By Jumah Kakomo and Kabuye Ronald
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential candidate, General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has officially launched his campaign trail in the Bukedi Sub-region with a massive rally at Kameke Primary School playgrounds in Pallisa District.
During the rally, President Museveni outlined key development strategies aimed at wealth and job creation, environmental conservation, and infrastructure growth for the region.
Museveni announced plans to convert rice growers operating in wetland areas into fish farmers, with government support to construct standard fish ponds. He noted that the improper use of wetlands in Pallisa has affected conservation efforts, and urged communities to adopt fish farming as a more profitable and sustainable livelihood.
He cited successful models such as the Limoto Wetland Fishing Scheme in Pallisa District as examples of the initiative’s potential impact.
The NRM flag bearer requested local leaders to allocate additional land beyond the 100 acres already pledged for the establishment of an industrial park for the Bukedi Sub-region. He emphasized that industrialization, alongside commercial agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, and the service sector, forms the core of the NRM’s job creation strategy.
Museveni highlighted practical examples of individuals who have benefited from these sectors, such as Joseph Ijara and Minister Fred Byamukama, underscoring the government’s commitment to expanding employment opportunities.
Addressing concerns about the Parish Development Model (PDM), Museveni warned Parish Chiefs against the inequitable distribution of funds, saying those who fail to follow the operational guidelines will be arrested.
He reiterated the PDM’s funding allocations: 30% for youth, 30% for women, and 10% for persons with disabilities, calling for transparency and community oversight in its implementation.
Museveni reaffirmed his government’s commitment to expanding social services in Pallisa. He announced plans to upgrade health centers and increase the number of government primary and secondary schools, building on the existing 76 primary and 9 secondary schools.
He also confirmed ongoing efforts to improve water distribution and rehabilitate feeder roads, warning the Ministry of Works and district leaders over poor road maintenance despite government’s annual allocation of one billion shillings for such works.
The President reaffirmed his dedication to free universal education, emphasizing its transformative impact, particularly through the Presidential Industrial Skilling Hubs. He urged parents and communities to support this initiative as a key pillar of national development.
Museveni outlined major contributions of the NRM government, including peace and security, economic growth, education, and healthcare improvements.
Other leaders who addressed the rally included NRM Second National Vice Chairperson Anita Among and Pallisa District NRM Chairperson and Gogonyo County MP Derrick Orone, who presented the district’s status report.
