PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HIGHLIGHTS CRITICAL ROLE OF PEACE IN ACHIEVING REGIONAL PROGRESS

Thousands of jubilant supporters thronged Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City today to welcome President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential flag bearer, as he addressed the people of Gulu and the wider Acholi sub-region. With the air buzzing with excitement and banners waving in support of NRM, President Museveni opened his address with a heartfelt greeting. Reflecting on Uganda’s past, President Museveni highlighted the critical role of peace in achieving regional progress. “Uganda was at war for a long time but now NRM has been able to achieve peace, supported by you. It was not accidental that we achieved this peace; it’s because of the unity of politics and building strong national institutions like the army,” he said. On development, the President emphasized the government’s commitment to both economic and social infrastructure. “As NRM, we have worked on development; the economic infrastructure at least road—you know the road from Kampala to Gulu, which we have done several times, the road from Karuma to West Nile, the road from Olwiyo all the way to Kitgum and beyond, and Gulu to Nimule. We are also going to work on the roads connecting Awere-Corner Kilak to Patongo.” He added that investments in electricity, telephones, piped water, and railways are all part of the broader economic infrastructure, while social infrastructure includes schools and health facilities. The President stressed the importance of modern approaches to wealth creation. “Our people work a lot but in the traditional way and they get little because they do things which are outdated. We must get out of poverty by listening to our programs of utilizing small land and differentiating between development and wealth.” He outlined government programs designed to lift people out of poverty: “In the next government, since you are supporting NRM, we are going to ensure that this program of wealth creation continues. All the money we have been spending like NAADS, OWC, Entandikwa , was to help you get out of poverty. We are going to continue those programs.” On practical initiatives, the President highlighted agriculture, fish farming, and livestock restocking. “In the coming government, we are going to emphasize fish farming at the edge of the swamps, instead of putting it in the center. That water can be used for irrigation,” he said. “Now, as part of wealth creation, the areas of Teso, Lango and Acholi had cows, but they were destroyed by wars and cattle rustling. When peace returned, we tried to restock, and we directed that each homestead receives five cows. Some had rejected the idea, but I am glad that it has been agreed on, and we are taking that position, so that compensation of the five cows per household has been agreed on.” President Museveni also addressed the issue of employment, cautioning against the misconception that jobs are only government positions. “When people talk about jobs, jobs come from wealth. If we don’t create wealth, you can’t create jobs. Some people only think about government jobs. This is misleading. Government jobs are very few altogether, about 480,000. But these factory jobs alone are now employing 1.3 million people, almost three times the number working for the government. He also referenced regional integration as key to sustaining industries. “As we speak today, Uganda produces more than 5 million tonnes of maize per year, yet within a year, Uganda consumes only 1 million tonnes, leaving a surplus of 4 million tonnes. If we did not have the East African market, the maize industry would collapse. The same applies to milk, bananas, beer, cement, and many other products. This is why NRM emphasizes regional integration for economic purposes,” he noted. The Gulu City NRM Chairperson, Gifter Aber, welcomed the President and praised NRM’s record in the region. “We appreciate Your Excellency for giving us women opportunities to contest and empower women. Thank you for accepting the free education policy in the region. We thank you for supporting party structures from the village to district levels, and for your peaceful leadership in the region,” she said. Ms. Aber emphasized that these achievements have directly impacted Gulu’s social and economic landscape. “The city now boasts of the University of Gulu, a milestone for higher education access in northern Uganda, alongside the Gulu Cancer Institute, ensuring patients no longer need to travel to Kampala for specialized care.” She also highlighted the Presidential Skilling Hub, a resource for vocational training that equips young people with practical skills to enter the workforce. “The modern market constructed for our people in Gulu City has transformed local trade, while the expansion of health centers and government schools ensures that our citizens receive essential services,” Aber noted. Her remarks were supported by figures showing significant progress in various development programs. The Parish Development Model (PDM) has made a notable impact, with Gulu District receiving Shs 14.4bn, disbursed to 14,143 households, while Gulu City received Shs 9.8bn, benefiting 9,792 households. In addition, all three constituencies of Gulu District and City have a total of 54 Emyooga SACCOs, supporting 41,576 members, with the government disbursing Shs 2.1bn to facilitate community savings and business ventures. Education has seen remarkable improvements. Gulu District has 47 government primary schools and 5 government secondary schools, while Gulu City has 41 government primary schools and 7 government secondary schools, all providing Universal Secondary Education and post-ordinary level training. Healthcare infrastructure has also expanded, with Gulu Regional Referral Hospital now equipped with an ICU, CT scan, X-ray and ultrasound services, two functional oxygen plants, and ambulances, while district health centers continue to be upgraded to provide better services for local communities. Ms. Aber concluded by highlighting access to clean water and irrigation initiatives that support farmers; 87% of villages in Gulu District now have safe water, and multiple small-scale and solar-powered irrigation schemes are advancing climate-resilient agriculture. Through these achievements, Ms. Aber emphasized, the NRM government has laid the foundation for continued peace, development, and wealth creation in Gulu and the broader Acholi sub-region. The campaign is running under the theme: “Protecting the Gains, Making a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status”. The event was graced by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

