News Articles | MINISTRY OF ICT AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE

16 April 2025

“I DON'T WANT TO USE FORCE ON THIS MATTER,” PRESIDENT MUSEVENI REITERATES CALL FOR FREE EDUCATION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni continues to express frustration about those failing to implement the government policy of free education across the country, calling upon leaders at all levels to ensure that the program is fully implemented. “I don’t want to use force on this matter. Discuss the issue of free education in government schools, including the technical schools. If we need to add more money to the government schools, we shall do it,” President Museveni said. The President made the remarks today, while commissioning the Greater Mubende Presidential Zonal Skilling Hub in Kibuye-Vuga Village, Kitenga Sub County, Mubende District. President Museveni, who is in the region for his routine tour on wealth creation activities and the Parish Development Model (PDM), said despite policies for Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE), as per the 1996 NRM manifesto, many schools still charge fees, which have become barriers, preventing full access to education, especially for learners from poor families. “In the 1996 NRM manifesto, we proposed to introduce free education. However, you people here refused to implement that, and up to now, there are school charges in the primary and secondary schools. But we knew that if you did that, you would exclude the children of the poor, and that's what is happening. Because if you check even here, you can get me the figures of the children who finish Secondary Education. From Primary seven, how many continue up to senior six?” the President wondered. “There are seven (7) years of primary school and there are 6 years in secondary school, but the figures I have for primary schools are 11 million children, and the ones in the secondary schools are 2 million, and yet the years are almost the same. So, what happened to the 9 million? It is the refusal to implement UPE and USE,” he added. According to the President, he decided to start free education through the skilling hubs to show the public that free education is possible and can be very productive, based on the testimonies of the youths who are self-employed after acquiring skills. “People who introduce charges in government schools may not go to heaven. Discuss amongst yourselves and agree to have free education in government schools,” the President said, adding that although his initiative of the regional skilling hubs is yielding results, it is costly compared to implementing free education for all children in government primary, secondary, and technical schools. “That was deliberate and cost-effective to achieve universal education cheaply. But you find five (5) districts sharing this center, and the children are coming from far away. So, I need to accommodate them and feed them and all that. But the plan of UPE is for day schools. That means a primary school per parish and a government secondary school per sub county, where children come to study and go back home rather than being at school in boarding sections,” he noted. The President further explained that this would then enable the government to concentrate on paying the teachers, building the classrooms, laboratories, building teachers' houses, and providing textbooks to support all children in Uganda. In the meantime, President Museveni promised to add more courses to the skilling hub, such as plumbing, motor mechanics, weaving, and textiles. “Now the children are making shoes for us. We used to import shoes from China, you can imagine! We are now going to add those skills,” he stated, while expressing appreciation to the students for being creative and innovative in putting the acquired skills into action. The Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Judith Nabakooba informed the President that the hub is of great importance to the region in skilling the youths who are now able to employ themselves. “Many have been employed, but others still need your support. The skilling hub has also addressed domestic violence in homes because you find the husband and wife are both working to put food on the table,” Minister Nabakooba said. On the other hand, the President gave 10 million shillings to Mr. Kisekka Ronald, Ms. Conatance Twinomugisha, and Mr. Mawejje Willy, who are former students and ended up opening their businesses and are now employing others in carpentry, bakery, and hairdressing, respectively. Earlier, Mr. Kisekka from Mityana district informed the President that he had given up on life and could not be accommodated by any of the family members, but after six (6) months here at the hub, he got skills in carpentry. “I made a phone call to Kampala for a job, and I was admitted. If it weren’t for President Museveni, I would be dead. I have bought a cow for my father, and I also support him financially,” Mr. Kisekka said. Ms. Twinomugisha, who hails from Mubende Municipality, acquired skills in bakery, and upon completion, she started a small business called Gloria Sweet Bakery with 20,000 shillings, and now she makes cakes ranging between 200,000 shillings and 500,000 shillings. Her baking business gives her 80,000 shillings per day. “I call upon my fellow youths not to lose hope but come to Mubende Zonal Industrial Hub and get skilled for free,” Ms. Twinomugisha said. Mr. Mawejje, also among the pioneers of the skilling hub, informed the President that his hairdressing skills landed him a job in Kampala, and he is now a salon manager. “I'm now starting Willy Barber Salon because I have the qualifications, and I know what I’m doing,” he stated. During the same ceremony, Mr. Baganyire Joseph, the registrar of the National Unity Platform (NUP) political party for Kitenga sub-country, officially crossed to the National Resistance Movement (NRM). “I have decided to join NRM because it has fulfilled the promises, and anything we would base on to fight it. Come 2026, I’m with you, and even at my polling station where I defeated you, NRM shall win,” Mr. Baganyire told President Museveni. The ceremony was also attended by Members of Parliament, LC 5 chairpersons, and other political leaders from Greater Mubende and beyond.

