Kigezi’s progress: Why President Museveni deserves another term

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OPINION

By Rose Kabagyeni

As Uganda approaches another election season, the people of Kigezi, and in particular Kisoro district, must not only take stock of the road travelled, but also of the future we hope to build.

In the hills and valleys of this proud sub-region, where resilience meets resourcefulness, there is an unmistakable truth: progress has come steadily, and much of it is anchored in the deliberate efforts of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

Over the past decades, the NRM has redefined the story of Kigezi. From a two-district sub-region to the creation of others, including Kisoro, Kanungu, Rubanda and Rukiga to the expansion of the road network, the sub-region has witnessed a deepening of political representation and service delivery. Previously, it was only Kabale and Rukungiri districts. The creation of these districts was not merely an administrative exercise. What was once administered from far away is now within reach. Sub-counties and town councils, once forgotten, now speak with confidence in matters of national development.

The achievements in infrastructure, health and education are visible and transformative. Roads that were previously impassable have been paved and maintained — Kabale to Kisoro, Kabale to Kanungu through Ntungamo and Rukungiri — bringing markets, medical care and opportunities closer to our people.

Health centres have been built and upgraded, allowing women to give birth safely and children to receive timely treatment. Schools — primary, secondary, and technical — are now within walking distance for many, offering the children of peasants a fair shot at success.

But as we celebrate what has been done, Kigezi must also dream boldly about what is yet to come.

The sub-region holds immense potential in the tourism and hospitality industry. With the majestic Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, Lake Bunyonyi’s scenic beauty and the rich cultures of the Bafumbira, Bakiga, Batwa, Banyabutumbi and Bahororo communities, Kigezi could emerge as the country’s tourism crown jewel.

What is needed is enhanced investment in roads leading to these attractions, skilling of the youth in hospitality and incentives for private sector players to build hotels, eco-lodges and tourist facilities that meet international standards.

In a bold move to boost tourism and regional trade, President Museveni has already committed to the construction of an international airport in Kanungu, the northern part of Kigezi — a gateway that will open the region to the world. The Government has already laid a foundation; the next five years should be about scaling up.

Road infrastructure remains both a strength and a frontier. While the major routes have been improved, more attention is needed for feeder roads in the rural areas, which are lifelines for agriculture, trade and local investment. Their construction and/or maintenance should be prioritised, as they are key to unlocking the region’s full economic potential.

Kigezi also aspires to expand its agro-industrial base, especially in processing Irish potatoes, coffee and tea. With support from government initiatives like the Parish Development Model and agro-industrial parks, our farmers can climb higher up the value chain and create jobs for our youth.

We are not asking for miracles; we are asking for continuity. For a leader who understands the unique geography, demographics and aspirations of the people of Kigezi. For a president who has proven, time and again, his willingness to listen, adjust and invest where it matters.

In 2026, Kigezi should not look backwards with nostalgia or sideways with doubt. We should look forward — with clarity — and choose experience, stability, and tested leadership. That choice is President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

The writer is a former Woman Member of Parliament for Kisoro District (2016–2021)