2025-10-23

PADER: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI REAFFIRMS FREE EDUCATION, PEACE AND WEALTH CREATION AS CORNERSTONES OF UGANDA’S PROGRESS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, has once again reaffirmed his government’s commitment to delivering free and quality education, consolidating peace, and deepening wealth creation across Uganda. Addressing thousands of jubilant supporters in Pader District, Acholi Sub-region, on Thursday October 23, 2025, during a campaign rally, H.E. Museveni strongly condemned the practice of charging school fees in government schools, equating it to “murder” because it denies children their right to education. “Charging school fees in government schools is murder and it must stop,” President Museveni declared amid loud cheers from the crowd. “We started free education, but some people refused to implement it. Now I am going to recruit 50,000 teachers to solve the problem of understaffing and ensure every child studies free of charge,” he added. The rally was part of President Museveni’s ongoing nationwide campaign trail ahead of the 2026 general elections, as he seeks another mandate to consolidate the NRM’s achievements in peace, development, and wealth creation. The President expressed disappointment that some headteachers continue to impose illegal charges on parents, pushing many children out of school. He said his next term of office will focus on enforcing genuine free education in all government schools. President Museveni also highlighted that Pader has made significant progress in education infrastructure. Pader district boasts 77 government primary schools and 107 private ones, alongside 9 government secondary schools, all offering Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-Ordinary Level Education and Training (UPOLET). “When I see that Pader alone, which is just a small part of the Acholi region, has nine government secondary schools, three of which have A-Level sections, I say Apoyo Lubanga (thank you, God),” the President remarked, recalling his school days at Ntare School, where many of his classmates were from Acholi because at that time there were only six A-Level schools in the whole country. He revealed that the government is constructing three new seed secondary schools in Pader, which will reduce the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school from 14 to 11. President Museveni further explained that because free education has not been fully implemented, many children drop out and miss opportunities, a gap the NRM government has sought to fill through the Presidential Industrial Skilling Hubs, now established in all regions of Uganda. “I started 19 skilling hubs to teach vocational skills for free. After six months, students can make furniture, shoes, clothes, and metallic doors. Many are already creating jobs,” he said, visibly impressed after buying a pair of shoes made by 18-year-old Okol Jonathan, a student of the Gulu Presidential Industrial Skilling Hub, for UGX 500,000. He added that the maintenance of these hubs is costly because the government provides accommodation and meals for trainees, underscoring how free education would reduce such expenses by keeping children in regular schools. President Museveni reminded the people of Pader that the peace they enjoy today was not by accident, but a result of NRM’s deliberate political strategy and strong national institutions. “In the last 40 years, we have been able to bring peace to Uganda. You people of Pader are witnesses because you saw the wars-from Kabalega’s resistance to the wars of Idi Amin, Obote, and even the LRA insurgency. But now, all that is behind us,” he said. President Museveni further explained that before 1986, Uganda’s politics was sectarian, divided along religious and tribal lines, which weakened parties and fueled instability. “In 1962, no party got 50% of the vote because politics was based on religion and tribe. UPC had to form a coalition with Kabaka Yekka which collapsed in two years. NRM built a national, non-sectarian political movement that unites Ugandans regardless of tribe or religion, that’s why we have lasting peace,” President Museveni emphasized. He noted that NRM’s good politics has built strong national institutions such as the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Police, and Intelligence Services, all of which maintain peace and security nationwide. “When we talk of peace, we have proof,” President Museveni said, adding that unity and prioritization have guided NRM’s leadership. “I have lived 55 years as a soldier without a good salary because we prioritized weapons and defense first,” he said. The President emphasized the importance of prioritizing key sectors such as defence, roads, electricity, education, and health — before addressing less urgent demands like administrative expenditures and new districts. “If we try to do everything at once, we end up with half-baked work. Prioritization is key,” President Museveni said, citing several major road projects in Northern Uganda such as Karuma–Gulu–Atiak–Nimule and Oluo–Kitgum, and assured that with continued prioritization, Pader’s roads