News Articles | MINISTRY OF ICT AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE

05 July 2025

SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY YOWERI KAGUTA MUSEVENI, GENERAL (RTD) SSABALWANYI SSEMALUNGU, PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA AT THE NOMINATION DAY, 5TH JULY 2025

H.E. the Vice President, Rt. Hon Speaker, Chief Justice, The NRM Vice-Chairman, All the other leaders and the supporters of the NRM and all Ugandans. Greetings. I want to thank the NRM Electoral Commission for nominating me. I hope the whole membership of the NRM and its structures will support my candidature as the Chairman of the NRM for the 2025-2031 term and also as flag-bearer for the NRM in the Presidential contest for the 2026-2031 term. Why? It is because I stand here on behalf of the very NRM that started as a student movement in 1965. That nascent student movement emerged in a very fragmented landscape, where polarization followed tribes and religious denominations. That political fragmentation made governance impossible because no fragment could muster a majority in an election. The fragmentation also could not allow institutions to be built up. The victim institutions included the Army, the Judiciary, the Civil Service, etc. With the two fragmentations — political and institutional — came the constitutional collapse in the form of the conflict between Mutesa and Obote in 1966 and the Idi Amin Coup of 1971. The constitutional order was destroyed within the first 10 years of Independence. The next casualty was the small enclave economy (island economy) of the 3Cs and 3Ts. The 3Cs and 3Ts, I have told you repeatedly, were: coffee, cotton, and copper, and the 3Ts were: tobacco, tea, and tourism. Cotton had disappeared, copper had disappeared, tea had disappeared, and so had tourism. It is only coffee and tobacco that were still limping on. There were acute shortages (ebura) of all “essential items” as they were being called — meaning soap, salt, paraffin, textiles, sodas, beers, etc. Our alcohol drinkers were being rescued by “Primus beer” from Burundi and “Muniki” from Congo. Therefore, by 1986, the great Country of Uganda had 3 mega traumas: Political fragmentation caused by sectarianism leading to the collapse of the democratic constitutional order; The collapse of the institutions of State, such as the Army; The collapse of the economy. Given all this and standing where we are today in the year of our Lord 2025, we can see that in the last 60 years, the NRM has been a participant and, for most of the time, a leader of the efforts to do the following in the interests of Uganda: Liberation between 1965 and 1986; Stabilization between 1986-2025; Minimum Economic recovery by restoring the 3Cs and 3Ts, as well as eliminating ebura (shortages); Expanding the narrow enclave economy; Diversifying the economy by commercializing products that were previously thought to be for only subsistence, such as maize, milk, bananas, fruits, beef, poultry, eggs, sugar-cane, cassava, etc; Value addition to these raw-materials; Introducing, through the intensified and expanded education system, the knowledge economy of automobiles, vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, electrical gadgets, computer assembling, etc. What does this mean? It means that the NRM, its cadres, and the masses that have supported them over the years have been participants in and, for most of the time, leaders of the efforts to liberate Uganda from sectarian fragmentation and political collapse; ensure its economic recovery; ensure the growth and expansion of its economy; ensure that the start of social-economic transformation of the society starts so that Uganda becomes a modern Country; and starts the struggle for the economic and political integration of Uganda into Africa so that the Wealth Creators of Africa have a reliable Market to absorb their products. What have been the consequences of this? The consequences have been liberation, democratization, peace, and an economy that is now USD 61 billion by the foreign Exchange method and USD 172.2 billion by the PPP method. The economy has expanded 16 times since 1986 from USD 3.9 billion, according to Finance. This means that Uganda is now a lower middle-income Country with a GDP per capita of USD 1,263 for its population of 46 million People. This means that Uganda is no longer a least Developed Country (LDC). You can look at all the other statistics. They are good if not excellent in many cases. However, we can do much better, especially if we eliminate corruption. What, then, is next and why am I coming forward to respond to the millions of Ugandans who have been ordering me with the slogan: “Tova ku main” — “Do not leave the main electricity line”? It is for two reasons. Reason number one, is to work with the NRM structures to clarify the importance of the 6 aspects that are very crucial in ensuring that Uganda and, maybe by example other parts of Africa, do not again miss the bus of history as happened in the past when Europe transformed and Africa stagnated and was enslaved. In my recent speeches, I have been answering the question that covers these aspects. The question is: “Where does prosperity come from and what are the factors that facilitate it?” I have been identifying 6 aspects: Peace (no war and control of crime); Development (entukuuka, enkulakulana, dongo-lobo, apol); Wealth (obugaiga, obugagga, lonyo, abar, lonyi); Jobs (emirimo, tic, assuam); Services (obuhereza, obuwereza, aijanakin, such as health, education, spirituality, etc); Markets for our products through regional integration. This understanding helps us to, for instance, understand where the majority of the jobs in a developed Country come from. It is from the private sector — commercial farming, factories, services (hotels, transport, etc), and ICT (such as BPOs); not from the Government. Failure to understand this by the Country and the families leads to futile efforts and wasted time. In the short time of Uganda’s recovery, for instance, factories have created 1.2 million jobs compared to only 480,000 jobs of the whole Public Service. Agriculture 3,610,064 jobs; and Services 5,042,188 jobs. The commercial farms, the factories, the service companies (hotels, transport companies, private schools, private hospitals, etc), or ICT companies, are wealth of Private People, but they also create jobs for other Ugandans. That nexus needs to be clear to all of us. Wealth creates jobs. Some of the wealth companies can be Government — such as National Water, Uganda Railways, Uganda Airlines, NEC, etc. They will have the same nexus — wealth and jobs, supported by peace and development (infrastructure). The second reason, is to have leaders and a party that understands and is committed to the need for a qualitative leap from the status of the lower middle-income Country of USD 66 billion by the end of June 2026 to a high middle-income Country of USD 500 billion in the next few years. Some of our People talk of 2040. That is too far for me. I do not see why we cannot achieve it earlier if we are really aggressive in the pursuit of the objective and eliminate corruption. Why do I say this? It is because much of our USD 61 billion economy today is raw-materials. Our coffee, as de-husked coffee beans, brings in USD 2.5 per kg. Yet, the one who roasts, grinds, and packs the coffee earns from USD 25 - 40 per kg. That is how all the coffee growing Countries of the World earn USD 25 billion out of the total value of USD 460 billion, and Germany, a non-coffee growing Country, earns USD 65 billion from coffee. Since we have a wide spectrum of raw-materials of agriculture, raw-materials of minerals, fresh water resources, and forest products, we have a huge potential if we add value to all of them or most of them. By refining tin ore to 99.85% purity, we earn USD 33.66 per kg instead of USD 13.6 - 16.4 for the unprocessed tin ore. When we purify gold to 99.90% purity instead of the previous ……%, tin to 99.85% purity instead of the previous 75% purity, copper to 99.99% purity instead of the previous 95%, we do not only earn more money from that commodity and create more jobs for our children, we also attract the jewellery makers to come to Uganda and make the jewellery there, the factories that need to use tin will come as will the factories that need to use pure copper such as the cables industries, the ones making transformers and the other electrical gadgets that use copper. This vertical and horizontal integration of the sectors will greatly expand the economy. Add to all this, the knowledge economy of automobiles, vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, electronics, using our highly educated manpower, the transformation will be rapid. Therefore, the second reason for the NRM putting forward my name is to cause the qualitative leap of Uganda into a high upper middle-income Country in the next few years, preferably far ahead of 2040 — which is 15 years from now. Other Countries in Asia with less natural resources did it. We can do it. We have already achieved the lower middle-income status by just recovery, diversification, and quantitative expansion with limited value addition. With maximum value addition to all the commercially viable raw-materials and the knowledge economy, we shall achieve the qualitative leap to high middle-income status and, eventually, a first World status. God has enabled me to lead the NRM for the last 60 years through the phases I have outlined above. I believe God will see us through the qualitative leap. I am ready to make my contribution in the next five years phase, both as President and as Chairman of the NRM. As we celebrate the victories of the NRM in the last 60 years, we should not forget to acknowledge the earlier struggles of the Bataka-bbu of the 1920s and IK Musaazi and his colleagues between the 1930s and the 1950s under the Farmers’ Movement and the UNC. Their efforts pushed Uganda towards Independence. It is a pity that the later sectarian politics undermined their efforts. I cannot end this short address without congratulating the millions of the newly elected NRM structures’ leaders from the villages upwards. It is so pleasing to see so many, mainly young People, coming up as the new crop of the NRM leaders. It is now your chance to show that you can lead well. In order to manage politics successfully as we, your predecessors, managed to do, you need to know that productive politics is about ideology (philosophy, ideology, and strategy) and not just about biology (age, gender, etc) and “jobology” (careerism). We have gone this far because of being guided by and working for the three historical missions and the four ideological principles. These are: Prosperity for the People of Africa; Strategic security for Africa; Undugu (brotherhood) of the Africans; And the four ideological principles: Patriotism; Pan-Africanism; Socio-economic transformation; Democracy. We agree or disagree with you over these and not any other reason. If this is your compass, things are easy because they are guided by principles. That is how, for instance, we were able to work with People, even when we were not fully agreed with their overall position. That is how we worked with Binaisa in 1980, Yusufu Lule between 1981-1985 when he died, etc. Even with Obote, we could have worked together or the DP in 1979-1980, if they had been as deliberate as we were, regarding the minimum possible programmes. With us, what is the starting point is not the who but the what. “What is to be done and why?”, as Lenin wrote. The interpersonal frictions we observe are not healthy. It should be the inter-ideological contestation that we should take care of. I, again, congratulate the millions of the new NRM leaders, and we shall see how to support them affordably. My immediate advice to you is to be wealth creators if you are not one already, so that you do not look at leadership as a means of living — job (murimo). Political leadership is about okwerwanako (the People electing you to fight for their interests) and not about being a mupakasi (omukozi ow’ empeera — the hired shepherd that Jesus talked about in the Book of John 10:11-18). If you are not yet a wealth creator already, you should see how additional Government programmes such as PDM and Emyooga can help you to start becoming one. Then, the party can see how to support some of the categories with operational costs. If our generation had had a jobist mentality, Uganda would never have been rescued. All of us — Kategaya, Rwaheeru, Mwesigwa-Black, Mwesiga Martin, Ruzindana, Birihanze, Dennis Echou, Myself, etc, had well-paying Government jobs. On account of conviction, we left those jobs to fight for the salvation of Uganda. Where would Uganda be if we had not done that? What do the younger generations learn from that? You do not have to fight with arms now. However, you should volunteer to serve your People by defending their legitimate interests against corruption, fraud, criminality, land evictions, etc. This is the role of principled political leadership. Long live the sixty years of victories and progress. Long live the efforts of the Ugandan freedom fighters. Long live the qualitative leap to a USD 500 billion economy. All glory to God our creator and sustainer. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, General (Rtd) Ssabalwanyi Ssamalungu PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

