News Articles | MINISTRY OF ICT AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE

15 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI URGES YOUTH TO CHAMPION EAST AFRICAN INTEGRATION, WARNS AGAINST WASTING TIME ON RIOTS AND NON-PRODUCTIVE DEBATES

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on Uganda’s youth to dedicate their energy to championing the long-sought political and economic integration of East Africa. Speaking on Friday, November 14, 2025, during a media engagement with journalists in the Bukedi sub-region at the State Lodge in Mbale, President Museveni, who is also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate, outlined the seven core pillars of the NRM’s 2026–2031 manifesto and emphasized the strategic role of regional unity in securing Africa’s future. During the interaction, President Museveni critiqued young people who, in his view, spend too much time engaging in riots or waste energy on radio debates that “do not benefit them.” “Where will you sell what you produce? And if the internal market of Uganda is enough, why would the Chinese, who have a market of 1.4 billion, be looking for markets here? It's really amazing when I see you, fellows, young people, politicians, intellectuals, what are you intellectualizing about? You are not dealing with your future,” the President said. He used Uganda’s dairy production as an example: despite producing 5.3 billion liters of milk annually, the domestic demand stands at only 800 million liters. “We have a surplus of four billion liters. Sometimes Kenya buys, sometimes it doesn’t, then we go to Algeria. And it is the same issue with sugar, maize, cement,” he said. According to the President, such structural imbalances demonstrate why the youth should redirect discussions toward East African market integration rather than “talking about European football” or other non-developmental preoccupations. President Museveni outlined the seven pillars of the NRM manifesto for the next five years. These include: Peace, Development, Wealth creation, Job creation, expanding services, expanding markets, and Political federation of East Africa He emphasized that these points are interconnected, with market expansion and regional political federation acting as the anchors for long-term economic growth. How Will You Survive Without Unity? The President gave a historical analogy, pointing to the 19th-century unification of Germany as a story the youth ought to study. Before 1870, he said, Germans were scattered across 39 kingdoms, making it impossible for them to build a strong capitalist economy. The Franco-Prussian War accelerated unification, creating a stronger and more competitive Germany. “If you have studied European history, you would have known how Germany and Italy united. What was moving them was the issue of the market,” President Museveni said. “A modern economy cannot grow without a market.” He warned that African nations risk stagnation if they continue to operate as small, disjointed units in a world dominated by technological powerhouses. Drawing a dramatic comparison, he said: “Are you going to survive in this world, or will you just disappear like the Red Indians?” President Museveni lamented that while other nations are advancing in space exploration, Africa remains distracted. “People have gone to the moon; they are looking at us from there. We are like insects that eat sugar. How can you, professors, allow such a gap to occur?” he wondered. Push for East African Federation: The NRM candidate also emphasised the need to intensify efforts toward the East African political federation. While acknowledging that the current East African Community (EAC) market operates “sometimes well, sometimes not,” he said the long-term solution lies in formal political integration. According to President Museveni, a united East Africa would possess a strong defense system, technological capacity, and the economic muscle required to compete on the global stage. “East Africa can have a strong capacity, go to the moon, send a satellite, and ask the Americans: what are you doing here? The moon is a common property,” he said humorously. He urged journalists to use their platforms to sustain conversations on integration, arguing that radio talk shows and local media should not ignore issues that determine “the destiny of Africans.” President Museveni, who is also the NRM National chairman, addressed the contentious issue of party members who lost in party primaries and are running as independent candidates. He noted that during the constitution-making debates, there were proposals to outlaw independents. However, this position was rejected because primaries can sometimes be flawed. “For now, it may not be correct to ban independents because primaries sometimes make mistakes,” he said, advocating for political dialogue and persuasion to unify support behind the party’s flag bearers. President Museveni stressed that ideological alignment, not personal ambition, should guide political competition. “Conflicts arise when people prioritize positions over principles. If we all believe in the same thing, why fight each other? Conflicts come because people are talking about themselves,” he said. On the subject of national wealth creation, President Museveni maintained that it is only the NRM government that has created direct funding programs to lift citizens out of poverty. He pointed to initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), which he said is already transforming households across the country. “I heard a rumor that journalists are researchers. Go and check if any Ugandan government has ever given its people money as a wealth creation fund,” he challenged reporters. Infrastructure First, Salaries Later: Addressing concerns about public service salaries, the President acknowledged the issue but defended the government’s prioritization of strategic infrastructure projects. These, he argued, create long-term economic opportunities and jobs, whereas salaries are recurrent expenditures. “We prioritized infrastructure over salaries because infrastructure creates opportunities for more jobs,” he stated. Nonetheless, he assured workers that salary enhancements remain on the agenda and will be addressed. The media engagement was attended by senior NRM figures, including the Second National Vice Chairperson of the party, who also serves as Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Annet Anita Among; the NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, Dr. Tanga Odoi; and the NRM Director for Communications, Hon. Emmanuel Dombo.