will be worked on one by one. The President also expressed satisfaction with the ongoing extension of electricity distribution in Northern Uganda, urging local leaders to monitor quality and maintenance of roads. “If it’s a tarmac road, maintain it as tarmac. Marrum roads must also be graded properly with drainage channels, not like swimming pools when it rains,” he cautioned road engineers. On water access, President Museveni praised Pader’s progress, with 770 out of 871 villages having access to safe water — a coverage of 88%. Several piped water systems managed by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) and the Umbrella of Water and Sanitation North are already operational in Pajule, Pader Town, Lacekocot, Puranga, Aweere, and Corner Kilak. “In the next term (Kisanja), we shall ensure piped water reaches every village,” the President pledged. Healthcare expansion in Pader: President Museveni noted that out of 23 sub-counties in Pader, only one has a Health Centre IV, while 13 have Health Centre IIIs. He announced plans to ensure every sub-county gets at least a HCIII or HCIV, with a district hospital also in the pipeline. Ongoing and planned projects include: the construction of new HCIIIs at Tenam and Pukor, upgrading Lutanya, Oryang, Latigi, Amilobo, Lawire, and Paiula HCIIs to HCIIIs, construction of new Outpatient Departments at Tenam and Pukor, and a Medicine Store at Pajule HCIV. “In the coming Kisanja, every sub-county will have a health centre, including a district hospital,” President Museveni assured the crowd. Cattle compensation: Addressing the long-standing issue of cattle compensation in Northern Uganda, President Museveni appreciated local leaders for supporting his new compensation model, which he said was fairer and more manageable. “When I checked, the government had allocated UGX 59 billion for compensation. I suggested a flat rate of five cows per household, a fair and equal method,” he said, further explaining that this program will help revitalize livelihoods and complement other poverty reduction initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM). The President urged Ugandans to understand the difference between development (public infrastructure) and wealth creation (personal income). “We have roads, schools, and hospitals, but you don’t sleep there. You sleep in your house. So, development is ours, but wealth is mine, my family’s, or my company’s,” he said, encouraging Pader residents to embrace modern commercial agriculture and other income-generating activities supported by government programs like PDM. Pader has 95 parishes, and under PDM, it has received UGX 29.17 billion, of which UGX 28.8 billion (98.7%) has been disbursed to 28,844 beneficiary households. With 52,627 total households in the district, 54% have already benefited, leaving 23,783 households yet to receive funds. President Museveni promised that all will benefit in the next phase. “We are adding a special fund for religious leaders, another for university graduates who fail to get jobs, and 15 million shillings for local leaders,” he announced. The President screened a video of George Matongo, a livestock farmer from Nakaseke, who produces 900 litres of milk daily and earns UGX 29 million a month despite limited education. “If Matongo can prosper without a tarmac road, what excuse do you have?” President Museveni challenged the crowd, reinforcing his message of self-reliance and household wealth creation. President Museveni urged the people of Pader and Acholi sub-region to consolidate the gains of peace and development by voting NRM. “NRM is the only party that can show you what it has done and what it will continue to do. We brought peace, we are building the economy, and we are creating wealth. Do not be misled by those who only talk,” President Museveni said. The NRM chairperson for Pader, Hon. Lowila C.D. Oketa hailed President Museveni for empowering women across all levels of leadership, citing that the Vice President, Speaker of Parliament, Prime Minister, and herself as Pader NRM Chairperson are all women. “Our people appreciate you for championing women emancipation and leadership,” she said. She further thanked the President for ending the insurgency in Northern Uganda and promoting peace, which has enabled communities to rebuild their lives and join government programs like PDM. The event was graced by several senior leaders, including the Government Chief Whip Hon. Denis Hamson Obua, who described a vote for President Museveni as “a vote for sustainable peace and household income.” Pader’s support for candidate Museveni: Statistics show that the district has consistently voted overwhelmingly for President Museveni. In the 2021 elections, out of 82,298 registered voters, 47,623 (58.9%) turned up to vote, and President Museveni polled 28,233 votes (63.6%), far ahead of his competitors. For 2025, the district now has 99,041 registered voters, up from 82,298 in 2021 — an increase of 16,743 new voters and 268 polling stations (up from 215). “In 2021, we gave President Museveni 63.6%. This time, we are aiming for 80%,” declared Hon. Lowila, as the crowd chanted in agreement.

