Chairman and Presidential flagbearer for the 2026 general elections, expressed anger at what he described as widespread theft, deliberate underpayment, and sabotage of a programme specifically designed to lift poor households into the money economy. He added that he had been gathering evidence through the PDM tours and his ongoing campaigns, with citizens reporting cases of fraud from across the country. “During the PDM tours, even now during the campaigns, when I ask, they tell me they’re chopping their money. I am auditing those who got this money and how much. So, we shall go for them, and they will regret — those who are stealing money meant for the poor,” H.E. Museveni warned, citing reports of theft and irregularities emerging from Karugutu, Iganga, Maracha, and Entebbe, vowing to take decisive action once investigations conclude. “I have my auditor. People have been complaining everywhere. If we get some cases investigated properly, we shall stop this,” he said bluntly. The President did not mince words when addressing the alleged perpetrators, describing their actions as both reckless and arrogant. “They are stupid; I don’t know why they think that we shall not know. Information will leak, and we will get them,” President Museveni said. “These thieves are stealing what was given publicly. It’s like the cheating we saw in the NRM primaries when people lined up during the day and were counted, and then someone gave the wrong results. It will stop.” President Museveni assured the public that the government would enforce strict accountability measures and arrest commercial officers or other officials implicated in the theft. He pledged to recover the stolen funds. “I want to assure those who are listening to me — this habit of stealing PDM money will stop because those who do it will be arrested and will bring back the money,” he emphasized. Beyond the PDM concerns, candidate Museveni used his address to highlight the key achievements of the NRM as laid out in the party’s 2026–31 manifesto under the theme: “Protecting the Gains as We Make a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status.” He outlined seven central pillars of the manifesto, which include sustaining peace, expanding development, wealth creation through commercial agriculture, manufacturing, artisanship, services, and ICT, job creation, improvement of service delivery, expanding markets and regional integration. The President expressed concern that many young people in Africa do not pay adequate attention to economic and political issues shaping the continent’s future. “I always wonder why young people are not thinking about the future of Africa. You spend a lot of time dancing, watching football. I’m always in my room watching you and thinking how these young people will guarantee their future?” he said. President Museveni contrasted this with his own youthful time, noting that from the age of 20, he was already engaged in liberation struggles and thinking about Uganda’s long-term transformation. He stressed that Uganda’s growing production capacity requires expanded markets, citing key commodities such as sugar, cement, and milk. He revealed that Uganda produces up to 60,000 tonnes of sugar annually, yet consumes only about 30,000 tonnes. Similar surpluses exist in milk, cement, and other products, a trend he said reflects the need for stronger regional integration. “China has a 1.5 billion population, but is still looking for a market in Africa. But you in Africa have a smaller population and are doing nothing,” President Museveni said. He applauded progress made under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a cornerstone for large-scale African industrialization, strategic security, and sustainable economic prosperity. “We have negotiated with the whole of Africa for the Continental Free Trade Area,” he noted. “An integrated African market is essential for large-scale production and global competitiveness.” The Tooro and Rwenzori sub-regions have historically been significant battlegrounds for the NRM, and President Museveni’s messages of wealth creation, corruption crackdown, and regional market expansion dominated his engagements with supporters, local leaders, and the media.

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08 December 2025

STUDENT LEADERS URGED TO SUSTAIN UGANDA’S SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Joint Staff Political Commissar, Maj. Gen. Henry Matsiko has revealed that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government has been able to sustain its socio-economic transformation by embracing the right ideology. “When the NRM came to power, it started by addressing the strategic bottlenecks; by saying no to bad politics and reconstructing the state and making it viable,” he said. Gen. Matsiko made the remarks today as a chief guest during the student leaders and alumni town hall meeting, held at Makerere University, Kampala. Organised by the Makerere University Convocation, the event ran under the theme: “Sustaining Uganda’s transformation: A town hall with emerging leaders”, and attracted leaders and students from various universities around the country such as Makerere, Kyambogo, UCU, KIU, Victoria University, Bishop Stuart, St. Lawrence, among others. Gen. Matsiko said Uganda’s journey of transformation is not by accident, explaining that it is being steered by a visionary leader, in the name of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. He also reminded the young leaders of Uganda’s political turmoil before the NRM government came into power in 1986. “When Idi Amin came, things totally collapsed. Many opportunities were missed in sectors like human resource development, markets, industrialization and governance,” he disclosed. He noted that when President Museveni came into power, he came up with the right ideology of patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation and democracy, principles he said have helped to develop the country. “The government has been able to expand the Ugandan economy through industrialization and infrastructure development,” he said. “Today we are confident that the Ugandan state is fully reconstructed, fueled and unstoppable. You only have a suicidal mind to assume that you can destabilize Uganda,” he cautioned. Furthermore, Gen. Matsiko urged the youth not to be diverted by selfish forces with a hidden agenda to destabilize Uganda. “Take advantage of the current peace in Uganda to develop not to cause chaos. Gen Z let nobody divert you, you should be part of this winning story,” he advised. “You should refuse to be poisoned and diverted. Smell in every cup of message you are being given and when you detect that it smells poison, reject it.” The head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema implored the young leaders to ensure that the path to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation is firmly constructed to endure the times ahead. “As you might know, for the last 10 years or so, we have been talking about advancing socio-economic transformation in Uganda. The real challenge for leaders, however, lies in sustaining this transformation,” she said. According to Col. Nakalema, since 1986, Uganda’s socio-economic transformation has moved from a collapsed, state-controlled economy to a liberal, private-sector-led model, yielding commendable economic growth rates and levels of poverty reduction. “The 25th edition of the Uganda Economic Update, published on September 30th,2025 shows that inflation at 3.5 percent in Financial Year 2024/2025 compared to 3.2 percent the year before remains below the central bank’s target of 5 percent. This report projects a positive medium-term outlook, with growth accelerating to 10.4 percent in Financial Year 2026/2027 as oil production begins before stabilizing around 6 percent,” she said. Col. Nakalema explained that with Shs17. 