By Jumah Kakomo and Kabuye Ronald
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate, General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has announced a comprehensive package of investments aimed at accelerating socio-economic development in Buvuma Island District. The planned interventions include the establishment of a palm oil processing factory, fish processing plants, and the development of tourism infrastructure.
The announcement follows the rapid expansion of palm oil growing on the islands, a government-backed initiative intended to drive industrialization, create wealth, and generate employment for the people of Buvuma.
Speaking during an NRM presidential campaign rally at Kidinindi Playground in Buvuma Island District, Museveni also confirmed that electricity will be extended to towns across the district within the next six months, with a gradual rollout to reach all villages on the islands.
He explained that mini power stations have already been approved for major towns, while an underwater hydropower cable is expected to be laid within a year to ensure last-mile electricity connectivity to villages. Museveni said he has directed the Ministry of Energy to implement the plan without delay.
At the same rally, held at Kadinindi Sub-county Playground, Museveni cleared the construction of a main tarmac road traversing Buvuma Island District to improve mobility and support economic activities on the islands.
In addition, the NRM presidential candidate pledged to scale up access to clean and safe water beyond the current 53 percent coverage, through expanded piped water systems and other improved water supply technologies.
Museveni further granted Buvuma Island District a district hospital through the upgrade of Buvuma Health Centre IV. He also pronounced the elevation of several other health facilities to meet the growing healthcare needs of the island’s increasing population.
The president also promised to establish additional government-aided primary and secondary schools to supplement existing education facilities in the district.
On environmental conservation, Museveni and residents of Buvuma Island jointly resolved to develop strategies to preserve Lake Victoria and sustain fisheries resources. Proposed measures include banning fishing in breeding areas and regulating the number of people engaged in fishing.
Museveni noted that reckless fishing practices had previously depleted fish stocks, but government intervention has helped reverse the trend. He emphasized that fishing communities must now take the lead in responsible fisheries management for future generations.
To further reduce pressure on the lake, Museveni pledged to promote commercial fish farming by supporting communities to dig fish ponds and rear their own fish.
He also explained that palm oil processing, combined with commercial agriculture, manufacturing, the services sector, and skills development, will play a key role in industrialization, wealth creation, and job generation in Buvuma.
Museveni advised residents to embrace government wealth creation initiatives while ensuring sustainable land use.
Addressing the rally, First Lady Maama Janet Kataha Museveni said the 40 years of NRM leadership have laid a strong and stable foundation for Uganda’s development. She called on voters in Buvuma Island District to continue supporting the NRM government for sustained progress.
NRM Vice Chairperson for the Buganda Sub-region, Haruna Kasolo, highlighted key development priorities for Buvuma Island District, while the NRM District Chairperson, Fred Wandera, presented the district’s memorandum outlining local development needs.
