By Jumah Kakomo and Kabuye Ronald
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has confirmed Uganda’s steady progress in achieving the country’s seven key Socio-Economic Transformation objectives—peace, development, wealth creation, job creation, expanded markets, regional integration, and strategic security.
Speaking during a media interaction with journalists from the Busoga Sub-region at the Mayuge District State Lodge, President Museveni highlighted the growth of the service sector and the strong governance structures that have enabled freedoms such as the widespread enjoyment of free speech.
The President emphasized the importance of a consolidated East African regional market, describing it as essential for building a powerful economic bloc. He cautioned, however, that Africa’s continued fragmentation poses significant risks to the continent’s survival in the absence of a unified security strategy.
On environmental and land-use matters, President Museveni provided guidance regarding the ongoing contention over Mayuge forest land between the National Forestry Authority and local communities. He also called for harmonized and productive use of wetlands in the Busoga Sub-region, urging residents to avoid misuse or underutilization of these natural resources.
He noted that rice growing in wetlands yields lower economic returns compared to fish farming, which he said could be complemented by irrigation systems to support other agricultural activities. The President further weighed in on the broader economic and environmental significance of wetland conservation.
Addressing infrastructure development, President Museveni directed NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong to follow up on the compensation process for individuals affected by the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway in Busoga Sub-region districts.
On wealth creation, the President urged local communities to embrace commercially viable agricultural enterprises that can drive real socio-economic transformation. He cited successful examples across the country, including intensive coffee farming in Masaka, palm oil production in Kalangala and Bundibugyo, and dairy farming in cattle-corridor districts.
President Museveni reiterated that the NRM’s wealth-creation message has been consistent and proven since the 1960s, and was formally anchored in the 1996 NRM Manifesto as a guide for prosperity for all.
That marked the conclusion of President Museveni’s media engagement at the Mayuge District State Lodge.