15 November 2025

BUGIRI: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI KICKS-OFF CAMPAIGN TRAIL IN BUSOGA, HIGHLIGHTS DEVELOPMENT PLANS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, has today officially kicked off his campaign trail in the Busoga sub-region starting with Bugiri District. He was accompanied by the First National Vice Chairman of the NRM, Alhaji Moses Kigongo and other top party leaders. Addressing thousands of supporters, President Museveni called on the residents of Bugiri to renew their trust in NRM by voting for him and other party candidates in the forthcoming general elections. He said the NRM’s long-standing record on unity, peace and national development sets it apart from other political formations. “I am here, together with other leaders, to ask you to support the NRM. We are a national party with a proven record. From the beginning, we rejected the sectarian politics that divided Uganda in the 1960s. We believe everyone is valuable and that is why Uganda is stable today,” he said. The President outlined the government’s infrastructure achievements in Busoga, noting that the region has received a significant share of national development efforts. “If you audit Busoga, you will see the development,” he said. He highlighted the reconstruction of major highways including Jinja–Kampala, Jinja–Tororo and other regional roads. New tarmac roads, he said, have been added, such as Iganga–Kaliro and Busita–Namayingo. President Museveni further assured the citizens that more key roads are lined for construction, including; Jinja–Kamuli–Mbulamuti, Iganga–Kiyunga–Kamuli as well as roads within Bugiri district, including Bugiri–Namayingo, among others. On water access, the President explained that the geology of Lake Victoria basin makes boreholes unfeasible. “Our plan is to pump water directly from Lake Victoria to the higher areas, just like we did in Lira where we pumped from Kachung, 21 miles away,” he noted. “We are already supplying Kampala from Katosi. We shall do the same here so that the people of Bugiri get a reliable water supply.” On education, President Museveni expressed concern about inequitable distribution of schools in Bugiri. Bugiri District and Bugiri Municipality have 149 government primary schools, However, out of the district’s 102 parishes, 44 parishes still lack a government primary school. “This must stop, we need to look into this issue of distribution seriously. I appeal to the NRM district chairperson, the RDC, DEOs to take it up. Let us ensure that every parish has a government primary school but not finding one parish with more schools yet there are those without any,” he said. At the secondary level, Bugiri has 20 sub-counties, but only nine have government secondary schools. To close this gap, he announced that three new seed secondary schools will be constructed under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UgIFT) program and the Uganda Secondary Education Expansion Project (USEEP). “Our target is simple: every sub-county must have a secondary school, and every parish must have a government primary school,” he said. The President also emphasized that wealth creation remains a core pillar of the NRM. “Some people confuse development with wealth. Kampala has development, but some people in the ghettos are still poor. Wealth is created in four sectors: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT,” he said. He reiterated the long-standing four-acre model introduced in the 1996 manifesto and cited success stories even in remote areas like Karamoja. To accelerate household incomes, he said the government will continue injecting money through the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga and new targeted funds for youth groups, ghetto communities, boda bodas, unemployed university graduates, religious and cultural leaders. The President also addressed misconceptions about job creation. “Government jobs are 480,000, yet we have 50 million Ugandans. Real jobs come from wealth from factories, commercial agriculture, services and ICT. The factories alone now employ 1.3 million Ugandans, three times more than the government.” On the other hand, President Museveni re-echoed his frustrations with the resistance against free education. “We introduced free education in 1996 because we knew school fees would block many children, but some head teachers and PTAs refused to implement it. That’s why I started the Presidential Skilling Hubs,” he said. President Museveni said the skilling hubs have already transformed young people who would otherwise be left behind. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Bugiri District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. On his part, Alhaji Kigongo thanked the people of Bugiri for supporting President Museveni and the NRM. “We request your votes for the President. Once we are united, we can settle all issues. On voting day, go out and support our chairman,” he appealed. Hon. Calvin Echodu, the NRM vice chairperson, Eastern Region said: “Your Excellency, you are no stranger to Busoga. The numbers here justify the strong support for you. We congratulate you on completing the Bukedi sub-region. Thank you, Busoga.” Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and Minister for East African Community Affairs, also welcomed the President, urging focus on industrial and tourism development in the region. “Your Excellency, we need safe water in Busoga, an issue that has been affecting our people. We also want to look forward to boosting tourism and creating more opportunities for our people.” Hon. Solomon Silwany, the NRM chairperson for Bugiri district thanked the President for his wise leadership that has brought development and elevated the livelihoods of the people in Busoga. NRM impact in Bugiri: Bugiri District has made notable strides in education, healthcare, water access, and environmental management, reflecting the government’s continued commitment to regional development. Bugiri District and municipality have a total of 149 primary schools serving 105,224 children. Of the district’s 102 parishes, 58 have at least one government primary school, leaving 44 parishes still without a primary school. At the secondary level, the district has 9 government secondary schools enrolling 10,699 students, and the Municipality has 1 school with 1,876 students. Plans are underway to construct three new secondary schools under the UgIFT and USEEP programs. Once completed, the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school will drop from 11 to 8. Busoga’s Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub, located in Jinja District, has trained 961 students in skills such as welding, carpentry, building construction, tailoring, bakery, hairdressing, and leather design, with 240 currently undergoing training. Bugiri District’s health infrastructure comprises 1 hospital, 1 HCIV, and 11 HCIIIs, with 7 sub-counties still lacking a health facility of HCIII level or above. Plans are underway to upgrade Bugoyozi HCII to HCIII in Namayemba T/C, Busowa HCII to HCIII, Wagobo HCII to HCIII, Budhava HCII to HCIII, and to construct new HCIIIs in Buwumi TC, Muwayo TC, and Muterere S/C. In the rural areas, 335 out of 498 villages (67%) have access to safe water, leaving 163 villages (32%) without safe water. Urban water projects completed include the Bugiri Town Council supply serving 54,970 people, Buwuni TC benefiting 11,680 residents, and Nankoma supply reaching 21,563 residents. Future projects include the Namayemba piped water and sanitation system, while farmer support projects continue through Lwembe to promote water for production. Bugiri District covers 22,760 hectares of wetland, of which 16,020 hectares (70.4%) have been degraded, leaving only 6,740 hectares (29.6%) intact. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

15 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI REASSURES TORORO RESIDENTS ON NEW DISTRICTS, PROMISES MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reassured the people of Tororo that the government has completed its part in resolving the long-standing administrative and district boundary questions raised by Tororo leaders. Recently, the government resolved to elevate Tororo Municipality to city status, making it a neutral administrative unit and creating three new districts from the current Tororo District to accommodate the different communities. The districts include Mukuju, Mulanda and Kisoko. While addressing a massive campaign rally at Lions Park today, the President said he would “check with the Attorney General” to ensure the final legal steps are completed, adding that the concerns brought forward by Tororo leaders “were finished on our side.” The reassurance formed the backbone of the President’s wide-ranging address, in which he also detailed the NRM’s infrastructure plans for the next term. He said the 2026–2031 manifesto focuses on completing Uganda’s backbone infrastructure—roads, electricity, water systems, and health facilities—and enabling every household to generate wealth. He announced government funding for the Tororo– Nagongela– Kisoko– Busulwe–Busaba road and said works on the Busia–Tororo road were ongoing. “These roads support production,” he said, emphasising that movement, trade, and market access depend on the economic infrastructure NRM has built. The President also outlined a sweeping health sector upgrade for Tororo District, including the elevation of Malaba, Lyolwa and Paaya HCIIIs to HCIVs, and the upgrading of 19 HCII facilities across the district. He said this would eliminate the 16 sub-counties currently without government health centres. In education, President Museveni criticised the persistence of school fees in government schools, warning that fees remain a national barrier despite huge investments in school infrastructure. He called for internal NRM discussions on implementing free education, arguing that thousands of children still drop out because of fees challenges. “School fees are a danger. The future of these children is being destroyed.” President Museveni said Uganda’s progress is attributed to the peace NRM established, which laid the foundation for development and wealth creation—principles he said remain central to the 2026–2031 manifesto. The NRM Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Among said she would ensure the district-related directives are implemented. The NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, Hon. Calvin Echodu thanked the residents of Tororo for braving the rain to attend the campaign rally in big numbers. The NRM Tororo District Chairperson, Hon. Yeri Apollo Ofwono thanked the President for creating Mukuju, Mulanda and Kisoko districts, and for granting Tororo city status.

