Museveni links NRM economic agenda to Uganda’s past development gaps

Nansana, Wakiso: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has revealed that the National Resistance Movement’s emphasis on wealth creation, income growth and job creation is informed by Uganda’s historical experience where infrastructure existed but household prosperity lagged behind.

In a message shared on Tuesday, January 6, as he campaigned at Kawanda Research Centre grounds in Nansana, Wakiso District, Museveni reminded residents why NRM prioritises transforming livelihoods, not just building roads.

“When we were in the bush, the Kampala–Gulu road was already tarmacked, yet most people along it lived in grass-thatched or mud houses,” Museveni said. “Even iron-sheet roofs often stood on mud walls. Development existed, but household wealth did not.”

The President, who in the company of First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, said that experience shaped the NRM’s policy direction, which places income, wealth creation and jobs at the centre of national development. “That history is why NRM emphasises income, wealth and jobs,” he said. “Our first priority is commercial agriculture, done correctly.”

Museveni explained that land size must determine enterprise choice, noting that small land holdings require intensive production, while larger tracts are better suited for extensive farming. “Small land needs intensive production, while large land suits extensive farming. Enterprise choice matters,” he said.

He added that Wakiso District, particularly urban areas like Nansana, stands to benefit significantly from artisanship, workshops and industrial activity, which he said are key drivers of employment and household wealth. “Wakiso also benefits greatly from artisans, workshops and industries, which create jobs and wealth,” Museveni noted.

The remarks come as the NRM enters the final phase of the presidential campaign, with wealth creation, commercial agriculture and job creation forming the core of the party’s 2026 manifesto.