18 trillion allocated, 23.7 percent of the Shs 72.38 trillion budget, Uganda is advancing its ten-fold growth strategy to reach a USD500 billion economy by 2040. “Foreign Direct Investment rose 26.3 percent to USD 785.79 million, totaling USD3.48 billion as Uganda also continues to be a favorable destination for Foreign Direct Investment,” she said. “Whilst the reality of this progress is undeniable, transformation is not the destination, it remains an ongoing journey. Therefore, beyond providing the spark which ignites growth, our inherent worth as leaders lies in our ability to sustain transformation through the changing tides of economic shifts, political changes and unforeseen crises. That is what defines us as true stewards of prosperity.” Col. Nakalema further revealed that leaders should sustain transformation through building resilience, decisively implementing the direction of progress, investing in preparedness for the future, advancing a new paradigm of transformation and reconsidering development mindset. “Transformation is interconnected to an unprecedented extent. Working as one front of government institutions and the private sector towards collective prosperity builds a shared imperative to safeguard the benefits of development,” she said. Additionally, Col. Nakalema noted that sustaining the transformation which Uganda has achieved so far warrants a depth of conviction, unshakable courage, collective foresight and unswerving commitment to an attractive future of the country. “As someone rightly predicted, our legacy as leaders of today will be judged not by the speed of our initial sprint, but by the endurance and equity of the economic prosperity we will leave behind. Therefore, let us lead not just for today's headlines, but for tomorrow's history,” she stated. On the other hand, Col. Nakalema implored the youth to guard and sustain what Uganda has achieved so far. “Focus on the peace and stability of the country and adding value wherever you're,” she urged. Representing Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Sarah Saali, Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics, appreciated the Convocation for organising the event. She said as leaders, they have a duty to contribute to the government’s development agenda. “We have a duty to take development to our people. As leaders we need to develop a clarity of purpose and vision,” Prof. Ssali said. “We should thank the government for expanding higher education; that decision is the reason why we are here in big numbers.” The Chairperson of Makerere University Convocation, Mr. George Turyamureeba Mugabi thanked the NRM government for including the graduate fund in its 2026-2031 Manifesto. He said the fund will help to deal with the challenge of unemployment. “As the Convocation we want to engage the youth in a useful manner. We want to start the journey of making the young people civil, and we work together in order to develop our country,” he said. Mr. Turyamureeba also urged leaders to sensitise the masses to maintain peace during and after the 2026 elections. “We have a big role to play in informing the public on how best we can behave before and after elections so that we are able to protect our country,” he said. “Even when we are engaging in leadership, we need to do it in a civil manner.” The event was also attended by the former Attorney General, Hon. Fred Ruhindi, the Chairperson of the Education Service Commission, Rev. Prof. Dr. Samuel Abimerech Luboga, top academicians, among others.

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08 December 2025

KYEGEGWA TO GET MAJOR INDUSTRIAL PARK, PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CONFIRMS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced that the government has secured 10 square miles of land in Kyaka to establish a major industrial park, promising factories including an avocado processing plant. He said the park will drive jobs, value addition and household incomes in Kyegegwa District. President Museveni made the remarks today while addressing a campaign rally at Wekomire Parish, Kyegegwa District. He said the people of Kyegegwa had expressed strong interest in industrialisation, and the government was ready to deliver. He emphasised that factories remain a major source of jobs—currently employing 1.3 million Ugandans—and will help lift more households into the money economy. The President also introduced the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Manifesto for 2026-2031, highlighting its seven contributions to Uganda over the last 40 years, starting with peace. He noted that Kyaka is one of the areas that best understands the value of peace, having hosted refugees for years and witnessed insecurity during the liberation struggle. On development, President Museveni pointed to infrastructure improvements in roads and electricity. He noted that the tarmac road previously ended in Mityana but the government rehabilitated and built more roads, and plans are underway to construct the Kazo- Kabogore– Kyegegwa–Kapuyo road. He also added that all sub-counties in Kyegegwa are now connected to the national grid. The President further addressed service delivery challenges from the district fact sheet, including gaps in education, health and water. He acknowledged that 41 parishes still lack a government primary school, and that the government is constructing four new seed secondary schools to reduce the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school. On health, President Museveni noted that only nine out of 19 sub-counties have functional facilities, but upgrades and new HCIIIs are planned in Kigambo, Migongwe, Migamba, Ruhangire, Bugogo, Kyatega, Hapuuyo, Kakabara and Mpara. On water, he expressed concern that only 256 out of 677 villages have safe water and pledged that the government will draw water from River Muzizi to improve supply. Additionally, President Museveni reiterated the NRM’s efforts in promoting wealth creation, encouraging residents to adopt the four-acre model. He also warned against the mismanagement of the Parish Development Model Initiative, saying every beneficiary must receive the full Shs 1 million. The Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Western region, Hon. Jonard Asiimwe, and Kyegegwa District Chairperson, Mr. Wilson Byabona all praised the President’s development efforts and pledged strong support in the forthcoming election.

