In his address today in Teso, President Yoweri Museveni emphasized the importance of wealth creation, asserting that the initiative began long before independence, rooted in the need for socio-economic transformation. He identified the “politics of identity” as a significant barrier to progress, urging a shift toward “politics of interest” to facilitate economic development.
Museveni illustrated his point with the example of his work as a cattle keeper, stating that he does not concern himself with the tribe of his milk buyers; all that matters is the monetary transaction. He expressed disappointment that past leaders did not heed his calls for socio-economic transformation, prompting him and his colleagues to launch the National Resistance Army (NRA) liberation struggle to free Uganda from detrimental political practices.
Following the NRA’s ascent to power, Museveni undertook a detailed analysis of how to uplift the lives of Ugandans, resulting in the identification of four key sectors for economic growth:
- Commercial Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Services(including tourism, health, and legal services)
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
He highlighted the potential of the manufacturing sector, referencing the transformation of previously unutilized land in Mbale into an industrial area that has created jobs for the youth in Bugisu. Museveni noted that while Uganda’s civil service employs around 400,000 people, industrialization could significantly increase employment opportunities.
Particularly focusing on agriculture, the president pointed out that it offers a viable path for even those with limited capital or formal education. He differentiated between intensive agriculture, which maximizes output from smaller plots of land, and extensive agriculture, which requires larger areas. Drawing from his research, he proposed a “four-acre model” that encompasses:
- 1 acre for cash crops (e.g., coffee)
- 1 acre for fruit
- 1 acre for pasture
- 1 acre for food crops, supplemented by poultry and pig farming
He urged the adoption of irrigation practices to enhance yields, citing the success of Dr. Muranga in Bushenyi, who achieved a tenfold increase in banana production through irrigation techniques compared to her non-irrigating neighbors. Museveni addressed the issue of wetland encroachment, promising to explore solutions for farmers while advocating for sustainable practices, such as establishing fish ponds adjacent to wetlands.
Concluding his address, the president called on Ugandans to engage with the Parish Development Model (PDM), which aims to provide financial support to citizens. He noted that many individuals had never earned one million shillings in their lifetime until the introduction of PDM, which he described as a crucial starting point for economic empowerment. Museveni also condemned the practice of deducting bank charges from PDM funds and announced that individuals arrested for stealing PDM money would not be eligible for police bond or court bail, a directive he intends to discuss with the Chief Justice.
Looking ahead, Museveni announced that the government would continue to allocate 100 million shillings annually per parish to bolster the money economy at the grassroots level and support local farmers with coffee and fruit seedlings through their Members of parliament.
President Museveni is scheduled to address a major rally in Kaberamaido tomorrow, marking the continuation of his wealth creation tour in the Teso subregion.
