President Museveni Launches Strategic Wealth Creation Plan in Bukedi Sub-Region 

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has launched the Bukedi Sub-Region Accelerated Wealth Creation Program, an initiative aimed at uplifting the socio-economic status of the region by 2040 through a focus on agriculture, industrialization, and infrastructure development. 

This was during President Museveni's tour of Butebo District on Thursday, August 22, 2024. The President emphasized the importance of sustainable agriculture and expressed concern over the underutilization of fertile land, particularly in rice cultivation. He pointed to successful examples in Pallisa District, where fish farming has restored swamps and proved more profitable than rice farming.

"In Pallisa District, fish farming has proven more profitable than rice, and it has restored swamps," Museveni explained. "By restoring swamps and irrigating dry land, farmers can substantially increase their income."

In addition to his agricultural advocacy, President Museveni inaugurated a new cassava starch factory in Butebo District. This factory aims to reduce the high cost of importing starch used in manufacturing medicines. "We shall see how to support them," Museveni assured.

At a rally in Butebo, Museveni reiterated the need for diversified agriculture, urging residents to embrace cash crops like coffee and cocoa, as well as dairy farming and poultry. He advised families to avoid land fragmentation and instead form family companies to manage their land collectively, as seen in Dr. Musenero's family.

"This morning, I received good news from Dr. Musenero's family, where they have agreed to unite their 70-acre estate to grow coffee, cocoa, and dairy pasture," he shared.

Before the launch, Dr. Monica Musenero, Uganda’s Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation was celebrated for her pioneering work in veterinary medicine and her heroic efforts during the Ebola outbreak in Kibale.

"Dr. Musenero showed remarkable courage when others hesitated," President Museveni said. "Her commitment to serving the people reminds us that if you work for the people, God works for you."

The President commended Dr. Musenero's family for their decision to consolidate their land and manage it collectively, highlighting this as a model for sustainable land use and poverty reduction. He pointed out that improper land management has contributed to the depletion of natural resources, worsening poverty in the region.

Dr. Musenero expressed her gratitude to President Museveni and the people of Butebo, emphasizing the importance of unity and the role of science in transforming Uganda.
“We are deeply honored that you accepted our invitation, Mr. President. Today, we come together to say thank you," she stated.

The ceremony was attended by prominent leaders, including Vice President Jessica Alupo, who expressed gratitude for the community’s support of President Museveni and the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

"Your steadfast support for the NRM and President Museveni is vital as we work to advance national development," Alupo said.