Summary:
- President Museveni highlighted the importance of embracing programs designed to improve livelihoods.
MUBENDE: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged the people of Mubende District to prioritize generating income at the household level, assuring them that other developments, such as tarmac roads and electricity, will follow in due course.
President Museveni made these remarks on Sunday during the 39th anniversary celebration of the NRM/A liberation struggle, held at Mubende National Teachers’ College under the theme, “Salutations to Those Who Re-Sanctified Our Homeland.”
He was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to poverty eradication, President Museveni highlighted the importance of embracing programs designed to improve livelihoods.
He specifically mentioned the Parish Development Model (PDM) as a key initiative aimed at empowering communities economically.
He explained that the funds provided at the parish level act as startup capital to uplift households, adding that beneficiaries of PDM funds will not incur bank charges, as the government will cover those costs.
President Museveni also urged leaders to understand the needs of their communities, encouraging them to keep track of the number of homesteads in their respective areas.
He stressed the distinction between development and wealth creation, pointing out that while infrastructure like tarmac roads, electricity, and healthcare services are essential, they do not directly eradicate poverty.
Reflecting on Uganda’s economic history, President Museveni acknowledged the critical role played by Mubende, Luweero, and Rwenzori in supporting the liberation struggle from 1981 to 1986.
He noted that, at the time of independence, only 9% of Ugandans participated in the money economy, with the majority relying on subsistence farming, a trend worsened during Idi Amin’s regime.
He explained that the situation has improved significantly, with Uganda now transitioning into the money economy and making strides in industrialization, including the manufacturing of automobiles like those from Kiira Motors in Jinja.
President Museveni recounted how, in 2013, only 32% of Ugandans were involved in the money economy.
To address this, Operation Wealth Creation was introduced to provide resources such as seedlings and livestock.
However, after identifying challenges, the government pivoted to the PDM, which allocates UGX 100 million annually to every parish.
Beneficiaries receive loans to engage in income-generating activities, including the four-acre farming model, which promotes coffee, fruits, pasture for dairy cattle, food crops, and backyard projects like poultry or piggery.
President Museveni shared testimonies from successful PDM beneficiaries, such as Mr. Ijara Martin from Serere, to illustrate how the program is transforming lives.
He emphasized that the PDM is designed to benefit households with limited land and encouraged residents to take full advantage of the opportunities it offers.
Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, the Minister for the Presidency, commended President Museveni’s leadership, describing his patience and management skills as instrumental in the success of the liberation struggle and the country’s ongoing development.
During the event, 61 individuals were honored for their outstanding contributions to Uganda’s progress.
The celebration was graced by several dignitaries, including Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, NRM First National Vice Chairman Alhaji Moses Kigongo, NRM Secretary General Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, ministers, Members of Parliament, as well as local and religious leaders.
This year’s commemoration not only marked 39 years since the liberation struggle but also reinforced the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and improving the lives of all Ugandans.