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08 December 2025

“UPDF TO SET UP BARRACKS IN KAMWENGE TO CONSOLIDATE PEACE IN THE AREA,” SAYS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AS HE ANNOUNCES NEW DEVELOPMENT INTERVENTIONS IN THE DISTRICT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced that Kamwenge District will host a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) battalion and barracks as the government moves to consolidate peace in an area that for years suffered insecurity linked to Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel activity. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, made the announcement today while addressing thousands of supporters during a campaign rally at Kyabenda Primary School playground in Kamwenge District. The President was accompanied by the First Daughter, Mrs. Natasha Karugire Museveni. “For a long time, Kamwenge faced insecurity because of ADF incursions through the forests. But because of unity and a strong army, we have managed to maintain peace,” President Museveni said. “Whenever the ADF attempted to enter this area, we chased them away and defeated them. To consolidate this peace, we are going to establish a battalion here in Kamwenge and look for land to build a barrack.” President Museveni also thanked residents of Kamwenge for the massive turnout and reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting lives and property. After restoring peace, President Museveni said the government shifted focus to development but encountered persistent poverty at household level, prompting a renewed push for wealth creation. “I am glad to see that many farmers here listened to our message, you have moved away from small-scale maize growing to coffee, fruits and bananas. This is the Ekibaaro I have been preaching, small land, commercial farming. Those who listened are now in the money economy. You should continue,” he emphasized. As part of industrialisation efforts, the President announced that the government will also seek land to establish an industrial park in the district, alongside a presidential slaughter hub to support livestock farmers. He further pledged the establishment of SACCOs and seed nurseries, noting that seed beds will be provided per constituency and per district. On infrastructure, President Museveni said major roads in the region are being prioritised. “We worked from Lyantonde through Ibanda to Kamwenge and Fort Portal. We are now going to work on the Kyenjojo–Kihura road and also improve the Rwimi road,” he said. President Museveni highlighted irrigation as the country’s next major battle, stressing the need to protect wetlands. “Our new war is irrigation. The government will take it seriously, but we must make sure we do not destroy our wetlands,” he said. He also cited exemplary wealth creators in Kamwenge, singling out Mr. Julius Akorinako, a retired District Inspector of Schools, as a model farmer who transformed his livelihood after following government advice. “I thank Julius for listening to our message,” the President said. Mr. Akorinako, who once earned little from maize farming, adopted commercial coffee farming in 2019, starting with two acres of clonal coffee. He later expanded to six acres and now earns an estimated net income of Shs40 million annually, demonstrating the impact of commercial agriculture. On education, President Museveni acknowledged challenges in the implementation of free education, noting that some school administrators have not fully complied. He said the government addressed the gaps by establishing presidential skilling hubs to equip young people with practical skills. One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Racheal Natukunda from Kyenjojo District, shared how the programme transformed her life. A Senior Four dropout who stayed home for three years due to school fees challenges, she enrolled at a presidential skilling hub after learning it offered free training. “At the skilling hub, I studied mindset change and later learnt hairdressing and cosmetology,” she said. “We also learnt how to make products like soap, hair oil and shampoo.” Using the skills acquired, Ms. Natukunda secured a microfinance loan of Shs500,000 and opened her own salon, where she now employs another worker. She has since diversified into poultry farming. Reflecting on her transformation, President Museveni said, “Natukunda was once hopeless. Today she is skilled, she employs others and she owns poultry. That is exactly what we want for our young people.” The President reiterated that the government will continue focusing on peace, infrastructure, skilling and household wealth creation to ensure inclusive development across the country. President Museveni also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Kamwenge District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. On his part, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, the NRM Chairperson for Kamwenge District and Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, said the district’s progress was anchored on security, unity, and deliberate government interventions. “We thank the NRM government for giving us Kamwenge District and for defeating the ADF threat in this region,” Hon. Tumwebaze said. “When the rebels attempted to destabilise the area in 2003, the President deployed the UPDF, which decisively crushed them. That security is what has allowed our people to work and invest.” He commended President Museveni for consistently advising leaders against fragmenting the district, noting that unity had accelerated development. “Kamwenge is one people, united and peaceful. Division would only slow down progress,” he added. Hon. Tumwebaze highlighted a major transformation in household livelihoods, particularly through agriculture. “Previously, most families depended on maize. Today, following government guidance, more than half of our homesteads have shifted to coffee. Many of our farmers are now medium- and large-scale producers,” he said. He attributed the change to the President’s Four-Acre Model initiative, which has enabled even small-scale farmers to earn sustainably and transition into the money economy. Presenting Kamwenge’s current profile, Hon. Tumwebaze said the district has 18 sub-counties and town councils, 74 parishes, and 442 villages, with a population of 337,167 people according to the 2024 census. He noted the district’s strong political participation, recalling that during the 2021 presidential elections, 91,749 voters, about 78% of registered voters turned out to vote, reflecting trust in the NRM leadership. On wealth creation programmes, Hon. Tumwebaze said Kamwenge has so far received over Shs19bn under the Parish Development Model (PDM), with nearly 98 percent of the funds already disbursed to 18,625 households. “Out of our 76,274 households, about a quarter have already benefited from PDM.” He added that the Emyooga programme had also