Summary:
- President Museveni also called on leaders at all levels to support the NRM government in implementing the Universal Primary and Secondary Education programs.
BUSIA: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has once again urged Ugandans to make full use of the Local Council (LC) systems to enhance service delivery.
He emphasized that by properly engaging these systems, citizens can hold their leaders accountable, particularly regarding government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.
   “The NRM has empowered Ugandans to catch thieves, but the system is not being utilized effectively. We established the LCI, LCII, LCIII, and LC5 levels in the administration to create a layer that checks misappropriation of funds and the theft of drugs from hospitals. Use the LC system to demand accountability for government programs in your area,” President Museveni advised.
The President made these remarks yesterday during a thanksgiving ceremony for Hon. John Mulimba, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation. The well-attended event took place at Nakhoola Primary School in Busia District.
President Museveni also called on leaders at all levels to support the NRM government in implementing the Universal Primary and Secondary Education programs.
“The NRM wants all children to attend school without any hindrance. Chairpersons of LC5, LC3, and LC1 must ensure this program is implemented,” he emphasized.
President Museveni highlighted that UPE was introduced in 1997, with the government constructing classrooms, paying teachers, and providing capitation grants.
However, he expressed concern that school committees and head teachers continue to charge fees, leading to school dropouts.
“I do not support this practice. If the funds sent are insufficient, we will increase them,” he said.
He also encouraged the people of Busia District to engage in modern commercial agriculture for both food and financial security. Furthermore, he urged leaders to advise citizens on wealth creation.
“You must be involved in wealth creation. I see most of you here are adults; there are very few children. There is no miracle for wealth creation you must work,” he stressed.
The President advised youth without land to take advantage of initiatives like Emyooga to support their enterprises.
“I understand that the youth might say that land belongs to their parents, so my appeal is to the parents: Use your land for your family’s prosperity. Meanwhile, the youth can explore other channels like Emyooga for enterprises that don’t require much land,” he urged.
He added, “Leaders, assist the youth in accessing Emyooga funds and finding spaces where they can work. Be serious, not just talk—those who have worked have succeeded.”
Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo highlighted the importance of good neighborliness, noting the presence of delegations from neighboring countries at the event. She said this demonstrated a strong message of Pan-Africanism and the unity of African people.
The host, Hon. Mulimba, expressed his gratitude to God for the blessings in his life.
“He has provided me with more than I could have ever imagined. Lord, you have surrounded me with people who always look out for me. You have given me family and friends. God blesses me every day with His kindness. Thank you for keeping me safe,” Hon. Mulimba said.
He also expressed deep appreciation to President Museveni for the trust placed in him following his appointment as a minister.
“Mzee, I do not take my appointment as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs for granted, nor do I take your presence at this thanksgiving occasion for granted. Out of a population of 45 million people in Uganda, only 81 are appointed to the cabinet. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity and confidence you have bestowed on me to serve our motherland, Uganda.”
Hon. Mulimba pledged to serve with dignity and to the best of his ability. He also used the occasion to announce the defection of 1,400 former supporters of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) to the NRM.
The colorful ceremony was attended by cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps, as well as religious and cultural leaders.
The Source Reports.
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