PRESIDENT MUSEVENI UNVEILS INDIVIDUALIZED WATER PLAN FOR WEALTH CREATORS IN KARAMOJA, PLEDGES MORE ROADS, SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has unveiled a new government initiative to establish individualized water systems aimed at supporting commercial farmers and small-scale producers, as part of a broader effort to eradicate poverty through wealth creation and self-sufficiency. Addressing thousands of supporters during a campaign rally at Kalas Girls Primary School in Amudat District, Karamoja Sub-region, on Tuesday 28th October, 2025, H.E. Museveni said the government was developing a plan to ensure every productive household has access to reliable water for production, a move he said would mark a turning point in Uganda’s rural transformation strategy. “We are working out a plan for water for rural areas. Apart from the valley dams, people need water at each home,” President Museveni said. “The communal water systems will not address their water problem. We are trying to analyze how we can provide individualized water for wealth creators. In the Ankole area, we no longer use those communal dams. If you come to Rwakitura, you will see I have three of my own dams because animals, when they go too far, they get diseases like ticks,” he added. The new policy seeks to end decades of dependency on shared water facilities in semi-arid regions like Karamoja, where boreholes and valley dams are often overstretched or dry up during prolonged droughts. “Borehole water is still very low at 18%. The Minister of Karamoja must find out what the problem is, because in other districts like Abim and Karenga, the percentage is much higher,” President Museveni said. Government data indicates that only 18% of Amudat District’s 415 villages currently have access to safe water, leaving 81.7% without a clean source. Of the existing water-for-production infrastructure, one solar-powered irrigation system has been completed at Katotin, 12 valley tanks have been constructed, and two wind-powered abstraction systems have been installed. Major recent projects include the Kosike Valley Dam, with a capacity of 2.7 billion litres, and the Kaechom Valley Dam, which holds 1.8 billion litres. Ongoing projects include additional solar-powered irrigation systems and a large valley tank under construction. The Lowoyakur Dam, shared with Nakapiripirit, will hold 1.4 billion litres of water once completed. Peace as the foundation of development: Throughout his address, President Museveni emphasized that peace, the first of seven core achievements highlighted in the NRM’s 2026–2031 manifesto, remains the cornerstone of Uganda’s development. “If you want to know that miracles are possible in Africa, come to Karamoja and come to Amudat. I thank God for making me somehow connected to that miracle,” President Museveni said, while revisiting Uganda’s turbulent past. He explained how the National Resistance Movement (NRM) restored peace and national unity after decades of instability, where, before 1986, Uganda’s electoral and administrative systems were poorly aligned, leading to marginalization in areas like Karamoja. “Before the coming into power of NRM, there were no permanent constituencies. They would just make ad hoc constituencies to favor certain parties. In 1989, we decided that each constituency must be equal to a county. At that time, there were 149 counties in the whole of Uganda, and something called Upe was one of them with a population of only 20,000. Some of the counties in the south, like Bukoto, had 360,000 people. But we said that for now, let’s start with the counties, and that’s how Upe became a constituency,” President Museveni said. He highlighted Amudat’s recognition as a district stemming from the government’s respect for cultural and linguistic diversity. “These people are Pokot, and their language is different from Karamojong. Let them have their district and speak their Pokot language there. When I come today and see that the population of Amudat has grown to 203,000, I say this is a miracle,” President Museveni said. Disarmament and border security: President Museveni credited Uganda’s peace to firm decisions such as the disarmament of Karamojong warriors in the early 2000s. He dismissed arguments that communities in Karamoja and neighboring Turkana, Pokot, or Toposa areas should be allowed to keep guns to “balance terror.” “Some said if Karamojong and Turkana both stay with guns, they will stabilize by killing each other. But why have a government if people must protect themselves?” he asked. “And this was a false argument because, like in West Nile, there’s peace, despite the wars in South Sudan and Congo, West Nile is peaceful. Even Kasese and Bundibugyo are peaceful, yet there are wars in Eastern DRC. So, that’s when I insisted that you bring the guns; I will protect you against the Pokot of Kenya, Turkana of Kenya, and others,” President Museveni added, noting that when the Turkana killed three people, including surveyors, he banned them from grazing in Uganda. President Museveni said he had since raised the issue with Kenya’s President William Ruto, demanding that the Kenyan government compensate the victims’ families. “I could not accept this impunity of criminality. I told President Ruto that if these criminals don’t have money, the Kenyan government must pay. I will perform a ceremony in Karamoja here with President Ruto for the Kenyan government to pay for the lives of our officers who died,” President Museveni said, adding that the ceremony will also attract elders to cleanse the blood of the people who died, and the bishops and the sheikhs will also come in and contribute spiritually. Turning to infrastructure, President Museveni vowed to ensure all major roads in Karamoja