President Yoweri Museveni has urged leaders across political, religious, and cultural spheres to take greater responsibility in the fight against poverty, calling on them to serve as “parents” to their communities.
While addressing selected NRM leaders at St. Peter’s Nyakasanga Church of Uganda in Kasese Town on Monday, President Museveni described it as a “serious mistake” for citizens to remain poor in a country endowed with abundant resources.
President Museveni emphasized that the persistence of poverty is not merely a political failure but also reflects shortcomings in religious and cultural leadership.
“It is a serious mistake for people to remain poor in a country endowed with resources. This failure is not only political but also stems from religious and cultural leadership. Leaders must serve as parents to their communities,” Museveni stated.
President Museveni called on Ugandans to wisely manage funds allocated to community development initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), emphasizing that government programs are being undermined by corruption and slow implementation.
President Museveni reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating poverty through well-funded, people-centered programs.
He cited earlier initiatives like Entandikwa and the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS), alongside newer programs like PDM and Emyooga, as efforts designed to empower families and promote economic self-reliance.
The President’s visit to the Rwenzori region was part of a monitoring tour to assess the progress of the PDM program. During his address, he highlighted the inspiring story of Biira Pelucy, a visually impaired resident of Kasese Municipality.
Through PDM support, Biira has successfully established a poultry business, recently earning UGX 7 million from a single sale. Museveni praised her determination and success as a testament to the program’s potential impact.
“These programs PDM, Emyooga, NAADS, Entandikwa are meant to uplift Ugandans. The money belongs to the people, and without their active involvement, they risk missing out on opportunities to rise out of poverty,” President Museveni emphasized.
He further applauded Muyenga, a local leader who embraced his message on poverty alleviation, and supported her poultry project with UGX 20 million in additional funding.
The President also visited Steven Kisembo, a PDM beneficiary in Ntoroko District. Kisembo has expanded his goat-rearing venture from four to 18 goats, showcasing the positive impact of the initiative.
President Museveni is scheduled to return to Kasese District on Wednesday to officially commission the USMID project and the Rwenzori Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub in Mubuku. He will also address a public rally at Nyakasanga playground.