29 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI SALUTES FIRST LADY FOR HER CONTRIBUTION TO UGANDA AS SHE CELEBRATES 77TH BIRTHDAY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday June 29,2025 paid tribute to the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni. He described her as a resilient woman who stood firmly through decades of personal sacrifice, leadership and service to Uganda. Speaking during her 77th birthday celebration at Migyera UWESO Secondary School in Nakasongola District, the President commended Maama Janet’s unwavering strength, particularly during the years of armed struggle. The day began with the commissioning of a newly constructed classroom block and a multipurpose hall at the school; a joint effort aimed at improving learning facilities in the area. The President and First Lady also planted a commemorative tree in honor of Maama Janet’s milestone. The Thanksgiving celebration, organized by the Uganda Youth Forum, brought together family, friends, church leaders, youth, and government officials in an atmosphere filled with praise and worship. Pastor Patience Rwabwogo led the opening prayer with Pastor Laban Jjumba delivering a powerful sermon. “From 1971 to 1979, I was with her although I would go and come back, but I was around and providing for the family, conveying what Mwalimu Nyerere was giving me to the family, and also briefly earning money as a teacher. But from 1981 to 1986, she was alone with the children in Nairobi and Sweden. So, I thank her for being a magnificent single parent,” President Museveni said. The President recalled the pain of missing important milestones in their children’s lives due to the struggle. “I had last seen Diana when she was only six months old. The next time I saw her; she was six to seven years old. So, it’s a challenge even to other parents that a single parent can stand in for the children,” he said. He applauded Maama Janet not only for raising their children but also for taking on the burden of parenting children who were not her own when she founded the Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO) after the war. “She started UWESO, and you have seen how much work she has done to take care of the orphans and widows,” he mentioned. President Museveni also shared how Maama Janet’s journey into politics began, a move he initially resisted. “Then she developed interest in political leadership. I didn’t support that idea myself, especially going for politics in Ruhaama. I didn’t think it was a good idea. She told me God had told her. I said, ‘But God has not told me.’ So, we had quite a bit of debate,” he recounted. “Then the elders in Ntungamo came and said they wanted Maama to come. I said, ‘Okay, maybe God has told you,’ And so I supported her. She provided mature and clean leadership.” President Museveni also contrasted her style with other politicians whom he said lacked ideological clarity. “Part of the problem we have are politicians who are not ideological at all, no point of reference, very opportunistic, running here and there. No stability,” he said. He credited Maama Janet’s success in leadership to her clean record, prayerful nature, and collective approach. “When she was appointed Minister for Karamoja, she did a wonderful job there. Because she was not corrupt, and she used collective leadership consultation, meetings, she really solved leadership problems.” “That’s why she has been able to bring stability in the Ministry of Education. There used to be a lot of problems, but you have seen how education is performing now,” he added. The President also lauded Maama Janet’s role in Uganda’s sports success. “Maama is a distinguished athlete although she can’t run 100 meters, but that ministry of hers has got more medals now than ever before. The sportsmen of Uganda started winning medals under her leadership the likes of Kiprotich, Cheptegei. She prays, and the athletes win. So, she is an athlete by extension,” he said. He emphasized her clean and transparent management of athletes’ funds and her commitment to teamwork and consultation. At home, the President said, Maama Janet remains the builder and the center of family life. “She is a powerful home builder. When it comes to home, she does most of the work. I am just a cattle keeper. Don’t ask me about buildings and rooms. I can stay in the bush with my cows. But she is the one who builds houses and does all the modernization,” he said. “I really want to salute her, thank God for keeping her, and also thank her for her contribution to Uganda and to our family,” he noted. Remembering Her Roots: President Museveni reflected on Maama Janet’s difficult childhood and the hand of God through her life. “Recently, we were in Ntungamo, our birthplace, and I remembered that this is the 70th anniversary since the death of Maama’s father, Mzee Edward Kataaha. He died in 1955, I think the month was April. I was part of the funeral although I was only 10 years old,” he mentioned. “At that time, Maama was only seven. Then her only brother, Kainerugaba, died in a car accident in 1966. He was a foreign service officer in his twenties. Then her mother died later. All those traumas to a young person were really too much. But God saw her through all that.” He also thanked God for blessing them with a family even during the instability of the liberation war. “By 1979, we already had three children, Muhoozi (1974), Natasha (1976), and Patience (1978). Diana was born in 1980. I thank God for sheltering Maama and me through those bad years,” he revealed. Responding to Pastor Laban Jjumba’s sermon, President Museveni reinforced the need for youth to embrace practical skills and productive sectors instead of chasing elusive opportunities abroad. “There is a proverb which says: many tongues pull the porridge. So many people confuse our youth. But if they listen to the NRM line, there is no need to look for jobs outside,” he said. “Jobs are here through commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT. Government jobs are only 480,000, but the factories alone have created 1.2 million jobs.” He cited examples including Minister Fred Byamukama, who earns nearly UGX 700 million annually from poultry farming and employs 26 people, as well as his [President Museveni] own children all of whom, apart from Gen. Muhoozi Kaneirugaba, are self-employed and running farming businesses. “Patience, after Minnesota, remembered her apprenticeship. Natasha is a big cattle farmer. Diana too. Only Muhoozi works for the government because he loves the army,” he said. The President further commended Maama Janet’s support during the national campaign against HIV/AIDS and expressed his full backing for her newly declared war on corruption. “I now support her war which she declared on her 77th birthday on corruption. This is easy to deal with. We just need warriors in the right place,” he said. He also made an appeal to the Christian Lawyers Fraternity to be fearless and committed. The President praised Anne Muhairwe from the fraternity, who was appointed to the IGG’s office and recently stood firm against intimidation. “If she’s got many like her, I would love to see them. What we want to fight corruption is well-investigated cases, not confusion,” he said. “NRM is there. The UPDF is there. We can back you up. It’s not a difficult task, I congratulate Maama on her 77th birthday, And I thank all of you for joining us to celebrate her,” the President concluded. On her part, Maama Janet gave glory to God, describing her life as a testimony to divine grace and unwavering faith. “I must begin by thanking God for His amazing love and faithfulness to me all my life,” she said. She paid tribute to President Museveni, her husband and a friend for the past 52 years, her children, grandchildren, and all Ugandans who have embraced her as ‘Maama’ over the years. She acknowledged the organizing efforts of Dr. James Magara and the Uganda Youth Forum, crediting their heartfelt invitation as the spark for a renewed national mission. A New Battle Begins: Reflecting on the Uganda Youth Forum’s historic role in mobilizing youth against HIV/AIDS in the 1990s, Maama Janet declared the beginning of a new national war this time against corruption, which she boldly referred to as the new AIDS - Acquired Integrity Deficiency Syndrome. “Just like we said NO to HIV/AIDS, we must say NO to corruption. We will not just fight it; we will stop it in its tracks with God’s help,” she declared. Comparing Uganda’s Christian majority with the high integrity culture in countries like Japan, the First Lady challenged Ugandans to let their faith bear real fruit in public and private life. Drawing from scripture, she emphasized the biblical call to live righteously and warned against amassing wealth through dishonest means. “Like a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay, are those who gain riches by unjust means in the end, they will prove to be fools,” she quoted from Jeremiah 17:11. Maama Janet urged the young people to embrace humility, sexual purity, and servant leadership values long championed through Uganda Youth Forum programs and the Emerging Leaders initiative. She reaffirmed her belief that Uganda’s youth hold the power to transform the nation’s future if anchored in truth, integrity, and God’s Word. Maama Janet concluded by expressing gratitude to partners including Tororo Cement, which helped build the new multi-purpose hall at UWESO, Bishop Joshua Lwere and fellow pastors, the Uganda Christian Lawyers’ Fraternity, the Global Leadership Summit team, and her dedicated staff at UWESO and State House. “You have been the wind beneath my wings,” she said emotionally. The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, described the First Lady as a national pillar of prayer, love and inspiration. “Happy birthday, Maama. It is so humbling to be given the opportunity to come and join you. My dear wife and I are always grateful to you,” Rt. Hon. Tayebwa said. “You have inspired so many people in this country. We especially thank you for the ‘roosters’ you have raised for this nation and the countless sons and daughters you have mentored,” he said. “I have not seen anyone as committed to praying for this nation as you are. We also thank you for taking care of the President. Whenever we see him smiling and full of energy, we are grateful to you,” he said. He also lauded Maama Janet for being a model wife and mother whose presence allows the President to serve the nation with peace of mind. “You have given him the time and space to lead the country, while building an admirable and beautiful family that we all look up to.” Turning to President Museveni, Rt. Hon. Tayebwa reflected on the generational shift in Uganda’s priorities. “For some of us who never witnessed the days of war, conflict, and pain, we sometimes take peace for granted. For many young people today, priorities revolve around TikTok, dancing, and entertainment and we forget the sacrifices that brought us here,” he added. “You have written the history of this country’s pain not only in books, but in your everyday walk. Wherever you go, you have given young people the greatest gift, teaching them how to love one another.” Decades of Selfless National Service: Mrs. Sheba Rukikaire, a longtime friend of Maama Janet delivered a deeply moving tribute during the function. Mrs. Rukikaire praised Maama Janet for choosing a path of active national service over comfort, even after her husband, President Museveni, assumed leadership of the country in 1986. “When we returned home in 1986, you could have chosen to sit comfortably and enjoy the luxury of being the wife of the President. But you did not because you knew what our Lord Jesus needed you to do,” Mrs. Rukikaire said. Quoting the Gospel of Matthew 25:31–40, she likened Maama Janet’s life to the scriptural call to serve “the least of these,” and underscored her work as a clear example of faith in action. “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead,” she added, referencing James 2:17 saying that God prepared her, the First Lady, for this and enabled her to accomplish the tremendous work that is visible for all to see. Mrs. Rukikaire also reflected on their shared journey, beginning when she was invited by Maama Janet to join the Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO) after retiring from UNICEF, noting that she would later serve as UWESO Executive Director and work closely with Maama Janet on youth-focused programs. She recalled their early efforts to fight HIV/AIDS in the 1990s, at a time when the disease was ravaging the country, saying that together, they launched national youth conferences promoting sexual purity and abstinence, eventually forming the True Love Waits movement. The initiative, she said, empowered thousands of young people to protect themselves and today many of them serve in public office. “These conferences enabled young men and women to avoid HIV/AIDS. Eventually, these efforts grew into the Uganda Youth Forum,” she noted. Mrs. Rukikaire also spoke of Maama Janet’s commitment to the underprivileged during her time as Minister for the Karamoja Region, saying she witnessed firsthand the transformative work carried out in some of Uganda’s most remote communities. “I always wished we could have stayed longer in Karamoja because it would have made a huge difference to those communities,” she noted. She also highlighted Maama Janet’s founding of the National Strategy for the Advancement of Rural Women, led by Mrs. Margaret Kakitahi, which focused on empowering rural women through training and enterprise. Looking beyond Uganda, Mrs. Rukikaire commended Maama Janet for founding the Organization of African First Ladies, which provided a continental platform for First Ladies to collaborate on social issues affecting women and children. “Even as Minister of Education and Sports today, you continue to follow up on all this work as Patron. I want to thank you, and I thank God who has enabled you to accomplish so much for this nation,” she concluded. The event was also attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, Spiritual leaders, the Leadership of Uganda Youth Forum, Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity, UWESO, among dignitaries.

