Kumi, Uganda– President Yoweri Museveni has urged Ugandans to refocus their efforts on wealth creation as a cornerstone for socio-economic transformation.
Speaking to leaders in the Teso Sub-region at Boma Grounds in Kumi District, the President called for stringent accountability in the management of the Parish Development Model (PDM), warning against any misuse of the programme’s funds.
Museveni highlighted that the drive for wealth creation predates Uganda’s independence, rooted in the country’s long-standing quest for economic empowerment.
The President issued a stern warning to those mismanaging or misappropriating PDM funds, declaring that such individuals would face severe consequences.
“Anyone caught stealing PDM funds will not be granted police bond or court bail,” Museveni announced. He further revealed plans to engage the Chief Justice to explore the legal implications of his directive.
He also condemned unauthorised deductions from PDM funds, urging authorities to take swift action against perpetrators.
Moving Beyond “Politics of Identity”
Museveni criticised the “politics of identity,” attributing it to Uganda’s historical stagnation. He called for a shift to “politics of interest” to spur economic growth and unity.
Drawing from his personal experience as a cattle keeper, he explained the importance of prioritising economic pragmatism over tribal divisions.
“I don’t ask my milk buyers about their tribe,” Museveni said, underscoring the need to focus on shared economic goals. He lamented the failure of past leaders to embrace socio-economic transformation, which he argued was a key factor that led to the National Resistance Army’s liberation struggle.
President Museveni outlined his government’s blueprint for economic transformation, centred on four key sectors:
- Commercial Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Services (including tourism, healthcare, and legal services)
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
He praised the industrialisation efforts in Mbale, where underutilised land has been transformed into an industrial hub, creating employment opportunities for youth in the Bugisu sub-region.
Highlighting agriculture as a vital sector, Museveni reiterated the benefits of the “four-acre model.” He proposed that farmers allocate:
- 1 acre for cash crops like coffee,
- 1 acre for fruit farming,
- 1 acre for pasture, and
- 1 acre for food crops, complemented by poultry and pig farming.
The President also encouraged the adoption of irrigation to boost agricultural productivity. He cited Dr Muranga in Bushenyi, whose banana production increased tenfold through irrigation compared to her non-irrigating neighbours.
Acknowledging the challenges of wetland encroachment, Museveni pledged to find balanced solutions that allow farming while preserving ecosystems. He suggested sustainable practices such as establishing fish ponds near wetlands.
Impact of the Parish Development Model
Lauding the PDM as a transformative initiative, Museveni noted its success in empowering grassroots communities. He shared stories of Ugandans who earned their first million shillings through the programme.
To sustain PDM efforts, the President assured continued government allocation of UGX 100 million annually per parish and pledged to distribute coffee and fruit seedlings to farmers through Members of Parliament.
Museveni’s tour of the Teso Sub-region is set to conclude on Wednesday, November 20, with a mega rally in Kaberamaido District.
As he wraps up his engagements, the President continues to emphasise the importance of collective action in driving Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at thestandard256@gmail.com
Or WhatsApp Us on +256750474440
The Standard News.
We come to you.
We are always looking for ways to improve our stories. Let us know what you liked and what we can improve on.
I've got feedback!
