Published on 09/10/2024
The President of the Republic of Uganda H.E Gen (Rtd) Yoweri K. Museveni has called upon Ugandans to leverage the country’s wealth-building programmes, such as the Emyooga and Parish Development Model (PDM), to tackle poverty and elevate their financial status.
Speaking at Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day celebrations held at Busikho Teacher’s Primary School Grounds in Masafu town council, Busia district, President Museveni emphasised the government’s commitment to uplifting Ugandans from poverty. He was joined by the Central African Republic’s President, H.E. Professor Faustin Archange Touadera, whom he thanked for attending the milestone event.
Highlighting the potential for increased regional trade, he expressed optimism about CAR’s partnership with East Africa, alongside DR Congo and South Sudan. “We want to persuade the governments of DR Congo and South Sudan to build roads connecting the three countries. This would link East Africa with CAR and beyond,” he said, hinting at the possibility of Uganda Airlines establishing a route to Bangui.
President Museveni explained that true prosperity requires instilling the principles of Patriotism, Pan-Africanism, Social Economic Transformation, and Democracy among Ugandans. He elaborated that these principles, along with the “three historical missions” of Prosperity, Strategic Security, and Brotherhood, will reinforce Uganda’s quest for economic success.
He also warned against identity politics based on tribe, religion, or region, advocating instead for politics driven by shared interests. “Prosperity comes from producing a good or service and selling it; whoever buys it contributes to your prosperity and vice versa,” he advised.
President Museveni credited the NRM government for ending the past trend of exporting only raw materials and colonial cash crops. He noted the shift towards value addition, resulting in increased production in sectors like dairy, textiles, cement, and maize.
The President proudly announced that 67% of Ugandans are now engaged in the money economy. He cited the diversification of Uganda’s economy, its focus on industrialisation, and its shift into the knowledge economy, with products such as vaccines and vehicles now being made in Uganda.
He also commended the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for “rationalising the parade,” making it shorter and more efficient. “The parade did its work in a short time, and now is the time for reform,” he stated.
President Museveni called on all patriots to work towards East Africa’s economic integration, stating that it would secure prosperity and strategic security for Africa. “We are always ready to integrate Africa both economically and politically,” he concluded.
President Touadera of CAR also addressed the gathering, congratulating Uganda on its 62nd independence anniversary. He praised President Museveni’s leadership, saying, “He has transformed Uganda into a good country of national reconciliation.” He added that his delegation was inspired by Museveni’s example.
Ms Milly Babirye Babalanda, Uganda’s Minister for the Presidency, commended Museveni for stabilising and transforming Uganda. She urged leaders to focus on building capacities to deliver services effectively to citizens.
Prior to the independence celebrations, a health camp was held at Masafu General Hospital from 23rd to 24th September, where over 1,000 patients were treated, and more than 700 received reading glasses.
At the ceremony, 40 medals were awarded by Maj Gen George Igumba, the Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College (SCSC), Kimaka, in honour of distinguished service to the “Pearl of Africa”.
The event featured performances by local musicians, traditional dancers, and a military band.
The 62nd Independence celebrations, where Col Deo A Akiiki commanded the parade, were held under the theme: “A Recommitment to Secure and Fortify our Destiny,” reflecting on Uganda’s 62-year journey and emphasising the importance of avoiding past mistakes to ensure future progress.
Dignitaries in attendance included Vice President of Uganda H.E. Maj (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, Chief Justice His Lordship Alphonse Owiny Dollo, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Hon Thomas Tayebwa, Prime Minister Hon Robinah Nabbanja, NRM Vice Chair person Al Hajji Moses Kigongo, NRM Secretary General Hon Richard Todwongo, Ministers, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba, Inspector General of Uganda Prisons Service Dr Johnson Byabashaija, Diplomats, Defence Attachés’, Religious and Cultural leaders, among other prominent figures.
Other notable attendees were former Vice President of Liberia, Members of Parliament, Resident District Commissioners, and delegations from CAR and Kenya, Service Chiefs, General Officers, Senior and Junior Officers, and local residents.