President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated the importance of wealth creation in driving Uganda’s development, urging leaders to shift focus from reliance on infrastructure projects alone.
Speaking at a meeting with leaders from the Ankole sub-region at Bushenyi Boma Grounds in Ishaka-Bushenyi Municipality, President Museveni highlighted challenges faced by developing nations, including conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Somalia.
“We must understand the root causes of these conflicts,” he stated, drawing a parallel between leadership and medical diagnosis. “Leading a country is like being a doctor—if you fail to diagnose the real problem and provide the right treatment, progress becomes impossible.”
Reflecting on the 1960s, he recalled the four pillars of development: wealth, skills, jobs, and infrastructure. While roads, electricity, schools, and hospitals were once seen as primary indicators of progress, he emphasized that true transformation comes through wealth creation.
“Back in 1968, I started with cows in Rubaya and later bought land in Rwakitura. My goal was wealth, not just development,” he said, sharing personal experiences.
He cited the success of Joseph Ijara from Serere, who turned 2.5 acres of land into a thriving poultry business generating millions. He also recognized Deziranta Tumusiime and Kenneth Ayesiga, who transformed their lives through small-scale investments in piggery and food supply.
“We must embrace these success stories. Wealth creation starts at the grassroots level,” he affirmed.
Government Programs to Support Wealth Creation
President Museveni highlighted various government initiatives, including Entandikwa, NAADS, Emyooga, Operation Wealth Creation, and the Parish Development Model (PDM), which inject funds directly into communities.
“PDM ensures that money stays within the community as a revolving fund, continuously supporting local development,” he noted, emphasizing the need for increased funding tailored to meet diverse needs across parishes.
He also addressed land fragmentation, urging families to adopt a cooperative approach in utilizing inherited land rather than subdividing it. Additionally, he emphasized the need for irrigation programs to mitigate drought effects and called for investment in agro-processing industries to add value to agricultural products.
Infrastructure and Economic Growth
The President warned against equating infrastructure with wealth distribution, noting that poverty persists even in urban slums despite access to modern amenities.
“We must not confuse infrastructure development with economic empowerment,” he said.
Encouraging the youth to pursue careers in science and technology, he stated: “We need more scientists, engineers, doctors, and agricultural experts. Storytellers alone cannot build an economy.”
He urged Ugandans to rise above sectarian divisions and focus on economic sustainability through commercial agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, and services.
“Prioritize wealth creation over irrelevant politics. Jobs, skills, and wealth generation are the foundation of our national progress,” he emphasized.
Vice President and Leaders Applaud the President’s Vision
Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo praised President Museveni’s dedication to Uganda’s transformation, highlighting achievements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“This is a historic moment for Ankole. Your leadership has significantly improved our economy and livelihoods,” she remarked, encouraging citizens to support his vision.
Hon. Basil Bataringaya Rwankwene, MP for Kashari North, presented a memorandum on behalf of Ankole leaders, expressing gratitude for:
✅ Universal Primary and Secondary Education, which has expanded learning opportunities.
✅ Presidential Industrial Hubs, which have created jobs for the youth.
✅ Disease control efforts, including the management of COVID-19.
✅ Environmental protection measures under the President’s administration.
He also called for urgent road improvements, listing key projects such as:
- Bwizibwera-Nyakambu
- Mbarara-Kabwohe-Ishaka
- Mbarara-Ibanda
- Kabwohe-Kitagata
- Kashwa-Kashongi
- Kashozi-Butamba-Kaliro
Hon. Bataringaya further raised concerns over electricity poles that have remained unconnected for 15 years and requested an additional industrial hub in Greater Bushenyi to expand job creation and skills development.
Hon. Annet Katusiime Mugisha, Bushenyi District Woman MP, acknowledged President Museveni’s unwavering commitment to economic transformation, particularly in agriculture and industrialization.
She highlighted the Banana Research Center as a crucial investment driving large-scale production and market expansion.
Government Leaders and Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was attended by:
🔹 Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja
🔹 NRM Secretary General Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong
🔹 Minister of State for Investment and Privatization, Hon. Evelyn Anite
🔹 Minister of State for Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, Hon. Bright Rwamirama
🔹 Several Members of Parliament and local leaders