15 April 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ANNOUNCES PLAN TO INCREASE PDM FUNDING

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today visited Kyankwanzi District as part of his ongoing assessment of the Parish Development Model (PDM), Uganda’s flagship initiative aimed at eradicating household poverty through commercial agriculture and financial inclusion. During his visit to Bugomolwa Parish in Nkandwa Sub-county, President Museveni met Mr. Matovu Patrick, a PDM beneficiary who has successfully utilized the program’s support to improve his family’s livelihood. Mr. Matovu received UGX 980,000 through the PDM, which he invested in purchasing 40 chicks at UGX 15,000 each, totaling UGX 600,000. He allocated UGX 100,000 for feed and an additional UGX 100,000 for iron sheets to construct a shelter. After six months, he sold 10 chickens at UGX 45,000 each, earning UGX 450,000. He supplemented this with UGX 400,000 from coffee sales to purchase a bull. Currently, Mr. Matovu earns UGX 40,000 per month from egg sales, selling one tray weekly at UGX 10,000. He utilizes cow dung and chicken droppings as fertilizers for his coffee and banana plantations, enhancing crop quality and yield. Expressing gratitude, Mr. Matovu thanked President Museveni for the PDM support, noting the significant improvement in his family’s standard of living. In recognition of Mr. Matovu’s efforts, President Museveni provided additional support, including UGX 10 million to purchase three dairy cows and UGX 9 million for a tuk-tuk to assist with transportation. The President also extended UGX 6 million to the LC1 Chairman for a motorcycle and UGX 1 million to each PDM beneficiary who attended the event. Addressing the community, President Museveni emphasized the importance of responsible utilization of PDM funds. He announced plans to increase annual funding from UGX 100 million to UGX 200 million after the upcoming elections, aiming to reach more households and enhance economic development. “If we are sending UGX 100 million to each parish per year, it means each homestead gets UGX 1 million, touching 100 homesteads. In the third year, those who first received the funds will return them, and in five years, we will have reached 1,500 homesteads,” President Museveni stated. He highlighted the benefits of the PDM over high-interest loans from moneylenders, noting that the program’s funds remain within the community and accrue a modest 6% interest over two years. President Museveni also addressed concerns about water scarcity, pledging to provide water tanks to assist farmers in irrigating their crops during dry seasons. Furthermore, he warned against corruption and mismanagement of PDM funds, urging locals to report any misconduct. He assured the community of his commitment to investigating and addressing such issues to ensure the program’s success. The occasion was attended by area leaders and community members.

14 April 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI CALLS FOR ACTION AGAINST KEY BOTTLENECKS UNDERMINING PUBLIC SERVICE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on leaders to address persistent bottlenecks undermining government service delivery and social transformation. These bottlenecks according to him include; sabotage of free education and healthcare system, corruption and land grabbing. The President made the remarks yesterday while meeting about 200 Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), Town Clerks and Under Secretaries at State House, Entebbe. The government administrators recently completed a training course at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi. The training, held under the theme: “Transformative Public Service: A Path to Development, Improved Service Delivery and Wealth Creation”, was aimed at equipping civil servants with ideological clarity and practical tools for national transformation. During his address, the President identified a number of ‘irritants’ he said were eroding public trust in government. Among these was the illegal practice of charging learners in government-aided schools, which he described as a betrayal of the Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE and USE) policy. “Why has the political class failed to see the importance of Boona Basome (Education for All)?” the President asked. “We have seen numbers dropping from primary seven to Secondary. The head teachers are sabotaging our free education program by imposing illegal charges on parents.” President Museveni also urged CAOs and town clerks to enforce the no-fees policy in public schools and cautioned against the expansion of boarding schools under the guise of public education. “We don’t need boarding schools in order to provide free education. Let the children sleep at home. These added costs are suffocating poor families,” he noted. Turning to healthcare, President Museveni decried the persistent theft of drugs in government health centres, even as immunization efforts continue to succeed in eliminating diseases like measles and polio. “The stealing of drugs is a big irritant. We must stop it. Immunization is working and we have proof some diseases have disappeared. But corruption in our health facilities continues to cause suffering,” he noted. The President also spoke out strongly against land grabbing, particularly when facilitated by rogue elements within the security forces. He pledged to issue an Executive Order banning soldiers from involving themselves in land disputes. “The army’s duty is to protect Uganda’s borders, not to patrol land boundaries,” he said. He emphasized that eliminating these service delivery irritants would restore public confidence in government and accelerate national development. On the subject of wealth creation, the President revisited the NRM’s 1996 Four-Acre Model strategy, which advocates for intensive agriculture on small landholdings. He described the model developed after a careful study of local and international market demands as the medicine for families with fragmented land holdings. “In our strategy, one acre should be for clonal coffee, one for fruits like mangoes or oranges, one for pasture for zero-grazing dairy cows, and one for food crops like bananas and cassava,” he said. “In the backyard, families should rear poultry, pigs, and even engage in fish farming near wetlands. These seven activities can transform the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.” President Museveni also contrasted this with extensive agriculture, such as tea, cotton, tobacco, and sugarcane farming, which he said only generates significant income if done on a large scale. The President concluded by urging public servants to serve with integrity and commitment to the broader vision of socio-economic transformation. “If you work only for the stomach and forget the pocket, you’ll remain poor. But if we combine free education, health, and wealth creation, Uganda will rise,” he said. On his part, the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Raphael Magyezi applauded the recent two-week training programme for local government officers, describing it as timely and impactful. Speaking on behalf of the local government fraternity, Hon. Magyezi thanked the organizers and stakeholders for facilitating the training, which he said has rejuvenated and empowered the officers to serve their communities better. “These officers are energetic, committed, and now better equipped to deliver. I want to sincerely thank you for allowing this important training to happen,” he said. Speaking on behalf of the officers, Mr. Gabriel Atama, the Chief Administrative Officer of Tororo District commended the President’s visionary leadership which, he said, has enabled the officers to achieve significant milestones in their respective districts. “We are particularly grateful to Your Excellency for the opportunity to serve our country under your stewardship,” Mr. Atama said. “With your guidance and support, we have strengthened the implementation, coordination, and supervision of government programs in line with the NRM manifesto contributing to transformative achievements across sectors,” he said. Mr. Atama also recognized the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni for her continued parental guidance and support to the officers and local governments. Highlighting some of the key achievements, Mr. Atama cited the successful implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM), noting that 10,585 SACCOs have been registered, with over Shs 2.6 trillion disbursed to benefit more than 2.6 million Ugandans. “This directly fulfills the NRM manifesto’s promise of empowering citizens at the grassroots and enhancing household incomes,” he emphasized. In the education sector, he reported the supervision and completion of 259 hybrid seed secondary schools, which led to a 47% increase in enrollment in 2023 and a further 18% in 2024. Girl-child enrollment now stands at nearly 50%, a demonstration of the government's strong commitment to gender equality,” he added. On health, Mr. Atama said that 321 new health units have been constructed, representing 84% of the term target. “This progress has significantly improved maternal and child health indicators across several districts,” he noted. He further pointed to progress in road construction, empowering special interest groups such as the youth, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), and the strengthening of good governance through the fight against corruption. However, Mr. Atama highlighted key challenges affecting the officers’ effectiveness. “Many of us serve in districts far from our homes, incurring high personal costs on transport. Coupled with not enough pay and the rising cost of living. These challenges place a burden on our ability to serve optimally,” he said. He reiterated that CAOs play a critical role in mobilizing communities, supervising government projects and ensuring accountability in sectors such as health, education, and agriculture. “As officers committed to national development, we stand ready to continue delivering, we however appeal for increased facilitation and welfare improvements to match the expectations placed upon us,” Mr. Atama concluded. The meeting was also attended by Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, the Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, the Minister for Presidency, Hon. Victoria Rusoke Businge, the Minister of State for Local Government, Mr. Ben Kumumanya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, among other officials.