strengthened household enterprises, with 36 SACCOs and more than 15,500 members, supported by government funding of nearly Shs2 billion. Hon. Tumwebaze praised the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, for expanding access to education in the district through seed schools. Kamwenge currently has 86 government primary schools and 11 government secondary schools, alongside a growing private sector. He revealed that five new seed secondary schools are under construction, a move that will significantly reduce the number of sub-counties without government secondary schools. “Our challenge now is ensuring every parish has access to a government primary school and that no child walks long distances to study,” he said. While acknowledging improvements in health infrastructure, Hon. Tumwebaze said gaps remain, especially in sub-counties without functional health facilities. He disclosed government plans to upgrade several health centres and construct new ones to improve coverage. Leaders also formally requested the upgrade of Kamwenge Health Centre III to Health Centre IV, the deployment of additional health workers, and the establishment of an industrial park in Kamwenge to support agro-processing, including a coffee processing factory. Water access has improved to about 66 percent of rural villages, with numerous piped water systems completed across the district. The government, he said, plans to extend services to the remaining underserved areas. On energy, Hon. Tumwebaze confirmed that Kamwenge is now connected to the national grid, with plans underway to electrify the remaining sub-counties in the next term. He concluded by reaffirming Kamwenge’s loyalty to President Museveni and the NRM, pledging continued mobilisation to support government programmes aimed at transforming lives and lifting more households into the money economy. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

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08 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES TO PROMOTE FISH FARMING IN BUKEDI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon the leaders of Bukedi sub-region to preach the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s wealth creation message, stressing the need to promote modern farming, value addition and enterprise development. He made the remarks on Sunday 7th December, 2025 while addressing over 10,000 NRM leaders gathered at Pallisa Secondary School playground in Pallisa district. The meeting, organised by the Speaker of Parliament and NRM’s Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among brought together leaders from the districts of Pallisa, Tororo, Busia, Butebo, Butaleja and Kibuku aimed at strengthening mobilisation and advancing socio-economic transformation. President Museveni emphasised the NRM government’s commitment to expanding economic opportunities in the Bukedi sub-region, declaring that the government will help to aggressively promote fish farming in the sub region to boost household incomes and empower communities. “This is something we are going to promote aggressively here in the Bukedi region. When individuals get rich, the whole country gets rich,” he said, encouraging leaders to guide the population towards development. He also called upon the people of Bukedi to work towards creating wealth, explaining that wealth created by individuals and families is what ultimately leads to sustainable job creation, especially through commercial agriculture, factories, ICT and services. The President further tasked leaders to ensure government programmes reach households that need them most. On the other hand, President Museveni called upon the people of Pallisa to vote for NRM come 2026 elections, highlighting the party's seven contributions to Uganda for the last 40 years. He said the contributions include among others; peace, development of social and physical infrastructure, wealth creation, job creation, market expansion and regional integration. He also promised to extend support to the families of the people of Busia whose people were killed by the Force Obote Back Again (FOBA) rebel group. “We have not even supported the families of the people who were killed by FOBA, we still have that issue. We shall have to support those families,” he said. President Museveni cautioned the leaders to take the issue of peace seriously, recalling the years Lakwena brought instability in Tororo. He also advised Members of Parliament to support prioritisation, arguing that it helps to eliminate inefficiencies. “One by one makes a bundle,” he said, noting that several major projects, including key roads, would not have been possible without strategic prioritisation. “You either prioritise or make mistakes,” he added. President Museveni further promised to extend support to leaders through offering start-up capital. On her part, Rt. Hon. Among thanked the President for honouring the invitation and pledged continued collaboration between local leaders and the government to enhance development in the Bukedi sub-region. She also commended President Museveni for increasing the salary of LCI chairpersons from Shs10,000 to Shs100,000 monthly and called them upon to extend the President’s wealth creation message to their people.

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08 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES TO IMPROVE ROAD CONNECTIVITY IN LANGO SUB-REGION AS CAMPAIGNS INTENSIFY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Chairman and Presidential flagbearer of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has pledged to continue improving the road infrastructure in the Lango sub-region. Addressing more than 15,000 NRM leaders gathered at Lango College in Lira City on Sunday, December 7, 2025, President Museveni acknowledged concerns raised about regional connectivity and pledged to review the issue of eastern access to ensure fair and balanced infrastructure development across the entire sub-region. “I’m going to study the issue of eastern access, the one you talked about. That one makes sense,” President Museveni said. “It makes no sense for someone from Namasale in Amolatar to travel all the way through Lira, Kamdini, and Karuma when Nakasongola is just across the water. Somebody from Namasale is only 80 miles away from Kampala. But when you make them go around, it’s not fair,” President Museveni said. He was responding to one of the key issues presented during the meeting, regarding the sub-region’s low connectivity through tarmac roads. The Government Chief Whip, Hon. Denis Hamson Obua, highlighted a proposal by leaders from Amolatar, Dokolo, and Alebtong districts seeking additional road upgrades to facilitate trade, tourism, and regional accessibility. Hon. Obua requested the President to consider annexing the Dokolo–Bata–Abako–Aloe Road, a stretch of 42.4 km, to other ongoing major road projects such as the Dokolo–Namasale Road or the