2025-10-23

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI RALLIES KITGUM TO CONTINUE SUPPORTING NRM TO CONSOLIDATE PEACE, DEVELOPMENT, WEALTH CREATION AND EDUCATION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today called on Ugandans to embrace the four pillars of peace, development, wealth creation, and free education as the foundation for transforming their communities and the country at large. The President made the remarks while addressing a mammoth crowd at his campaign rally in Kitgum Municipality, where he emphasized that the NRM government has brought peace and unity by rejecting the politics of tribe and religion. “The NRM has brought peace. It is not easy to create peace in a pre-industrial country. In underdeveloped countries, people are often confused about which question is right — politics of tribe or politics of interest,” President Museveni said. He noted that the foundation of Uganda’s peace was laid when the NRM refused to embrace sectarian politics. “The first thing that helped us achieve peace was that we did not accept the politics of sectarianism, religion, or tribe. The NRM made it clear that we don’t care about your tribe or religion; what we care about is whether you know what to do. That is how we built a strong army,” he added. President Museveni said that after peace, the second priority for the NRM government has been development, particularly in building economic and social infrastructure. He pointed to the tarmac road from Olwiyo–Anaka–Kitgum, electricity extension from Lira to Lamwo up to the South Sudan border, and the railway from Tororo–Lira–Gulu–Pakwach as evidence of steady progress in Northern Uganda. The President also commended the region’s progress in water access, noting that out of 686 rural villages, 572 now have access to safe water, representing 83% coverage, while efforts continue to connect the remaining villages. He cautioned leaders and citizens against attempting to implement all development projects at once, advising them to prioritize strategically. “The problem is that people try to do everything at the same time. That is not how the NRA works. If you cannot do all things at the same time, ask yourself what comes first. For me, I recommend defense so that you are safe, then roads, electricity, and education. The rest can come after,” he said. President Museveni further listed ongoing road projects in the region, including the Gulu–Awere–Kochokilak–Patongo–Abim road, and plans to upgrade several Health Centre IIs to Health Centre IIIs in sub-counties across Kitgum and Lamwo districts. On education, the President expressed concern that some parishes still lack government schools despite the presence of 88 government primary schools and 8 government secondary schools in the district. “We have 72 parishes and 88 government schools, meaning schools are more than the parishes, yet there are 30 parishes without government schools. Who allows this? In the next government plan, we shall construct more schools,” he said. He also spoke about his commitment to free education, noting that when he met resistance in government schools, he personally initiated skilling hubs through the State House to promote technical and vocational training. “Because I faced opposition in implementing free education, I used my power through the State House to build skilling hubs where no one could resist my idea. Those children who had lost hope are now producing things like hospital beds, shoes, and other products that were being imported from China,” he said. Turning to wealth creation, President Museveni urged residents not to confuse development with personal wealth, explaining that while the government can provide infrastructure, individuals must use it to create their own prosperity. “Don’t mix development with wealth. Development is good, but wealth and poverty are mine alone. This message of wealth creation is