29 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HOSTS PASTOR BENNY HINN

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday hosted renowned international evangelist Pastor Benny Hinn at the State Lodge - Nakasero, in a spiritual and reflective meeting that centered on the value of Christianity to Africa, national transformation, and prayer for the nation. During the engagement, President Museveni shared his views on the role Christianity has played in shaping African values, emphasizing the unique contribution of the resurrection message brought by the faith. “The value addition to Africa by Christianity was the message of resurrection,” President Museveni stated. “Our people knew God before, we call Him Katonda in our language, the creator. But the resurrection, that was new. The message of Jesus to love God with all your heart and to love your neighbor as yourself is very important. That’s a key message.” President Museveni also revealed that one of his daughters is a Priest, underscoring his personal connection to faith and the Church. Pastor Benny Hinn responded with an insightful reflection on the nature of life, anchoring it in the person of Jesus Christ. “Life is not a thing. Life is a person, and His name is Jesus. People talk about plant life, animal life, human life, but truly, it’s a living plant, a living animal, a living human because life itself is only found in Him.” In the same meeting, Pastor Robert Kayanja praised President Museveni for his long-standing dedication to the country’s liberation and development. He also acknowledged the President’s spiritual support, noting that Uganda may be one of the few countries led by a President whose family includes an active preacher of the gospel. “Thank you, Mzee, for welcoming the anointing the way you did, providing security, transportation, and even your own vehicle for Pastor Benny Hinn,” said Pastor Kayanja. “You have shown us humility, love for the Church, love for Jesus, and love for Uganda and Africa.” The event culminated in a moment of prayer, with Pastor Hinn interceding for the First Family and the nation. The heartfelt meeting ended with the exchange of gifts between the President and his guests, symbolizing mutual respect and shared commitment to spiritual and national growth.