remain passable year-round. “I have warned the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Local Government that I don’t want to hear of a major road that is impassable. It may not be tarmac, but it must be motorable all the time,” he said. Recent road achievements in Karamoja include 180.4 km of newly paved roads, such as Nadunget–Iriiri (65.6 km), Kokeris–Matany (5.5 km), Namalu–Nakapiripirit (17 km), and Akisim–Moroto–Lokitanyala (92.3 km). Currently under construction are the Moroto–Lokitanyala (42 km) and Muyembe–Nakapiripirit (92 km) roads. Several other routes are under procurement, including Kaabong–Kapedo–Karenga (67 km) and Kotido–Kaabong (64 km), while the Moroto–Tochi–Atiang–Opit–Awo (94 km) and Kotido–Abim–Aloi–Lira (99 km) roads are under design. President Museveni said the government would also tarmac the Nakapiripirit–Amudat road, a key artery for trade and connectivity in the region. President Museveni reaffirmed the NRM government’s commitment to universal access to education, saying the ultimate goal is to ensure one primary school per parish and one secondary school per sub-county. Currently, Amudat District has 27 government primary schools, 8 private primary schools, 2 government secondary schools, and 1 private secondary school. Out of 44 parishes, only 11 host at least one government primary school. However, three new Seed Secondary Schools are under construction, which will reduce the number of sub-counties without a government secondary school from 9 to 6. The President said he intends to abolish the practice of charging fees in government schools, calling it an injustice against poor families. “When we introduced UPE in 1996, we wanted children to study for free. But school managers started bringing money again,” he said, adding that in the coming government, he would like to stop the charging of fees in government schools. In the health sector, President Museveni noted that Amudat District currently has one Health Centre IV and three Health Centre IIIs, leaving seven sub-counties without any health facility. To close this gap, the government plans to upgrade and construct several facilities, including: Upgrading Karita HCIV to a General Hospital, upgrading Abilyep HCII, Achorichor HCII, Amudat HCII, Cheptapoyo HCII, and Lokales HCII to HCIIIs and constructing new HCIIIs in Karita and Kongoro sub-counties. Ongoing works include the upgrading of Katabok HCII to HCIII, Karita HCIII to HCIV, and the construction of an operating theatre at Amudat General Hospital. President Museveni used the rally to reinforce his message of wealth creation, urging residents to use the Parish Development Model (PDM) and other government programs to lift themselves out of poverty. He played video testimonials of beneficiaries who have prospered under the PDM, including: George Matongo, a livestock farmer in Ngoma; Dick Korea Ogila, a mango farmer from Abim earning over Shs6 million per harvest; Amos Losengole, a goat farmer from Amudat who invested his Shs1 million PDM fund wisely; and Emmanuel Lokong, a piggery farmer from Nakapiripirit. President Museveni said the government would soon provide vehicles to cooperatives to help farmers transport goods to urban markets. Amudat District has so far received Shs13.49 billion under the PDM, of which Shs13.1 billion (97.2%) has been disbursed to 12,118 households, about 28.6% of the district’s 42,310 households. “We shall support cooperatives with group transport to access Kampala markets,” H.E. Museveni pledged. President Museveni told residents that Uganda’s transformation from instability to peace and development over the last 40 years is a testament to the NRM’s resilience. “Now we have peace not only in Karamoja but also in Acholi, West Nile, the Rwenzori, and Kisoro. There’s peace everywhere,” he said. He urged voters to defend the gains made under the NRM government by ensuring continued support for the party in the upcoming 2026 elections. “If anybody asks you why you support NRM, tell them that in our manifesto of 2026–2031, peace is our first contribution. It is the foundation upon which everything else stands,” President Museveni said. First Lady Janet Museveni calls for 100% NRM vote: The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, also addressed the rally, commending the people of Amudat and Karamoja for their steadfast support of the NRM. “The NRM government is your government. It has worked so hard to make sure that Karamoja is peaceful, like any other part of Uganda. Please make it a responsibility to make sure that everybody votes for NRM so that we protect the gains so far and take a qualitative leap into the middle-income status for the whole of Karamoja and Uganda,” The First Lady said, adding that this would enable all the programs in the pipeline to be implemented in the next term of office. “Therefore, I trust that even this time, you’ll make sure that Amudat will vote 100% for the President and the whole lineup of NRM flagbearers,” she added. Amudat District, with a population of 203,358 people, had 43,647 registered voters in the 2021 elections. Of these, 31,453 (72.1%) voted, and President Museveni secured 30,451 votes (97.6%), while the National Unity Platform (NUP) polled 625 votes (2%). As of 2025, registered voters in the district have risen to 58,203, and the number of polling stations has increased from 120 to 164. The event was also addressed by several senior leaders, including Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, NRM Vice Chairperson for Karamoja, Hon. John Baptist Loki, and NRM Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, who urged residents to maintain their loyalty to the ruling party and consolidate the progress achieved under President Museveni’s leadership.

