President Museveni Lauds Uganda’s Stability, Vows Tough Stance on Crime and Economic Growth

Summary:

• President Museveni condemned the leniency of police and courts in granting bonds and bails to perpetrators, a practice he vowed to end.

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KAMPALA: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has hailed Uganda’s resilience and progress in his annual year-end address, acknowledging the country’s ability to overcome challenges while maintaining peace and stability.

The address, delivered from State House, emphasized the critical role of Ugandans, security forces, and divine intervention in safeguarding the nation through 2024.

“Congratulations on completing the year 2024, and we thank God for protecting Uganda,” Museveni began.

He highlighted how Uganda had remained peaceful, citing key security successes such as the swift defeat of Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorists earlier in the year.

He added “The attack on Lhubiriha Secondary School and incursions into Kibaale Forest National Park, which claimed several lives, were met with a decisive response by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other security agencies”.

“We destroyed the group, including its leader Kamusu, within months,” Museveni said.

He credited the combined efforts of security forces and a vigilant population, referencing similar victories in recent years, such as the crushing of pang-wielding terrorists in Masaka in 2021.

President Museveni turned his attention to domestic issues, particularly theft of livestock and agricultural produce, which he described as rampant.

He condemned the leniency of police and courts in granting bonds and bails to perpetrators, a practice he vowed to end.

“Any police personnel that give a bond to a village thief will be held accountable,” he warned.

He lauded the Military Court Martial for its handling of Karamoja’s security situation, which saw 3,000 cattle rustlers prosecuted, leading to peace in the region.

However, President Museveni emphasized the need to rehabilitate offenders through skilling programs, ensuring they can contribute positively to society upon release.

President Museveni reaffirmed the success of the NRM’s four-acre model for smallholder farmers, which has boosted household incomes through diversified farming.

“Our coffee production has grown from 2.7 million bags in 2013 to 9 million bags today,” he noted, crediting Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and innovative agricultural research for the progress.

To ensure sustainability, he announced plans to introduce irrigation systems nationwide, further stabilizing crop and livestock yields.

President Museveni also addressed concerns over premature coffee harvesting, warning that it could harm Uganda’s reputation in global markets.

Reflecting on the year’s natural disasters, including landslides in Bulambuli and floods in Kasese, President Museveni expressed regret over the loss of lives and property.

He urged Ugandans to avoid building in wetlands, floodplains, and on steep slopes, calling such practices a violation of nature’s balance.

“The forests and swamps are God’s brakes and ropes to slow down and hold runoff water,” he said, urging a return to environmental stewardship.

President Museveni also issued a warning about the spread of Monkeypox, advising citizens to report symptoms early and practice safe hygiene.

He underscored the need for vigilance to prevent an outbreak of the disease, which spreads through contact and, in some cases, sexual activity.

On a celebratory note, President Museveni praised Uganda’s athletes for their international achievements.

He expressed optimism about the country’s preparations to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in 2025 and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027, events he described as “a testament to Uganda’s growing prominence.”

As he concluded his address, Museveni expressed hope for continued peace and prosperity. “Let us work together to sustain peace, develop our economy, and strengthen our communities. I wish all Ugandans a prosperous and fulfilling New Year.”