Rwakitura, (UG): President Yoweri Museveni Tuesday addressed the nation delivering an end-of-year speech to the Bazzukulu as Uganda marked the end of 2024 to welcome the new year 2025.
The address broadcast live on all local TV and Radio stations is focused on the achievements of the NRM government throughout the year and what awaits the country into the last term of the current political term.
In a multipage speech, Mr Museveni celebrated Uganda’s continued peace and stability, attributing it to divine intervention, a strong security apparatus, and support from the population. The President highlighted key security successes, including the neutralization of ADF terrorists who attacked Lhubiriha Secondary School and the elimination of groups behind the 2021 Masaka killings. He highlighted the defeat of foreign-sponsored schemes aimed at creating civil unrest.
On enforcing a crackdown on cattle theft and criminal activity, the president declared a prohibition of police bonds for village thieves and commended the Military Court Martial for prosecuting 3,000 Karamojong criminals, which significantly improved peace in Karamoja and neighbouring regions. He also called for legal reforms to ensure firm handling of criminals, coupled with skilling programs to rehabilitate youth post-incarceration.
On economic matters, Museveni highlighted the success of Uganda’s agricultural strategies, particularly the “4-acre model” introduced in the 1996 NRM Manifesto. Coffee production has grown exponentially, rising from 2.7 million bags in 2013 to 9 million bags in 2024, aided by initiatives like Operation Wealth Creation (OWC).
The President also announced plans for nationwide irrigation to stabilize and boost agricultural productivity, noting the global rise in coffee prices due to drought in other coffee-producing countries.
Museveni expressed concern over natural disasters such as floods and landslides, attributing their impact to environmental mismanagement. He urged citizens to respect ecosystems and avoid building in wetlands or steep slopes to prevent future calamities. He also called for renewed efforts in environmental conservation as guided by the principles in Genesis.
Public health also became a key focus in the address with the President warning about the growing threat of Monkey Pox. He outlined its transmission methods contact with infected individuals and sexual activity during incubation. The Fountain of Honour tressed the importance of early reporting and preventive measures to curb its spread.
Museveni lauded Uganda’s sports achievements, recognizing athletes for their stellar performances in international competitions. He also expressed optimism about Uganda’s readiness to host CHAN in 2025 and AFCON in 2027, signalling a commitment to improving the country’s sports infrastructure.
The President concluded by wishing all Ugandans a prosperous 2025, emphasizing the government’s commitment to peace, and development, and addressing critical socio-economic challenges.
Below is President Museveni’s End of Year 2024 Address in Full:
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