2025-11-28

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ANNOUNCES MASSIVE FISH FARMING DRIVE AS HE CAMPAIGNS IN SERERE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, on Monday, 3rd November 2025, announced an ambitious nationwide fish farming program. Speaking during a campaign rally at Serere District Headquarters, Serere District, President Museveni unveiled a fish farming plan designed to restore wetlands, generate irrigation water, and create wealth among rural households. “We’re going to develop a massive fish farming program along the edges of the wetlands because we want the wetlands to regain water so that we get water for irrigation. We shall earn more, but also use the water for irrigation,” he said. The NRM candidate showcased a video of his model fish project in Lango, where he said he generates Shs140 million per year in profits. “This is the answer for the fishing people. If you listen to my advice, we’re going to have so much money from fish farming,” he said. President Museveni added that the government will introduce a special fund for fishermen, separate from the Shs100 million under the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds sent to parishes. “We are adding a fund for fishermen because their needs are bigger than the Shs 100 million under the PDM. They need good boats, fishing nets, and engines. We shall have a special fund for them,” President Museveni emphasized. Peace and Stability: President Museveni reminded the people of Serere of the NRM’s historical role in restoring peace and stability across Uganda, particularly in regions once affected by insurgencies. “Lakwena disturbed this very area of Serere alongside other rebels, and your being here is testimony that we defeated them,” he said. “This is the first time Uganda has had peace for such a long time. In the past, there was trouble everywhere. NRM has a strong system; when we get problems, we deal with them,” he added, attributing the current development momentum in Teso to the dividends of peace. President Museveni used the rally to highlight extensive road works and infrastructure projects across the Teso region over the last decade. He recounted how the government extended tarmac roads from Soroti to Lango and Karamoja, and from Pallisa to Kumi, bypassing Mbale. “We now have money for the Kumi–Ngora–Serere–Kagwara road. The contractor is being procured,” H.E. Museveni said, adding that the road from Serere to Soroti will also be done because it’s a shorter route. “Once we get the money, the rest is easy,” he noted. President Museveni revealed ongoing plans to rehabilitate the old railway line through Soroti and construct a new one from Tororo to Kampala, to facilitate trade and movement of goods. He further listed a string of completed and ongoing roads in the sub-region, including: Tirinyi–Pallisa–Kumi (111km), Kumi–Mukongoro–Pallisa (111km), Arapai–Katakwi (44km), Katakwi–Irrir (40km), Kumi–Ladot (26km), Soroti City Roads (7.2km), Kumi Town Roads (12.2km), and Katakwi Town Roads (10km). Other national roads under rehabilitation include Soroti–Dokolo–Lira–Kamdini (189km) and Tororo–Mbale–Soroti (150km), and those currently under procurement include Kumi–Ngora–Brooks Corner–Serere–Kagwara (102km) and Katine–Ochero (69.9km). Designs are also underway for Soroti–Amuria–Abim (76.7km), Soroti–Serere–Pingire–Mugarama (64km), and Soroti (Arapai)–Amuria–Acan Pii (88km). On electricity, President Museveni commended authorities for extending power to almost all parts of the district. “I am happy that all sub-counties have electricity except two. That is very good,” he said. Water supply and sanitation also featured prominently in the President’s address. According to government figures, out of 277 villages in Serere District, 235 have access to safe water, representing 85% coverage, leaving only 42 villages without clean water. President Museveni observed that urban piped water projects are already operational in Serere Town Council (serving 25,967 people), Ocapa Town (19,513 people), Kyere Town (29,897 people), and Kasilo (4,025 people). Ongoing water projects include the Agule Parish system in Kasilo Sub-county, while new systems are planned for Kidetok Town Council, Kadungulu, and