Promoters of violence are enemies of development, says Museveni

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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has underscored the critical role of peace in Uganda, describing it as a foundation for wealth, jobs and development. 

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, greet NRM supporters upon arrival for the campaign rally. (Credit: PPU)

“When you hear people talking of violence, know they are your enemies," said the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential flagbearer on Wednesday (January 7).

"They are enemies of wealth, jobs, development, like the roads we build. Roads need money, and the money comes from wealth. If you don't want peace, you are an enemy of everything.” 

He was addressing a campaign rally at Buziga Islamic playground in Makindye Division in Kampala.

NRM supporters at the campaign rally. (Credit: PPU)

Museveni is seeking a seventh term of office and is facing seven challengers in the January 15 election.

With only a week to polling day, he addressed concerns about Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCO committees, which distribute funds to local communities.

“Now, when I move around, I hear people saying they [committees] serve themselves, and I wonder who selected that committee. I was in Nansana, Kawempe and Entebbe, and people raised the same concerns. 

"The Minister of Local Government is now visiting those areas to find out how SACCO committees were selected and ensure fairness.”

Museveni said transparency in the PDM is crucial, particularly for youth and women. “In the 100 million shillings coming to each parish, 30% is for youth, 30% for women. If they are not getting it, we must find out why.”

Skills

The President also highlighted the broader sources of wealth and jobs in Uganda, noting that growth comes from commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT.

“When [Eddy] Kenzo entertains us, he is contributing through services. Someone else makes chairs, others run factories, and we are even making our own cars at Kira Motors."

Skills development is another pathway to employment and wealth, added Museveni, highlighting the beneficiaries of the Presidential Skilling programme, which he said has impacted many lives. 

For instance, Sinam Naigaga, a former housewife and Senior Three dropout, trained at Wabigalo Skilling Centre. Today, she employs three people, pays school fees for her children, and chairs the Makindye Skilling SACCO.

Umar Mubiru, another beneficiary, studied electronics through the programme and now runs his own workshop, helping communities with electrical work.

“Naigaga is now a skilled wealth creator and employer,” said the President, praising the impact of skills programmes on Uganda’s development.

He wrapped up his delivery by reminding citizens that infrastructure alone is not enough when it comes to developing a country.

“Even the best roads will not end poverty. Wealth and personal development come from seizing opportunities in agriculture, industry, services, and ICT."