President Yoweri Museveni has once again sounded the alarm over Uganda’s stubborn poverty levels, blaming weak leadership structures despite the country’s abundant resources and a host of government-backed wealth creation programs.

Speaking during his mobilization tour of the Rwenzori sub-region on Monday, Museveni said the persistence of poverty is unacceptable and largely the result of failed leadership across political, religious, and cultural institutions.

“It is a big mistake for people to remain poor in a country that has everything. This is largely a failure in leadership not just political leaders, but also religious and cultural ones. They should act as parents to the people,” Museveni told local leaders and residents.

His remarks came as he highlighted success stories emerging from the Parish Development Model (PDM), the government’s flagship initiative aimed at transforming livelihoods at the grassroots.

One such example is Ms. Biira Pelucy from Kasese Municipality—a visually impaired woman who has built a thriving poultry business with support from PDM.

“I visited Ms. Biira Pelucy in Kasese Municipality, who, despite being visually impaired, has transformed her life through the PDM by running a successful poultry business,” Museveni posted on X (formerly Twitter).

He noted that Biira recently earned UGX 7 million from a poultry sale, praising her determination as evidence that the program can yield real results when taken seriously.

“Her journey illustrates the government’s push for self-reliance and income generation,” he added.

In Ntoroko District, Museveni also visited Mr. Steven Kisembo, another PDM beneficiary who started with just four goats and now owns 18. Touring his goat shelter, Museveni commended Kisembo’s progress as further proof of what targeted government support can achieve.

While celebrating these individual successes, the President urged leaders to actively engage their communities to ensure such outcomes become widespread and sustainable.

“These funds belong to the people. Without active participation and guidance, many may miss out on opportunities and remain trapped in poverty,” he warned.

As his mobilization tour continues across the Rwenzori region, Museveni is expected to press for stronger local leadership and renewed commitment to government initiatives such as PDM, Emyooga, NAADS, and Entandikwa programs he described as key to breaking the cycle of poverty still affecting millions of Ugandans.