14 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PROMISES ROAD UPGRADES IN BUTALEJA, COMMENDS DEVELOPMENT PROGRESS IN THE DISTRICT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the NRM Presidential flag bearer, has today promised to tarmac major roads in Butaleja District, as he addressed thousands of supporters at Booma Grounds during a campaign rally. President Museveni highlighted the Nabumali–Butaleja–Namutumba Road and the Tororo–Nagongera–Busolwe Road as key projects that had been delayed. “Now we have secured the funds, and the contractor has already been identified. These roads would have been completed earlier if priorities were handled properly. Let’s learn how to plan and execute effectively,” he said. The President attributed past delays to poor budgeting and overloading of projects. “When people bring too many things into the budget at the same time, important projects get scattered. Members of Parliament and the population must understand that you cannot pursue everything at once,” he emphasized. Reflecting on the district’s turbulent past, he noted: “The elders here witnessed the challenges of cattle rustling, rebel activity, and instability. Otherwise, these roads could have been done long ago.” President Museveni lauded Butaleja’s progress across multiple sectors, noting that the district is doing well on water, whereby out of 443 villages, 418 now have access to safe water, that is 94% with 25 remaining. On Irrigation, he said: “I can see irrigation schemes in Doho and Walala. That is good, as they take water from the river and irrigate their crops. Those growing in the swamp will require further discussion.” He noted that all the sub-counties have been electrified apart from the sub-county headquarters, which he said will also be connected. On health, he said: “For the 15 sub-counties here, one has a covenant district hospital, one has a Health Centre IV, and 11 have Health Centre IIIs. Only two sub-counties lack Health Centre IIIs.” On agriculture, President Museveni praised locals for embracing irrigation techniques for rice cultivation. “Rice grown under irrigation yields Sh7m. per acre before costs, and Sh5m after costs. This is the productive rice, not the one growing in the swamp,” he said. He also reiterated his vision for diversified farming in the district, outlining seven key activities: one acre for coffee, one acre for fruit, third acre for pasture with zero-grazing cows, and the fourth acre for family food, poultry in the backyard, piggery , and fish farming near wetlands. “These activities provide both income and food security. People who have interpreted our message are now doing well,” the President added. President Museveni concluded by encouraging the people of Butaleja to continue building on these achievements, emphasizing that infrastructure, agriculture, and proper planning are central to sustainable development. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Butaleja District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, Speaker of Parliament and NRM second vice-chairperson, recounted her experience during the past conflicts. “We left Bukedea and came to Butaleja to help refugees. Your Excellency, we are grateful for the Budumba Bridge, which is now under construction.” She also requested that Butaleja be included in the restocking program to support livestock recovery in areas affected by cattle rustling. Mr. Moses Pabire, Butaleja District NRM Chairperson, highlighted the community’s strong NRM support. “After serving in the youth league, the revolutionary members of the party elevated me to NRM chairperson. It is my singular honor to welcome our Excellency to Butaleja, the land of rice, which has flourished under your leadership. NRM impact in Butaleja: The district has 102 government primary schools and 70 private primary schools, 13 government secondary schools and 22 private secondary schools. All government secondary schools provide Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-Ordinary Level Education and Training. The construction of two Seed Secondary Schools will reduce the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school from six to four. Butaleja has embraced irrigation schemes, with Doho covering 2,760 acres and Wapala 253 acres, benefiting over 3,500 households. Rice grown under irrigation is particularly productive, yielding significant income per acre. The district also benefits from the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga SACCOs; Out of 65,776 households, 23,285 (35.4%) have received PDM funds totaling Shs. 23.28bn. Butaleja has 35 Emyooga SACCOs with 13,619 members, receiving Shs.1.23bn in government support. Butaleja has 15 sub-counties/town councils, 76 parishes, and 443 villages, with a population of 312,771 according to the 2024 census. The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

14 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ATTENDS PASTOR ROBERT KAYANJA'S COMMAND THE FUTURE CONFERENCE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, today joined thousands of believers for the Command the Future Conference at Miracle Centre Cathedral, Rubaga. The conference, which began on 12th November 2025 brought together Christian leaders, delegates and international speakers including Dr. Paula White who is the Guest of Honor from the United States of America, and it focuses on faith, leadership and wealth creation. In his speech, President Museveni revealed that they attended the conference to glorify God for what He has done for Uganda, the Church and the other faiths. He reflected on his early involvement in Scripture Union in the 1960s, noting that Biblical grounding guided him in his leadership journey. “What Robert Kayanja is saying is because I had also been very active with Scripture union in the 1960s, and I would have been a Bishop if I had not gone through other things,” he said. President Museveni noted that reading the Bible provided guidance that has helped in shaping his leadership. “Because I read the Bible, I was guided in a number of areas which has helped me to do the work of leadership in many areas.” The President recalled past debates about banning churches and explained that his decision was informed by scripture. “People wanted to ban you,” I said but why? “I said no.” I remembered in the Bible, when people came to Jesus and said that some people are pretending to cast out demons like you, should we stop them? Jesus said, ‘Do not stop them. If they are not against us, they are with us.’ President Museveni added that his major concern was for the Born-again churches to abide by the law. “It is not my job to know who is right or who is not. My only concern is that they do not break the law. The rest is for God to judge,” he said. He added that leaders should recognise that God ultimately deals with anyone who deceives His people. President Museveni also commended the wealth creation by different pastors, noting that work is a biblical principle. “We were still there, and I heard that Kayanja and others are creating wealth and I said, oh Kayanja and his group have started moving in the movement of Jesus. “This is because Jesus preached the gospel, healed the sick, fed the hungry but He also worked in Joseph’s carpentry.” President Museveni called upon the believers to work hard, giving an example of the Puritans who fled from Europe to the USA but helped it prosper. “The Christians who built America were called the Puritans, worked hard and created prosperity. Christians build nations,” he said. This United States which you hear about, their prosperity was built by Christians called Puritans who landed in America in 1623,” he said. “The Puritans had fled from Europe where there was a lot of prejudice and favoritism, more less of what Jesus was fighting in the Bible,” he added, calling upon believers not to be hypocrites. In his concluding remarks, he urged believers to influence society through their deeds. “Christians should change others by what they do. The Bible says, Let your light shine before men so that people see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven,” he remarked. On his part, Pastor Robert Kayanja, the lead preacher at Miracle Centre Cathedral, Rubaga, thanked the President for the peace and freedom of worship enjoyed in the country. “Your Excellency, you are not just a leader, you are a father. In 1986 when you had just come from the bush, security forces did not want us to use this place, but you said, ‘Let them worship.’ Because of that decision, we are now seven million,” Pastor Kayanja said. He added that the growth of Miracle Centre Cathedral and its ministries was made possible by the environment of stability. “God has changed our lives. All these pastors from different nations are here because you have provided peace and security. If anyone is to bear witness, it is the Miracle Centre. We were once under kiwempe, but God has chased poverty and brought blessings.” Pastor Kayanja also assured the President of the church’s prayers and ongoing contribution to national development. “You came and commissioned our old church. We shall continue praying for you, and God will do as He wishes,” he stated. “We have also begun what we call faith diplomacy because we want to help shape the future of our nation.” About the Conference: The Command the Future Conference (12th–16th November) is an international Christian gathering focused on: • Faith-driven leadership • Wealth creation and economic empowerment • Spiritual renewal and national transformation This year’s conference has attracted thousands of local and international delegates, underscoring Uganda’s freedom of worship and its growing role globally.

13 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR INCLUSIVE TRANSFORMATION AS HE RALLIES VOTERS IN KIBUKU

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on Ugandans to consolidate the peace and stability achieved under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) by embracing wealth creation and supporting government programmes that ensure inclusive development. Speaking during his campaign rally at Kibuku Primary School in Kibuku Town Council, Kibuku District today, the President said the transformation of Uganda depends on the unity between government efforts in infrastructure development and individual efforts in wealth creation. The NRM Presidential flagbearer reminded the people of Kibuku that the party’s first and most significant contribution to Uganda has been peace, which has laid the foundation for all other progress. “The first contribution is peace. We have been able to defeat cattle rustling and other wars, and that’s why there is peace in the whole of Uganda,” he said. President Museveni said peace has enabled the government to expand economic and social infrastructure, including roads, electricity, schools and hospitals, thus bringing services closer to the people. “Economic infrastructure includes roads, electricity and telephones, while social infrastructure includes schools and hospitals,” he said. The President explained that the government's plan is to ensure that every parish has a primary school and every sub-county has a secondary school so that no child is left behind. Regarding the health sector, he said efforts are underway to ensure that no sub-county remains without a government health facility. “Here in Kibuku, our plan is to upgrade Nabiswa, Kituti and Nakodo Health Centres from HCII to HCIII,” he said. “We are also upgrading Dodoi, Kenkebu, Nandere, Kalampete, Nankodo and Moru health centres. The district already has one Health Centre IV with doctors, and thirteen sub-counties have HCIIIs, but we must cover all of them. That is part of development.” President Museveni said such investments are meant to complement individual efforts, because the government can build hospitals and schools, but families must create their own wealth. “Development is good, but wealth is important because it is individual,” he said. “You can have development and people still remain poor. That’s why since 1996 we have been promoting the four-acre model—one acre for coffee, one for fruits, one for pasture and one for food for the family. In the backyard you can keep poultry or pigs, and those near swamps can do fish farming.” The President urged local leaders under the Parish Development Model to ensure that all households join the money economy, warning that poverty cannot be eradicated by handouts but by production and enterprise. “I want you to check how many people in your parish are still working for the stomach only. I want everyone to join the money economy,” he said. He also emphasized that jobs arise from wealth creation and productivity, not from government employment alone. “As I speak today, factories have employed 1.3 million people,” he said. “NRM is telling Ugandans to wake up—jobs come from wealth, from individual wealth, family wealth, from company wealth, services like hotels and transport and factories.” On education, the President reminded the people that free education in government schools started in 1996 but was being sabotaged by some head teachers who charge illegal fees. He said he established Presidential Skilling Hubs across the country to give young people practical skills that enable them to earn a living. “School fees are killing the future of many children in Uganda. One of the girls told me she was thinking of killing herself, but when she joined the skilling hub, she got hope. In six months, they are producing items we used to import from China,” he said. “I want the NRM to discuss free education after the elections so we can strengthen it further.” The President concluded by summarizing the NRM’s message as a vision for peace, development, wealth creation, jobs and free education—pillars he said must move together for Uganda’s continued transformation. The Second National Vice Chairperson of the NRM, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, rallied the people of Kibuku to vote for President Museveni and all NRM flag bearers, while the NRM District Chairperson, Hajji Shalif Ssebakaki, thanked the President for establishing the Presidential Skilling Hub, which has empowered youth in the district, and requested for its expansion to accommodate more learners.

