At the grounds of Butalangu in Nakaseke District, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni paused his campaign to connect with local farmers on a practical level, emphasizing not distant policies but the importance of grass, land use, and household income. He urged farmers to rethink their agricultural practices as a means to eradicate poverty.
Campaigning alongside First Lady Maama Janet Museveni, the President linked Uganda’s four-decade stability with a renewed focus on wealth creation through modern farming techniques. He pointed out that Africa’s persistent issues transformed from leaders prioritizing external interests over local needs, a stance the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has changed since its inception.
“Since 1960, prioritizing has helped us win many wars,” Museveni stated, highlighting the NRM’s contributions over the years and stressing the need for leaders to heed advice.
He reminded the crowd that peace is foundational for development, citing enhanced infrastructure in Nakaseke, such as electricity and healthcare, but warned that infrastructure alone is insufficient for poverty alleviation.
“Development without wealth creation is not enough. We must directly create wealth for our people,” he emphasized.
In a direct challenge to local farmers, Museveni encouraged abandoning inefficient livestock management practices, highlighting that many families underutilize their available land while expecting high yields. He proposed that instead of searching for distant pastures, farmers could cultivate pastures at home, optimizing their small plots for productivity.
“One acre can support up to eight cows if properly managed,” he said, reinforcing the campaign’s broader theme of enhancing household-level productivity. He noted that improved management has already boosted milk production in parts of the district.
Museveni underscored peace, development, and job creation as the NRM’s core achievements, showcasing Uganda’s stability in a conflict-ridden region. He highlighted major road improvements linking critical areas like Luweero and Gulu, promising continued investment in infrastructure as a catalyst for growth.
As the rally progressed, the First Lady expressed gratitude to the residents for their support of the NRM and urged them to turn enthusiasm into votes in the upcoming elections.
NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja-Nsereko praised Nakaseke’s transformation into a “peace cradle,” attributing its agricultural productivity boost, especially in dairy farming, to improved road networks.
Museveni addressed local land concerns, promising government assistance for bibanja holders and an amendment to veterinary challenges. He acknowledged other pressing issues like absentee landlords and veterans’ welfare.
As he wrapped up the rally, Museveni reiterated that Uganda’s progress stems from disciplined prioritization. For Nakaseke’s farmers, the path forward is clear: manage land wisely, create intentional wealth, and safeguard the peace that underpins their future success.