27 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILS SPEAKER AMONG FOR JOB CREATION AND WEALTH CREATION IN TESO

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today commended the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, for her visionary leadership in transforming lives through job creation, wealth generation and service delivery in the Teso sub-region. Speaking during a grand thanksgiving ceremony held in her honour at Bukedea District Headquarters Grounds, President Museveni celebrated the Speaker’s journey from opposition politics to national transformation under the NRM. “Anita Among has started creating jobs. She spent quite some time in the FDC, but in 2016 she linked up with me and I invited her to Kisozi, as I often do with many leaders but only a few learn quickly and Anita is one of them,” President Museveni said. He revealed that after visiting his ranch, the Speaker was inspired to begin her own journey in commercial agriculture. “She asked me questions, I gave her some support, and now she is a big rancher. She owns schools and farms. She told me she employs 52 people on the farms and 110 in the schools. She is now doing three things: creating wealth, creating jobs, and providing a service. As long as it is clean money not from corruption, God will be happy with you,” President Museveni affirmed. The President earlier commissioned Bukedea College School Northern Campus and led a symbolic tree-planting exercise. He also officially launched the Bukedea District NRM Office. Addressing thousands of supporters, President Museveni emphasized six foundational pillars that will form the core of the NRM’s 2026–2031 Manifesto; Peace, Development, Jobs, Services, Wealth, and Markets. President Museveni thanked the people of Teso and Ugandans nationwide for endorsing his leadership as NRM Chairman and flag bearer, acknowledging their unwavering support. “I greet you, the people of Teso. I thank you for supporting the NRM and for endorsing my name. I also thank my daughter, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, for her active participation in NRM politics and the development of this country,” he said. Peace Is Not Enough: He reminded the public that while the NRM and UPDF had brought peace to Uganda particularly in regions like Teso, Lango, Acholi, and Sebei, peace alone was not enough. “You still find poverty right next to development. Roads alone do not create wealth. You, the leaders, must explain this: development is for all of us, but poverty and wealth are personal. If you go back home and do nothing, the poverty you left behind will say ‘welcome back—we are still here,’” he cautioned. He cited Mr. Joseph Ijara from Serere as a successful example. “He started with just 2.5 acres in 2011 after hearing my speech on the Four-Acre Model. Today, from poultry and dairy, he earns over Shs 1 billion a year sh3m daily from eggs and 300 litres of milk a day,” he said. President Museveni also dispelled the myth that jobs can only be found in the public sector. “Government jobs are few; only 480,000. According to UBOS, 1.4 million people are employed in factories, 3.6 million in agriculture, 5 million in services, and 46,000 in ICT. The private sector offers far more jobs,” he said. “People like Minister Fred Byamukama have listened to my advice and are now flourishing. He earns Shs 700 million annually from eggs and employs 26 people.” President Museveni also reiterated the NRM’s commitment to reviving essential government services, particularly education and health. “We want to insist on free education in government primary and secondary schools. I am already providing free education through the Presidential Skilling Hubs. Immunization is another government service that has succeeded, 13 vaccines, including the one for girls aged 9 to 14 to prevent cervical cancer,” he said. He urged parents to utilize these services. “Take your daughters for the cancer vaccine. Government services must work well.” Additionally, President Museveni emphasized the need for regional markets to absorb Uganda’s growing production. “Who buys all the cows, bananas, eggs, and factory products? The internal market is not enough. That’s why we advocate for East African and African integration. Patriotism is good—but Pan-Africanism is necessary for prosperity.” On compensation and fisheries: President Museveni also promised to engage elders and local leaders on key concerns, including cattle compensation and fisheries. “We are spending a lot on compensation for cattle loss in Lango, Teso and Acholi but much of it is stolen by the people who are not entitled; that is why I want to discuss it with your elders and your leaders,” he said. “The issue of fisheries is one I would like to discuss directly with the fishing communities. How many people can safely operate in the lake? Just like a stadium has limited capacity, some people must stay outside to avoid accidents. The lake cannot accommodate everyone. So, who should be in the lake, and why? What happened to the traditional fishermen? Where are they now? Because today, you find Congolese and Rwandans in the lake. What happened to our local fishermen?” On her part, Rt. Hon. Among paid heartfelt tribute to the President for his instrumental role in transforming her personal journey and the socio-economic landscape of Bukedea District. The Speaker described the event as a moment to honour God for using President Museveni as a vessel of progress. “Your Excellency the President, thank you for everything you have done for me personally, and for the people of Bukedea,” Speaker Among said. “We invited you here today simply to express our gratitude for all that God has done through you, and for the blessings He has bestowed upon us all.” The thanksgiving ceremony attracted thousands of locals, religious and political leaders as well as government officials including; the Chief Justice, His Lordship Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, the Secretary General of the National Resistance Movement, among others.

27 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AFFIRMS UGANDAN IDENTITY FOR ABAVANDIMWE, CALLS FOR CLARITY ON CITIZENSHIP

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the rights and identity of long-time residents of Rwandan descent in Uganda, urging officials to treat such communities with fairness and dignity. While meeting the Banyarwanda (Abavandimwe) community on Wednesday 25th June 2025 at State House, Entebbe, the President emphasized that individuals who have lived in Uganda for decades and are verified by local authorities, should be fully recognized as Ugandans. “The people who have been here for generations, and are known by their communities, should not be harassed or denied services. They deserve respect and their rights,” President Museveni said. He underscored that Ugandan citizenship whether by birth, registration, or naturalization is a constitutional right and should not be denied through bureaucratic delays or unlawful scrutiny. “By the 1950s, when I was growing up in Ntungamo, we the Bahooro were already part of Uganda. The 1995 Constitution is clear—those who were here by 1926 are citizens,” he noted. Executive Order on Citizenship Enforcement: Citing his constitutional authority under Article 99(1) and (4), the President reaffirmed an executive directive to guide the lawful determination of citizenship, especially for long-term residents seeking national IDs and passports Key directives include; Verification through local leadership: Applicants with endorsement letters from LC1, LC3, GISO, and RDC should be deemed legitimate citizens. Birthright citizenship: Those born in Uganda should not be rejected without compelling evidence to the contrary. Community-based identification: Where formal documentation is unavailable, testimony from relatives under oath, corroborated by elders and local leaders, should be accepted. Administrative clarity: Immigration officers are to refer citizenship disputes to the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), not to make arbitrary decisions. “Uganda is not America. Here, we don’t rely on graveyards or data systems to prove ancestry. We use local knowledge,” the President said, taking a swipe at rigid bureaucratic systems. He warned against unnecessary obstacles being imposed on communities like the Abavandimwe and proposed forming a committee to investigate dubious cases while protecting genuine citizens. Clarifying National Allegiance: While celebrating the inclusive nature of Uganda’s citizenship laws, President Museveni also emphasized the importance of clear national allegiance especially among those with roots in multiple countries. “What we cannot accept is dual citizenship between Rwanda and Uganda. Please decide. You cannot be both,” he said, noting that identity should be rooted in lawful national commitment. “Even me, I am a Muhooro. Our people are across Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda, but I was born here. If I want to be Rwandan, I go to Rwanda. But I can’t say I’m both Munyankole and Munyarwanda.” Equal Rights for Abavandimwe: Mr. Frank Gashumba, the co-founder and chairman of the Abavandimwe Council, welcomed the President’s remarks and appealed for equal treatment of the Banyarwanda community in Uganda. “We are Banyarwanda of Uganda, not Rwanda. As long as one holds a Ugandan National ID, they should receive a passport without bias,” Mr. Gashumba said. He expressed concern over reports of discrimination in the issuance of national documents, which he described as a denial of both identity and opportunity. “Our children are being unfairly denied passports. This is more than a document, it’s access to opportunity,” Mr. Gashumba said. Present at the meeting were Gen. David Muhoozi (Minister of State for Internal Affairs), Ms. Rosemary Kisembo (Executive Director, NIRA), and Brig. Johnson Namanya (Commissioner, Citizenship and Passport Control-Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control-DCIC).

