Uganda now unstoppable in development, says President Museveni

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated Uganda’s commitment to socio-economic growth, rooted in peace, stability, and regional cooperation.

Speaking at the 63rd Independence Day held at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala on October 9, President Museveni declared that Uganda is now unstoppable, most especially in the field of development and socio-economic transformation.

“By the 10th anniversary of 1972, Uganda was under a vicious dictatorship,” he said, adding that the collapse of the economy was due to mismanagement, smuggling, and speculation.

He further mentioned that even the much needed security had also gone down around this time, as evidenced by the mass graves in Luwero.

“The economy has now grown up to $66 billion in size, with a 7% GDP growth,” he announced, attributing this success to the emphasis on minimum revival of the 3Cs (coffee, cotton and copper) and 3Ts (Tobacco, Tea and Tourism) through the implementation of poverty eradication programs, and diversifying the economy.

“We have expanded the economy, diversified it, and added value to raw materials,” President Museveni said, citing examples such as milk, bananas, and cassava.

Museveni also emphasized the importance of a knowledge-based economy, highlighting the achievements of Kiira Motors Corporation.

Now running for the next term in office as President, Museveni stressed the need for systems that promote economic integration, a strong defence and security apparatus, and prioritization of development projects.

He gave the example of salary enhancements to scientists and the judiciary as a priority since science, technology and innovation nowadays move the world.

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“There’s now enough electricity for factories to stand,” he said, noting the impact of investments in infrastructure and power generation.

“The economy is now growing fast, and with prioritization, we shall generate money to cover other areas,” he said.

He called for avenues that raise government revenue as opposed to indiscipline when budgeting and collecting revenue, saying the practice leads to unnecessary wastage.