President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on the people of Kawempe Division to prioritise building wealth and generating employment locally, cautioning the youth against pursuing what he termed “false promises abroad” rather than engaging in productive economic activities within Uganda.
The NRM presidential flagbearer delivered this message on Tuesday during a campaign event at Mbogo playgrounds in Kawempe, his second stop of the day after an earlier rally in Nansana.
He was joined by the First Lady and Education and Sports Minister, Janet Museveni, along with senior party officials.
Museveni, who is seeking re-election, emphasised that lasting employment and prosperity in Uganda depend on four core sectors: commercial agriculture, industries, services, and information and communication technology (ICT).
“This is essential because many individuals lack direction and end up misguided,” he remarked.
“That’s why some head to places like Dubai in search of work, yet opportunities abound right here—far more than imagined. The youth need to identify the true sources of jobs and wealth.”
He pointed out that even residents in urban settings like Kawempe, with limited land, can thrive by pursuing suitable ventures along the value chain.
“For instance, you could rear chickens, pigs, or grow mushrooms in your backyard,” the President suggested.
“These activities are feasible in areas like Kawempe, Nansana, and beyond—and those who have tried them have succeeded remarkably.”
To demonstrate the viability of commercial agriculture, Museveni highlighted the achievements of Johnson Basangwa from Kamuli District.
“His operation produces up to 2,500 trays of eggs daily,” Museveni noted, adding that this generates around Shs 20 million in daily revenue while providing employment for over 300 individuals.
The President explained that large-scale farming, including crops like maize, creates jobs across cultivation, processing, and marketing—hence the government’s emphasis on accessible financing since 1997.
Addressing the Parish Development Model (PDM), Museveni acknowledged progress in fund allocation but highlighted issues with local mismanagement.
“We’ve secured the resources, and they’re being disbursed, but theft along the way is occurring,” he stated.
“Deducting from these funds is a serious offence that could lead to imprisonment.”
He committed to ensuring strong parish committees are elected and to investigating.
“Following that, we’ll boost the PDM allocation per parish,” he promised.
The First Lady, Janet Museveni, expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic crowd and encouraged voters to support NRM to preserve national progress.
“Your ballot is like a building block for Uganda’s future,” she said.
“On January 15, cast your vote for NRM and President Museveni to keep the country advancing.”
NRM First National Vice Chairperson Alhajji Moses Kigongo advocated for calm and orderly conduct during the polls.
“While supporting NRM, let’s maintain peace and order,” he urged.
Kawempe Division NRM Chairperson Hajjat Madina Nsereko praised the President for initiatives in the area, especially anti-poverty efforts like the PDM.
In closing, Museveni rallied Kawempe residents to vote massively on January 15 for NRM, insisting that prosperity driven by production offers the most reliable path to employment and collective wellbeing.