Mugarama. For irrigation and water for production, the President cited the Ongor Small Scale Irrigation Project in Atira, the Opapa Irrigation Scheme in Kateta Sub-county (32 acres), and the Owiiny Valley Dam in Bugondo Sub-county, completed in December 2024 for Shs 4.3 billion. Education: President Museveni was happy to learn that Serere District currently has 98 government primary schools with 115,935 pupils and 119 private primary schools. There are twelve (12) government secondary schools enrolling 9,406 students, and 41 private secondary schools. Condemning the persistent collection of school charges in government schools, President Museveni reiterated his long-standing commitment to free education, which he first introduced in 1996, and vowed to strengthen it in his next term. “In the coming government, I want all Ugandans to support my free education program,” H.E. Museveni urged. Regarding health, President Museveni noted that out of Serere’s 15 sub-counties, two have Health Centre IVs and ten have Health Centre IIIs, leaving only three without any government health facility. He told supporters that the government is constructing new HCIIIs in Kidetok Town Council, Kadungulu, and Ocaapa, while upgrading Omagoro HCII in Kyere to HCIII. Turning to wealth creation, President Museveni cautioned citizens not to confuse development (public infrastructure) with wealth (personal income). “There’s a difference between development and wealth. Development is government work, but wealth is personal,” he said. “People are fighting for nothing because they’re poor. But if we all join the money economy, everyone will benefit,” the President noted, citing one Joseph Ijala from Serere as a success story of the four-acre model. Ijala, who started poultry farming four years ago, now collects 814 litres of milk daily, earning UGX 800,000 per day, and gets Shs 6 million from eggs daily. “We have 33 farmers producing milk with me, and I employ 38 people, including four-degree holders,” Ijala told President Museveni, who praised him as an example of NRM’s wealth creation vision. “You don’t have a tarmac road here, but Ijala is already rich. In Kampala, there’s everything, but many people are poor. Work for wealth, and development will find you,” President Museveni stated. The NRM presidential candidate also revisited the issue of cattle compensation for Teso, Lango, and Acholi, where livestock was lost during insurgencies and cattle rustling. “This area was disturbed by wars and cattle rustling. We started restocking, but some people went to court, and we withdrew after spending Shs139 billion without clear results. We have now resolved to handle it once and for all,” he said. “We have discussed this matter with your leaders and will implement it once and for all. Support NRM, and we shall complete it,” President Museveni promised. According to government records, 11,056 claimants in Teso have been compensated with Shs 55.9 billion, of which 923 beneficiaries in Serere received Shs 6.18 billion. The rally was attended by senior NRM leaders, including Rt. Hon. Anita Among, the Second National Vice Chairperson, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to infrastructure and health investments in Serere. “The road from Kumi–Ngora–Brooks Corner–Serere has already been funded, and works will begin soon. The construction of Serere District Hospital is also captured in the National Development Plan IV,” she said. Mr. Echodu Calvin, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, welcomed the President, recalling that “Serere is special” to him because it’s where he first met President Museveni 45 years ago. He requested a review of fishing policies to support local communities. NRM’s support base in Serere: Serere, with a population of 358,123 (2024 census), has 15 sub-counties, 70 parishes, and 284 villages. In the 2021 Presidential Elections, the district had 130,290 registered voters, with 79,152 (60.6%) voting. President Museveni polled 38,555 votes (51.2%), Patrick Amuriat (FDC) got 26,722 (35.5%), and NUP’s Robert Kyagulanyi secured 6,013 (8%). For the 2026 elections, the district has 162,646 registered voters—an increase of 32,356—and 374 polling stations, up from 240 in 2021.

