Museveni Highlights NRM’s Core Principles as Key to Uganda’s Economic Growth

President Yoweri Museveni has reaffirmed the importance of the four core principles of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government in driving Uganda’s wealth creation and development.

Speaking during Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day celebrations at Busikho Teachers Demonstration Primary School in Busia District, President Museveni outlined how the NRM’s principles — patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy — have shaped the country’s progress. He emphasised that these principles, along with the NRM's historical missions of prosperity and strategic security, have guided Uganda through five phases of growth, from recovering the enclave economy to entering the knowledge economy.

Joined by Central African Republic President Faustin Archange Touadéra, who is on a three-day visit, Museveni stressed the importance of regional collaboration for wealth creation. He noted that Uganda’s zones and tribes depend on each other for prosperity and that the country needs Africa as a whole for its economic success. "Patriotism and Pan-Africanism are essential for Uganda’s wealth creation," he said.

Museveni also urged Ugandans to focus on adding value to raw materials to achieve true socio-economic transformation, noting that exporting raw materials has hindered Africa's economic growth. He assured citizens that Uganda is entering the knowledge economy, with advancements in sectors such as automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and computer assembly.

The President also encouraged Ugandans to take advantage of government initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga to join the money economy. He thanked President Touadéra for joining the celebrations and invited Uganda Airlines to explore flights to the Central African Republic to strengthen trade links.

The event, attended by key government officials and international representatives, also saw 40 distinguished Ugandans awarded medals for their contributions to national development.