President Yoweri Museveni has urged residents of Rwampara District to protect wetlands, stressing that the swamps are vital for future irrigation projects that will enhance agricultural productivity.
Speaking at a rally at Bujaga Playground alongside First Lady Janet Museveni, the President said the integrity of wetlands must be preserved to support planned efforts to channel water to the district’s hilly areas.
Mrs. Museveni thanked the people of Rwampara for turning up in large numbers to receive the President, saying their warm welcome was a sign of solidarity. She praised Uganda’s continued stability, noting that the country’s peace has made it a preferred refuge for people fleeing conflicts in the region.
However, she warned supporters against assuming victory simply because of big crowds at NRM rallies. She encouraged mobilization at the household level to ensure strong voter turnout when election day arrives.
In his speech, President Museveni reaffirmed peace as the cornerstone of the NRM’s leadership, recalling the insecurity that once plagued the region. He said Uganda is now stable and free from the violence of the past.
The President also highlighted achievements in infrastructure, pointing out that Rwampara now enjoys a strong road network and full electricity access across all sub-counties. He assured the public that roads such as Buterano–Bugamba–Rukoni and Ruti–Mwizi–Kikagate would be considered for future upgrades.
With the district’s water coverage at about 71 percent, Museveni emphasized the need to expand irrigation systems. He noted that protecting swamps is essential if the government is to supply water to farms on the hills and boost crop yields.
On social services, Museveni said Rwampara has two Health Centre IVs and six Health Centre IIIs, with plans to elevate one HCIV to a district hospital. He also expressed satisfaction with the number of government-aided secondary schools in the area.
Discussing wealth creation, he revisited the 4-acre model first introduced in the 1996 NRM manifesto and cautioned local leaders against blocking youth from accessing Parish Development Model funds due to lack of land. He insisted that project viability—not land ownership—should determine eligibility.
Museveni added that job creation remains a key government priority, driven by new factories and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Addressing issues of election disputes, the President advised independent candidates to seek redress through tribunals. If tribunals fail to act, he urged complainants to present evidence directly to him so that law enforcement can intervene.
He further called on independent candidate Molly Asiimwe, the current District Woman MP, to withdraw in favour of NRM flagbearer Annah Kansiime, appealing to her faith as a Mulokole to support the party’s choice.