2025-11-03

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILS PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT GAINS IN SOROTI

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today received a warm reception in Soroti City as he addressed residents and leaders of both Soroti City and District during his campaign rally. Recalling the difficult days before the NRM government brought peace, President Museveni said, “I remember when I was here fighting, they ambushed me in Acholi, but it was in Teso where I defeated the rebels; in Anyara, we killed their commander Tabuley. That’s how eventually we got peace in Soroti and across Uganda. But it’s not only about weapons; the main thinking is that we do not believe in politics of sectarianism, tribe, or religion. We love Uganda.” The President explained that the NRM’s second contribution to Uganda’s transformation is development, particularly economic and social infrastructure. “In Soroti, we have repaired major roads, including Tororo up to here, Katine to Otuboi, Soroti to Amuria and Ochapi, Serere to here, and Katakwi-Toromo to Bisna. All Sub-County headquarters in Soroti District and Soroti City now have electricity,” he said. On water, President Museveni said, “Out of 359 rural villages in Soroti District, 263 now have access to safe water, representing 73% coverage, while Soroti City has 83,615 people served by piped water supply. Work is ongoing to drill nine new deep boreholes, rehabilitate 11 boreholes, and construct new piped water systems in Tubur and Kamuda towns. We are committed to expanding access to clean and safe water for all.” The President emphasized education, noting that Soroti District has 69 government primary schools across 54 parishes, while Soroti City has 29 government primary schools across 25 parishes. “Some parishes still lack a school, and we must ensure every child has access. When it comes to secondary education, Soroti District has 5 government secondary schools and 17 private schools, with 7 sub-counties still without a government secondary school,” he said. “Soroti City has 5 government secondary schools and 52 private schools, covering all its sub-counties. Additionally, three new Seed Secondary Schools are under construction, and we are rehabilitating Teso College Aloet, Soroti Secondary School, and St. Francis Schools for the Blind.” On health, President Museveni said in Soroti District, out of 12 sub-counties, one has a Health Centre IV, five have HCIIIs, and six sub-counties still lack higher-level facilities. “We are upgrading Tirinya HCIV to a general hospital, Kamuda HCIII to HCIV, and several HCII facilities to HCIIIs across sub-counties. In Soroti City, the Regional Referral Hospital, one HCIV, and five HCIIIs provide coverage across the city. Soroti RRH has a functional ICU with three beds, X-ray and ultrasound services with three radiologists, and a functional oxygen plant. We are continuing immunization programs, expanding health services, and ensuring all government health units are properly equipped.” President Museveni also emphasized wealth creation. “Development is brought by the government, but wealth must be created by you in your homes. Our manifesto outlines activities that can help people transition from poverty — planting coffee, fruits, food crops, pasture, poultry, piggery, or fish farming depending on the land you have. Programs like NAADS, PDM, and Emyooga are here to support you, and I urge you to take advantage of them.” On cattle restocking, the President said the NRM government has already found a fair solution for cattle compensation in Lango, Acholi and Teso sub-regions. “These areas were disturbed by insurgency and cattle rustling, and after the war, we started restocking. We had given Shs.159 billion, but I did not see the change on the ground. I therefore proposed giving each household five cows. I brought the idea to the leaders, sent them to discuss it with you, and I was told you accepted it. We have therefore adopted the idea — it is very expensive, but we shall do it.” He also stressed that jobs come from wealth creation in commercial agriculture, industries, ICT and services, giving examples of local farmers creating employment. “NRM always wants politics of knowledge, not politics of propaganda. Some try to give you the impression that jobs come from the government, but there are only 480,000 government jobs — how can they serve 50 million people?” he noted. “We are providing security, transport, and other services, but where programs fail, we propose that locally elected leaders like LC1, LC3, and LC5 supervise and are held accountable. On markets, Uganda needs East African integration because the internal market is not enough. Education is critical, we now provide free six-month skilling programs to equip youth with skills to produce items that were previously imported from China and Italy,” he said. Rt. Hon. Anita Among, Second National Vice Chairperson of NRM, thanked President Museveni for granting Soroti city status and commended the development and infrastructure improvements in the district and city. Mr. Calvin Echodu, NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, assured the President of the support of Soroti residents and thanked him for the prevailing peace in Soroti City, noting that business is now booming and the city is ready for further development, including a first-class golf club. Mr. Enomu John, NRM Chairperson for Soroti City, pledged massive support for President Museveni in the forthcoming elections and thanked him for the establishment of skilling hubs that have equipped the youth with practical skills. Hon. Herbert Edmund Ariko, NRM Chairperson for Soroti District, commended the President for Soroti University, the city status, and other development achievements, noting that Soroti City is now fully back within the NRM family and that the President and party are poised for a resounding victory in the upcoming polls.