13 November 2025

COL. NAKALEMA REASSURES INVESTORS OF UGANDA’S COMMITMENT TO SUPPORT AND PROTECT THEIR INVESTMENTS

The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema has reassured investors of Uganda’s commitment to supporting and protecting their investments in the East African country. “Collaborating with government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to maintain investor confidence levels in Uganda at an all-time high is the raison d'etre of SHIPU. This move was and still is the President’s reassurance to investors,” she said. Col. Nakalema made the remarks today while meeting with the members of the Netherlands - Uganda Trade and Investment Platform (NUTIP) at SHIPU offices in Kampala. NUTIP is a Ugandan association that harnesses the economic power of cooperation between Dutch and Ugandan entrepreneurs. The meeting was attended by key MDAs including Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Uganda Investment Authority, Uganda Revenue Authority, Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and it aimed at reassuring NUTIP of the government's commitment to supporting their investment decision and to address the areas of interest raised by the association. Col. Nakalema informed the investors that by investing in Uganda, they chose the best investment destination. “Uganda was consistently named Africa’s top investment destination by AIM UAE in both 2023 and 2024 and also won the investment catalyst award at the Go Global Awards in 2023 by the International Trade Council,” she said. She further assured them that all their challenges will be addressed in order to create a more thriving investment climate in Uganda. In the same meeting, Col. Nakalema also appreciated the relentless effort by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands in promoting modern agricultural practices through the “Best Farmers” annual bank-sponsored agribusiness study tour to the Netherlands which has been running for over a decade. “I'm aware that the Netherlands has years of experience in agriculture and its location at the mouth of two large rivers that flow through some of the most productive areas in Europe makes it well-endowed to stand out as an agricultural giant. It is only sensible that Uganda, as an agricultural economy, would seriously consider partnerships in order to gain from the opportunities to commercialize agriculture here.” The Deputy Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Uganda, H.E Bouwe-Jan Smeding thanked Col. Nakalema for organising the meeting, saying that such engagements are key in negotiating and solving challenges affecting the investors. “Businesses will only thrive if stakeholders know how things are done,” he said. “Despite the conducive investment climate, there are always challenges faced by businesspeople like disputes and such challenges threaten people from investing in the country.” Mr. Smeding also underscored the Netherlands’ contribution to the economic development of Uganda. “The Kingdom of the Netherlands is the biggest source of Foreign Direct Investment in Uganda,” he said. The Director of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Mr. Moses Kaggwa assured investors that Uganda’s economy is growing steadily. “It's good to be in Uganda at this time when we are seeing the takeoff of this country,” he said. Mr. Kaggwa added that Uganda is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and the country is moving towards lower middle-income status. “We have also managed to keep our inflation under control, below 4 percent,” he said. Mr. Kaggwa further revealed that the government has an ambitious plan known as tenfold growth strategy which aims to increase the country’s GDP from USD62 billion to USD 500 billion by 2040. Additionally, Mr. Kaggwa reaffirmed to the investors that Uganda is ready for business and where things are not moving on well, the government is also ready to adjust. On behalf of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Mr. Cleopas Ndorere, Commissioner in Charge of External Trade, said they are ready to give all the necessary support to make trade possible among businesspeople in Uganda. “We have negotiated markets in and around Uganda and with the market, it makes trade possible,” he said. Mr. Isaac Mugerwa, a board member of NUTIP, said the association kicked-off operations in 2013 and currently has 75 members. According to Mr. Mugerwa, NUTIP aims at promoting trade and investment between Uganda and the Netherlands. He also appreciated SHIPU’s swift response in addressing their long-standing concern within just two days. During the same meeting, the investors raised an issue of being tossed around by some government agencies such as URA. In response, Ms. Julian Sabiiti, an official from URA informed them that the authority has already set up a Stakeholders Relations Office to deal with such matters.

