By President Museveni Reflects on Uganda’s Progress at the 38th NRA Liberation Anniversary
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni delivered a compelling address during Uganda’s 38th NRA Liberation Anniversary, celebrating the nation’s transformative journey since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) took power in 1986. Speaking under the theme “Salutations to those who re-sanctified our Homeland,” Museveni honored the sacrifices of those who fought for liberation and highlighted the remarkable progress Uganda has achieved in infrastructure, the economy, and social transformation.
Economic Transformation
Reflecting on Uganda’s economic history, President Museveni contrasted the nation’s current achievements with the hardships of the past. He remarked, “The Amin regime collapsed the economy.” Under Amin’s leadership, only 9% of Ugandans were part of the formal money economy, while 91% lived hand-to-mouth. Museveni credited the NRM’s policies for reversing this trend, saying:
“Since we came into power in 1986, we have worked tirelessly to rebuild the economy and ensure diversification and value addition.”
The results of these efforts are evident, with Uganda enjoying macroeconomic stability, steady GDP growth, and increased citizen participation in the formal economy.
Infrastructure Development
The President highlighted the transformation of regions like Mubende, once a remote area, now a bustling hub.
“When I come to Mubende and see how it has expanded, I get amazed. There is no doubt that change has happened,” Museveni said.
He also detailed ongoing infrastructure projects, including roads in Myanzi, Kassanda, and Bukuya, emphasizing their importance in spurring economic growth. However, he cautioned leaders against complacency, stating:
“Don’t sleep on the roads. When you return, poverty will welcome you.”
Social Programs and Wealth Creation
President Museveni addressed concerns about Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), acknowledging criticisms that it had only benefitted a few.
“There were only three people benefiting from it,” he remarked, adding that the program’s intention was to uplift the masses.
On the Parish Development Model (PDM), which has faced scrutiny, Museveni provided reassurance, directing that banks stop charging for PDM funds and pledging to cover any excess charges:
“I direct that banks stop charging for PDM money. If officials are cutting excess funds from you, report them.”
He also emphasized that each parish would receive UGX 100 million for 100 families, with a revolving system ensuring sustainability:
“This money will be returned at the end of the tenure to help more families in the future.”
Call to Action
The President urged local leaders to assess the number of homesteads in their parishes and reminded Ugandans of the difference between development and wealth.
“Development is not the same as wealth,” he explained, encouraging citizens to open bank accounts and seek homestead incomes.
He concluded with a hopeful call to action:
“Seek homestead incomes, and the rest shall come unto us.”
