By Frank Kamuntu
President Yoweri Museveni wrapped up his zonal tour in Bukedi with a heartfelt address to local residents, emphasizing the region’s agricultural potential and the importance of wealth creation. Speaking to a large crowd, the President highlighted Bukedi’s unique combination of fertile land, dry conditions, and water springs, which he noted are not commonly found in other parts of Uganda.
Despite this natural advantage, Museveni expressed concern about persistent poverty in the area. He reminded the audience that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has consistently promoted three key pillars for development: infrastructure, wealth creation, and personal empowerment. “Development is not the same as wealth,” he stated, pointing out that while roads may improve community access, they do not directly translate to individual prosperity.
Museveni shared a practical model for enhancing personal wealth, advocating for a “four-acre model” of farming. This includes dedicating one acre each to coffee, fruits, animal fodder, and food crops, with additional space for piggery or cattle. He encouraged communities near wetlands to consider fish farming as a lucrative alternative. The President cited successful implementations of this model in various regions, including the cattle corridor and Masaka, where farmers have thrived.
Addressing the audience, Museveni acknowledged the challenges faced by local industries, particularly mentioning the fruit factory he funded in the area, which has struggled with profitability. He assured residents that efforts are underway to revive the factory, which he believes will stabilize citrus prices.
The President also discussed the Parish Development Model (PDM), which aims to integrate more citizens into the money economy. He revealed that many residents in Bukedi had not earned a million shillings until the introduction of PDM and reiterated that financial support will continue at the parish level, enabling low-interest loans through local savings and credit cooperatives (SACCOs).
During his visit, Museveni noted the disparity in agricultural practices across the country, contrasting the diverse crops found in regions like Ankole and Masaka with the predominance of rice in Bukedi. He questioned the profitability of rice farming, suggesting that farmers consider alternative uses for wetlands, such as irrigation for more lucrative crops and fish farming.
In addition to economic issues, the President addressed concerns in the education sector, criticizing headteachers who charge fees in government schools. He revealed alarming dropout rates in Bukedi and tasked the Prime Minister with investigating the situation.
Concluding his tour, President Museveni welcomed over 200 youth who switched their political allegiance from the National Unity Platform (NUP) to the NRM, marking a significant moment in local political dynamics. The President’s visit aimed to inspire a shift towards proactive wealth creation, urging residents to leverage available government programs for their economic empowerment.
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