13 November 2025

“NRM NOT JUST PROMISING, BUT PRESENTING PROVEN ACHIEVEMENTS,” PRESIDENT MUSEVENI TELLS BUDAKA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer for the 2026 general elections, has said his party is not merely making promises but presenting tangible results from the past 40 years that it intends to consolidate in the next term. Speaking on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Saaza Grounds in Budaka District, President Museveni, who was on his second day of campaigning in the Bukedi sub-region, told thousands of supporters that the NRM’s record of peace, development, and wealth creation speaks louder than promises from other political parties. “We are together with other leaders to present to you the manifesto of the NRM for the period 2026–2031. The NRM is not just promising, but presenting what has already been done,” President Museveni said. The President outlined the NRM’s historical contributions to Uganda’s transformation, emphasizing that the foundation of all progress has been peace, followed by infrastructure and social development. “In the last 40 years, we first brought peace, and then development came in two parts: economic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water, telephones, and the railway; and social infrastructure like schools and hospitals,” he said. In Budaka, President Museveni highlighted key completed and ongoing infrastructure projects. He pointed to the completion of the Iganga–Mbale road, the Tirinyi–Pallisa–Kumi road, and the Pallisa–Kamonkoli–Mbale road, while noting that the Nabumali–Butaleja–Namutumba road is in the pipeline. “We have done a good job on roads. Electricity has reached many areas, and now everyone has a telephone in their pocket,” the President said. On water coverage, President Museveni reported that Budaka District has achieved 93% access to safe water, with 299 out of 323 rural villages connected to clean water sources. He said the Budaka Town Council Piped Water System, serving 21,262 people, and the Kamonkoli Piped Water System, serving 14,400 people, are now operational. Ongoing works include the digging of seven deep boreholes, six spring protection projects, and the rehabilitation of 19 boreholes. Plans are also underway to construct piped water systems in Naboa, Iki-Iki, and Kachomo town councils. Turning to education, President Museveni reported significant progress under the Universal Primary and Secondary Education programs. Budaka District, he said, has 59 government and 94 private primary schools, and 10 government and 23 private secondary schools. Of the district’s 76 parishes, 48 have at least one government primary school, while 28 still lack one. Ten of Budaka’s 20 sub-counties have government secondary schools, leaving 10 without, though five new secondary schools are under construction. “Our plan is to have one primary school per parish and one secondary school per sub-county. Those who have not yet received will get. This is the plan,” President Museveni said. However, the President expressed disappointment over the continued practice of charging school fees in public schools, which he said undermines his free education policy. “I introduced free education 30 years ago, but some people have not implemented it fully. They are still charging school fees, and as a result, children drop out,” President Museveni said. To address the challenge, he said he initiated presidential skilling hubs to equip school dropouts with practical skills for self-employment. The Bukedi Zonal Presidential Industrial Skilling hub, located in Tirinyi, Kibuku District, serves youth aged 18–35 from across the Bukedi sub-region. Candidate Museveni listened to testimonies from graduates of the skilling hubs who had transformed their lives. Among them was Michael Onganga from Budaka, who dropped out of primary school due to a lack of fees but was trained in welding and now employs two people. Another beneficiary, Jane Lagose, dropped out in Senior Two but trained in tailoring at the Bukedi Industrial Hub. After graduation, she started her own workshop with support from the President. “These children had lost hope because of school fees, but after six months of training, they are producing items that used to be imported. In the next term, we shall ensure no child is deprived of free education,” H.E. Museveni said. Health Infrastructure: The President also detailed improvements in the health sector. Budaka District has one Health Centre IV in Budaka Constituency, staffed with three doctors. Out of the 20 sub-counties, 14 have Health Centre IIIs, while six remain without a health facility. Planned health projects include upgrading Butove Health Centre II to a Health Centre III and constructing new Health Centre IIIs in Kakoli, Kamonkoli, Iki-Iki, Kachomo, and Kabuna sub-counties. “When these are complete, all the 20 sub-counties will have Health Centre IIIs, and one of the existing facilities will be upgraded to a district hospital,” President Museveni said. Wealth Creation: President Museveni reiterated that while the government builds infrastructure, families must take responsibility for wealth creation. “Development is ours, but wealth and poverty are yours. Roads and electricity are for everyone, but what you have in your home depends on you,” he said. The President urged residents to adopt the 4-acre model, first introduced in the 1996 NRM manifesto: one acre for coffee, one for food crops, one for pasture, and one for fruits, supplemented by piggery, poultry, and fish farming. He cited the example of farmer Joseph Ijala of Serere District, who earns Shs6.8 million per day from eggs and milk despite lacking tarmac roads. Locally, President Museveni praised Budaka farmers such as Florence Nabutono, who upgraded from local to improved pig breeds under the Parish Development Model (PDM). The President also referenced his model farm in Baralegi, Lira District, where he practices the 4-acre model plan with fish ponds, zero-grazing, and banana farming. “From one fish pond of half an acre, I earn Shs100 million annually and save Shs.70 million after costs. You people of Budaka are very blessed because your wetlands can support fish farming and fruit growing,” President Museveni said. Job Creation: The President said job creation is the fourth pillar of NRM’s achievements after peace, development, and wealth creation. “The question is: where do jobs come from?” he asked. “They come from enterprises — from people who use land productively.” President Museveni showcased a video of Hon. Fred Byamukama from Kagadi, whose 4-acre model farm employs 26 workers and generates about Shs700 million in annual profits. “Factories are another source of jobs. I am glad that the people of Budaka are asking for an industrial park; that is the right direction,” he added, highlighting the Sino-Mbale Industrial Park as an example, employing 12,000 people in one location. Across Uganda, he said, factories now employ 1.3 million people compared to 480,000 in government service. “Factories are employing three times more than the government. That is NRM’s fourth contribution - jobs,” President Museveni said, emphasizing that the NRM’s 2026–2031 manifesto is rooted in “protecting and consolidating the gains” made over four decades. The rally was attended by several senior NRM leaders, including the Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, who thanked the President for bringing peace and development to the Bukedi sub-region. “Before you came, we used to run away from these areas because of the Karimojong rustlers and Lakwena rebels. Now, our youth sleep in peace. Thank you for the peace you have brought,” said Rt. Hon. Among. She also appreciated the improved road network and pledged Bukedi’s overwhelming support for Museveni’s 2026 bid. “We will deliver over 80 percent of the votes for NRM. Uganda belongs to all of us, and we believe in politics of ideology, not tribal interests,” she said. NRM National Treasurer, Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oundo presented the “Bukedi Service Delivery Handbook,” a document detailing NRM’s achievements and remaining gaps in the region. “Our campaign theme is ‘Protecting the Gains.’ The handbook highlights what NRM has accomplished in Bukedi and identifies the gaps we still need to fill,” Amb. Nekesa said, expressing confidence that Bukedi will again rally behind President Museveni and the NRM because of the tangible progress under his leadership. “We have made tremendous strides in development, wealth creation, and service delivery. The Bakedi will not only vote for the President but for all NRM flag bearers,” she said. Budaka District NRM Chairperson, Eng. Kyebene Musa welcomed the President and raised several local concerns, including the need to extend electricity to Katira, Mogiti, and Nasa sub-counties through the Rural Electrification Agency. He also appealed for compensation for residents affected by cattle rustling and urged the government to establish an industrial park in Katira Sub-County, where land is available. “We are also part of Butebo, where compensation is ongoing. Our people submitted requests, but they have not yet been handled. We also request an industrial park to create jobs for our youth,” Kyebene said. The Budaka rally drew thousands of residents and featured senior government and NRM officials, including Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hon. Hellen Asamo, and Minister of State for Children and Youth Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara. Others included members of the NRM Central Executive Committee, sitting and former Members of Parliament, religious and traditional leaders from across Bukedi.

12 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PROMISES LIVESTOCK RESTOCKING FOR PALLISA AND BUTEBO

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the Presidential flag bearer for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has announced that Pallisa and Butebo districts will be added to the government’s livestock restocking programme. The President noted that these districts would join others in Teso, Lango, and Acholi, which had suffered massive losses of cattle during past wars and raids. Each eligible household under the restocking programme will receive five cows. The President made the announcement today while addressing thousands of residents during his presidential campaign rally in Butebo district. He was accompanied by the First Daughter, Mrs. Natasha Karugire Museveni. “I am here with other leaders of the NRM to present to you our manifesto for 2026–2031,” President Museveni said. “Peace is key. Parts of Pallisa and Butebo were badly affected by cattle rustling. We will ensure the sub-counties that suffered are included in the restocking programme. This is the first contribution towards rebuilding your livestock.” On development, President Museveni highlighted the need for improved road networks. “I didn’t know that Butebo did not have a tarmac road. I thought the road from Pallisa to Kamonkoli passed through here. Now that I know it doesn’t, we shall work on the road connecting Pallisa, Butebo, and Nakaloke,” he said. He also noted ongoing infrastructure projects: “The bridge at Nabukhaya, Nambola, Nametsimeri, Sahana, and Khamitsaru is under construction. The Nabumali-Butaleja-Namutumba road is funded and will be worked on, as well as the Tororo–Nagongera–Busolwe road.” President Museveni commended local leaders for maintaining the marram roads, noting, “I landed by helicopter and traveled on very good roads. This shows the people of Butebo are serious about development. In other districts, they just eat the money.” He further pledged upgrades on sub-county headquarters and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to connect all districts with tarmac roads. The President also praised Butebo’s water coverage. “Out of 268 villages, 233 have access to safe water—87%. We shall expand piped water systems in Petete and Nasurete, and complete water-for-production projects like the Manyowe Solar-Powered Irrigation Scheme. Feasibility studies are ongoing for the Kabelai Surface Water Reservoir and the Akisim Medium-Scale Irrigation Scheme to serve Butebo, Pallisa, and Kumi.” President Museveni confirmed plans to upgrade several health centers and construct new ones across sub-counties. “The aim is to have at least one HCIII per sub-county,” he said. The President expressed satisfaction with Butebo’s progress in the education sector. “Butebo already has five government secondary schools. This is remarkable, considering that in 1961, Uganda had only a handful of A-level schools,” he noted. President Museveni concluded by urging residents to embrace development opportunities, maintain peace, and continue supporting the NRM government’s initiatives for the prosperity of their communities. He also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Butebo District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. The Speaker of Parliament, also NRM Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Among emphasized development needs in the district, noting, “Because Butebo is now a district, it should have a tarmac road. We thank the NRM government for bringing peace, schools, hospitals, and roads. The Parish Development Model has enabled money to circulate in the community, and after five years, we shall be prosperous.” Butebo District has 61 parishes, with 18,516 households benefiting from the PDM funds, amounting to Shs.18.5 billion. The district also hosts 18 Emyooga SACCOs, which have received Shs.980 million in government support. Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, also NRM Chairperson for Butebo, welcomed the President, describing the visit as historic. “This is the first time the President has campaigned here since Butebo became a district. Our people are ready to support you,” she 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.

