By KJohn Alinaitwe — Kyegegwa
President Yoweri Museveni has emphasized that his government will prioritize empowering poor Ugandans through income-generating initiatives rather than focusing on infrastructure projects that primarily benefit the wealthy.
Speaking at Humura SS Playground in Kyegegwa during the Presidential Zonal Meeting for the Tooro sub-region, Museveni responded to a joint memorandum of demands presented by local leaders. The document, prepared collectively by leaders from the entire Tooro region, was read by Kabarole LCV Chairperson Richard Rwabuhinga.
Among the key demands from the region were the construction of Buhinga Stadium, establishment of an industrial park, reconstruction of the Mubende–Kyenjojo highway, and upgrading of health and education facilities.
While acknowledging the importance of infrastructure, President Museveni stressed the need to first address poverty at the household level.
“I will not prioritize roads for the rich while my poor people are still suffering. First, let us ensure every home has an income. Roads can come after,” he said.
The President challenged leaders to actively champion the fight against poverty and focus on transforming livelihoods.
“If you have peace, you can create wealth. I was shocked to learn that some Ugandans have never touched a million shillings in their lives — and you call yourselves leaders!” Museveni said, calling for greater accountability and grassroots focus.
He cited success stories such as Biira Pelucy a visually impaired woman from Kasese municipality who improved her life after receiving funds through the Parish Development Model (PDM), and Rossette Tukundane from Kiko Town Council in Kabarole District, who had never earned a million shillings before benefiting from government empowerment programs.
The President also addressed the demand for Buhinga Stadium, saying:
I’m a footballer myself. I played in many stadiums, but right now, my priority is to uplift the poor by ensuring they have income at home.
Regarding infrastructure complaints, Museveni added:
The roads you’re asking for — I used them long before you. You complain about schools, yet back in the day, the whole of Tooro had only two secondary schools — Nyakasura and St. Leo’s Kyegobe — and they only offered O-Level education.
President Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots development and poverty eradication, making it clear that his focus remains on improving household incomes before addressing elite infrastructure demands.
ctvuganda
