President Museveni Reaffirms NRM’s legacy of Peace and Progress in Lira Rally
President Yoweri kaguta Museveni, during a recent campaign rally in lira City, Uganda, underscored the pivotal role of peace as the cornerstone of national growth. He emphasized that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government’s primary achievement has been establishing and maintaining peace, which has unlocked progress in infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and industry. The rally served as a platform to highlight the NRM’s contributions and outline future plans for wealth creation and enduring development, particularly focusing on the Lango, Teso, and Acholi sub-regions.
The Foundation of Progress: Peace and Stability
President Museveni didn’t mince words: peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the very bedrock upon which a nation builds its future. he contrasted the current stability with the pre-NRM era, characterized by political turmoil, rampant cattle rustling, and widespread insecurity. This past context is crucial. Before 1986, Uganda experienced cycles of violence and instability that severely hampered economic growth and social development. The NRM’s ascent to power, and its subsequent focus on national reconciliation and security sector reform, fundamentally altered this trajectory.
The President illustrated this point with concrete examples. Projects like the construction of Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), initially offered by China in 1968, were impossible to realise due to the prevailing insecurity. It was only after the NRM established peace that such large-scale infrastructure projects became feasible. This extends to other significant developments like Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira, Hoima Stadium, and the aspiring Karuma Hydropower project, as well as plans for future power plants like Ayago.
Beyond Infrastructure: Unlocking Uganda’s Natural Resources
The narrative of peace enabling progress extends to Uganda’s natural resource sector. The revelation of oil, a long-sought-after goal, remained elusive for decades despite exploratory efforts dating back to the 1920s. It wasn’t until a stable environment and the submission of modern technology converged that Uganda successfully confirmed its oil reserves, with production slated to begin this year. This represents a potential economic game-changer for the country,but its success is inextricably linked to sustained peace and security.
Sustainable Development: Balancing Progress with Environmental Stewardship
President Museveni’s address wasn’t solely focused on economic gains. He also addressed the critical issue of environmental conservation, specifically cautioning residents of Lango, Teso, and Acholi against the destruction of wetlands. He emphasized the vital role of swamps in irrigation and fish farming, advocating for sustainable practices that preserve these ecosystems while maximizing their economic benefits. This is a particularly pertinent issue in these regions, where wetlands are integral to local livelihoods.
He proposed a balanced approach: fish farming along the periphery of swamps, coupled with the preservation of water resources for irrigation. He even cited his own farm as a model, boasting a yield of 53 tonnes of matooke per hectare, demonstrating the potential of integrated agricultural practices. The government’s plans to develop fish farming along wetlands across the three sub-regions underscore its commitment to this approach.
Addressing Historical grievances: Livestock Restocking and Compensation
Acknowledging the historical challenges faced by communities in Lango, Acholi, and Teso, President Museveni addressed the issue of livestock restocking and compensation for past losses. While Shs159 billion had been allocated for compensation, initial results were limited. A shift towards a household-based restocking programme, providing three to five cows per family, was proposed, but local leaders ultimately favored monetary compensation after consulting with their communities. This highlights the importance of participatory governance and tailoring solutions to local needs.
The President assured that the funds are available, but will be disbursed only after rigorous scrutiny of beneficiary lists, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Wealth Creation: A Multi-Pronged Approach
President Museveni outlined a complete strategy for wealth creation, urging communities to transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. He revisited the four-acre model introduced in the 1996 NRM manifesto, encouraging farmers to diversify into enterprises like coffee, bananas, piggery, and poultry. This model, while debated, aims to maximize land use and income generation for small-scale farmers.
He highlighted the success story of Hon. Fred Byamukama, who has demonstrably thrived on a four-acre farm, serving as an inspiration for others. Furthermore, he detailed existing government programs designed to empower citizens economically, including Entandikwa, Operation Wealth Creation, Emyooga, and the Parish Development Model (PDM). The PDM, in particular, offers access to Shs1 million per adult parish member through savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), providing crucial seed capital for small businesses and agricultural ventures.
Job Creation: Beyond Government Employment
The President emphasized that sustainable job creation stems from a thriving private sector, encompassing factories, services, ICT, and commercial agriculture. He cautioned against over-reliance on government employment, advocating for a diversified economy that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation. This aligns with global economic trends and recognizes the limitations of public sector job growth.
Political Support and Regional Development
Rt. Hon. Anita annet Among, the NRM Second National Vice Chairperson and Speaker of Parliament, rallied support for President Museveni, noting pledges from other regions to deliver 80% of the vote. She expressed gratitude for the President’s commitment to infrastructure development in lira district, specifically mentioning the construction of Akii-Bua Stadium and the establishment of a regional blood bank. She also stressed the importance of party unity, urging NRM members to distance themselves from those who do not share the party’s values.
Hon. Hamson Obua, NRM Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda, predicted that the next NRM term would be the most productive yet, citing visible development projects and wealth creation initiatives in Lira. Ms. Auma Linda agnes, NRM Chairperson for Lira District, pledged increased support for the party, attributing it to improved unity among local leaders. She also reminded the President of the pending creation of Erute District, which has already been approved by Parliament.
Dr. Ruth Aceng, Lira City NRM Chairperson, lauded President Museveni’s long-standing cooperation with the Lango sub-region and thanked him for projects like Akii-Bua Stadium and the USMID program, which has resulted in the tarmacking of over 30 kilometers of roads in Lira City.
Key Takeaways
- Peace as a Prerequisite: The NRM government’s primary achievement has been establishing peace, which is fundamental for all other forms of development.
- Sustainable Development: Balancing economic progress with environmental conservation is crucial, particularly in wetland ecosystems.
- Wealth Creation Strategies: A multi-pronged approach, including the four-acre model and government programs like the PDM, is essential for empowering citizens economically.
- Private Sector-Led Job Creation: Sustainable job growth relies on a thriving private sector, not solely on government employment.
- Regional Development Focus: The NRM is committed to addressing the specific needs and challenges of regions like Lango, Teso, and Acholi.
President Museveni’s rally in Lira City served as a powerful reaffirmation of the NRM’s commitment to peace, progress, and sustainable development. The emphasis on balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, coupled with targeted programs for wealth creation, signals a continued focus on improving the lives of Ugandans. As Uganda prepares for future elections and economic challenges, the lessons learned from the NRM’s journey – particularly the centrality of peace – will undoubtedly shape the nation’s path forward.