12 November 2025

“SIDELINE YOUTH FROM PDM FUNDS AND YOU’LL BE SACKED,” PRESIDENT MUSEVENI WARNS CHIEFS IN BUKEDI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has issued a stern warning to parish and sub-county chiefs in the Bukedi Sub-region, cautioning that any local leader who sidelines the youth, women, or persons with disabilities from benefiting under the Parish Development Model (PDM) will face dismissal. Speaking at a campaign rally in Pallisa District on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, the President, who is also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer for the 2026 general elections, said his government will not tolerate misuse or misallocation of funds meant for specific groups under the PDM. He set out how PDM allocations should be divided and placed responsibility squarely on local leaders to ensure transparent distribution. “Within the 100 million shillings per parish, 30% belongs to the youth, 30% to the women, and 10% to the disabled. So, I don't want to hear that story again,” Museveni said. “If I hear that the youth, the women, or the disabled are not getting their share, I will go for the parish chief first, and I will dismiss them, plus the sub-county chiefs,” he added. The President’s warning comes amid growing public scrutiny over the implementation of the PDM, a flagship wealth creation and poverty reduction initiative launched in 2022, following reports of mismanagement, favoritism, and delays in disbursement across some parishes. President Museveni underscored that local leaders bear the greatest responsibility in ensuring transparent and fair distribution of government funds, emphasizing that the success of PDM depends on honest administration at the parish level. “Let everybody get their share. But also, you, the youth, should join the SACCOs. Go to the Muluka chief and ask them to join the parish SACCOs. Nobody will stop you as long as you’re over 18 years old,” he told the cheering crowd. The Parish Development Model provides each parish with Shs. 100 million in seed capital to support household enterprises, savings cooperatives, and agricultural productivity. President Museveni reiterated that these resources were designed to transition rural communities from subsistence to commercial production. According to official statistics presented at the rally, Pallisa District—with 90 parishes—has so far received Shs. 27.7 billion under the program, with about 98.2% of the funds disbursed to 27,343 beneficiary households. This accounts for 45% of the district’s total 60,882 households, leaving 55% yet to benefit. Wealth Creation at the Centre of the NRM Message: Turning to his broader campaign theme, President Museveni revisited the historical evolution of Uganda’s poverty alleviation policies since the NRM took power in 1986. He said many Ugandans still confuse “development” with “wealth creation,” a misunderstanding he has worked to correct over the years. “Development is for all of us, but wealth is for individuals. What is mine is better than ours. The wealth that you personally create is what sustains your household,” H.E. Museveni explained, citing previous government programs, such as Entandikwa, NAADS, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Emyooga, and now PDM, as part of a consistent effort to empower citizens economically. “From the beginning, we have said that if you want to be well, you must add wealth,” President Museveni said. “We have been pleading with Ugandans to get out of poverty since 1986. Some ignored the message, but others listened, and they are now prosperous.” To illustrate his point, President Museveni screened video clips of successful farmers who have benefited from government initiatives. Among them was Joseph Ijala of Serere District, who reportedly earns over Shs. 6 million daily from poultry and dairy farming. “When I visited him, I found him earning 6 million shillings per day from eggs alone, plus Shs.800,000 from milk. That’s Shs. 6.8 million per day,” President Museveni narrated. “Serere may not have tarmac roads, but there is wealth there. That’s what we mean when we talk about transforming livelihoods.” He also showed a video of Bugangaizi West MP and Minister of State for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, whose four-acre model farm, comprising coffee, fruits, food crops, dairy cattle, and poultry, generates about Shs. 700 million annually while employing 26 people. “This is how wealth creates jobs. Government jobs are only about 480,000, yet we have millions of Ugandans. If every household focuses on productive enterprises, we can create jobs through wealth,” President Museveni said. The NRM Presidential candidate also announced plans to expand the PDM program to new categories, including local leaders, as well as a special fund for religious leaders, fishermen and unemployed university graduates. “We are going to add 15 million shillings for local leaders and create special funds for church and mosque leaders, as well as cultural institutions,” he said. “We shall also start a fund for fishermen, zone by zone, because they need more than one million to buy boats and nets. For university graduates without jobs for two years, we shall also create a fund.” Push for Industrialization in Pallisa: The President also addressed the issue of industrial development in Bukedi, revealing that Pallisa District had offered 100 acres of land for an industrial park, but he deemed the size inadequate. “You have given me very little land. I want a square mile or more. When you get more land, come back to me,” President Museveni said. He referenced the Sino-Uganda Industrial Park in Mbale, which hosts 75 factories, as an example of how industrialization can generate mass employment. Addressing the region’s natural resources, President Museveni encouraged residents of Bukedi to exploit their swampy areas for fish farming instead of depending solely on rice cultivation. “You, the Bukedi people, are blessed with swamps. Fish farming is very lucrative. In my Lira farm, the fishponds yield 100 million shillings per year. In Limoto here, farmers are getting 56 million per acre-more than what they earned from rice,” he said. The President promised that the government would support pond construction for farmers, saying fish farming is a major income source. President Museveni also used the Pallisa rally to review the NRM government’s development record in the sub-region. He noted that Bukedi, once ravaged by cattle rustling and insurgency in the 1980s, now enjoys peace and infrastructure growth. “For 40 years, we have ensured peace. Pallisa was once attacked by cattle rustlers and was a battleground for Lakwena. But now there is stability because of the institutions we built-the army, police, and a united party,” he said. He listed peace as the first of NRM’s “seven key contributions” to Uganda, followed by development in transport, electricity, telecommunications, and water access. “When NRM came to power, the only tarmac road in eastern Uganda passed through Tororo. We made the Iganga–Nakalama–Tirinyi–Mbale road, and later the Tirinyi–Pallisa–Kumi road,” President Museveni said. However, he criticized local authorities for neglecting rural roads, saying maintenance units in Mbale and the districts receive funds and equipment but perform poorly. “They just graded this road because they knew I was coming. I have warned Minister Katumba. We gave each district one billion for roads, so the RDC and LC5 must ensure accountability,” President Museveni stated. Improving Water Access: According to data shared at the event, 477 of Pallisa’s 498 rural villages (96%) have access to safe water sources. Completed projects include the Pallisa Town Council Piped Water Supply and Sanitation Project, serving 54,000 people, and the Limoto Irrigation Scheme in Bolliso Sub-County, benefiting 100 farmers. Ongoing projects include the Nakitende Solar-Powered Irrigation Scheme in Najeneti Sub-County, while plans involve new piped water systems in Kibale and Kamuge Town Councils. Education and Skilling Youth: President Museveni said that while Pallisa District has made progress in expanding access to education, with 76 government and 160 private primary schools, and 9 government and 23 private secondary schools, some parishes and sub-counties still lack institutions. “Our policy is one government primary school per parish and one secondary school per sub-county. Those that lack will be prioritized,” he said. He recalled how, in 1961, Uganda had only three A-level schools for boys and three for girls nationwide. “In 1961, when I was at Ntare school, we had many boys from Bukedi, like Dr. Steven Malinga and others who were coming to Ntare because there were only 3 A-level schools for boys in the whole of Uganda. When I come here today and find that Pallisa has nine government secondary schools, I say Eyalama Edeke (thank you God),” President Museveni remarked. Still, he expressed concern over continued charges in government schools, which he said kept some children out of education. To address this, he highlighted the introduction of 19 skilling hubs across Uganda. In Bukedi, the hub is in Kibuku District and has trained 927 youth in welding, carpentry, tailoring, hairdressing, baking, and leather design. Currently, 234 are undergoing training. “These children had no hope, but in just six months, they are producing goods we used to import,” he added. The President also addressed gaps in the health sector. Out of Pallisa’s 21 sub-counties, only one has a hospital, while 14 have Health Centre IIIs. Six sub-counties have no health facilities at all. “Our plan is to have a health centre II in every parish, a health centre III in every sub-county, and a district hospital,” President Museveni said. Planned upgrades include turning Obutete, Kaukura, and Limoto Health Centre IIs into Health Centre IIIs, and constructing new facilities in Kamuge Rural, Agule Rural, and Oboliso Sub-counties. The Speaker of Parliament and NRM Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, who welcomed the President to Bukedi, praised the NRM government for transforming the region’s infrastructure. “Especially the road from Tirinyi to Pallisa up to Kumi—now we have the best road in eastern Uganda,” she said. The Speaker also commended President Museveni for “defending Uganda’s traditional values” and for “bringing money to the people.” The NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, Mr. Calvin Echodu, said the massive turnout in Pallisa reflected public confidence in the President’s leadership. “It’s a testament to how the people of Bukedi believe in what you and the NRM have done,” he said. Hon. Derrick Orone, Gogonya County MP and NRM District Chairperson for Pallisa, presented seven key requests from the people of Pallisa. These included the elevation of Pallisa General Hospital to referral status, more technical schools, and political appointments for local NRM cadres. “We shall give you above 90% in the upcoming election,” Hon. Orone said, drawing cheers from the crowd. The rally drew thousands of residents, government officials, and party supporters, including NRM Secretary General, Rt Hon. Richard Todwong and several Members of Parliament from Bukedi and neighboring regions.

