President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged the people of Mubende District to prioritize generating homestead income, emphasizing that other developments will follow.
He made these remarks during the 39th anniversary celebration of the NRM/A liberation struggle at Mubende National Teachers’ College.
The President assured the people of Mubende that poverty eradication is achievable through embracing government programs designed to improve livelihoods.
He highlighted the Parish Development Model (PDM) as a key initiative to empower communities, explaining that the funds provided at the Parish level serve as capital to uplift households economically.
“The sustainability of our pension system faces mounting pressure from early retirement policies, enhanced pay for science professionals, and other factors,” however, this was not the focus of his speech.
Instead, President Museveni promised that beneficiaries of PDM funds will not incur bank charges, as the government will cover those costs.
On the other hand, President Museveni reminded leaders of their responsibility to understand the needs of their communities, urging them to take note of the number of homesteads in their respective villages.
He stressed the importance of distinguishing between development and wealth creation, pointing out that infrastructure such as tarmac roads, electricity, and healthcare services are vital but cannot directly lift people out of poverty.
Reflecting on Uganda’s economic journey, the President acknowledged the role of Mubende, Luweero, and Rwenzori in supporting the liberation struggle from 1981 to 1986.
He noted that, post-independence, only 9% of Ugandans were engaged in the money economy, with the rest relying on subsistence farming.
This trend was exacerbated during Idi Amin’s regime. However, he explained that significant progress has been made since then, with Uganda now advancing into the money economy and even venturing into automobile manufacturing.
The President shared that in 2013, only 32% of Ugandans were participating in the money economy. To address this, Operation Wealth Creation was introduced to provide seedlings, livestock, and other resources to communities.
However, after challenges arose, the government shifted its focus to the PDM, which allocates UGX 100 million annually to every parish.
Beneficiaries receive loans to engage in income-generating activities, such as the four-acre farming model.
President Museveni shared testimonies from successful PDM beneficiaries, including Mr. Ijara Martin from Serere, who demonstrated how the program is transforming lives.
He reiterated that PDM is tailored to benefit households with small pieces of land and encouraged residents to maximize its opportunities.
“You, the leaders, should emphasize wealth creation because it will reach every home,” President Museveni emphasized during a recent wealth creation tour in Busoga sub-region ¹[2).
“To make our people get out of poverty, putting them in other issues is not correct. Focus on wealth creation. Once you deal with wealth creation in every home, other developments will follow.”
“The big problem you have is that there are so many things to do. But if you don’t prioritize homes, you will not progress. Homestead incomes must come first. Once all homesteads have income, everything else will fall into place.”
Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, the Minister for the Presidency, praised President Museveni’s leadership, highlighting his patience and management skills as key to the success of the liberation struggle and the country’s development.
At the same event, 61 persons were awarded for their exceptional contribution towards the development of Uganda.
The commemoration was attended by several dignitaries, including the Vice President H.E Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister, Rt.Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, NRM First National Vice Chairman Alhaji Moses Kigongo, NRM Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, ministers, Members of Parliament, local and religious leaders.
