President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Parish Development Model (PDM) as part of efforts to lift Ugandans in the Bukedi Subregion from subsistence to the money economy. Museveni delivered his message on Sunday, November 10, 2024, during a rally at Kamuge Playground in Pallisa District, marking the conclusion of his wealth creation tour in the subregion.
Museveni urged the people of Bukedi to embrace commercial agriculture, specifically through a four-acre model to improve livelihoods. He advised farmers to use one acre each for coffee, fruits, dairy pasture, and food crops, while utilizing the backyard for poultry, piggery, and fish farming. He also encouraged growing crops like cocoa and palm oil to diversify incomes.
The President emphasized the importance of free education for vulnerable families and criticized school fees in government institutions, noting that such charges contribute to Bukedi’s high dropout rate, with 82 percent of children leaving school by Primary Seven. “I’m tired of beseeching you; that’s why I introduced the Presidential Industrial Hubs,” he stated.
Museveni reminded locals of past government initiatives, including NAADS, Operation Wealth Creation, PDM, and Emyooga, which have aimed to reduce poverty. He urged leaders to mobilize communities to take advantage of these programs. “If you are rich, you can handle your own development, such as solar power, water harvesting, and private education and healthcare,” he added.
Addressing environmental concerns, Museveni advised Bukedi residents to avoid wetland encroachment by shifting from rice cultivation in swamps to fish farming along wetland edges.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja commended Museveni’s dedication to development programs that have enhanced Ugandans’ livelihoods. NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, Capt. Mike Mukula, praised the President for maintaining peace and promoting Pan-Africanism, which has enabled Uganda to contribute to regional stability.
Ministers, Members of Parliament, district leaders, and cultural and religious figures attended the rally.