Lira–Aloe–Alebtong Road. He argued that the route has strategic importance, such as improving connectivity, supporting trade, easing access to the newly developing ferry links at Amolatar and Kaberamaido, and reducing travel time between Lango, Acholi, and Karamoja. The enhanced connectivity, he said, would also open up tourism access, especially toward Kidepo Valley National Park. “If it pleases you, that road can even continue from Aloe through Apala, crossing the Rwenkunyu road from Ogul. That would shorten movement and enhance connectivity by tarmac in the Lango sub-region,” Hon. Obua said. Quoting a report by the Equal Opportunities Commission, Hon. Obua noted that Lango stands at only 5% tarmac road coverage, the lowest among Uganda’s regions, despite leading in availability of secondary schools and health centres. “The people believe a good road is an enabler to wealth creation and household income, because it provides access to markets,” he said. The event, one of the largest political mobilization meetings in the region, aimed at empowering NRM leaders from Local Council One (LC1) to the district level with information and campaign tools as they prepare to rally support for President Museveni’s re-election bid and all NRM flagbearers across Lango. President Museveni outlined key infrastructure developments undertaken in Lango and the surrounding region, citing the tarmacking of major roads such as the Soroti–Lira road, the Rwenkunyu–Masindi Port–Lira–Apac road, and the ongoing works on the Bobi–Aboke road. “These have been done through prioritization,” he emphasized. President Museveni called upon the people of Lango to vote massively for NRM in the 2026 elections, citing the seven key contributions the ruling party has made to Uganda, as contained in the NRM manifesto. These include, among others, peace and security, development of physical and social infrastructure, wealth creation and poverty reduction, education expansion, job creation through commercial agriculture, industry and manufacturing, expanding markets, and regional integration. President Museveni reminded the gathering that Lango had suffered immensely during eras of insecurity—citing the 1970s Idi Amin regime, the 1979–1985 wars, the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency, and cattle rustling. “The people of Lango know what lack of peace means,” he said, naming several individuals he personally knew who were killed by Idi Amin. He recounted his own opposition to the 1971 coup: “At 5 pm on the same day Amin took over, we met as a student movement in Bugoloobi and said we must fight Idi Amin. That night, I left Uganda and joined others in Tanzania. God has blessed us—there is peace now.” He warned those “playing around with that peace” to be very careful, saying Uganda suffered too much to gamble its stability. President Museveni also said the party will soon discuss the possibility of paying monthly salaries to select NRM leaders at the grassroots as part of efforts to strengthen its grassroots mobilisation network ahead of the 2026 general elections. He said the proposal to introduce a salary structure for some party leaders needs careful evaluation due to its financial implications. “We shall have to discuss and agree on how many NRM leaders could be paid and why,” he said. “You can’t afford to pay salaries to all of them because there are many, in millions. But some, like the administrative secretaries, are already being supported. After the discussion, we shall agree on who we pay a salary to per month.” President Museveni, however, emphasized that salaries alone would not be a sustainable method of supporting NRM grassroots leaders. Instead, he proposed wealth creation programs as a more effective and long-term solution for empowering the majority of the party’s leaders. He referenced the Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) initiative, which he launched years ago in the Luweero Triangle together with Gen. Salim Saleh. Through that program, households of former fighters were initially supplied with seedlings such as coffee, before the initiative expanded to the wider population. “What was done in Luweero can be done for all NRM leaders and then supporters,” President Museveni emphasized. In addition, he noted that under the Parish Development Model (PDM), the government was now adding Shs 15 million per parish specifically for local leadership, a move he said would further stimulate income generation and community-driven development. “The best way is to help families to have their own income to support themselves and the party, where needed,” he said, drawing contrasts with historical political formations in Uganda, where he rejected the idea of compelling party members to pay subscription fees, as was common in older parties such as the UPC and DP. “How can you ask poor people to contribute?” he asked. “It should be the other way round—where the party supports its members, families, and other Ugandans, who would in turn voluntarily contribute to the party if they have extra money.” The NRM’s Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Among praised President Museveni for restoring peace to the region. “You would sleep one week on the road because of insecurity caused by Kony–Lakwena rebels,” she said. “But we want to thank you for sacrificing yourself and bringing peace.” Rt. Hon. Among also introduced the massive gathering of 15,000 leaders from the ten districts of Lango—Apac, Kole, Otuke, Alebtong, Kwania, Oyam, Amolatar, Dokolo, Lira, and Lira City. She applauded President Museveni for increasing LC1 chairpersons’ pay from Shs 10,000 to Shs 100,000 and requested that they be made ex-officio members of district councils so they can directly monitor government programs. “People keep saying, ‘Don’t vote for President Museveni.’ Do you own the voters?” She challenged critics. “This country belongs to all of us. For me, I can assure you, we are going to deliver.” Rt. Hon. Among emphasized that candidate Museveni’s trust in Lango, is reflected through key ministerial appointments from the region, including the Ministers of Health, Gender, and the Government Chief Whip. Hon. Obua, who earlier welcomed President Museveni to what he termed a historic gathering, said no similar meeting of such magnitude had ever been held in the history of NRM. He urged the President to replicate the same model in Acholi and West Nile, arguing that such engagements energize grassroots structures. Hon. Obua outlined President Museveni’s achievements in the region, including, establishment of Lira University, the upgrading of Lira Hospital to a Regional Referral Hospital (RRH), the development of Akii Bua Stadium, and the progress on four strategic road projects, including the Dokolo–Kaberamaido–Namasale and Abuke–Bobi roads. After the Lira meeting, the President is scheduled to resume his campaign itinerary on Monday, December 8, 2025, with visits to Kamwenge and Kyegegwa districts.