2025-11-03

NRM SUPPORTERS CAUTIONED AGAINST PERSUADING MEMBERS TO STAND AS INDEPENDENTS AFTER LOSING IN PARTY PRIMARIES

The First National Vice Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Alhaji Moses Kigongo has urged the party supporters against persuading fellow members who lost in the party primaries to stand as independents. According to Alhaji Kigongo, this creates disunity and divides support for the party. Alhaji Kigongo who was accompanied by the Special Presidential Assistant-Press and Mobilization also Deputy Spokesperson, Haji Faruk Kirunda, made the remarks on Saturday 1st November, 2025 while meeting NRM flag bearers in Luuka district. The meeting took place at Budhabangula village in Bulongo Sub County. He tasked the NRM members to support and vote for the party flagbearers for continuity of the ruling party. “Vote for someone with the NRM flag if you don’t want your vote to be wasted. Don’t engage in other people’s battles,” he said. Alhaji Kigongo further cautioned the party members against political cliques, explaining that they are a source of internal conflicts. On the other hand, the NRM First National Vice Chairperson commended Haji Kirunda for having Busoga at heart and for his tireless efforts in supporting the sub-region. “Kirunda has Busoga at heart, and he always minds about it. The spirit of that kind is good, and we need to emulate him,” he said. On his part, Haji Kirunda tasked the people of Luuka to vote for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other NRM flagbearers at all levels so that the ruling party protects the gains achieved so far. “I am requesting you to vote overwhelmingly, and you give us strength to return and support you as well. Luuka has always voted for the NRM, and I assure you that we shall camp here and support all of you if you vote well from top to the grassroot,” Haji Kirunda said. The Archdeacon of Kiyunga Archdeaconry, Rev Can. Moses Dhikange beseeched the NRM members to unite, reconcile and avoid infights. Luuka Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Kibwika Micheal implored the NRM flag bearers to promote the party Manifesto as they campaign ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

2025-11-02

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMISSIONS CONSTRUCTION OF HIINGA KARIS MEDICAL HOSPITAL AND KARIS NURSING UNIVERSITY

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today commissioned the construction of Hiinga Karis Medical Hospital, a multi-million, modern health facility established to provide specialised medical care and improve access to quality health services for Ugandans, especially those around Gayaza and Wakiso. Located in Magere, Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including 125 bed spaces, emergency care services such as MRIs, scans and X-rays, surgical theatres, four maternity delivery suites, diagnostic laboratories, and a specialised Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with 18 beds. Upon completion, Karis Medical Hospital is expected to employ over 1,000 doctors and medical staff, creating significant employment opportunities. Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, President Museveni commended the involvement of the private sector in the provision of health services, praising them for maintaining effective supervision of their employees, which he said ensures better service delivery. “Private hospitals have some efficiency; they know how to do things in a simpler way. They control their staff better, and sometimes their supervision is even better than that of government hospitals,” he said. The President further noted that there is no harm in supporting private hospitals because they help to reduce pressure on government facilities. He urged Ugandans to focus on what is important and not be distracted by divisions such as tribe or religion, emphasising that when one seeks medical care, a patient’s tribe does not determine the quality of treatment received. “So, when you hear somebody spending their time talking about tribe or religion, those are your enemies. It means they are lazy people who do not work and who do not understand the anatomy of wealth creation,” President Museveni remarked. The President also urged Ugandans to remain focused on the NRM manifesto agenda of peace, development, jobs, wealth creation, service delivery, market expansion, and political integration of East Africa. Mr Ikiriza Davis, Chairman of Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University, thanked President Museveni for creating a peaceful and enabling environment that provides opportunities for investors. “Your Excellency, this not only represents a dream but a firm commitment and visionary leadership where investors can build and thrive,” he said. He went on to clarify the ownership and vision of the hospital. “Your Excellency, I would like to clarify the ownership and vision of this hospital. This project has attracted a lot of visibility in this area, and inevitably, some political elements have tried to distort the truth about its ownership,” he emphasised. Mr. Ikiriza encouraged Ugandans to let Karis Medical Hospital unite them rather than divide them. “We have deliberately chosen not to engage in political discourse because we believe that healthcare should unite us, not divide us as Ugandans,” he noted. He further explained that Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University aim to empower Ugandans with practical skills through professional nursing training. He emphasised their commitment to strengthening the health system through infrastructure development and the training of nurses with sufficient skills to represent Uganda on the international market — part of their long-term plan once the hospital is completed next year. “Karis Medical Hospital and Nursing University, which sit on three acres of land, aim to equip Ugandans with the necessary nursing skills,” he added. Mr. Moses Mayanja, the NRM Chairman for Wakiso District thanked President Museveni for creating a conducive environment that has continued to attract investors to the country. “I want to thank President Museveni for the peace and stability he brought, which have given investors opportunities. That is why we are also able to stand firm,” he emphasised. He added that the NRM government has made service delivery more effective and expressed optimism that this facility will greatly benefit people in the surrounding areas. The commissioning ceremony was attended by several government officials, health professionals, and community leaders.