12 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI EMPHASIZES NRM’S SEVEN KEY PILLARS, PLEDGES CONTINUED STABILITY AND PROSPERITY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has re-emphasized the seven pillars of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) manifesto, which include peace, development, wealth creation, job generation, service delivery, markets, and regional political federation as the foundation for Uganda’s continued progress and unity. Addressing journalists in the Sebei sub-region districts of Kapchorwa, Kween, and Bukwo at Mbale State Lodge on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, President Museveni said the NRM’s manifesto represents four decades of tangible contributions that have transformed Uganda from instability to a country of peace, development, and economic recovery. “This group, which is now called NRM, crystallized around 1965 from the old political parties - DP, UPC, and Kabaka Yekka - because of ideology. Those groups were emphasizing identity, religion, and tribe, and they didn’t want to talk about women. Women didn’t matter. But we said, no, that is not the way forward,” President Museveni said, while tracing the ideological roots of the NRM. The meeting, attended by key party leaders including the Speaker of Parliament, also NRM Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, NRM Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, Hon. Calvin Ecodu, Minister of State for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, Dr. Tanga Odoi, and NRM Director of Information and Publicity, Hon. Emmanuel Lumala Dombo, marked the latest engagement in a series of regional media briefings aimed at clarifying the party’s development priorities ahead of the 2026 general elections. The President explained that the current NRM manifesto does not revisit those historical divisions, but instead focuses on the practical achievements since 1986, number one being peace, which he attributed to the NRM’s ideological clarity that prioritizes action and productivity. “We don’t look at who you are, but at what you do. That’s what guides us. Because of that, we’ve been able to build a national political party and institutions like the army, which have kept Uganda peaceful,” he said. “Peace was achieved because we built institutions based on logic, not emotion. In Karamoja alone, we removed 41,000 illegal guns. That’s why peace remains our number one contribution,” he added. The second pillar of the NRM manifesto, President Museveni said, is development, particularly in the area of infrastructure and social services. He noted that the NRM government has invested heavily in expanding road networks, constructing schools, hospitals, and other social infrastructure, which have collectively improved Uganda’s economic base and connectivity. “Development is the second key contribution. We have worked on roads, schools, hospitals, and all infrastructure that supports both economic and social progress,” President Museveni said. Highlighting the third point in the NRM manifesto, the President emphasized the centrality of wealth creation as the most dynamic component of Uganda’s economic transformation. He explained that the NRM government’s economic philosophy promotes household-level prosperity, urging every family to engage in productive enterprises that generate income. “We don’t believe in a culture of poverty. Every home must have wealth. Before colonialism, there was no unemployment. People had families of blacksmiths, carpenters, and artisans; everyone was productive. Unemployment is a colonial phenomenon,” H.E. Museveni said, citing the Emyooga initiative as a revival of Uganda’s traditional specialization system, enabling skilled individuals such as carpenters, welders, tailors, and farmers to create wealth and contribute to national income. The President underscored that wealth creation is the cornerstone of a self-sustaining economy, explaining that taxes and government revenues originate from citizens’ consumption and productivity. “If I have cows and sell them, I provide beef and milk for the country, but I also earn money and build a good house. That house contributes taxes through the cement used. So, wealth benefits the individual and the nation,” he noted. President Museveni commended the people of Sebei for their hardworking nature but urged them to engage in fast-return enterprises to increase cash flow and investment capacity. “Our people cultivate maize, which takes eight to nine months to mature. We encourage them to go for enterprises that bring quick returns. We have moved from 32% to 67% of Ugandans in the money economy, but we must bring the remaining 33% on board,” he added. Regarding job creation as the fourth point of the NRM manifesto, President Museveni cautioned that job opportunities cannot be created in isolation from wealth and production. He criticized the misconception that jobs are a government-provided resource, saying the public sector alone cannot absorb Uganda’s growing labor force. “Government jobs are only 480,000 against a population of 50 million, which will be 100 million in 30 years. So where will jobs come from? Jobs in modern society come from commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT,” he explained. The President reiterated that the NRM’s approach links job creation directly to wealth generation, industrialization, and innovation, emphasizing that entrepreneurship and private investment are the primary engines for sustainable employment. The fifth point in the manifesto, President Museveni said, is strengthening service delivery across key sectors such as education, health, and governance. He acknowledged ongoing challenges in healthcare and education but maintained that the government has built the necessary foundation to sustain progress in these sectors. “Service delivery involves all the essential areas: education, health, security, governance, and entertainment. We are addressing these continuously,” he said. On the sixth pillar, the President addressed the issue of markets, stressing that Uganda’s production levels have now outgrown domestic consumption capacity. “Everything we are producing - sugar, cement, milk, bananas - is in surplus. The internal market is not enough. We need a regional market,” he said. He criticized sections of the political class for focusing on elections and power instead of discussing strategic economic issues such as market access and trade integration. “Our politicians talk about power, not markets. But what are you going to do with power if you don’t have a market for your people’s products?” he asked. He explained that economic integration within the East African Community (EAC) is essential to address the surplus production and ensure sustainable industrial growth. The seventh and final pillar in the NRM manifesto, President Museveni said, is the pursuit of political federation in East Africa, aimed at creating a unified bloc capable of addressing regional economic and security challenges. “If there were a Federation in East Africa, we would have a center of gravity for Africans and the black race. The Americans, Russians, and Chinese are exploring space while Africa still remains divided. A political Federation would strengthen our strategic security,” he emphasized. Addressing Landslides in Sebei: Turning to local issues, President Museveni addressed the recurrent problem of landslides in the Sebei region, saying they result from human activity in fragile mountainous areas. “In the past, we never used to hear about landslides. People are cultivating steep slopes where forests once stood. These forests used to hold the soil. When you cut trees and cultivate carelessly, you endanger your lives,” he warned. The President revealed that the government has already begun a resettlement program for families living in high-risk areas and plans to convene a post-election conference to discuss sustainable environmental practices in Sebei. “We are resettling the affected people, but in the long run, I have proposed that we should really have a conference after the elections, and we can talk about it; we can even hear from the elders about what used to be done in the past. How were things being done? We need a serious discussion on how to manage these areas,” he said. Responding to concerns about corruption and embezzlement of government funds in Sebei, President Museveni said the NRM government developed an anti-corruption plan that empowers citizens to monitor local leaders and government programs. He recounted his early opposition to corruption during the colonial era, saying it motivated him to advocate for community-level oversight systems. “When we were in the bush, I said the only way to fight corruption is to empower people to elect monitors of government services. That’s why you must elect leaders who are on your side,” he said. President Museveni emphasized that community members are the most effective watchdogs against corruption because they are the direct victims of financial mismanagement. “The owner of the money is the most angry. You are the victims when PDM or road funds are stolen. That’s why you, the electorate, are our most reliable allies,” he told the journalists. Rt. Hon. Among praised President Museveni for presenting what she called a credible and practical manifesto that reflects the NRM’s long-standing record of delivery. “We thank you, Your Excellency, for presenting a clear, credible, and achievable manifesto. You have talked about peace and development, and we believe under your leadership, peace will continue to prevail,” she said. She also highlighted infrastructure development in Sebei, noting that the region now enjoys some of the best road networks in Uganda, which have boosted connectivity and tourism potential. “Sebei has some of the best roads in the country. We are impressed by what we have seen - the scenery and the roads are amazing,” she added. Rt. Hon. Among further applauded the NRM’s focus on job creation and youth empowerment, saying the manifesto provides a clear path for inclusive economic growth.

