Museveni Urges Kasese to Focus on Income and Unity for Economic Development

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on the people of Kasese to prioritize household income as a path to socio-economic transformation. Speaking during a thanksgiving ceremony at Kaguta Grounds in Nyakatonzi, Kasese District, the President emphasized practical steps to create wealth through calculated decisions.

“Focus on household incomes; others will come later,” Museveni said, advising residents to engage in activities that yield tangible profits. He encouraged smallholder farmers to adopt the four-acre model, integrating commercial agriculture, pasture for dairy, fruits, food crops, and backyard projects like poultry, piggery, and fish farming.

“Do it with ekibaro (calculation),” Museveni said, cautioning against cultivating crops like maize and cotton, which require vast land to be profitable.

Museveni urged the community to differentiate between wealth creation and development, stressing that wealth is individual, while development, such as roads and electricity, benefits everyone. “You can have development but still remain poor if you don’t focus on wealth creation,” he explained.

The President warned against tribal and religious-based politics, describing them as divisive and unproductive. “A person who preaches identity politics is your enemy,” Museveni said, urging residents to maintain peace and work together regardless of their backgrounds.

The event celebrated the appointments of Gen. Wilson Mbasu Mbadi and Godfrey Baluku Kabyanga, both from Kasese, as ministers. Museveni commended them as diligent public servants. “I’m happy to thank God for elevating these two leaders,” he said.

Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, hailed the appointments, noting that both leaders consistently advocate for the people of Kasese. “Your two sons are hardworking and articulate the concerns of Kasese effectively,” Baryomunsi said.

Kabyanga thanked Museveni for the opportunity to serve as a minister and pledged to sensitize residents about government programs aimed at boosting livelihoods. “We are mobilizing people to embrace the four-acre model and leading by example through demonstration farms,” Kabyanga said.

Gen. Mbadi expressed gratitude for his appointments, crediting God and President Museveni for trusting him to support socio-economic transformation. He also highlighted the importance of peace and security as foundations for development.

On behalf of the Omusinga wa Rwenzururu, Gen. Mbadi thanked Museveni for his continued support for Kasese’s cultural institutions and sustained peace in the region.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including ministers and Members of Parliament, who joined in celebrating the contributions of the two Kasese leaders.