13 April 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI APPLAUDS DR. MAGOOLA FOR SECURING U.S PATENT FOR CANCER TREATMENT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today commended Ugandan scientist Dr. Mathias Magoola for securing a United States patent for cancer treatment, describing the achievement as a major milestone for Uganda’s scientific advancement. The President made the remarks after meeting Dr. Magoola, the Founder and Managing Director of Dei BioPharma Ltd, at State House, Entebbe, where the scientist briefed him on the successful patent and his company’s ongoing efforts to manufacture life-saving drugs and vaccines. “Dr. Magoola has developed medical solutions that not only target cancer but also offer treatment for HIV, and sickle cell disease,” President Museveni said. On his part, Dr. Magoola informed President Museveni that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) officially granted and published his patent on February 6, 2025. He mentioned that the patent covers a novel cancer treatment developed over several years, using guided RNA attached to the Cas9 protein to target and destroy mutated genes responsible for cancer. “This invention presents the first treatment of cancer using a guided RNA-Cas9 complex that disrupts mutated genes and prevents them from repairing, thereby killing the cancerous cells,” Dr. Magoola explained. He added that unlike existing FDA-approved gene-editing therapies, his innovation is specifically tailored to treat all types and stages of cancer, without harming healthy cells. He cited that this precision eliminates the severe side effects commonly associated with chemotherapy, antibody therapy, and radiation. Dr. Magoola revealed that all manufacturing details for the product are complete, and that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requested an approval plan, which he will submit in the near future. Clinical trials are expected to begin before the end of the year. “All details of the manufacturing of this product have been completed and are ready to go for testing,” he told the President. Dr. Magoola emphasized that the innovation has both medical and humanitarian significance. With a projected global cancer burden of 35 million cases annually by 2030, his treatment designed to be simple and affordable offers hope to millions, especially in developing countries. The invention, he noted, represents a potential $300bn market and will be produced at the upcoming multi-billion-dollar vaccine and drug manufacturing facility in Matugga, near Kampala. “This invention is not just a scientific breakthrough, it is a humanitarian contribution aimed at eradicating cancer globally,” Dr. Magoola said. The meeting was also attended by Dr. Monica Musenero, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, the Attorney General, Mr. Ramathan Ggoobi, the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury -Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Mr. Nelson Tugume , the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Inspire Africa Group, among others.

13 March 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI, ACHOLI OPPOSITION LEADERS AGREE TO UNITE FOR REGION’S DEVELOPMENT

