President Yoweri Museveni has set his agenda for a new term. He aims to fight poverty, drive economic growth, and root out corruption. These goals followed his formal re-election declaration after the January 15 polls.
First, he declared poverty eradication and economic transformation central pillars. He called on government leaders and citizens to uphold discipline. He also emphasized the need to prioritize shared prosperity.
According to provisional figures, Museveni won nearly 8 million votes. He stated his administration’s agenda will focus on household-level poverty eradication. Furthermore, he pledged to support wealth creators.
“For about 70 percent of people in the money economy, we must support them to continue growing,” Museveni said. “For the remaining 30 percent, we must decisively address poverty.”
Also read: Kampala: Museveni Wins Fair Poll, Extends 40-Year Rule
He placed particular emphasis on the Parish Development Model (PDM). This flagship program aims to lift households out of poverty. Museveni said the PDM has given people hope. However, he acknowledged its implementation has been uneven.
“We must analyze and find out what is working and what is not,” he stated.
Also read: Museveni to Fight Poverty, Drive Economic Growth and Root Out Corruption in New Term
The President argued poverty must be understood at the household level. He stressed the goal is to end poverty in individual homesteads.
Additionally, Museveni reaffirmed commitments to free public education and improved healthcare. He called these components critical for uplifting communities. They also equip youth for the future.
On corruption, he said it “annoys our people.” He highlighted public frustration with slow services. He also warned elected leaders of a firm stance on accountability.
“I will be very harsh in this Kisanja,” he said, indicating stricter oversight.
For job creation, the focus will remain on agriculture and manufacturing. The plan also includes strengthening the private sector. This approach moves away from reliance on public service jobs.
Museveni’s economic vision includes deeper regional market integration. He said Uganda’s internal market is insufficient for industrial growth. Therefore, the East African Community (EAC) is a key strategic opportunity.
He also stressed that national peace is a precondition for economic progress. He credited all Ugandans, including the opposition, for maintaining stability. Moreover, he issued a warning against political violence.
“This is a free warning from me. Stop what you are doing. We shall maintain peace in Uganda,” he said.
A significant announcement confirmed Uganda’s oil production will start this year. Museveni stressed that revenues must fund long-lasting infrastructure and institutions.
“Our oil will start flowing this year,” he confirmed. “This money must be used for things that will last, like railways, power stations, roads, and science education.”
He cautioned against directly distributing oil revenues to local governments. He argued this would squander a finite resource. Instead, it should build enduring national assets.
“This oil will last about 20 years. If you care about your country, you must use this exhaustible resource to build things that will endure,” he said.
First Lady Janet Museveni echoed the call for unity. She urged party leaders to re-educate themselves and recommit to public service.
Vice President Jessica Alupo praised Museveni’s fatherly leadership approach. She said it united diverse groups and inspired economic confidence.
Ultimately, Museveni’s new term will be measured by implementation. The key tests will be rising household incomes, large-scale job creation, and more responsive public services. His challenge is to translate these broad goals into measurable improvements for all Ugandans.