26 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI LINKS YOUTH UPRISINGS TO LACK OF WEALTH CREATION STRATEGY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today has attributed the growing wave of youth uprisings across Africa to the absence of a deliberate wealth creation strategy and the failure to fully monetize national resources. He called on African nations to embrace Pan-African economic integration as the only sustainable path to stability and shared prosperity. The President made the remarks while delivering a Lecture of Opportunity to 52 senior military officers undergoing the Senior Command and Staff Course Grade Two at the Senior Command and Staff College in Kimaka, Jinja City. During the lecture, President Museveni engaged the officers on wide-ranging topics, including youth unrest, patriotism, Pan-Africanism, wealth creation, and sustainable peace all framed within Africa’s socio-economic transformation agenda. The one-year regional course attracted military officers from Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the United Republic of Tanzania, Kenya, South Sudan, and Malawi. Brig. Michael Kabango, the commandant of the College, was also in attendance. A question from a Kenyan officer particularly drew the President’s attention, as she asked what leaders were failing to understand about Generation Z that is leading to growing uprisings across the continent. In response, President Museveni emphasized the need for African nations to shift from donor-driven policies to homegrown strategies anchored in wealth creation and full participation in the money economy. “Africa’s problem is not a lack of resources, but a failure to conceptualize how to use them effectively,” the President said. He pointed to Uganda’s economic journey as an example, recalling that at independence, only 4% of Ugandans were involved in the money economy. By 2013, that number had grown to 32%, and today stands at 67%. “People were not responding. That was the major problem. Now that more people are joining the money economy, they must do so with calculation (ekibaaro). That’s why we advocate for full monetization of the economy,” President Museveni said. He stressed that wealth creation must begin at the household level, with every family actively engaged in productivity. He also outlined four sectors as key to unlocking Africa’s economic potential: commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services (such as tourism and hospitality), and information and communication technology (ICT). The President warned that Africa must stop exporting raw materials if it is to build industrial capacity and create meaningful employment. On economic integration, President Museveni argued that Africa’s fragmented markets limit growth and industrialization. He emphasized that Uganda’s local market is too small to support large-scale production and called for a united East African and Pan-African market. “Gen Z should not be rioting over local grievances , they should be agitating for East African integration,” the President said, linking economic unity to strategic security and long-term prosperity. He concluded by urging African leaders and citizens to focus on transforming subsistence economies into monetized systems rooted in productivity, innovation, and integration. “The path to peace and prosperity is through producing and selling a good or service, that is how we will unlock Africa’s potential, create jobs for our youth, and secure lasting peace,” President Museveni said.

26 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI WELCOMES FORMER OPPOSITION YOUTH TO NRM, COMMENDS THEM FOR THE WISE DECISION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday officially welcomed 191 youth who recently crossed from opposition political parties to the National Resistance Movement (NRM). The converts from the districts of Mubende, Kassanda and Mityana have been undergoing a two-week ideological training at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi. The 2025/2026 cohort of youth converts comprised 145 males and 46 females. They were introduced to the principles of the NRM, its ideology, and other patriotic values. During a meeting held at State House Entebbe, the President commended the youth for making what he called a wise and courageous decision. President Museveni also pledged Shs 100m to support their SACCO as a token of encouragement and empowerment. He also lauded the converts for abandoning political factions that, according to him, have long misled the youth and discouraged them from engaging in government programs meant to fight poverty and foster economic transformation. “Those opposition groups are merciless. They use you for foreign-funded agendas and then tell you to shun government programs,” the President remarked. “When we were giving out coffee seedlings under Operation Wealth Creation, they said the seedlings wouldn’t help them, but you have made the right choice, and I congratulate and welcome you.” President Museveni further drew on his own political journey, sharing that he too was once an opposition supporter. “I was in the Democratic Party from 1960 to 1970. Even though UPC rigged the elections in 1962, I told my fellow DP supporters, Obote may have stolen votes, but he didn’t steal your food. We had to be smart and take full advantage of the government’s programs,” he said. He commended the youth instructors for equipping the converts with a strong understanding of NRM’s core principles particularly the third mission: socio-economic transformation. “I am happy that your instructors taught you the mission of socio-economic transformation. As Africans, we must move from subsistence living to the money economy,” he said. Modernizing African Livelihoods: The President illustrated how daily life for most Africans still relies on outdated practices that need urgent modernization. “In developed countries, machines fetch water. Here, our girls still carry jerry cans on their heads. We cook with firewood while others use gas or electricity. That’s what the NRM seeks to change,” he said. The President also emphasized education as a key driver of transformation, highlighting the role of the government’s Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE and USE) programs as well as the Presidential Skilling Hubs. “The skilling hub in Kassanda is proof that youth can access quality training for free. If we fully embrace free education, it will play a major role in changing lives.” President Museveni further revisited his Four-Acre Model, a strategy he first introduced in the 1996 NRM Manifesto to guide smallholder farmers towards profitable and calculated farming. “If you have only two acres and grow cotton or tobacco, you’ll remain poor. But if you plan well, with ekibalo (calculation) you can generate serious income,” he explained. For those with four acres, the President advised; One acre for coffee (earning up to Shs15 million per year), one for fruits, one for pasture to support up to eight cows, and one for food crops. He added that backyard farming activities like poultry, piggery (for non-Muslims), and fish farming could generate even more income. “Fish farming, for instance, can bring in up to Shs 80 million a year from one acre of ponds,” President Museveni revealed. Industrialization and ICT as Game Changers: He also pointed to Uganda’s manufacturing sector, which now employs over 1.2 million people, more than double the public service sector’s 480,000. “From small dairy coolers to big factories, manufacturing has become a major source of jobs and wealth,” he said. The President also praised growth in the services sector particularly tourism, transport, professional services, and religious work which employs about four million Ugandans. Finally, he underscored the transformative potential of ICT, especially in business Process Outsourcing (BPO). “With our strong internet and telecom infrastructure, Ugandans can now work for international companies and earn globally competitive salaries right from here,” President Museveni noted. Ms. Hellen Seku, the Commissioner of the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), expressed gratitude to President Museveni for hosting the youth converts from parishes, villages, and sub-counties in the three districts. “We thank Your Excellency for welcoming these young people, many of whom were once leaders in the opposition. This meeting marks a turning point in their journey of transformation,” Ms. Seku said. “These youth have been receiving ideological training focused on civic duty, patriotism, and the core principles of the NRM. The goal has been to equip them to become responsible, value-driven citizens who contribute meaningfully to their communities,” she explained. Ms. Seku also emphasized that the training covered key themes such as teamwork, peacebuilding, national unity, embracing government programs, and serving the country with loyalty and discipline. “We have taught them the pillars of society, how to protect the peace we have, and the importance of working together as one. These young people are now prepared to return home and help drive progress in their areas,” she added. She further urged the youth to be responsible citizens and take care of both the environment and their personal health. “Go back and plant trees in your communities. Let us care for our environment. Above all, maintain discipline in your health. HIV/AIDS has become rampant in our societies. Guard yourselves. It is spreading like wildfire, and we must stop it,” she advised. On his part, Col. Okei Rukogota, the Director of NALI expressed his appreciation to President Museveni for his unwavering efforts in empowering young people through anti-poverty programs. “Your Excellency, I thank you for your tireless fight against poverty among the youth. Your leadership continues to create opportunities for transformation,” Col. Rukogota said. He also commended the NALI team for their dedication and commitment in organizing and facilitating the ideological training for the youth. “To the entire NALI team, thank you. Without your hard work and support, this success would not have been possible,” he added. Col. Rukogota further applauded the converts for their commitment to learning and embracing the values and principles taught during the retreat. “I also thank the youth converts. Your willingness to learn and change is a sign of true patriotism. Uganda needs you,” he said. Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Mutumba Byakatonda, a youth representative and councilor from Mubende Municipal Council, said the converts were once affiliated with opposition political parties but have now decided to cross to the NRM. “Your Excellency, I personally crossed to the opposition after you commissioned the Mubende Central Market. However, today, I stand before you as a proud convert back to the NRM,” he said. “Your Excellency, for a while, many of us were misled by opposition narratives. We were persuaded into ideologies that alienated us from government programs aimed at creating wealth and improving livelihoods,” Mr. Byakatonda explained. “We sincerely thank the Director and entire staff at NALI for the training, mentorship, and welfare support. Through lessons on the principles and ideology of the NRM, we have experienced a complete mindset change.” He thanked the President for his continued facilitation, time, and attention, saying: “We are deeply grateful for your support and for sparing time out of your busy schedule to meet us today. We do not take it for granted.” As part of their next steps, the group expressed interest in registering a Youth Converts SACCO across their districts. “We plan to form a SACCO where we can access funds at low interest rates and start small businesses. Your Excellency, we also humbly request coffee seedlings under Operation Wealth Creation to help us kick-start our income-generating activities and contribute to the national development agenda,” Mr. Byakatonda said. He concluded by reaffirming their loyalty to the NRM government. “We are ready to enroll fully into the NRM and support you in building a transformed and prosperous Uganda,” he added.