for everyone,” he said. He revealed that the government's restocking program will resume to reinforce wealth creation efforts in Northern Uganda. “We had started restocking but faced some legal issues. We had paid Shs.159 billion, then held meetings with leaders and elders. I proposed giving five cows per homestead in all regions, and that idea was adopted. The Acholi leaders agreed but also asked that war claimants be compensated because the war lasted longer in Acholi compared to other regions. We shall look into that because it’s true—the war lasted longer here,” the President said. He added that once households receive livestock and engage in productive enterprises, their livelihoods will significantly improve. Hon. Okello Oryem, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, thanked the President for the peace and development in the region and requested urgent action to address the problem of elephants straying into communities, as well as the creation of Chua East District, a pledge the President had made earlier. The Minister of State for Environment, Hon. Beatrice Anywar commended the President for the wealth creation programs and affirmed Kitgum’s unwavering support for the NRM government, saying the people will not let go of the progress achieved under its leadership. The Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, Relief and Refugees, also Kitgum District Woman MP, Hon. Lillian Aber appealed to the President to upgrade Kitgum Hospital to a regional referral hospital, noting that it serves a large population from both Kitgum and Lamwo districts. The NRM District Chairperson for Kitgum, Mr. Ongom Lapyem, thanked the President for transforming education in the district, recalling that in 1986, Kitgum had only two secondary schools, yet now every sub-county has at least one. He also lauded the President for initiating the Parish Development Model (PDM), which has lifted many households out of poverty, and raised the issue of wild animals from Kidepo National Park disturbing communities. “Before talking about other NRM gains, I must thank the President personally for sponsoring my education. I am one of the NRM’s own success stories,” Mr. Lapyem added. President Museveni concluded his address by urging the people of Kitgum to continue supporting the NRM for the consolidation of peace, development, wealth creation, and education. KITGUM DISTRICT FACTSHEET • Population (2024 Census): 239,655 • Total Voters (2025): 119,812 • Constituencies: 4 • Sub-Counties/Town Councils: 22 • Parishes: 83 • Villages: 687 Cattle Compensation: 4,836 claimants have been compensated a total of Shs.43.6 billion. In Kitgum, 700 claimants have received Shs.5.97 billion. Parish Development Model (PDM): Kitgum District and Municipality have cumulatively received Shs.25.49 billion, with over 98% disbursed to 25,339 households (50.8% coverage). Emyooga Program: 54 SACCOs with 22,398 members have received a total of Shs.2.02 billion. Education: 99 government primary schools (70,034 pupils) and 9 government secondary schools (3,608 students). Plans are underway to construct three new seed schools under UgIFT and USEEP. Thirty parishes still lack government primary schools. Health: Out of 22 sub-counties, 12 have a health facility (HCIII, HCIV, or Hospital). Plans are in place to upgrade several HCIIs to HCIIIs and construct new ones in Namokora, Omiya Anyima, Mucwini East, and Tager Division. Kitgum Municipality has a government hospital, while Namokora HCIV serves Chua East. Water and Sanitation: 572 of 686 rural villages (83%) have access to safe water. Piped water systems serve Kitgum, Lagoro, Namokora, and Mucwini. Dog Dam B Solar Irrigation Scheme is at 50% completion, with Oget and Luguric Solar Irrigation Schemes planned.

2025-10-23

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI PLEDGES MORE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN LAMWO