2025-11-02

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI KICKS-OFF PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN IN TESO, ADDRESSES ROAD MAINTENANCE CONCERNS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flag bearer, today kicked-off campaigns in Teso sub-region. The rally took place at St. Francis Secondary School, Acumet, Kapelebyong District, and was attended by thousands of supporters. President Museveni was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni. Addressing the crowd, President Museveni spoke extensively about road maintenance challenges and accountability in local government. “On the roads, there is some little problem, which I have ordered the Ministry of Works to stop, and also the Ministry of Local Government. They delay in maintaining tarmac roads and even the murram roads. For the local government, we are giving them Shs 1.3 billion per district per year. You find some of the local government roads are not maintained,” he said. “I carried out some sample investigations, and it seems there is some corruption in local government, and instead of maintaining the roads, they divert the money to other things.” He emphasized that the allocated funds are meant for maintaining existing roads, not constructing new ones. “That Shs 1.3bn for the local government is supposed to maintain the murram roads, not make the new ones. If there is a need to do new roads, then there is a need to bring more money. We had calculated that the money would be enough to maintain the existing roads without any problem,” he said. “But some roads are not maintained, and even when they try to maintain them, they do it carelessly. They just bring a grader and grade, and they don’t do drainage. When it rains, water collects on the road. So, you wonder, are these people making roads or swimming pools? I am going to deal with them because that money is coming. If the money is not enough, then say so.” On tarmac roads, President Museveni acknowledged some improvement but stressed the importance of focused action. “On the tarmac roads, there has been some learning by some of the actors. Some tackle too many things at a go. We, the bush fighters, concentrate on a few things and do them well. You have seen our soldiers staying in grass-thatched houses. This is because we don’t have enough money to do all things at a go. That’s how we are able to maintain peace in Uganda, by doing one thing at a time and not too many things,” he noted. He also highlighted social and educational infrastructure progress in the region. “On social infrastructure, I am happy to know that there are 10 secondary schools in Kapelebyong alone. When I come here and see that, it shows how far we have come. Some schools like Sir Samuel Baker and Teso College were only O’ level schools, not A-level. This progress gives me hope.” Reflecting on the NRM’s achievements and political journey, President Museveni said, “Maama and I are happy to come here to present the manifesto of the NRM 2026-31. We have been active in politics for the last 65 years, some of the elders have gone to be with the Lord.” “On peace, you know what was happening here: the rebels, the cattle rustlers, the IDPs. This was a new Uganda. We had been in wars for a long time, but since 2007, we have been able to defeat and bring peace in Uganda and disarm the cattle rustlers in Karamoja.” On economic infrastructure, President Museveni highlighted major road projects in Teso. “In Teso, we have been able to do quite a bit. We have tarmac roads all the way from Soroti to Moroto, Soroti to Katine to Dokolo-Lira to Kamdin, the road to Mbale, the road through Tirinyi to Kumi. We are planning to do the other roads from Soroti to Amuria to Obalanga to Achanpi all the way to Otuke to Abim and other roads.” President Museveni also announced plans to restock livestock in Teso, Lango, and Acholi, proposing five cows per homestead as a democratic and transformative approach. “Recently I called your leaders and asked why we don’t have a democratic formula for restocking. I proposed five cows per homestead. The majority supported it, and I have instructed the government to plan for it,” President Museveni said. “Thank you so much for your love and for really standing in the rain and supporting NRM. NRM is Uganda’s party; it is building Uganda. It is trying to ensure that all our children can live a better life than we, their parents, lived. That’s why NRM wants all school-going children to access education. That’s why it introduced UPE and USE,” he said. “The intent hasn’t worked so well as it was meant to do, because when it opened its doors for all children of Uganda, the numbers of children multiplied and tripled. The teachers were no longer enough for the numbers of children in schools, and because of that, the headteachers and the PTAs started bringing in private teachers, but then they had to start asking parents to pay salaries of teachers.” On her part, Maama Janet emphasized the government's plans to address the challenge of charging