25 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR NATIONWIDE NUTRITION CAMPAIGN TO BOOST SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on Uganda’s sports fraternity to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to promote nationwide public health education, especially on proper nutrition and discipline among young people. “Why can’t the sports fraternity partner with the Ministry of Health through the districts and go on radio every two weeks to talk about good nutrition, public health, and discipline?” the President asked. “Families need to learn how to feed their children well. Matooke with salt is not enough. We must teach people about body-building foods, proteins and avoiding sickness from alcohol and promiscuity,” he added. President Museveni, in the company of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, made the remarks today while hosting a colourful luncheon at State House, Entebbe to celebrate Uganda’s sporting heroes. The event honored three national sports teams that have brought Uganda international recognition through exceptional performance in football, basketball, and rugby. Among the honoured teams was the Uganda U17 Men’s National Football Team (The Cubs), who made history by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2025. Their qualification marks a major milestone as they became the first national football team in FUFA’s 100-year history to reach the World Cup stage. Also recognised was the Senior Women’s National Basketball Team (The Gazelles), who clinched victory in the FIBA AfroBasket 2025 Zone 5 Championships held in Egypt. Their win secured Uganda a spot in the AfroBasket 2025 Women’s Championship set to take place in Côte d'Ivoire between July 26 and August 3, 2025. The spotlight was equally placed on the Uganda Lady Cranes 15’s, the Women’s National Rugby Team, who triumphed in the Rugby Africa Cup Division 1 tournament held in Côte d'Ivoire. Their victories against Tunisia, Zimbabwe, and the hosts earned them promotion to the prestigious Africa Performance Division, placing them alongside continental powerhouses such as South Africa, Kenya and Madagascar. The President commended the teams, attributing their rise to the country’s peace, stability and improved education system. “I am very happy to be here to celebrate these three groups with Maama. Congratulations, and may the Almighty God bless you,” President Museveni said. He emphasized that a well-fed and disciplined population would naturally produce more athletes, adding that Uganda is only beginning to tap into its full sports potential. He reflected on the past, noting that what was previously lacking was peace and an education system that reached all children. “When we brought peace and expanded the school system, especially Universal Primary Education, you began to see talent emerge. And yet, we have not even addressed areas like nutrition or built enough stadiums. But with just peace and education, we are already here. Imagine when we add nutrition, infrastructure, and sports-specific programs,” he said. President Museveni listed the ongoing and upcoming stadium projects, including Namboole, Hoima, Akii Bua, and Nakivubo, while also calling for the rehabilitation of older facilities like Kakyeka in Mbarara and Maluku. He urged technical teams to explore cost-effective solutions. “I request the technical team to look for cheaper ways of repairing those stadiums. Once we have peace, a school system, stadiums, and early-stage nutrition sensitization we shall go far,” he said. President Museveni also congratulated Maama Janet, recognizing her as a sportswoman by prayer and administration, praising her prayers and stable leadership in the Ministry of Education and Sports. He reminisced about his own days as a sportsman in the 1960s. “It’s now 60 years since I was a sportsman. In 1966, I played football and cricket. At that time, women were not active in sports like basketball or rugby. Now they are, and Ugandan women are doing well. They are tall, strong, and they eat millet. I saw them play in Australia. They didn’t win, but they showed great potential.” He applauded the progress in women’s sports, noting that Uganda has always had football talent. “We had great players like the late John Bunyenyezi. Today, with our Under-17 boys, our women in basketball and rugby we are seeing results,” he said. President Museveni also emphasized that Uganda's diverse terrain naturally produces different athletic strengths. “The mountains of Kapchorwa produce athletes with strong lungs and muscles. In the lowlands of Lango and Teso, you find strong middle-distance runners. The talent is there, we just need to organize it,” he said. He further reiterated his call to maintain a culture of frugality, similar to the UPDF’s discipline during difficult times. “In the army, we didn’t have enough money, but our soldiers were determined. In the same way, let’s not be extravagant. Let’s use the little we have to build a strong foundation for our sports sector,” he said. President Museveni affirmed that Uganda is on the move, pointing to the qualification for major tournaments like CHAN and AFCON, and called on all stakeholders to work together to build a sports ecosystem that begins with the child and ends with national victory. On her part, the First Lady hailed Uganda’s rising sports stars and attributed their international success to the country’s peace and stability under President Museveni’s leadership. “Your Excellency, I want to start by thanking you for always making the time to celebrate our young people who continue to raise our flag globally,” she said. Maama Janet emphasized that the sports sub-sector has registered outstanding achievements in the various sports disciplines over the years, which she attributed to the stable environment in Uganda. “We know that this would not be possible without a peaceful and stable country. Thank you for the sacrifice you pay to ensure a stable and enabling environment for our young population to thrive,” she added. “Thank you for prioritizing sports infrastructure development, an avenue to nurture more talent but also an opportunity to host international sports events in the country.” Speaking with pride, the First Lady presented three national teams that have achieved extraordinary milestones. “Uganda is now ranked number 3 in Africa Rugby,” she proudly stated. She emphasized that all these successes were possible because the engagements of National Teams, among others, have been funded by the Government of Uganda through the National Council of Sports. Maama Janet did not miss the opportunity to inspire the youth, stressing the importance of moral values. “To our young sports men and women, it is my prayer that you will continually embrace discipline and the fear of the Lord in your lives. Discipline is the key to enduring success and the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,” she said. “Bring discipline to your private world; it is private victories that eventually produce sustained public victories. It is the small things you do when nobody is seeing that produce the big things that everybody wants to see.” She also warned against social vices that derail success. “The values of sexual purity, staying away from substance abuse and all forms of indiscipline, ensure that you maintain what you have started,” she said. In her concluding remarks, the First Lady extended appreciation to the leadership across sports disciplines. “Finally, let me thank the Heads of Football, Basketball, Rugby, the Athletes, Coaches, Managers, and all other stakeholders who have always stood with the Athletes.” Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the State Minister for Primary Education, described the luncheon hosted in honour of Uganda’s outstanding sports achievers as a powerful affirmation of the value the nation places on sports and those who champion sports. Hon. Kaducu said that when the President opens the doors of the highest office to the sports fraternity, it sends a very clear message to the country, noting that their efforts, victories, and their sacrifices matter to Uganda. She described the gesture as more than ceremonial, calling it a celebration of national pride, national identity, and a moment to honor the men and women who carry Uganda’s flag with dignity on regional and global stages. “Such recognition boosts morale, it inspires the next generation, and reinforces the role of sports in promoting unity and discipline. It also highlights our government's commitment to investing in talent, infrastructure, and inclusive participation,” Hon. Kaducu emphasized. “When the Head of State stands with the sports fraternity, it becomes a national call to elevate sports as a pillar of development and identity.” Hon. Kaducu also took the opportunity to recognize the leadership of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports. “I also take this opportunity on behalf of the MoES fraternity to sincerely thank Maama Janet, our First Lady and the Minister of Education and Sports. Maama Janet has not only championed academic excellence at the MoES but she has also laid a firm foundation for sports development as a pillar of national transformation,”she said. Hon. Kaducu further acknowledged Maama Janet’s practical impact on the ground. “Mama Janet has also been instrumental in mobilizing resources for sports infrastructure, advocating for inclusive participation, and ensuring that sports are accessible to all Ugandans, regardless of their gender, their ability, or background. Her efforts have inspired a new generation of athletes and positioned Uganda as a rising star on the global stage. Maama, we appreciate your efforts.” Turning to Uganda’s sports men and women, Hon. Kaducu encouraged them to remain focused and resilient. The event was also attended by the president of the Federation of the Uganda Football Association (FUFA), Hon. Moses Magogo , Heads of Football, Basketball, Rugby, the Athletes, Coaches, Managers, among others. ENDS