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today assured the people of Lamwo District of continued government investment in infrastructure, education, and wealth creation programs to lift households out of poverty and consolidate peace in Northern Uganda. Addressing a campaign rally at Padibe Boys Primary School in Padibe Town Council, Lamwo District, the President began his remarks by condoling with families affected by the recent accident in Kiryandongo. “First of all, I want to condole with the people who got into an accident in Kiryandongo. I am very sorry about that. I have already directed the State House Comptroller to give each family that lost a person five million shillings, and one million shillings to those who were injured. But please, drive carefully,” he said. President Museveni, who is also the NRM National Chairman and party Presidential flagbearer, reminded supporters that the ruling party’s achievements and future plans are clearly outlined in its seven-point manifesto. He emphasized that peace remains the foundation of all progress, describing it as one of the NRM’s greatest achievements. “You people of Lamwo are witnesses to what peace means. This is the first time in 500 years that Uganda has enjoyed peace. The NRM ended wars between tribes, kings, and cattle rustlers. When you are looking for the party that can lead the country, it is the NRM,” he said. The President also highlighted the government’s investment in both economic and social infrastructure, noting that Lamwo District has greatly benefited from these initiatives. He revealed that Lamwo now has 74 government primary schools and seven government secondary schools, which he said was remarkable progress for a border district. “When I came here and found seven government secondary schools in Lamwo, I was very happy. Our plan is to have a primary school in every parish and a secondary school in every sub-county. Those that don’t have yet will be covered,” he said. On health, President Museveni said the steady population growth in Lamwo — now above 200,000 — is proof that government health interventions are working. “Children are no longer dying from preventable diseases, which shows that our health programs are effective,” he noted. He also expressed satisfaction with the progress made in providing electricity, water, and roads in the district. “When we came into government, electricity was stopping in Lira. We have since extended it through Kilak all the way to Lamwo. There are 530 villages in Lamwo and 432 of them now have water — that is 82 percent coverage. The remaining 92 villages will also be worked on,” he assured. On wealth creation, the President urged residents to make full use of government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), NAADS, Emyooga, and Entandikwa to transform their livelihoods. “Use the chance of PDM to get out of poverty. Each parish will continue to receive 100 million shillings every year. We are also adding 15 million shillings for leaders. There will also be special funds for religious and cultural leaders, university graduates who are unemployed, and even Boda Boda riders,” he said. He reiterated the NRM’s gradual and prioritized approach to development, noting that infrastructure must come first to enable broader economic transformation. “We, the bush fighters, believe in prioritization — step by step. Some people want salary increases before roads and electricity are done, but we cannot scatter our resources. Roads, electricity, and peace are the foundation of all progress,” he explained. President Museveni added that Uganda’s oil, discovered under NRM leadership, will further boost the country’s economic capacity when production begins next year. During the same rally, Lamwo District NRM Chairman, Mr. Odoki Pollycap commended President Museveni for his visionary leadership and the peace ushered in by the NRM government. He also presented several local requests on behalf of the district. “We thank you, Your Excellency, for your able leadership which has brought development and stability to our region. We request the government to consider granting Palabek district status, establish a skilling hub in Lamwo, and upgrade Padibe Health Centre IV into a district hospital,” Mr. Odoki said. The President promised to follow up on the requests and called on Lamwo residents to remain steadfast in their support for the NRM, saying that together, they will achieve full socio-economic transformation. “You have seen what we have done. Let us continue working together — Lamwo will never be the same again,” he concluded.