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06 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI WOOS KABAROLE AND FORT PORTAL VOTERS, PLEDGES MORE DEVELOPMENT NEXT TERM IN OFFICE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni this afternoon held his campaign rally at St. Leo’s Kyegobe Playground in Fort Portal City, addressing both Kabarole District and Fort Portal City residents. President Museveni reiterated the NRM’s core contributions to Uganda, beginning with peace. He noted that communities in the Rwenzori sub region understand the value of peace because of the instability in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo. President Museveni emphasised that stability was achieved because the NRM rejected politics of sectarianism based on religion, tribe and gender, enabling the government to build strong national institutions such as the army, police and judiciary. On development, the President explained that it consists of economic infrastructure like roads, electricity, telecommunications and railway. He highlighted the road network in the region, noting that when the NRM came into government, tarmac roads stopped in Mityana. The NRM extended the Mityana–Mubende–Fort Portal road and constructed several others, boosting socio-economic transformation. He assured the public that road works—both tarmac and marrum would continue. President Museveni, however, expressed concern about the poor maintenance of marrum roads, despite the government sending funds, saying some sub-counties either lack adequate resources or mismanage what is allocated. He assured residents that the government will investigate and resolve the issue. President Museveni further revisited the teachers’ recent demands for salary increments, saying the government had prioritised critical investments such as roads and defence. He explained that soldiers still live in grass-thatched houses because the government prioritised security over accommodation, which enabled Uganda’s stability. Speaking on the third NRM contribution—wealth creation—the President gave the example of Tumusime Deziranta of Rubirizi, who lived near a tarmac road for 64 years but remained poor, illustrating that development alone does not create individual wealth. He emphasised the need to separate wealth creation (personal) from development (public). He reminded residents of the 1996 four-acre model for small landholders, encouraging mixed enterprises such as coffee, fruits, pasture, food crops, poultry, piggery and fish farming for those near wetlands. He highlighted the Minister of State for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama as a successful example of the four-acre model and announced that the government will create a revolving fund to help farmers acquire fertilisers for better yields. The President reported that Uganda’s coffee production has grown to 9 million bags annually, showing that both individuals and the nation are becoming richer. He also underscored NRM’s fourth contribution—job creation—saying that jobs come from commercial agriculture, factories, services and ICT. President Museveni welcomed requests for an industrial park in Fort Portal and revealed that the government has already secured 10 square miles in Kyaka for the park. He encouraged urban dwellers and those not interested in agriculture to embrace skilling programmes to fight poverty and create employment. The Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson of the NRM, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among thanked the President for giving Fort Portal a city status. She also appealed to the people of Fort Portal and Kabarole to vote for President Museveni and other NRM flagbearers. Kabarole District NRM Chairperson, Hon. Victoria Businge Rusoke, thanked the President for the peace ushered in by the NRM, which has enabled development across the region. She also appreciated the granting of city status to Fort Portal and the establishment of Mountains of the Moon University serving nine districts. She pledged 99% support for the President in the forthcoming elections. Fort Portal City NRM Chairperson, Mrs. Claire Kasande, hailed the President for the development registered in the area, across sectors such as education, health, water, electricity and others.

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06 December 2025

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE MUNYAGWA’S FATHER THROWS WEIGHT BEHIND PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS

Hajji Bruhan Sserunga, a veteran community leader and father of Hon. Mubarak Munyagwa, the presidential candidate for the Common Man’s Party, has publicly hailed President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his exceptional leadership, sending a strong message of respect and confidence ahead of the elections. Speaking to thousands of President Museveni’s supporters during a campaign rally at Kayombo Primary School in Kitagwenda today, Mzee Sserunga declared, “I am a civilian veteran. I helped the NRA war people by offering shelter. I have seen where this country has come from and where it is going. I hail President Museveni for his good and wise leadership.” He also praised the President’s vision for peace, development, and wealth creation, highlighting how the community has benefited from the government’s various development programs. Mzee Sserunga further requested the people of Kitagwenda to overwhelmingly vote for President Museveni for another term in office for more development. President Museveni, visibly moved, commended Mzee Sserunga for his lifelong service to the nation, saying his counsel and support have been invaluable to the local communities. “I thank God for enabling me to meet my veteran comrade Mzee Bruhan Sserunga, the father of Munyagwa, who understands the challenges of our fishing communities, I will engage him further,” he said. On the other hand, President Museveni hailed Kitagwenda farmers for engaging into the money economy, something that he has emphasized since the 1960s. “I thank the farmers in Kitagwenda. I have been informed that 60% of the homes are already engaged in the money economy, this is good news, it is something that we have been talking about since the 1960s, wealth creation at the household level is key for you as an individual,” he said. The President highlighted the distinction between development and wealth, noting that while development benefits the entire community, wealth creation is an individual, family, or company-based endeavor. “Many people confuse development and wealth. Development is for all, but wealth is personal. In Banyankole, when one is blessing another, they say, kazaare, katungye ente no tookye, they don’t say katungye tarmac,” he explained. He emphasized that despite the presence of long-standing infrastructure, such as tarmac roads, some people remain poor. “Yes, development is key, but wealth at a household level is something that shouldn’t be taken for granted,” President Museveni said. On peace and security, the President expressed gratitude to the Local Defence Units (LDU) for supporting the army in defeating the ADF rebels. “The people of Kitagwenda are neighbors to Congo; you are witnesses that without peace, people die, property is destroyed, and lives are ruined. The NRM has refused war,” he noted. The President also pledged that the government is going to work on the Ibanda–Kagongo–Kabujogera–Kamwenge road. “We have secured a loan for this project,” he said, adding that some infrastructural delays are due to prioritization, as the army often focuses first on security and equipment. Turning to wealth creation, President Museveni praised individuals practicing practical farming. He highlighted Mr. George Matongo, a local farmer who transitioned from subsistence farming to earning income through modern commercial agriculture. “If you don’t have income in your homes, you are causing problems for your family but also for your country because the government gets taxes from what you buy. When you have no money, you are not contributing to