Regional Trade Vital for Ugandan Industry, President Museveni Emphasizes in Gulu Visit
Gulu, Uganda - President Yoweri Museveni underscored the importance of regional integration for the sustainability of Ugandan industries during a recent visit to Gulu City, highlighting how access to neighboring markets prevents economic collapse in key sectors. Speaking to supporters, the President pointed to Uganda’s important maize surplus – over 5 million tonnes produced annually against a domestic consumption of 1 million tonnes – as a prime example. “If we did not have the East African market, the maize industry would collapse,” he stated, extending the same observation to industries producing milk, bananas, beer, and cement.
The visit, framed under the theme “Protecting the Gains, Making a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status,” showcased significant advancement progress in the Gulu District and City, largely attributed to initiatives spearheaded by the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
gulu City NRM Chairperson, Gifter Aber, warmly welcomed the President and lauded the NRM’s achievements in the region, specifically acknowledging increased opportunities for women in politics and the implementation of free education policies. She also praised the party’s support for local structures and the maintainance of peace.
Ms. aber detailed tangible improvements in Gulu’s infrastructure and services. these include the establishment of the University of Gulu and the Gulu Cancer Institute, reducing the need for patients to travel to kampala for specialized treatment. The presidential Skilling Hub was highlighted as a key resource for vocational training, equipping youth with employable skills. A newly constructed modern market is transforming local trade, while expansions to health centers and government schools are improving access to essential services.
Financial data presented during the visit demonstrated the impact of government programs. The Parish Development Model (PDM) has disbursed Shs 14.4 billion to 14,143 households in Gulu District and Shs 9.8 billion to 9,792 households in Gulu City. Moreover, 54 Emyooga Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) across the district and city support 41,576 members, with the government providing Shs 2.1 billion in funding.
Significant strides in education were also reported, with Gulu District boasting 47 government primary schools and 5 government secondary schools, and Gulu City having 41 primary and 7 secondary schools, all offering Worldwide Secondary Education and post-ordinary level training.
Healthcare infrastructure has been bolstered with upgrades to Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, including the addition of an ICU, CT scan, X-ray, ultrasound services, two functional oxygen plants, and ambulances. district health centers are also undergoing improvements.
Ms. Aber concluded by emphasizing advancements in access to clean water - now reaching 87% of villages in Gulu district – and the implementation of small-scale and solar-powered irrigation schemes to promote climate-resilient agriculture. She asserted that these achievements lay the groundwork for continued peace, development, and wealth creation in Gulu and the broader Acholi sub-region.
The event was attended by NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) members, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, and a large gathering of supporters.
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