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today met with opposition leaders from Acholi, with both sides agreeing to put aside political differences and work together to tackle poverty and drive socio-economic transformation in the sub-region. The meeting marked a turning point, as the Members of Parliament representing different political affiliations expressed their commitment to collaborating with the government for the betterment of Acholi. During the meeting at State House, Entebbe, President Museveni reflected on Uganda’s historical challenges, emphasizing that unity and a shared vision are essential for sustainable development. President Museveni also traced the roots of the country’s political instability back to 1961, which is not the case currently, under the NRM government. He pointed out that the first mistake was made by the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) when it misled the Buganda Kingdom leadership by making promises that fuelled tribal politics instead of promoting national unity. “The difference between Uganda and Tanzania is that Tanzania started its politics with unity, while Uganda’s politics began with division. In 1961, UPC misled Mengo by promising them federalism, rather than pushing for a united Uganda,” President Museveni said. He noted that the collapse of the alliance between UPC and Kabaka Yekka in 1966 further deepened divisions, ultimately weakening the army and allowing instability to fester. President Museveni also dismissed claims that his past ties with Acholi fighters meant the region should have automatically developed, explaining that sectarianism undermined those efforts. “In 1976, I trained young men including some from Acholi in Mozambique. But when we captured Kampala in 1979, some UPC supporters told them, ‘Why are you working with this Munyankore?’ and they abandoned us. That’s how bad policies and sectarianism worked against national unity,” he explained. The President thus emphasized the importance of unity over revenge, recalling how the collapse of Idi Amin’s regime in 1979 led to unfair targeting of West Nile people, forcing over half a million of them into exile in Congo and South Sudan. “The focus should therefore have been on reconciliation, not revenge.” Turning to development, President Museveni reiterated his government’s focus on addressing poverty through the Parish Development Model (PDM) but acknowledged the challenge of funding big parishes. “A parish with 20,000 households cannot be transformed with just Shs 100 million. We must rethink how we support these parishes according to their different numbers,” he noted. On education, the President emphasized the importance of affordable and accessible schooling, advocating for the establishment of seed secondary schools in every sub-county to ensure children can walk or cycle to school. “The only way to provide mass education is through day schools. If we concentrate on building a seed secondary school per sub-county, we can reach more children,” he said. He added that the government is committed to strengthening Universal Primary and Secondary Education by increasing capitation grants. The President also touched on healthcare, stressing the importance of preventive health measures, including immunization, proper nutrition, and access to clean water. “Curative health is expensive. If we focus on prevention through immunization, clean water, and lifestyle changes, we can eliminate 80% of illnesses,” he said. Reflecting on the army's journey, President Museveni revealed that their success in building a strong national defense was rooted in sacrifice, not high salaries. “When we fought Amin, Nyerere gave us guns and food, but no money. Even after 1986, soldiers were paid little or nothing because the priority was securing the country first,” he said. Additionally, the President urged Acholi leaders to guide the youth in embracing unity and hard work through the right mindset. “For the youth to change their mindsets and work towards development, the leaders who are adults must start by being positive and influence their mindsets positively.” The opposition leaders led by Hon. Okin Ojara, the Member of Parliament for Chua West County and a member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) while presenting their memorandum, emphasized their commitment to putting aside political differences and working collectively for the betterment of Acholi Sub-region. “We may belong to different political parties, but our focus is on fighting poverty and driving socio-economic transformation in Acholi,” the leaders stated. Hon. Ojara revealed that 10 opposition MPs from Acholi have formed a platform dubbed ‘Operation Harmony’, a collective effort to put aside political differences and work towards the betterment of their people. “We are 10 leaders from different political shades, but we came together to think, brainstorm, and prioritize the pride and prosperity of our people,” Hon. Ojara said. “We asked ourselves tough questions: Why are we in opposition? Should we remain in opposition while our people continue to suffer? How long should we stay in opposition when Acholi is one of the poorest regions in the country? Are we leading our people to poverty or prosperity?” he wondered. He explained that these reflections led them to the realization that they needed to engage the government directly. “We decided to package our ideas into this memorandum and present it to you, Your Excellency, because we want to work with you for the socio-economic transformation of Acholi,” Hon. Ojara stated. On Transitional Justice and Mental Health, the leaders stressed the need for a robust Transitional Justice Framework to address the psychological scars left by past conflicts. “The conflict disturbed the software of our people. A recent survey revealed high levels of mental health issues and post-traumatic stress disorders in Acholi. Some children are even suffering from nodding disease,” Hon. Ojara noted. They proposed establishing a Mental Rehabilitation Center in the region, suggesting that the broken-down facility at Gulu Regional Hospital should be urgently rehabilitated. The MPs also called for transparency in the ongoing war compensation process. “We need clarity on who has been compensated, how much has been spent, and how long this process will take. If necessary, a new framework should be established to ensure fair and timely compensation,” he said. They also raised concerns about Acholi refugees still living in Zambia, DRC, and Kenya, even as the region hosts refugees from South Sudan. “We propose creating a mechanism to engage these refugees, inform them about the peace and stability we now have, and encourage their return home,” Hon. Ojara added. On Healthcare and Infrastructure, the memorandum called for upgrading Kitgum General Hospital to a Regional Referral Hospital and the establishment of new hospitals in Omoro and Amuru districts. They also pushed for the rehabilitation of key roads to improve access to services and markets. The MPs highlighted the need to implement Musevenomics, the President’s strategy of boosting productivity by focusing on factors of production, knowledge, and markets. “We analyzed how to apply ‘Musevenomics’ in Acholi, combining it with the Four Acre Model to promote commercial farming. We want to focus on perennial crops like coffee, cocoa, and fruits,” Hon. Ojara explained. The leaders further commended the work being done at the Gulu Presidential Skilling Hub but requested more such centers across the region. “Those who have trained at the Gulu Skilling Hub are now a model for others. We need more centers to empower our youth,” he said. Hon. Ojara further pointed out that Acholi has over 600 parishes covering 28,000 square kilometers, but each parish receives the same Shs 100 million under PDM, regardless of size. “Given the vastness of our parishes, we request a special arrangement to increase funding for Acholi’s larger parishes so that PDM can be more impactful,” he urged. Hon. Hillary Onek, the Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees echoed the call for unity among Acholi leaders, emphasizing the need to work hand in hand with the government to tackle underdevelopment in the region. He applauded the leaders for putting aside political differences for the common good. “We come as true leaders, united by a shared ideological vision and a commitment to the welfare of our people. One thing we all agree on is the President’s goodwill towards Acholi and his love for Uganda. This has given us the platform to come together, share ideas, and find a way forward,” he said. Hon. Onek acknowledged the region's long-standing challenges including poverty, poor infrastructure, and the scars of past conflicts but emphasized that division has only deepened these issues. “We recognize that some of the setbacks in Acholi have stemmed from political differences. That’s why we have resolved to work together, regardless of party affiliation, to support the government’s development agenda,” he stated. The Minister stressed that Acholi must chart a new path focused on unity and progress. “We want Acholi to be different to move beyond past divisions and focus on tangible solutions for our people. Our goal is to support every effort aimed at transforming the region,” he added. Hon. Betty Aol Ocan, Woman Member of Parliament for Gulu City and a member of FDC also called for a collective action to combat poverty in Acholi sub-region. Hon. Aol acknowledged the deep-rooted poverty in the region despite the presence of various government programs. She emphasized that political differences should not stand in the way of addressing the pressing issues affecting their people. “As long as we all put the interests of the Acholi people first, why shouldn’t we work together? We must unite to find lasting solutions for poverty alleviation,” Hon. Aol added. The meeting was also attended by Dr. Kenneth Omona, the minister of State for Northern Uganda, Gen. David Muhoozi, the Minister of state for Internal Affairs , Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, the NRM secretary General , Rt. Hon. Rose Namayanja , the Deputy Secretary General of the NRM, Hon. Ojara Martin Mapenduzi, the Bardege-Layibi Division Member of Parliament, Hon. Anthony Akol , the Member of Parliament representing Kilak North constituency, Hon. Santa Okot , the Member of Parliament representing Pader District (Aruu North), among others.

