Uganda''s economy was better than Kenya''s in 1962

true

By Francis Drake Rammer Gureme

At the time Uganda gained independence, I was one of the people who had been to school, so I did not expect miracles, but I knew we would be happier than under British rule.

At the time, I was a cooperative union trainee and I knew that Ugandans left in power would do a good job.

For the first time in Uganda’s history, everyone freely participated in the making of the 1962 constitution. I expected pure democracy, just like the Britons and Americans had.

I hoped Uganda would continue being at the top. Our economy was more successful than Kenya’s, but that is not the case today. We declined mainly because of bad leaders.

Amin was a murderer, and it is during his reign that the shilling badly lost its value.

Corruption

I have never seen corruption among ministers like it is today. I have never known people to be so filthy rich. We have civil servants who are richer than their positions. Money that should without cheating them.

Today, coffee is being bought by individuals. The Government should promote cooperative societies to fight poverty among farmers.

Education

Education has never been this popular, especially after the introduction of universal primary and secondary education.

Health

Ministers are flying out for treatment, yet there is no medicine at Mulago Hospital. If I were the President, I would increase doctors’ salaries.

It is unfortunate that many of them are leaving the country for greener pastures.

Women emancipation

No regime has emphasised a woman’s place in society since independence.

Environment

The emphasis on environment is great, otherwise we would not have any forests and swamps left.

In the next 50 years, I hope we shall kick out corruption and that our shilling will gain value.