your family or your nation,” he stressed. President Museveni also pledged to set up a coffee factory to support farmers in the district. On job creation, the President said, “Government jobs are only 480,000. Factories alone have created 1.3 million jobs. I really feel sorry for Africa when people call themselves leaders by just talking. When you produce a good, who buys it? The internal market is not enough. That’s why the NRM says: let’s have Uganda unite maximally. When I produce milk in Mbarara, I am happy when the people of Arua buy it. We need a broader market, Uganda, East Africa, and Africa.” President Museveni also highlighted success stories from the Presidential Skilling Hubs. He shared the story of Ninsiima Moria from Kitagwenda District, who dropped out in Primary Three but later joined the Kyenjojo Presidential Skilling Hub. “I studied hairdressing and mindset change for six months free of charge. Everything such as food, accommodation, and medicine was provided,” Ninsiima said. “After training, I started my own salon and now I employ two workers. I also train students and earn an income every weekend. I have 20 hens and a coffee plantation.” The President praised Ninsiima, noting that she is now skilled, a wealth creator, and an employer. On her part, the Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson of the NRM, Hon. Anita Annet Among, hailed residents of Kitagwenda for their loyalty to the ruling party and commended them for warmly receiving the President during his visit to the district. Rt. Hon. Among described Kitagwenda as a hard-to-reach area that has historically faced service delivery challenges but credited the President for granting the area district status, saying the move has laid a firm foundation for accelerated development. She praised the President for his continued support to farmers, noting that Kitagwenda is predominantly a coffee-growing district whose farmers rely heavily on access to quality seedlings and sustained government backing to improve productivity and incomes. The Speaker also commended the government for investing in water infrastructure, citing the Kanara Gravity Water System, which cost Shs375 million and is now serving more than 1,600 farmers, significantly easing access to clean water for both domestic use and agricultural activities. On health services, Rt. Hon. Among backed the request raised by the district leadership, confirming that Ntara Health Centre IV will be upgraded to a district general hospital, a development she said will improve access to specialised healthcare and reduce referrals outside the district. Regarding infrastructure, she informed residents that the Ibanda–Kagongo–Kabujogera–Kamwenge road has already been approved for construction, and assured them that works will commence soon. Rt. Hon. Among reaffirmed President Museveni’s commitment to youth empowerment, describing him as a leader who consistently prioritises young people through targeted programs aimed at employment creation and wealth generation. She concluded by urging unity within the NRM, stressing that party cohesion remains central to sustaining peace and accelerating development across communities. The NRM Chairperson for Kitagwenda District, Mr. Nathan Masana lauded President Museveni for maintaining peace and rolling out government programs that are transforming livelihoods, particularly among the youth, women and the elderly. Mr. Masana noted that Kitagwenda is a young district, having been carved out of Kamwenge in 2018 and beginning full operations in 2019. Despite its youthful status, he said the district has registered steady progress anchored on stability and targeted government interventions. He particularly appreciated the Emyooga programme and the Parish Development Model (PDM), which he said are steadily integrating households into the money economy. Kitagwenda District, Mr. Masana reported, is administratively composed of 13 sub-counties and town councils, 55 parishes and 356 villages, with a population of 184,947 people, according to the 2024 National Population Census. On wealth creation, he revealed that the district’s 55 parishes have cumulatively received Shs16.89 billion under the PDM, with 99.91 percent of the funds already disbursed to 16,875 beneficiary households. Mr. Masana further informed the President that Kitagwenda has 18 Emyooga SACCOs with 12,543 members, which have so far received Shs960 million in government support. In the education sector, he noted that the district has 68 government and 88 private primary schools, as well as seven government and 13 private secondary schools. Six government secondary schools offer Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-O-Level Education and Training, with a combined enrollment of 32,703 learners. However, he pointed out gaps in access, noting that 23 parishes still lack a government primary school, while seven out of the 13 sub-counties do not have a government secondary school. Health service delivery, Mr. Masana said, remains a key challenge. Of the 13 sub-counties, only one has a Health Centre IV and four have Health Centre IIIs, leaving eight sub-counties without any health facility of that level. He therefore appealed for the upgrade of Ntara HCIV to a general hospital and the elevation of several Health Centre IIs to Health Centre IIIs, alongside the construction of new Health Centre IIIs in Ntara Town Council, Kicheche, Ruhunga and Mahyoro sub-counties. On water and sanitation, Mr. Masana reported that 62 percent of villages have access to safe water, leaving 37.9 percent still unserved. He highlighted major achievements, including the rehabilitation and expansion of gravity flow schemes, construction of piped water systems serving thousands of residents, solar-powered water projects, drilling of boreholes and construction of public latrines. He said government plans are underway to close the remaining gap through solar-powered mini water schemes, rehabilitation of existing sources, and targeted investments aimed at achieving universal safe water coverage within the next two years. In agriculture, Mr. Masana cited successful solar-powered irrigation systems in Ntutu and Kyendangara sub-counties, which are boosting coffee production and generating millions of shillings in annual income for farmers. On infrastructure, he welcomed the connection of Kitagwenda to the national electricity grid, noting that eight sub-counties are already connected, with the government pledging to extend power to the remaining sub-counties in the next term. He further appealed for the construction of the Ibanda–Kagongo–Kabujogera–Kamwenge road, describing it as a vital link for trade, service delivery and regional integration. Mr. Masana concluded by expressing gratitude to the President for peace and steady development, pledging continued support for the NRM and government programs aimed at transforming the lives of ordinary Ugandans. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