13 March 2025

OVER 4,200 STATE HOUSE- SPONSORED STUDENTS TO SIT FOR DIT EXAMS

After six months of hands-on training, a total of 4,201 students under State House’s sponsored Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Girl/ Boy Child (PISGBC) are set to be assessed this week by the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT). According to Mr. Dan Wejuli, a State House official who is in charge of planning and welfare for the PISGBC project, the assessment will kick off in all the nine skilling centres in Kampala. Mr. Wejuli made the remarks last Friday in Wandegeya, during the final day of a showcasing ceremony of products made by the students who underwent a six-month vocational skills training. Some of the courses taught in the nine skilling centres include welding and metal fabrication, leather designing/shoe making, embroidery, knitting, carpentry, building and construction, as well as baking and confectionery. Other courses include hairdressing, knitting and tailoring, as well as plumbing, recycling and value addition. Upon completion of the practical skilling, each of the students is awarded a certificate which is equivalent to Uganda Certificate of Education (O’Level). According to the Special Presidential Assistant on Skilling and Education and Head of PISGBC project, Dr. Faith Katana Mirembe, the initiative was started in 2017 by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to reduce unemployment among the less privileged youths by equipping them with practical and employable skills that can enable young adults from poor-urban communities to earn a decent living. Dr. Katana commended KCCA for availing the PISGBC free space in Wandegeya Market, which accommodates one of the first two skilling centres under the PISGBC project. “This space is free; Subway and Luzira are also free. We do not pay rent for it. We thank KCCA for this free space,” Dr. Katana said. Dr. Hillary Musoke Kisanja, the Senior Presidential Advisor on agribusiness commended State House for the project that has improved the livelihoods of the youths in Kampala. Ms. Sheillah Birungi, KCCA’s director of gender, youth and production said skilling has empowered young women (17 to 35 years of age) by making them productive. “Recently, I also learnt how to bake cakes. I turned 50 years of age in December last year, but I was inspired by Dr. Katana when she said she is now 69 years of age and yet still so vibrant,” Ms. Birungi noted. Ms. Birungi pledged to talk to the Executive Director of KCCA to consider availing PISGBC a space in Busega to also establish a centre. “If we can get a centre in Busega, in the new market, that would make it better for the residents to be empowered with skills,” she suggested.

11 March 2025

“ELECT A PARTY THAT HAS CAPACITY TO SOLVE YOUR PROBLEMS”- PRESIDENT MUSEVENI RALLIES KAWEMPE NORTH RESIDENTS AS HE DRUMS UP SUPPORT FOR NRM FLAGBEARER FARIDAH NAMBI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni who is also the National Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has rallied the people of Kawempe North to vote for a political party that understands and has solutions for their problems. “First of all, elect a party which understands your problems. If you don't do that, you will not get a solution. Therefore, don't look at Nambi, look at the party first. And when you are listening to the campaigns, listen to whether the party understands your problems and has got the capacity to solve them,” he said. The President made the remarks today while campaigning for Ms. Faridah Nambi, the NRM flag bearer for the Kawempe North parliamentary seat during a public rally at Mbogo Muslim Primary School grounds. The seat fell vacant following the death of the area MP Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya in January,2025. The polls will be held on Thursday 13th March 2025. According to President Museveni, the people of Kawempe need to vote for a legislator who works with the government so that he/she can easily lobby for them, thus improving service delivery in the area. “If you want your problems to be solved, you need to elect a Member of Parliament who works well with the government.” The President further noted that from the beginning, the NRM government knew what to do to help Ugandans prosper. “The Kawempe you are talking about; I know it very well. I was ambushing Obote vehicles at Kawanda, Matugga, Kigogwa, Sanga and I had a camp in Nansana and Namugongo. Now all those areas like Kawanda, Matugga, Sanga and Kigogwa which were bushes are now full of factories,” he said. “Those factories are part of the solutions to your problems because they create jobs for you and market for your products. Since those factories are near you, you should ensure you benefit from them. Those factories came because of the stability of the NRM. They came because of the electricity to run them. So, you can see that NRM from the beginning was aware of your problems.” President Museveni also urged the people of Kawempe to work towards creating wealth to improve their livelihoods. “We can talk about development in general like the tarmac roads, Kawempe hospital, electricity but at night you don't sleep on the tarmacked road, you sleep in your house and when you get back to your house you find the problems you left there in the morning, are there waiting for you,” he said. President Museveni further highlighted several solutions that the NRM government came up with to solve the problems of Ugandans. The solutions include peace, free education in government schools, prosperity for all and imparting technical skills to the youth to deal with the challenge of unemployment. “That's why we are telling you to listen carefully to the NRM. The first medicine apart from peace was free education in government schools but the efforts have been frustrated by some people at the grassroot level. Part of the solution to your problems is free education in government schools. Therefore, elect this young girl Nambi so that she comes and implements it at the local level. Free education will solve a lot of problems in our families,” he urged. “Another solution to your problems is Bonna bagagawale (Prosperity for all). The question was how do we start? Right from the 1990s, we have been putting money for you like Entandikwa, NAADS, Operation Wealth Creation, Emyooga and Parish Development Model (PDM).” The President further disclosed that the government was going to increase the PDM fund to parishes in towns so that a sizable number of people are able to benefit from the program. “The Prime Minister who has been here for the last few days has reported to me that the Shs100m we are sending to the Parish is not enough since there are many households. In some of the villages the money can make an impact because people are few unlike in towns like here. So now we are going to put more money in towns,” he said. “The question however is why are your Members of Parliament you have been electing have not brought it up?” he wondered. The First Vice Chairperson of NRM, Alhajji Moses Kigongo thanked President Museveni for physically campaigning for the party flagbearer for Kawempe North parliamentary seat. He also lauded the residents of Kawempe North for supporting the NRM party. “Today you have gathered here in big numbers to show that we can win this by-election. NRM fronted Faridah Nambi as its candidate. Let us support her so that she can win this seat,” he said. On her part, Ms. Nambi informed the President that they have been mobilising support using the door-to-door method and assured him that it's the best method for campaigning. She also assured President Museveni that victory belongs to her and the NRM party on the election day. “I thank the people of Kawempe for supporting the NRM party. Thank you for coming in big numbers.” On the other hand, during the rally, 186 people defected from the opposition’s National Unity Platform (NUP) to NRM. Mr. Mutebi Edrisa, the leaders of the defectors informed President Museveni that by joining NRM, they have seen the light. The rally was also attended by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon Robinah Nabbanja, Ministers, among other leaders.

