Uganda’s long-term strategy for modernizing the livestock value chain entered a new phase this week as National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential Candidate General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni unveiled a comprehensive reform plan tailored to strengthen cattle production, expand agro-industrial infrastructure, and raise household incomes in Kazo District.
The launch took place at Kazo Model Primary School Playgrounds, where Gen. Museveni addressed thousands of supporters and outlined a detailed roadmap integrating commercial agriculture, rural infrastructure upgrades, and youth-centered job creation.
The President said the reforms are anchored in Uganda’s long-standing efforts to modernize the cattle corridor, improve productivity, and shift households from subsistence farming to commercial enterprise.
He emphasized that the plan is part of a broader national agenda to enhance value addition, boost exports, and build a self-sustaining rural economy.
Showcasing Dairy Success Stories to Inspire Transformation
Gen. Museveni highlighted several successful dairy farmers across Uganda who have adopted modern practices and significantly improved their incomes.
He cited farmers such as Joseph Ijara from Serere District, Richard Nyakana of Fort Portal, and multiple progressive farmers in the Ankore Sub-region as evidence that improved dairy management can rapidly transform household earnings.
He said these examples demonstrate what Kazo residents can achieve by embracing scientific cattle management, including improved breeds, pasture establishment, zero grazing, milk handling innovations, and value addition through processing.
Guidance on Wealth Management and the Problem of Land Fragmentation
Gen. Museveni advised families in Kazo District to adopt long-term wealth preservation models rather than dividing land into small, unproductive parcels.
He cautioned families against land fragmentation, urging them instead to form family companies to protect and grow their wealth.
He explained that family companies make it possible to collectively manage property, leverage credit more easily, and maintain productive agricultural operations across generations.
Diversification as a Pathway to Household Prosperity
The NRM flag-bearer encouraged residents to move beyond traditional cattle rearing and diversify into complementary enterprises that strengthen incomes and reduce economic vulnerability.
He listed viable commercial ventures including dairy farming, poultry production, fruit growing, fish farming, and other agriculture-linked enterprises that support household wealth creation.
He stressed that these enterprises are practical for both small- and large-scale landowners, depending on land availability and household capacity.
During the rally, Gen. Museveni showcased several examples of wealth-creation models already succeeding within the region, emphasizing that such models can be replicated in Kazo with minimal capital if households adopt modern farming practices.
Major Road Project Confirmed to Boost Connectivity
Gen. Museveni confirmed that government has secured a contractor for the tarmacking of the 156km Kazo–Burunga–Kabugore–Mpara–Kyegegwa–Apuyu Road.
He explained that the road will link key production zones to regional markets, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen access to health facilities, schools, and trading centers.
He said implementation will commence once final procedural steps are completed.
Strengthening Health and Water Access Across Kazo
On healthcare, Gen. Museveni announced that Kazo Health Centre IV will be elevated to a District General Hospital.
He said this move will expand access to specialized services and reduce referrals to distant facilities.
He also confirmed that other health facilities across the district are due for upgrades as part of government’s ongoing effort to improve service delivery in rural areas.
In addressing water scarcity, Gen. Museveni revealed a strategy to draw water from the Katonga River to expand piped water supply throughout the district.
He noted that reliable water access will support both household consumption and agricultural production.
He added that these interventions complement ongoing improvements in electricity distribution and telecommunications—key enablers of rural development.
Unity, Peace, and Job Creation Remain Central to NRM Agenda
Gen. Museveni urged the people of Kazo District to embrace unity and safeguard the peace that has enabled rural transformation.
He elaborated the NRM’s job-creation plan built on commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT, emphasizing youth skilling as a cornerstone of employment growth.
He reaffirmed that the NRM government’s economic model remains distinct because it is built on stability, productivity, and national resilience.
He highlighted what he termed his competitive advantage over other presidential candidates.
Opposition Leaders Join Rally, Signaling Strengthening Inter-Party Dialogue
The rally recorded a notable development when over 10 leaders from various opposition political parties attended the event.
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong described their presence as a sign of Uganda’s growing democracy and cordial interparty relations.
He listed all the ten opposition parties represented at the rally, saying their participation demonstrates that political competition should not prevent cooperation in national development.
NRM Leaders Present Scorecards and Development Plans
NRM Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) Anita Among outlined several development interventions already budgeted for Kazo District, including health, education, roads, and youth empowerment programs.
NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Region, Jornad Asiimwe, called for unity among supporters in the district, saying cohesion is essential for achieving a resounding NRM victory.
Former Minister of Works and Transport John Nasasira presented the NRM scorecard for Kazo District, detailing government achievements in infrastructure, public services, and economic empowerment.
Kazo District NRM Chairperson Wilson Keija read the district status report, outlining ongoing projects and highlighting areas requiring further government support.