2025-10-22

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HIGHLIGHTS CRITICAL ROLE OF PEACE IN ACHIEVING REGIONAL PROGRESS

Thousands of jubilant supporters thronged Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City today to welcome President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential flag bearer, as he addressed the people of Gulu and the wider Acholi sub-region. With the air buzzing with excitement and banners waving in support of NRM, President Museveni opened his address with a heartfelt greeting. Reflecting on Uganda’s past, President Museveni highlighted the critical role of peace in achieving regional progress. “Uganda was at war for a long time but now NRM has been able to achieve peace, supported by you. It was not accidental that we achieved this peace; it’s because of the unity of politics and building strong national institutions like the army,” he said. On development, the President emphasized the government’s commitment to both economic and social infrastructure. “As NRM, we have worked on development; the economic infrastructure at least road—you know the road from Kampala to Gulu, which we have done several times, the road from Karuma to West Nile, the road from Olwiyo all the way to Kitgum and beyond, and Gulu to Nimule. We are also going to work on the roads connecting Awere-Corner Kilak to Patongo.” He added that investments in electricity, telephones, piped water, and railways are all part of the broader economic infrastructure, while social infrastructure includes schools and health facilities. The President stressed the importance of modern approaches to wealth creation. “Our people work a lot but in the traditional way and they get little because they do things which are outdated. We must get out of poverty by listening to our programs of utilizing small land and differentiating between development and wealth.” He outlined government programs designed to lift people out of poverty: “In the next government, since you are supporting NRM, we are going to ensure that this program of wealth creation continues. All the money we have been spending like NAADS, OWC, Entandikwa , was to help you get out of poverty. We are going to continue those programs.” On practical initiatives, the President highlighted agriculture, fish farming, and livestock restocking. “In the coming government, we are going to emphasize fish farming at the edge of the swamps, instead of putting it in the center. That water can be used for irrigation,” he said. “Now, as part of wealth creation, the areas of Teso, Lango and Acholi had cows, but they were destroyed by wars and cattle rustling. When peace returned, we tried to restock, and we directed that each homestead receives five cows. Some had rejected the idea, but I am glad that it has been agreed on, and we are taking that position, so that compensation of the five cows per household has been agreed on.” President Museveni also addressed the issue of employment, cautioning against the misconception that jobs are only government positions. “When people talk about jobs, jobs come from wealth. If we don’t create wealth, you can’t create jobs. Some people only think about government jobs. This is misleading. Government jobs are very few altogether, about 480,000. But these factory jobs alone are now employing 1.3 million people, almost three times the number working for the government. He also referenced regional integration as key to sustaining industries. “As we speak today, Uganda produces more than 5 million tonnes of maize per year, yet within a year, Uganda consumes only 1 million tonnes, leaving a surplus of 4 million tonnes. If we did not have the East African market, the maize industry would collapse. The same applies to milk, bananas, beer, cement, and many other products. This is why NRM emphasizes regional integration for economic purposes,” he noted. The Gulu City NRM Chairperson, Gifter Aber, welcomed the President and praised NRM’s record in the region. “We appreciate Your Excellency for giving us women opportunities to contest and empower women. Thank you for accepting the free education policy in the region. We thank you for supporting party structures from the village to district levels, and for your peaceful leadership in the region,” she said. Ms. Aber emphasized that these achievements have directly impacted Gulu’s social and economic landscape. “The city now boasts of the University of Gulu, a milestone for higher education access in northern Uganda, alongside the Gulu Cancer Institute, ensuring patients no longer need to travel to Kampala for specialized care.” She also highlighted the Presidential Skilling Hub, a resource for vocational training that equips young people with practical skills to enter the workforce. “The modern market constructed for our people in Gulu City has transformed local trade, while the expansion of health centers and government schools ensures that our citizens receive essential services,” Aber noted. Her remarks were supported by figures showing significant progress in various development programs. The Parish Development Model (PDM) has made a notable impact, with Gulu District receiving Shs 14.4bn, disbursed to 14,143 households, while Gulu City received Shs 9.8bn, benefiting 9,792 households. In addition, all three constituencies of Gulu District and City have a total of 54 Emyooga SACCOs, supporting 41,576 members, with the government disbursing Shs 2.1bn to facilitate community savings and business ventures. Education has seen remarkable improvements. Gulu District has 47 government primary schools and 5 government secondary schools, while Gulu City has 41 government primary schools and 7 government secondary schools, all providing Universal Secondary Education and post-ordinary level training. Healthcare infrastructure has also expanded, with Gulu Regional Referral Hospital now equipped with an ICU, CT scan, X-ray and ultrasound services, two functional oxygen plants, and ambulances, while district health centers continue to be upgraded to provide better services for local communities. Ms. Aber concluded by highlighting access to clean water and irrigation initiatives that support farmers; 87% of villages in Gulu District now have safe water, and multiple small-scale and solar-powered irrigation schemes are advancing climate-resilient agriculture. Through these achievements, Ms. Aber emphasized, the NRM government has laid the foundation for continued peace, development, and wealth creation in Gulu and the broader Acholi sub-region. The campaign is running under the theme: “Protecting the Gains, Making a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status”. The event was graced by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