11 November 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CASTIGATES PEOPLE NOT SUPPORTING HIS FREE EDUCATION POLICY, SAYS THEY'RE CREATING A TIME BOMB

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, has stressed the importance of free education in government schools. “Those who don’t support my policy of free education are creating a time bomb, conserving ignorance, and destroying the future of our children along with their potential. You have seen in just six months in the Presidential Skilling Hubs what these children are producing,” he said. The President who was in the company of the First Daughter, Mrs. Natasha Karugire Museveni, made the remarks today while addressing a campaign rally in Kapchorwa district. According to President Museveni, some of these policymakers will even deny themselves a place in heaven, because when a child says, “My parents died, but I want to go to school’. Who will take responsibility? Uganda is one big family. If a parent dies, the family of Uganda, through its government, must take care of those children. That is what the NRM stands for. Let us stop this wastage of human resource. These children are our greatest wealth.” President Museveni also revisited the unresolved boundary issue between Mount Elgon National Park and surrounding communities. “Our mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and wetlands are not political issues. They are matters of science and survival. Just as the human body depends on organs working in harmony, our environment must remain intact to sustain us. Interfering with these ecosystems can have severe consequences,” he said. The President assured the people of Kapchorwa that the survey team would return to finalize boundary verification and resolve the matter decisively. Highlighting the role of local talent and entrepreneurship, President Museveni pointed to athletics superstar Joshua Cheptegei, who has expanded his community service into tourism. “Mountains are not only for agriculture. They can support tourism and other enterprises,” he said. On disaster response, the President emphasized support for landslide-affected families. “Each household will receive two acres of land, Shs10 million, and compensation for crops and property lost. After the elections, we will hold a comprehensive discussion on long-term resettlement solutions,” he said. The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Kapchorwa District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections. Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, the Speaker of Parliament, also the NRM Second National Vice Chairperson said, “We thank you for the peace and development in Sebei. The Parish Development Model has brought wealth and opportunities to our people.” Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub beneficiary speaks out: Ms. Peace Chelangat, a former primary seven dropout from Tegeres, Kapchorwa District thanked President Museveni for turning around her life through the Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub initiative. Today, she owns a thriving salon and employs three people. Ms. Chelangat, who used to earn a living by selling tomatoes in her village, said a friend encouraged her to join the Kapchorwa Presidential Industrial Skilling hub. “I joined the hub to learn hairdressing. After completing six months of training, I sold my phone and used the money as capital to buy accessories. Today, I own a salon and employ three people. The hub completely changed my life,” she testified. “Thank you for the Sh50m through the hub beneficiary SACCOs. We are benefiting and making wonders in our small businesses.” Kapchorwa statistics: Kapchorwa District comprises two constituencies, 15 sub-counties and town councils, 85 parishes, and 641 villages. According to the 2024 census report, the district has a total population of 133,621 residents. The Parish Development Model (PDM) has provided substantial support to households across Kapchorwa. The district’s 85 parishes have cumulatively received Shs. 17.91 billion, of which 94.96% has already been disbursed to 17,168 beneficiary households. Kapchorwa Municipality’s 27 parishes have received Shs. 8.29 billion, with 92.88% disbursed to 8,084 households. Under the Emyooga program, the district’s two constituencies host 36 SACCOs with 25,226 members. Government support totals Shs. 1.49 billion, empowering residents to start and expand income-generating activities. When it comes to education, Kapchorwa District has 24 government primary schools serving 19,499 pupils and five secondary schools with 2,678 students. Kapchorwa Municipality has 16 government primary schools enrolling 11,754 pupils and four secondary schools with 1,738 students. All secondary schools offer Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-Ordinary Level Education and Training (UPOLET). To further expand access to education, plans are underway to construct three new secondary schools under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UgIFT) program and the Uganda Secondary Education Expansion Project (USEEP). Once completed, only four sub-counties will remain without a government secondary school. Kapchorwa District currently has one hospital, one HCIV, and eight HCIII facilities. Five sub-counties still lack a health facility of HCIII standard or above. Planned upgrades include Amukol HCII and Chepterech HCII, both set to be elevated to HCIII to enhance access to quality healthcare services. Access to safe water remains a priority. Out of 641 villages, 328 (49%) have safe water, leaving 313 villages (51%) underserved. Piped water systems serve 65,450 residents in Kapchorwa Municipality and 10,800 in Sipi Town Board. Ongoing projects include the Chemosong Gravity Flow Scheme and Matera Piped Water System, extending services to mountainous communities. Plans are also underway to augment and extend the Sipi Water System to meet growing domestic and tourism-related demands. Water-for-production initiatives are expanding. The Cheptui Irrigation Scheme in Kapsinda Sub-county benefits 14 farmers directly through a demonstration garden and 45 out-growers engaged in horticulture. Expansion works and performance improvement studies are ongoing, with new climate-smart demonstration sites planned at Kapropen and Teryet to increase high-altitude agricultural productivity. 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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