10 March 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MEETS SPEAKER OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF ZAMBIA

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today hosted Rt. Hon. Nelly Butete Kashumba Mutti, the Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and current President of the Forum of Parliaments of the Member States of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (FP-ICGLR), alongside Rt. Hon. Anita Among, the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, at State House Entebbe. President Museveni and his guests’ discussions focused on regional security, stability and inter-parliamentary cooperation within the Great Lakes region. The delegation also included members of parliament from various FP-ICGLR member states, reinforcing the commitment to strengthening regional peace and collaboration.

10 March 2025

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MEETS FORMER NIGERIAN PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni met and held discussions with former Nigerian President, H.E Olusegun Obasanjo this afternoon at State House Entebbe. The high-level meeting centred around bilateral trade, regional peace and security. During the meeting, President Museveni and his guest also discussed strengthening economic ties between Uganda and Nigeria while exploring collaborative efforts to enhance stability across the region.

08 March 2025

“WE ARE DELIBERATE AT EMPOWERING WOMEN,” PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ASSURES UGANDANS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated that empowering women has been a deliberate focus of his administration since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came into power. “I want to thank the Ambassador of Sweden for admitting that Uganda is more democratic than many of the European countries, and this is what we have been telling them because for us, it was an ideology from the beginning. When we were empowering women, it was deliberate. When we defeated Idi Amin in 1979, I recruited women for our FRONASA. But when it came to the integration, our other partners in the system refused to absorb our women, and they had to be dismissed and go home. We brought them back when we were in charge now in 1986, when we were able to admit them in the army,” H.E. Museveni said. The President, who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, made the remarks on Saturday, March 8, 2025, while officiating at the International Women’s Day celebrations held at Bukwiri village in Kyankwanzi district. The day was held under the theme “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” which calls for bold and strategic interventions towards a gender-equal future. President Museveni’s comments were triggered by a speech delivered by the Ambassador of Sweden to Uganda, Her Excellency Maria Håkansson, who recognized Uganda’s significant progress in achieving the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and recognized that women's rights are human rights. “In Uganda, women's leadership and economic empowerment have expanded, and legal frameworks have been strengthened to protect women and girls, and Uganda is one of the countries in the subregion that other nations are learning from. We commend the government of Uganda for its commitment to advancing gender equality, and we see the progress in increasing women's representation in leadership, Ambassador Håkansson said, adding that Sweden is still way behind Uganda when it comes to women representatives in political positions. “So, I’m glad the Ambassador of Sweden set the record straight by saying that Uganda has made more progress in some areas than many of the European countries,” H.E. Museveni said, while referring to Ambassador Håkansson as one of the few truthful individuals. The President, however, advocated for the emancipation of the whole society through free education, which was introduced in Uganda in 1997. “We have moved very well, but we could have moved even more if we had implemented initiatives including free government education. We brought free education to government schools through USE and UPE, but some local people ask learners for money at those schools. If that one had worked, many girls would have gone through education without being interrupted,” he said, while emphasizing empowerment roots such as wealth creation through various government programs and the technical skills offered in the presidential skilling centers across the country. The President encouraged the gathering to make good use of the Parish Development Model (PDM) to get out of poverty and the Four-Acre Model as strategies to transition their households from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. About the environment, President Museveni blamed the long dry spell on mistakes by some individuals who encroach on the natural resources. He discouraged activities such as deforestation and wetland encroachment, which contribute to environmental degradation. “Damaging the environment will cause us a massive catastrophe. And you can see how harsh this dry season is. It is not only here; it is in other parts of Africa, but I think it is accentuated by the damaged environment here because, normally, although there is bad weather, normally, here we get our local relief because of the local water bodies,” H.E. Museveni stated. In her remarks, the Vice President of Uganda, Her Excellency Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo Rose Epel, hailed President Museveni as a champion of women's emancipation. “Through your strategic and visionary leadership, the women of Uganda are the biggest beneficiaries of the prevailing conducive environment for growth, including peace and security, infrastructure development, energy development, and others. You’re the first president in the whole of Africa to name a woman as a vice president,” H.E Alupo said, adding that right from