Kololo was a treasure hunt following Museveni’s nomination

By Ben Ssebuguzi

Yesterday was an important moment in Uganda’s history because our NRM candidate, after being duly nominated, proceeded to Kololo Ceremonial Grounds to make his first appeal to voters under our manifesto: Protecting the gains, as we make a qualitative leap into middle-income status.

Just like President Trump once stated during his campaign, “When we invest in America, it is a win for our companies, our workers, and our nation as a whole.” I have often seen the same spirited drive in President Museveni, who consistently appeals to Ugandans, even teaching them practical skills on how to create wealth.

One of the punchlines in President Museveni’s speech was “leaving no one behind”—a philosophy that defines his work plan and vision. The question of not electing him is far-fetched because the President emphasized that the NRM register has over 20 million people, while the total number of eligible voters stands at 18.5 million. This, he argued, gives him a majority advantage. As of May 15, 2025, the National Voters Register stood at 19,925,574 people.

This means that Hajjat Namyalo’s mobilization team at the Office of the National Chairman, in order to secure victory, only needs to reinvigorate half of the NRM register for voter turnout—though our target is an overwhelming 80% win.

Back to the President’s nomination speech. As expected, our candidate communicated effectively and honestly about his vision. A powerful leader must highlight the vision to the wanainchi. In his message on Production, Distribution, and Service Delivery, the framework was laid out clearly.

In rallying Ugandans to increase production, the President emphasized that wealth is created primarily in four sectors: commercial agriculture, manufacturing and artisanship, services, and ICT—particularly through Business Process Outsourcing.

He further explained that after wealth is created, the products must reach the intended customers. From there, he educated that it is through entrepreneurship and wealth creation that government generates revenue through taxes, which in turn enables efficient service delivery to Ugandans.

Through this approach, the President envisions an economically independent Uganda, driven by hardworking citizens, so that all can prosper without leaving anyone behind.

This spirit of inclusivity was reflected in his promise of strategic investment in people, with affordable capital through SACCOS. He pledged Shs 15 million to PDM leaders per parish, with an increase in PDM allocations for municipalities to address shortages. He also promised a special fund for fishing communities, similar to the ghetto fund. For graduates unable to find jobs after two years, the President committed to providing startup capital.

The climax of the nomination event was a speech by Mama Janet Kataha Museveni, Minister of Education, who addressed the challenges of increasing teachers’ pay and students still studying under trees. Her realistic approach to these issues received loud applause from party faithfuls.

In summary, President Museveni’s vision in his manifesto revolves around empowering Ugandans under Point No. 3 of the NRM principles: Socio-Economic Transformation. He not only inspires every household to create wealth but also seeks to increase economic growth, raise living standards, improve wages, and enhance service delivery.

Let us protect the gains and make a qualitative leap into middle-income status.
The writer is the Head of Research, Office of the National Chairman (ONC).