23 June 2025

COL. BAGONZA HAILS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AS SFC OPENS 3RD INTER-UNIT RIFLE COMPETITION

The Commander of the Three Special Force Group, Col. Wilson Bagonza, has hailed President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also Commander-In- Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), for his unwavering support towards the training and equipping of the army. He said the President’s support to UPDF is instrumental in enhancing the army’s operational effectiveness. Col. Bagonza made the remarks on Monday 23rd June, 2025, while presiding over the official opening ceremony of the 3rd edition of the annual Special Forces Command (SFC) inter-unit rifle competition at Fort Samora Machel Special Forces Training School in Kaweweta, Nakaseke district, where he represented the Commander of the SFC, Maj. Gen. David Mugisha. “I thank our Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for all we are doing, he's the originator, and he actively participates in supporting our training efforts to ensure that we are well-equipped. In the same vein, I thank the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for his tremendous efforts in professionalizing not only SFC but the entire UPDF,” Col. Bagonza said. According to Col. Bagonza, prioritizing capacity building within the UPDF has led to significant improvements in the professionalism, discipline, and combat readiness of the force. He encouraged participants to take the competition seriously as a way of improving their skills. “You might not be the best, but you have been given this opportunity to be here and baptized in the name of being the best. So, since you have been baptized with that name, please defend it and excel,” he emphasized. This year’s SFC inter-unit rifle competition witnessed drills from 11 teams representing the four formations, including the Headquarters Group, One Special Forces Group, Two Special Forces Group, and Three Special Forces Group, respectively. It includes disciplines such as the Strongest Special Challenge, the Long-Range Rifle Challenge, the Pistol Challenge, the Hostage Rescue Challenge, and Direct Action. On the last day, CSFC Challenge Best Squads will demonstrate HR, DA, and shooting falling plates and targets. “So, remember that you're not competing with an enemy. Each of us should be your friend's keeper during this period. Do not allow your friend to go wrong. Practice as much as you can. Shape the knowledge you acquired and the skills you already have, remove the panic, and compete with confidence and friendship for brotherhood to prevail,” Col. Bagonza noted. The commandant of Fort Samora Machel Special Forces Training School, Lt. Col. Beyendera Edison said the competition is more than a test of skill and marksmanship. He revealed that it's a celebration of the discipline, precision, and unwavering commitment that defines the Special Forces Command. “It provides a platform to strengthen our unity, foster healthy rivalry, and share best practices that sharpen our operational readiness. I urge all participating units to compete with courage, respect, and true sportsmanship,” he said, adding that the competitions remind them that excellence is not a destination, but a continuous journey, which embodies them with pride and dedication. The Director of Training and Doctrine - SFC, Col. Paul Lokut, described the inter-unit competition as a celebration of the mission of Special Forces, not only in Uganda but the entire world. “All the scenarios that are to be performed in this competition are common actions, tasks, and missions of the Special Forces worldwide; from direct action, hostage rescue, and unconventional warfare. I therefore urge participants to embrace the challenges, knowing they are doing what is expected of them as Special Forces,” he added. He urged the participating teams to exhibit discipline and make their commanders proud. The ceremony was also attended by, among others, the commanding officers, operations and training officers, commandants of respective training schools, and officers of the Special Forces Command.

22 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PROPOSES VILLAGE BOREHOLES TO ADDRESS WATER CHALLENGES FOR FARMERS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has said that the government is to establish boreholes per village to address the farmers’ widespread concerns about inadequate water for poultry and livestock as well as other needs of the Parish Development Model (PDM) beneficiaries. According to President Museveni, water scarcity has been among the challenges raised by most PDM beneficiaries during his nationwide wealth creation tours. “This will ensure the people have water for their PDM enterprises, such as poultry, livestock, and the rest,” President Museveni emphasized. President Yoweri Museveni made the remarks while speaking to journalists from Greater Mukono at State Lodge, Nakasero on Sunday 22nd June 2025, where he laid out decisive government actions to strengthen the PDM initiative. President Museveni reiterated that PDM is tailored for small-scale farmers (those owning fewer than four acres) to engage in the government-recommended seven high-yielding activities under intensive agriculture, which give quick returns on a small scale. Under the four-acre model, the recommended activities include coffee, fruits, pasture for zero-grazing animals, and food crops for household consumption. Additionally, the President encouraged beneficiaries to adopt backyard poultry, piggery (for non-Muslims), and fish farming on the edges of wetlands. “We have now added palm oil trees, cocoa, and avocado, but we are continuing to assess them,” the President said. Addressing the rise in cattle and poultry theft, President Museveni warned that perpetrators will be arrested using security surveillance cameras and digital number plates which will be used to track vehicles and motorcycles. He urged communities to preserve crime scenes and also form voluntary village security teams for night patrols, aimed at reducing both theft and mob justice incidents. Confronting reports of beneficiaries receiving less than the stipulated UGX 1 million, President Museveni assured that top-up payments would be made. “If it’s found out as an act of theft by PDM officials and commercial officers, then they will be arrested,” he cautioned, reiterating a strict stance on misappropriation of PDM funds. The PDM, launched in February 2022, is the government’s flagship poverty-alleviation strategy aimed at transforming subsistence households into the money economy. Responding to the issue of publicizing the PDM program by the government in the media, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, informed President Museveni that it is part of the licensing requirements from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) that every media house allocate free airtime every week to talk about government programs, especially concerning wealth creation. President Museveni warned that media houses that do not implement this will not be allowed to operate.

