President Museveni Shares Wealth Creation Strategies with Kenyan Bishop
By The Public Lens
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni met with The Rt. Rev. John Okude Omuse, Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya-Diocese of Katakwa, at State Lodge, Nakasero, on September 25, 2024.
The Bishop, accompanied by his wife, Grace Nanjala, and other clergy, was led by Ugandan Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo.
President Museveni shared insights on wealth creation, highlighting Uganda’s successful transition from subsistence farming to a money economy.
“When we came into power, cotton was the main cash crop among the Itesots. I advised them to shift from that because it wasn’t logical for households with small pieces of land to grow cotton. I told them to grow fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and oranges.”
He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between intensive and extensive agriculture, advising to focus on high-value activities that generate good income, even on small scales.
Museveni identified seven key enterprises for commercial agriculture:
– Coffee
– Fruits (mangoes, oranges, pineapples, apples, grapes)
– Zero-grazing dairy farming
– Fish-farming
– Poultry for eggs
– Piggery
– Homestead food crops (cassava, bananas)
He noted that those who have listened to this message are doing well.
The President also stressed the need for free trade in foodstuffs to create prosperity among East Africans.
“It would prevent scarcity of food in one country when there is plenty in another.”
Museveni disagreed with Scripture Union’s notion that divine intervention alone can sustain individuals.
“I don’t agree with the notion that God will provide for those who do not work. As a religious leader, you must exemplify the values you teach.”
Bishop Okude expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his visionary leadership.
“Your Excellency, you are the father of our region, East Africa.”
However, the Bishop highlighted agricultural challenges facing the Iteso community in Katakwa.
“The limited cash crops and ineffective agricultural practices are severely hindering economic growth.”
Bishop Okude emphasized the need for robust agricultural practices to benefit the community.
“Your Excellency, I am happy to hear from you about your knowledge and wisdom on wealth creation and value addition in agriculture.”
The Iteso Clan groups are present in both Uganda and Kenya, with communities in Western Province-Busia County and Uganda’s Eastern Region.
