President Yoweri Museveni has appealed to the people of Rwampara District to safeguard wetlands, emphasizing that these natural water sources are essential for future irrigation systems meant to increase farm productivity.
Addressing residents at Bujaga Playground, where he was joined by First Lady Janet Museveni, the President said wetlands must remain intact to enable government plans to direct water to the district’s hilly farming communities.
The First Lady thanked Rwampara residents for the overwhelming turnout, saying it reflected unity and appreciation for government efforts. She also commended Uganda’s lasting peace, noting that the country has become a safe haven for those escaping conflict in neighbouring states.
However, she cautioned supporters against equating large crowds with guaranteed victory, urging them to mobilize families and neighbours to vote when the time comes.
In his remarks, Museveni reaffirmed that peace remains the foundation of the NRM’s achievements. He reminded the audience of the insecurity that once destabilized the area, saying Uganda now enjoys stability and safety.
He also pointed to ongoing development in the district, highlighting improvements in the road network and electricity coverage across all sub-counties. He assured residents that roads including Buterano–Bugamba–Rukoni and Ruti–Mwizi–Kikagate are under consideration for upgrades.
With district water coverage currently around 71 percent, the President underscored the urgency of expanding irrigation. Protecting wetlands, he said, is a crucial step toward supplying water to hillside farms and increasing agricultural output.
On social services, Museveni noted that Rwampara has two Health Centre IVs and six Health Centre IIIs, with plans to elevate one of the HCIVs to district hospital status. He further expressed satisfaction with the availability of government-supported secondary schools in the area.
Turning to household income, Museveni revisited the NRM’s 4-acre model introduced in 1996 and cautioned local leaders against denying youth access to Parish Development Model funds simply because they lack land. What matters, he said, is the viability of their business proposals—not land ownership.
He added that job creation continues to be a government priority, driven by new factories and entrepreneurial ventures.
On political disputes, Museveni encouraged independent candidates to seek justice through the appropriate tribunals. If those channels fail, he advised them to bring their evidence directly to him so security agencies can intervene.
He also urged independent Woman MP Molly Asiimwe to step down in favour of the NRM flagbearer, Annah Kansiime, appealing to her values as a Mulokole to support the party’s elected representative.
