Why Uganda’s future demands continuity, stability, and strategic leadership

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OPINION

By Dr Rosemary Sseninde Nansubuga (PhD)

For decades, Uganda has been guided by a leader whose politics transcend the moment and whose vision extends far beyond electoral cycles.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has consistently demonstrated the attributes of a strategic thinker, a statesman, a Pan-Africanist, and a firm believer in humanity, unity, and the Ubuntu philosophy.

His leadership has been anchored not in short-term populism, but in long-term national survival, regional stability, and Africa’s strategic self-reliance.

While some political actors remain fixated on divisive and existentially dangerous narratives—of tribe, religion, colour, and identity—President Museveni has persistently challenged Ugandans to think deeper: about security, production, value addition, and the structural causes of Africa’s underdevelopment.

A careful reading of his speeches and policy direction reveals a consistent, deliberate effort to address the historical burdens that have constrained the continent.

It is this clarity of purpose that has informed the National Resistance Movement’s unwavering commitment to strategic leadership.

That is why the NRM, united and unopposed, endorsed President Museveni once again—to provide continuity, stability, and certainty at a critical moment in Uganda’s development journey.

This article, the last of its kind before the country heads to the polls on January 15, 2026, is, therefore, both a reflection and a reaffirmation.

It is a moment to thank Ugandans for the trust placed in this shared vision, and for the confidence shown in returning President Museveni on the ballot to complete the next phase of national transformation.

Travelling across the country and engaging Ugandans from all walks of life has been one of the greatest honours of my life. From farmers and youth to business owners and professionals, the message has been consistent: Uganda’s progress must not be interrupted. This is not merely an election—it is a continuation of a national mission.

Key Priorities for the Next Five Years

President Museveni’s commitments are grounded in measurable outcomes and long-term economic fundamentals.

1. Industrialisation and Value Addition

Uganda has already registered thousands of manufacturing and processing facilities nationwide, a sharp contrast to the import-dependent economy of previous decades. Looking ahead:

• Over 110 acres of land secured for an industrial park in Bunyoro
  
  
• 10 square miles allocated for industrial parks in Kyaka (Toro) and Yumbe, complementing existing parks across the country
  
  
• These investments are aimed at job creation, export growth, and local value addition.
  
  

2. Strategic Infrastructure and Transport

- Kabalega International Airport is nearing full completion

- New airports planned for Kidepo and Nyakasharara, boosting tourism, trade, and regional connectivity

- Expansion and rehabilitation of the national road network and increased ferry services to improve trade and mobility

3. Agriculture, Irrigation, and Rural Transformation

- Ongoing and planned large-scale irrigation schemes to mitigate climate risk and boost productivity

- Fertiliser support and targeted agricultural financing to enhance yields and household incomes

4. Oil and Energy for Development

- Completion of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), the longest heated pipeline in the world

- Oil production coming onstream, with revenues directed toward infrastructure, industry, and human capital development

- Expanded electricity and clean water coverage nationwide

5. Social Services and Human Capital

- Upgrading of health centres, construction of hospitals, and continued investment in education infrastructure

- Completion of strategic sports facilities, including the Teryet National High-Altitude Training Centre, Hoima Stadium, and John Akii-Bua Stadium

6. Youth Empowerment and Enterprise

- Expansion of youth skilling hubs across the country

- Dedicated Graduate Funds, Fisheries Funds, and enterprise financing to support young people and productive communities

7. Justice, Healing, and Inclusion

- Continued compensation for cattle losses suffered by victims of the LRA and Alice Lakwena insurgencies

- A development approach that leaves no region and no citizen behind

8. Parish Development Model (PDM)

- Doubling of PDM funding, strengthening household-level wealth creation and grassroots economic participation

- Along the campaign trail, President Museveni has also commissioned and supported multi-billion-shilling private investments, including:

- The $500 million Devki Mega Steel Plant in Tororo

- The DEI Group Advanced Agro-Processing Park

- A new starch manufacturing plant in Busambo, Namasagali

- A modern ethanol and carbon dioxide production facility

These projects reinforce Uganda’s shift from a consumption-based economy to a production-led one.

A Clear Choice

The contrast before the country is unmistakable. While the NRM focuses on peace, unity, industrialisation, and job creation, others have issued reckless threats—such as pledges to halt critical programmes like PDM—undermining the very communities they claim to represent.

Uganda remains a landlocked country in a volatile region, surrounded by instability driven largely by conflict over resources and governance failures. The peace and stability enjoyed today are neither accidental nor guaranteed—they are the result of deliberate leadership and strong institutions.

As the country heads to the polls, Ugandans must protect these gains. Criticism is healthy in any democracy, but progress must not be sacrificed at the altar of experimentation.

Our security forces have assured the nation of law and order throughout the electoral period. Ugandans should therefore vote freely, peacefully, and confidently, in accordance with electoral guidelines.

The Call to Action

Dear Ugandans—men and women, youth and elderly, persons with disabilities, workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs—Thursday, 15th January 2026 is the day to safeguard our future.

Make your vote count. Choose stability. Choose progress. Choose proven leadership.

Uganda is on the right track. Let us keep moving forward.

The writer is the Director, mobilisation Cardre development, recruitment and placement at the NRM Secretariat