President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has warned against the hurried creation of new administrative units without first addressing critical infrastructure gaps, particularly road networks.
Speaking during the launch of the 2026 -2031 NRM Manifesto at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala on Monday, the President questioned the logic behind elevating areas to city or district status when essential services such as roads remain in poor condition.
“We must have a new district now now…., we must have a city status, but what is the point of having a city when the roads are in a bad situation? What kind of planning is that?” Museveni remarked.
He cited growing demands from leaders and residents in Kabale who are pushing for full operationalization of Kabale City. However, he expressed concern that key road networks in the region remain neglected.
“Even my people in Kabale have been putting pressure for operationalization of Kabale City, but we still have roads like Muhanga–Rwamucucu–Kisiizi–Kebisoni–Rwahi–Rubaare not worked on,” he said.
President Museveni emphasized that infrastructure development must take precedence, arguing that good roads benefit all citizens, farmers, students, and political leaders alike, whereas city status may only serve a few individuals.
“Why can’t we agree? A good road covers everybody. The city may benefit individuals. This is where we need to harmonize our prioritization of plans,” he added.
Museveni’s remarks signal a shift toward performance-based urbanization, suggesting that future elevation of towns to city or district status will depend on the readiness of their infrastructure rather than political pressure.
CUE IN PRESIDENT MUSEVENI…..ON THE MATTER…..ENG//
