Buhweju District — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged voters in Buhweju to scrutinize presidential challengers, questioning where they were during Uganda’s most difficult years. He highlighted peace, infrastructure progress and wealth-creation programmes as pillars of the NRM’s record.
Speaking during a campaign rally at Engaju Secondary School Playgrounds, Museveni said Uganda’s stability is the country’s greatest achievement. He recalled passing through Buhweju decades ago “on the way to capture Kampala,” describing the insecurity that once defined the region. Today, he noted, residents can socialize freely without fear. “That peace is the foundation of our progress,” he emphasized.
Road Project Set to Begin as Compensation Clears
Museveni addressed local concerns over the delayed Bwizibwera–Nsiika–Nyakashaka–Nyakabirizi road, urging MPs to prioritise essential projects instead of “trying to do too many things at once.”
He confirmed that China Railway 18th Bureau Group has signed on to construct the road, and that the project had been awaiting Sh30 billion to compensate families affected by the works. Compensation is now being processed, paving the way for construction to commence.
Electricity, Water and Telecommunications Improve Service Delivery
The President outlined infrastructural achievements, including the expansion of electricity from Bwizi into the wider district and sub-counties, with village coverage expected soon. He added that 75% of Buhweju’s villages now have access to clean water, while wider phone ownership reflects growing commercial activity among tea growers and gold miners.
Schools and Health Facilities Expanded
Museveni reported that Buhweju now has 56 government and 130 private primary schools, along with seven government secondary schools. Sub-counties lacking government schools will soon receive them.
He also confirmed the upgrade of Nsiika Health Centre IV to a general hospital, alongside improvements to other health facilities across the district.
Population Growth Tied to Immunisation Success
Citing demographic data, Museveni noted that Buhweju’s population has increased from 34,000 in 1980 to 167,000 today, crediting the success of NRM-led immunisation programmes.
Wealth Creation: Tea Support, Acreage Models and New Enterprises
Reaffirming the centrality of household wealth creation, Museveni explained the NRM’s two economic models: the 4-acre model for smallholders and large-scale crop enterprises (tea, coffee, cotton, sugarcane and Ankole cattle) for those with expansive land.
He praised the district for embracing tea production but cautioned small farmers that tea requires at least five acres. He encouraged diversification into apples and other enterprises suitable for limited land.
To boost the tea sector, Museveni announced a Sh360 billion fund for large-scale farmers, which will support seeds, fertilizers, and repair of failing tea factories. He also promised to engage the Chinese President to remove taxes imposed on Uganda’s tea products.
Irrigation and Conservation to Drive Productivity
Museveni assured residents of upcoming irrigation projects aimed at boosting agricultural yields. He commended Buhweju for conserving wetlands which will act as sources for the planned irrigation systems.
Job Creation Through Enterprise and Skills
The President reiterated that government is not the primary source of employment, noting that most jobs arise from wealth-creating activities and private enterprise. He pointed to opportunities in commercial agriculture, manufacturing, and services, highlighting success stories from graduates of the presidential industrial skills hubs.
Challenges to Opponents on Security Plans
General Museveni challenged rival candidates Bobi Wine, Nathan Nandala Mafabi, and Mugisha Muntu to present credible national security plans. He urged voters to consider the historical challenges Uganda has overcome and the NRM’s role in shaping the country’s current stability