the villages up to the national level, women have been given a voice, which has enabled them to be heard and participate in strategic decision-making processes. “Your Excellency. All the girl children in Uganda are now enrolling in schools under the universal primary education and universal secondary education, etc. This has enabled women to pursue programs that were hitherto considered to be a preserve for the boy children, such as pilots; we now have women who are pilots, even in the Air Force, engineers, chemists, and, generally speaking, in the armed forces,” she added. The Vice President further committed, on behalf of all the people of Uganda, to continue standing firm under President Museveni’s visionary leadership and listening to his strategic guidance enshrined in the vision and the mission of NRM. The Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, thanked President Museveni for consistently gracing International Women's Day and recognizing the contribution of women to national development. She said this year’s event marks 30 years; the whole world is now reviewing the steps taken to achieve the Beijing Platform for Action. “But we are pleased that, Your Excellency, it was easier for Uganda because you do not only ratify, but you domesticate. Even before we went to Beijing, Uganda had already recognized women because of the NRM revolutionary ideology, where you indicated that every woman should be allowed the freedom to participate in every sector of social, economic, and political development,” Minister Mutuuzo said. She expressed gratitude to the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, for achieving equality in her sector. “It is the first sector that has achieved both equality and parity. Enrollment in primary schools: we already have 5050, which is equality; high institutions of learning, 56, 46%, which is parity. We want to thank you and celebrate you, Mama, on the 30th occasion of International Women's Day. At least we have something to talk about, even in Beijing and New York; we shall indicate that in some sectors, including education, we have already achieved equality,” she added. On the other hand, the minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Betty Amongi, underscored the importance of affirmative action as crucial in motivating young girls to pursue their education. The Chairperson of the National Women Council Hajjat Faridah Kibowa expressed gratitude for the many government programs in place, such as the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Program, the parish development model that has supported income-generating activities at the household level, and the presidential skilling hubs. They are already producing skilled young women and men who are already competitive in the labor market. “I have witnessed the ability of these young people to participate in the production value chain competitively. We thank you for instilling hope in the young people, especially the girls, most of whom are school dropouts and single mothers. These single mothers are imprisoned by men, who later abandon them because they don't want to be responsible,” Hajjat Kibowa noted, adding that during their tenure of office as the National Women's Council, they have registered a significant increase in the budget for the Women's Council that has facilitated the popularization of the roles of women leaders and grassroots women, mobilizing them to participate in government programs and equipping them with life skills. Hajjat Kibowa, however, reported the persisting challenges, such as gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy, female genital mutilation, and child marriages, which undermine the gains made in terms of women's empowerment. “It is important that these issues are addressed to further advance gender equality in Uganda,” she said. United Nations Resident Coordinator Mr. Leonard Zulu called for collectively redoubling efforts in advancing sustainable development goal five on gender equality with just five and a half years remaining to achieve the sustainable development goals by 2030. “Let us commit to working together to accelerate old actions to promote gender equality and women's empowerment in Uganda,” Mr. Zulu said, while highlighting how the UN efforts have made a difference in ensuring food security and resilience in areas such as Kaabong in Karamoja, where the Women's Farmers Association improved agronomic practices and marketing. At the same occasion, President Museveni issued dummy checks to several beneficiary groups, the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP), a government initiative aimed at enhancing women's access to financial services and equipping them with skills for enterprise growth, value addition, and marketing of their products and services. The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, was among the notable Ugandans who were awarded medals for exceptional service. Rebecca Kadaga has had a distinguished political career, serving as Uganda's first female Speaker of Parliament from 2011 to 2021. She has been an advocate for women's rights and has held various ministerial positions. Earlier, the gathering witnessed an 8-guard all-women parade whose structure was commanded by Col. Suzan Mwanga, assisted by 2i/C Maj. Miriam Apio and parade Adjutant Capt. Marion Alum, while the color party was under the command of Capt. Jackline Namasaba. International Women’s Day has its origins in the struggle by women for social change and to be able to participate on equal terms with men in social, political, and economic processes. In 1975, the United Nations (UN) declared an International Women’s Year and recognized March 8th as a day upon which all member states should recognize and honor women. International Women’s Day was first celebrated in Uganda on 8th March, 1984, at State House Entebbe, and since then this remarkable day has been commemorated and celebrated every year.