fees in government schools. “That is why the President is saying in the coming Kisanja government, we will make sure that all teachers will be paid by the government and there will be no costs in the UPE and USE schools.” “Therefore, that’s why it is so important that we support and vote for the President and the NRM, so that the NRM can continue to lead this nation and make it better by the day. That is our responsibility as all Ugandans above 18 years to support NRM with our votes,” she added. She concluded with a call for civic participation and nation-building. “And families, as you are saying, will be building better homes, and so it is our responsibility, please, to make sure that you vote for the NRM. God bless Kapelebyong, God bless Teso, God bless Uganda.” NRM impact in Kapelebyong: Kapelebyong District has registered steady progress in infrastructure, social services, and community development programmes, according to the latest government report outlining achievements across key sectors. Located in eastern Uganda, the district has one constituency, 11 sub-counties and town councils, 56 parishes, and 341 villages with a total population of 143,536 people as per the 2024 census report. The government has continued to make good on its promise to compensate families affected by past cattle raids. In Kapelebyong, 402 compensation claims were submitted, with 228 claimants already paid a total of Shs 3.9 billion, while 174 claims remain pending. Under the Parish Development Model (PDM), Kapelebyong District which has 55 parishes has so far received Shs 17 billion, of which Shs 16.8 billion (98.96%) has already been disbursed to 17,014 beneficiary households. With a total of 31,529 households, this means 53% of all households in Kapelebyong have benefited directly from the PDM programme, while the remaining 14,515 households include those already participating in the money economy. Through the Presidential Emyooga Initiative, the district’s single constituency has established 18 SACCOs with 11,029 members. To date, the government has disbursed Shs 920 million to these groups to support enterprise development and savings. The education sector has also registered notable improvement. The district currently has 41 government primary schools enrolling 39,027 pupils, and eight government secondary schools with 3,285 students — all benefiting from Universal Secondary Education (USE) and Universal Post-Ordinary Level Education and Training programmes. However, gaps remain of the 56 parishes, only 28 have a government primary school, leaving 28 parishes still without one. Similarly, out of 11 sub-counties, only six have a government secondary school. Plans are underway to construct an additional secondary school under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UgIFT) and the Uganda Secondary Education Expansion Project (USEEP). In line with President Museveni’s skilling initiative, the Teso Zonal Industrial Hub, located in Soroti District, has so far trained 951 youths in fields such as welding, carpentry, tailoring, construction, hairdressing, bakery, and leather design. Kapelebyong has one Health Centre IV and five Health Centre IIIs, leaving five sub-counties without a facility of HCIII level or higher. Plans are in place to upgrade Angerepo HCII (Acowa Sub-county) and Okoboi HCII (Kapelebyong Sub-county) to HCIII status, while new HCIIIs are planned for Acinga, Obalanga, and Akore sub-counties. Water access remains a major focus. Out of 341 villages, 109 have access to safe water, representing 35% coverage, while 232 villages (65%) still lack clean water. The Kapelebyong Town Piped Water Supply and Sanitation Project, now complete, serves 3,178 people. Additionally, two production wells have been established to boost water availability. Ongoing efforts include a new piped water system under design and construction, with future plans to expand the Kapelebyong system and develop a new water supply project in Obalanga Town. Under the Water for Production initiative, the government has completed feasibility studies and constructed major facilities such as the Odukul Flood Mitigation Valley Tank (30 million litres) and the Odimai Valley Tank (30 million litres) to support irrigation and livestock. In the last eight years, a total of 203 kilometres of roads have been paved in and around the district. Completed projects include: Tirinyi–Pallisa–Kumi and Kumi–Mukongoro–Pallisa (111km), Soroti–Arapai (8km), Arapai–Katakwi (44km), Katakwi–Irrir (40km), Kumi–Ladot (26km) and Kumi Town roads (12.2km). Ongoing national road works include the Soroti–Lira–Kamdini (189km) and Tororo–Mbale–Soroti (150.8km) highways, among others. Other roads such as Amuria–Amucu–Kapelebyong (35.8km) are under procurement, while designs are underway for Amuria–Kuju–Obalanga–Alito (39km) and several key inter-district links to improve connectivity across the region. The campaign is running under the theme: “Protecting the Gains, As We Make 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.

2025-11-01