22 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI RALLIES RURAL COMMUNITIES TO DEFEND PEACE, ASSURES THEM ON CRIMINALITY FIGHT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today called for tighter coordination between local communities and the police to preserve Uganda's peace which has been in existence for decades. Speaking at a public rally at St. Cornelius Playground in Kalagala Village, Buikwe District, the President mentioned that the country has been transformed, with peace standing as the foundation. He reminded the attendees that Uganda’s current stability is not by chance, but a result of deliberate efforts. “We built for you a strong army in the 1980s that has protected this country,” he said. President Museveni was particularly concerned about the rise in petty but disruptive crimes in rural areas including theft of cows, chickens, crops, among other items which he said frustrate efforts toward wealth creation. He pointed to the Masaka killings (Ebijambiya) as a turning point in Uganda’s fight against rural crime. “We captured the killers in Masaka because of coordination between the police, the dogs, and the wananchi. That’s the model we must adopt everywhere,” he said. President Museveni also recounted a case in Masaka where attackers struck a home while the husband was away. The wife, instead of calling local police, phoned her husband in Mubende, setting off a delayed response. “Five people died as the criminals fled,” he noted, calling the incident a painful lesson in the importance of direct and local communication. “To fix this, I directed that every household must have the contact of the sub-county police. That number should be toll-free. When there is coordination, we can act immediately,” he said. He also cited another case of a nurse, Nakyambadde, near Lukaya, who was targeted by criminals. Thanks to the prompt action; she alerted local police who arrived in time, neutralized the gang and arrested the last suspect as far away as Ntungamo. “That phone call saved her life. These killers are not special. What they took advantage of was our disorganization,” he explained. The President emphasized the use of trained police dogs, CCTV cameras, and digital number plates with embedded chips as new tools in crime fighting but warned that community involvement remains the most powerful weapon. “Don’t tamper with crime scenes. Let the dogs track. Let the police lead. And from now on, there will be no more police bonds for these thugs,” he warned. DEVELOPMENT ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH: Highlighting the need for inclusive prosperity, President Museveni emphasized that national development projects like roads, electricity and schools must go hand-in-hand with personal wealth creation at the household level. “This road from Mukono– Kisoga– Nkokonjeru, the electricity, and the schools, are for all of us. We all benefit from these projects, but that is development. Wealth is different, it is personal, and it must be built within your homes, your families, or your enterprises,” he said. He warned that Uganda can have paved roads and modern infrastructure but still have poverty-stricken communities living along them. “In 1965, when I was in Senior Five at Ntare School, we traveled by car from Mbarara to Soroti and the road was already tarmacked. Since we came into government, we have renovated it further. But even now, you’ll still find poor people living along that road,” he said. Reiterating a wealth creation campaign he began in the 1960s, the President praised the cattle corridor communities who heeded his early call for economic transformation. “I’m very glad the dairy farmers of 1964–65 listened. We told them to stop moving from place to place trying to run from foot and mouth disease. They listened and now, they’re earning big,” he said. He then advocated for intensive agriculture, especially for families with limited land. “If you have a small piece of land, say two acres and you grow cotton or tobacco, you get little per year. But you must produce a good or service for sale and you must do it with ekibalo (calculation),” he said. “If you have four acres, do seven things: One acre for coffee, it can bring you Shs15 million a year. The second acre for fruits, the third for pasture you can support eight Fresian cows on one acre. The fourth acre for food crops for the family. In the backyard, do poultry for eggs, piggery if you're not a Muslim, and fish farming if you're near swamps. Fish farming brings a lot of money. One acre, with four ponds can give you up to Shs 80 million a year.” On the Parish Development Model (PDM) program, the President reminded beneficiaries that the funds are not giveaways but community-owned investments. “This PDM is your bank. It is not a handout; it’s a revolving fund meant to uplift you from poverty. Those who have received the money must ensure it is put to good use and repaid after two years so that others can also benefit,” he noted. He issued a stern warning against misuse or neglect of the program. “This money belongs to you and your community. If you misuse it or fail to repay, you deny others a chance to improve their livelihoods.” President Museveni also took a firm and historical stance on land injustice, especially the plight of bibanja tenants. “When we introduced busuulu as a token, landlords complained that it was meaningless, but I told them this land belongs to the people.” He condemned forceful evictions, calling them illegal and colonial remnants. “This is a colonial legacy. Chasing people off land is banned. It is illegal. If someone tells you to leave land you have been using, brings papers, and claims to be your landlord, that's abuse of your ignorance,” he said. “We shall make sure that bibanja holders pay ground rent through the sub-county office. Landlords who reject these payments will no longer have room to manipulate or threaten tenants.” Responding to the requests made earlier, the President announced targeted financial support to local SACCOs. “I have put Shs30 million in the Youth SACCO and another Shs30 million in the Women SACCO,” he said. On her part, Hon. Diana Mutasingwa, the Minister of State in the Office of the Vice President and Woman Member of Parliament for Buikwe District, applauded the President for his continued commitment to transforming the lives of the people in Greater Mukono. “I thank you, President Museveni, for touring Greater Mukono and for the tangible efforts you’ve made to uplift our people,” Hon. Mutasingwa said, highlighting key interventions that have directly benefited the district. She also expressed deep gratitude to President Museveni for signing the Sugarcane Bill into law, explaining that it is a game changer for Buikwe and other sugarcane growing districts in the country. “Our farmers are grateful. This law has brought hope and dignity to the hardworking growers in our region,” she noted. Hon. Mutasingwa also acknowledged several other critical government investments, including the allocation of Shs10bn for the construction of the Buikwe District Headquarters, Shs1.3 billion for an irrigation scheme, and the budgeting of the Lugazi–Kiyindi–Buikwe road, a vital transport link for the district. However, the Minister also outlined key challenges still facing her constituents. She called for the President’s urgent attention to the plight of the fishing community, reminding him of his commitment to protect Lake Victoria for indigenous Ugandans. The event was also attended by Hon. Denis Hamson Obua, the Government Chief Whip, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Buganda region, Hon. Godfrey Kiwanda Suubi, the Minister of State for Micro-Finance, Hon. Haruna Kasolo, Ms. Jane Barekye, the State House comptroller, among others.

20 June 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMISSIONS MENGO ZONAL PRESIDENTIAL INDUSTRIAL HUB

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today commissioned the Mengo Zonal Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub in Kayunga District. The commissioning was part of the President’s countrywide assessment tour on the Parish Development Model (PDM) and wealth creation promotion in Greater Mukono. President Museveni's journey through Greater Mukono was punctuated by several stopovers as thousands of residents gathered by the roadsides to catch a glimpse of the Head of State and express their support. He made brief addresses in Mukono town, Kabembe, Kalagi, Nakifuma, and Kayunga town, where he emphasized the need for electing leaders aligned with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) principles and are committed to tracking and delivering government programs. “The problem you have is that you elect leaders who don’t follow up on the money we send to the ground to help you fight poverty,” President Museveni said. He urged the people to vote for NRM candidates in the upcoming general elections scheduled for January 2026, asserting that only leaders loyal to the government’s agenda can effectively push for development and accountability. In Kabembe town, President Museveni promised to support the Women’s SACCO with UGX 20 million and follow up on their market that was destroyed by fire. Upon arrival in Kayunga, President Museveni was warmly received by jubilant residents and students of Hopeful Future Secondary School. Moved by their reception, the President donated two cows to the students to enjoy a feast and encouraged them to work hard in school for a prosperous future. President Museveni also commended the Kayunga Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Aidah Nantaba Erios for her efforts in advocating for government programs. Hon. Nantaba thanked the President for the Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE and USE), although she noted the challenge of overcrowded classrooms given the fact that the program has attracted huge enrollment. In response, President Museveni pledged to follow up on critical local issues, including land grabbing in Kayunga and veterans’ gratuity, locally referred to as akasiimo. He also promised to contribute UGX 50 million to a local women’s SACCO to support their income-generating projects. The President assured residents that the government would soon work on the long-awaited Galiraya-Baale road, further cementing his commitment to improving infrastructure and livelihoods in the area. He further reiterated the importance of government initiatives like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga in uplifting Ugandans from poverty. He noted that his nationwide tour is aimed at monitoring the implementation of these programs and ensuring they meet the intended goals. The visit to Greater Mukono is part of the broader PDM Presidential zonal tours, which have so far covered regions including Greater Mpigi, Greater Masaka, Bugisu, Bukedi, Teso, Sebei, Karamoja, Lango, Acholi, West Nile, Rwenzori, Ankole, Kigezi, Tooro, and Bunyoro. The goal is to fast-track Uganda's transformation by lifting 3.5 million households out of subsistence farming and into the money economy.

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