07 March 2025

PISGBC BENEFICIARIES URGED TO UTILISE DIGITAL PLATFORMS TO BOOST THEIR KNOWLEDGE

Dr. Faith Mirembe Katana, the Special Presidential Assistant on Skilling and Education and Head of Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Girl and Boy Child (PISGBC) project has advised the youth to utilise online platforms such as YouTube to boost their knowledge by learning from constructive content. “You are very wealthy, your skills are valuable,” she reminded the soon-to-graduate cohort of 542 students. She, however, cautioned them to desist from idle online platforms such as TikTok, where they tend to waste a lot of time and data. Dr. Katana made the remarks yesterday at the Wabigalo Skilling Centre in Namuwongo during a showcasing ceremony of the students’ products after six months of vocational training. She also revealed that a total of Shs990m was spent by the State House on instructional materials within a period of two months for all the nine Presidential Skilling centres within Kampala. Dr. Katana also disclosed that at least shs200m has been spent on food (lunch) on a monthly basis for all the centres, while monthly salaries for instructors and support staff under the initiative amount to shs30m. “All that comes from the State House budget; we also have another 19 centres spread outside Kampala,” Dr. Katana clarified. Dr. Katana was responding to naysayers from opposition political parties who claim that the State House budget is bloated. She dismissed their claims as baseless and believes they are fueled by ignorance. To deter cancer-causing utensils, Dr. Katana revealed that pottery is being introduced in the next intake to enable skilling beneficiaries to tap into that market for ceramics and pottery products which she said are much healthier-friendly compared to their plastic counterparts. Ms. Amina Lukanga, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Mbarara, was lauded for propelling the Wabigalo Skilling Centre during her time in charge. The centre’s current administrator, Mr. David Nkwanga said the centre registered 667 students in August last year (2024), but six months later, 125 candidates dropped out before they could register for the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) assessment. The Centre, which offers a variety of practical courses such as construction, welding, plumbing and leather design, has managed to retain 542 students who are set to do their DIT exams next week, as a prerequisite for their graduation and certification. Of these, 49 students are female. Other courses offered at the centre include mechanics, electronics repair, carpentry and electrical installation. The event was attended by parents and other government officials such as Dr. Hillary Musoke, a Presidential advisor on agribusiness. It was also graced by Pastor Wilson Bugembe, a renowned gospel musician and televangelist who was a former street child. Pr. Bugembe ministered to the students, who were inspired by his life story of transformation from rags to riches. Students speak out on their skilling experiences: Shivan Namara, an 18-year-old plumbing student, is the minister in charge of women’s affairs. She completed primary seven (P7) at Buganda Academy Primary School in 2023 in Entebbe but now resides with her aunt in Kansanga. “Since I started the course, I have so far earned sh50,000 which I got after repairing a tap for a client,” Namara stated. She said that before joining the skilling course, she was dealing with serious anger management issues, and at the climax of her rage, she boiled water and poured it on her teacher while she was still in P6. “But I have changed; this is because of the good work our counsellor Robecca has done to reform us from unruly students to responsible people,” she said. Her ambition is to start her own business and grow into a very prominent plumber. Other students who expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Dr. Katana for equipping them with valuable skills include 29-year-old Albert Ahimbisibwe, a construction student as well as 33-year-old Salim Mbulako, a carpentry student who resides in Mbuya Kinawataka. Nakibinge believes that: “The skills being DIT certified keep the students focussed and motivated. It is also good because their talents are promoted.”

06 March 2025

ERIYA KATEGAYA: A PIONEER OF PATRIOTIC POLITICS- PRESIDENT MUSEVENI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni highlighted today that the late Rt. Hon. Eriya Kategaya was a trailblazer in the realm of patriotic politics in Uganda. Kategaya, who served as Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, passed away on 2nd March 2013. “Kategaya was the pioneer of the politics of patriotism. The politics of loving Uganda,” President Museveni stated during the memorial service held at Kololo, where he was joined by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni. The President paid tribute to the late Kategaya as a steadfast advocate of nationalism and principled politics. He cautioned attendees against identity-based politics, which he described as detrimental to national progress. “In the 1960s, it was due to Kategaya that we started seeing the mistakes of UPC, DP and Kabaka Yekka, of the politics of identity. We tried to influence the situation but people were not listening and it led to the collapse of 1971 when Amin came in,” he remarked. He also encouraged event organisers to appreciate the unique qualities of individuals. “Kategaya had a different approach but he brought in a lot of contacts which we didn't know or have,” the President added. Moreover, President Museveni urged leaders to maintain clear objectives and employ effective methods in their governance efforts. “When you are working for aims things are easier. With Kategaya and we who know what we are doing, it is politics of aims/mission not politics of myself or what, no!” he said. At the memorial, two books were launched: one honouring Eriya Kategaya, featuring tributes from 20 distinguished individuals across various themes, and the memoir "Reflections of Resilience" by Joan Kategaya. Albert Gomes Mugumya, the Consultant Editor of the volumes, encouraged attendees to document their stories for future generations and introduced a group of children of former Uganda People's Movement (UPM) members. Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo praised the late Kategaya as a dedicated nationalist and Pan-Africanist who served his country with integrity. “We have converged here today to celebrate the life of Rt. Hon. Eriya Kategaya and his numerous achievements,” she said. Reflecting on his legacy, H.E. Alupo recounted moments when the late Kategaya guided the cabinet on strategic discourse which resulted in the formulation of excellent policies. The widow of the late Kategaya, Mrs. Joan Kategaya said her family is being sustained by the grace of God amid sorrows and struggles following the death of Rt. Hon. Kategaya. “Indeed, God's protection has surrounded us, He has shielded and guided us through every season,” said Mrs. Kategaya who serves as a Senior Presidential Advisor on Veteran Affairs. “My message today is that of gratitude to God for his steadfast love, to friends and family for their unwavering support and all those who have moved this journey with us. Thank you.” Dr. Juliet Kategaya, a daughter to the late Kategaya thanked President Museveni and the government for the support towards the family of the late Kategaya. “My father was a passionate and strategic community leader, he showed us the benefit of planning ahead of time,” she said. She also thanked President Museveni and the First Lady Maama Janet for their unwavering support over the years.

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