2025-10-22

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILS PEACE RESTORATION AND PROGRESS IN ACHOLI SUB-REGION

For decades, residents of Nwoya and the Acholi sub-region lived under the shadow of war and displacement. Today, thanks to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government policies, peace is now being enjoyed in the region. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is also the NRM Presidential Flag bearer, recounted this journey today during a campaign rally at Anaka Primary School playground where he addressed thousands of supporters. The campaign is running under the theme: “Protecting the Gains, Making a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status”. “You people, why are you here? Why don’t you cross the Nile and go to the other side?” President Museveni asked, recalling his first visit to Anaka when many families were living in IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps. “Even the people on the other side were saying, ‘Museveni is bringing Kony here.’ I explained that Kony was just one person; the majority of Ugandans were not against peace,” he said. “A few years later, I found a big town called Bweyale, populated by the very people I had encouraged to leave the camps. They had gone, settled, and enjoyed peace until their areas were safe again. That is how the NRM has been able to bring and maintain peace in Uganda.” President Museveni emphasized that peace is the foundation for all development. “After peace, we focus on development, which has two parts: economic infrastructure and social infrastructure,” he said. He highlighted the economic progress in Nwoya, noting the construction of tarmac roads connecting towns, repair of the railway up to Gulu and Pakwach, expansion of electricity networks, and widespread access to telephones. On social infrastructure, he said, “There are now many government and private schools and health facilities across the district. In 1991, Nwoya’s population was small, and many children were dying from preventable diseases. The NRM said no more children dying. That is our second great achievement, peace and development.” Despite these achievements, the President warned that poverty remains a personal challenge. “Do not be diverted by the roads, electricity, and other public infrastructure. Those are collective assets, they belong to all of us but poverty is personal, and wealth is also personal,” he said. President Museveni urged residents to utilize government programs that support economic empowerment. “From the 1960s, some of us in the NRM have been campaigning for wealth for everybody. Over the years, we have sent money to help you create wealth, through Entandikwa, NAADS, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), and more recently Emyooga and the Parish Development Model (PDM). Please use these opportunities well. They are not for the rich; they are for ordinary Ugandans ready to work and improve their livelihoods,” he emphasized. On education, President Museveni 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. “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 resources. These children are our greatest wealth.” He also committed to further improve health infrastructure. “On health, you want us to upgrade Health Center III facilities, and we shall ensure that happens.” President Museveni concluded the rally by urging the people of Nwoya to embrace both collective infrastructure and personal initiatives to improve their livelihoods. “Peace has been restored, development is ongoing, but wealth is personal. It is up to each of you to use the opportunities the government provides and transform your lives,” he said. Hon. Hamson Denis Obua, NRM Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda, lauded the President’s impact in Nwoya and the Acholi region. “The history of Nwoya and Acholi is well documented. People come in big numbers to listen to your message as the NRM flag bearer, but they also come to thank you for delivering them from the difficult times. Apart from restoring peace, you have championed development. You are the alpha and omega of ensuring that this region progresses,” he said. Ms. Mego Adokorach, the NRM District Chairperson, added that programs such as the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, and skilling hubs have empowered youth and women. “Your Excellency, we want you to come and see these activities firsthand. Visiting these farmers and witnessing the results will encourage us even more,” she said. NRM Initiatives and Impact in Nwoya: According to the Nwoya fact sheet, government programs have reached thousands of households in Nwoya. Under the Parish Development Model, 13,343 households have received Shs.13.34 billion out of 53,086 households in the district. Emyooga SACCOs support 13,405 members across 32 groups, with Shs.1.38bn disbursed so far. In the education sector, Nwoya hosts 44 government primary schools and 12 private schools, along with six government secondary schools providing Universal Secondary Education and Post O-Level Education. Three seed secondary schools are under construction, reducing gaps in secondary education coverage. Health infrastructure includes; one general hospital and seven Health Center IIIs, with additional HCIII construction and upgrades ongoing. Water coverage has reached 81% of villages, with piped water and sanitation systems in major towns including Purongo, Nwoya, and Anaka. Irrigation schemes are supporting crop production, including the Lutuk and Tangi systems, as well as solar-powered projects at Lapem and Got Okwara. Major road projects such as Gulu-Atiak, Olwiyo-Gulu, and Acholibur-Musingo have been completed, improving connectivity across the district. The event was graced by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, as well as thousands of supporters.

2025-10-21