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05 December 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES SWIFT ACTION FOR 9,000 NTOROKO FLOOD VICTIMS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, has today announced firm government action to resolve the plight of over 9,000 people displaced by floods in Ntoroko District. Addressing thousands of supporters at Karugutu Secondary School, Ntoroko during a campaign rally, the President said he had already instructed his Principal Private Secretary (PPS) to coordinate an immediate response from top government officials. “I have directed the PPS to invite the Prime Minister and the Head of Public Service to come and deal with the issue of the 9,000 flood victims who are stuck here,” the President said. The displaced residents have been living in temporary shelters and IDP camps since 2019, after rising water levels of Lake Albert and the overflowing River Semliki submerged homes, schools and health facilities in Kanara Town Council and Kanara Sub-county. The President assured the community that the situation would be handled urgently. He added that the government would also review the budget for the Semliki Bridge, which remains a concern for residents. On the challenges surrounding access to Parish Development Model (PDM) funds, the President directed the Minister for Local Government, Hon. Raphael Magyezi, together with the PDM Secretariat, to meet affected persons and resolve the issue of expensive processing. Turning to national matters, the President reminded Ugandans that peace remains the foundation of the country’s development. “We have maintained peace under the NRM government. We border Congo, and today we host about 700,000 refugees from there. We are surrounded by wars in Congo, South Sudan and Somalia, but Uganda remains stable,” he said. He highlighted the government's efforts in expanding economic infrastructure like roads, electricity and security and noted that delays in some areas were caused by competing priorities. “We the soldiers have survived all these years on the principle of Kamu Kamu, gwe muganda,” he said. The President further applauded the education strides in Ntoroko District, noting that it now boasts 38 government primary schools, 44 private primary schools, five government secondary schools and nine private secondary schools. “Those who know where we have come from as a nation can testify,” he said. He further announced a series of major health sector upgrades to improve service deliver; upgrade Karugutu HCIV to a General Hospital, upgrade Musandama HCII in Nombe Sub-county to HCIII and construct new HCIIIs in Kibuku Town Council, Karugutu and Rwebisengo Sub-counties. The President noted that out of the 10 sub-counties in Ntoroko, four; Karugutu, Rwebisengo, Nombe and Kibuku still lack a HCIII, HCIV or hospital but said the government is moving to close this gap. Ntoroko District currently has two HCIVs in Ntoroko Constituency, staffed with six doctors and supported by an ambulance at Karugutu HCIV. President Museveni also reaffirmed government commitments to; continue nationwide immunisation programmes, work towards total malaria eradication, use ICT to track medicines and reduce health worker absenteeism and construct staff houses for health workers. The President further thanked the people of Ntoroko for their resilience and support to NRM. He also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Ntoroko District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. The First Daughter, Mrs. Natasha Karugire Museveni representing the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, thanked supporters for turning up in large numbers. “Thank you for coming, I want to thank Mzee. Many young people and I are grateful for your tireless work over the years day after day ensuring the peace of Uganda and our continued advancement and development,” she said. Mrs. Karugire reminded the gathering that the peace the country enjoys today was hard-earned and must be protected. “It is our responsibility to preserve it, and we do that by voting,” she noted. On behalf of the First Lady, Mrs. Karugire noted: “ Maama Janet’s message for 15th January is that each one of us should go out and vote, vote for Mzee, the old man with the hat, and for the NRM. Thank you, and God bless you all.” The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, also the NRM Second National Vice Chairperson praised the President for restoring peace and security in Ntoroko District, saying the area had long suffered insecurity but now enjoys stability under his leadership. “Your Excellency, thank you for the work you have done in this district. This place has faced situations of insecurity, but you have ensured that our people now sleep in their homes and their property is protected,” she said. Rt. Hon. Among reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upgrading the Karugutu road, noting that the funds had been allocated for it, alongside Shs 22 billion that was provided in the supplementary budget for affected persons of the floods. She added that the most urgent priority now is the resettlement of the 9,634 people displaced by the floods, urging that the matter be fast-tracked. “Now that you know the problem, we believe you are going to resolve it,” she said. She also commended the Doctor Dee Project that has been rolled out in Ntoroko—an initiative she said is strengthening services in roads, health, schools, and border-related areas because of the district’s proximity to the DRC. Rt. Hon. Among further noted that the President’s leadership has been consistent and inclusive. “Before I came to western Uganda, I thought you were doing this only in the east and north. Now I know you love the whole of Uganda. You are the leader we are looking for—not one who just comes to try,” she said. “You are our only hope. You brought this country from instability to stability, from no hope to hope. Today, people even have PDM money.” The Ntoroko District NRM Chairperson and State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, highlighted the district’s development profile, noting that Ntoroko has 10 sub-counties and town councils, 46 parishes and 178 villages, with a population of 114,858, according to the 2024 census. He reported strong progress under the Parish Development Model programme. Ntoroko’s PDM SACCOs have so far received Shs 16.7 billion, of which Shs 14.5 billion (86.47%) has been disbursed to 14,509 households—representing 71.89% of the district’s 20,180 households. The district also benefits from 18 Emyooga SACCOs comprising 9,777 members, which have collectively received Shs 760 million. Hon. Mugarra noted that Ntoroko now has a solid education footprint, with 38 government primary schools and 44 private primary schools, spread across 46 parishes. Thirty parishes have at least one government primary school, while 16 still lack one, although some parishes host more than one institution. At the secondary level, the district has 5 government and 9 private secondary schools, with all five government schools offering Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-O-Level Education and Training (UPOLET), serving a combined enrollment of 3,251 students. To address gaps, the district is benefiting from the construction of four Seed Secondary Schools, which will reduce the number of sub-counties without government secondary schools from five to just one. He also highlighted the Ntoroko Presidential Industrial Zonal Skilling Hub, where 937 youth have already been trained, and an additional 240 trainees are currently enrolled. Out of Ntoroko’s 178 villages, 111 now have access to safe water, representing 62.35% coverage. The remaining 67 villages, or 38%, are yet to be served. Completed water interventions include; expansion of piped water systems in Itojo, Rwebisengo–Kanara and Nyakatok, construction of 3 rainwater harvesting facilities , rehabilitation of 12 boreholes across several communities and construction of public sanitation facilities in Rwangara and Itojo. Operational piped water systems now serve tens of thousands. District sanitation interventions also included construction of public latrines, drilling of deep boreholes, spring well rehabilitation, and extension of piped water to underserved villages. Planned projects include expansion of piped water to Kanara and Karugutu sub-counties, solar-powered mini water schemes in flood-prone areas, and strengthening community engagement for sustainability. Under water for production, the district completed the Kiranga Small-Scale Irrigation Scheme, covering 12 acres and benefiting 24 households. The scheme produces 9.2 tonnes of watermelons, tomatoes and onions annually, earning farmers Shs 21.6 million per year. Ntoroko is connected to the national electricity grid. Out of the district’s 10 sub-counties, 7 already have power access. In the next term, the government plans to extend electricity to the remaining three areas; Kanara Sub-county, Kanara Town Council and Bweramule to achieve full district-wide electrification. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

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