Kamwenge, Uganda — Leaders and residents of Kamwenge District have expressed their gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni for restoring lasting peace in the region and boosting development by decisively neutralizing the threat of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels. The leaders lauded the President for his swift and effective military response, which they believe was key in ensuring the district’s stability.
A Swift Military Response to ADF Threats
Frank Tumwebaze, Uganda’s Agriculture Minister and the NRM Chairperson for Kamwenge District, commended President Museveni for the military action that dismantled the ADF presence in the area. Tumwebaze highlighted how the President’s prompt deployment of soldiers prevented what could have been a major security crisis in the district.
“When the rebels attempted to infiltrate our area, the President acted swiftly. Within hours, the threat was neutralized,” said Tumwebaze. “This quick response has ensured that we can now live in peace.”
Tumwebaze also credited Museveni’s stance against sectarianism for unifying the local communities, particularly the Batooro people, who now work together harmoniously toward common goals. He pointed out that this unity, coupled with strategic development initiatives, has transformed Kamwenge into a more prosperous and peaceful district.
Economic Growth and Community Empowerment
One of the key themes discussed at the event was the economic transformation in Kamwenge, largely attributed to government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM). Tumwebaze revealed that Kamwenge has received Shs 21 billion in funding under PDM, benefitting around 18,000 households. These funds have facilitated the growth of commercial agriculture, with residents now producing and selling large quantities of milk, significantly increasing their incomes.
“We have empowered our people to engage in commercial farming,” Tumwebaze said. “Milk production, in particular, has become a reliable source of income for many households in Kamwenge.”
In addition to agriculture, Tumwebaze highlighted the ongoing infrastructure developments in the district. He noted that more than 70% of the Kamwenge–Kihuura road, a long-awaited project, has already been constructed. The completion of this road is expected to further improve access to markets, enhance trade, and connect Kamwenge with other parts of Uganda.
Museveni’s Commitment to Continued Peace and Development
During his address to the crowd in Kamwenge Town, President Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace in the region, which he described as a vital contribution of his government, especially for border districts exposed to instability from neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“You in Kamwenge understand the value of peace better than anyone,” Museveni said. “You’ve seen the chaos in the DRC, and many refugees have sought refuge here because they have no peace in their own country.”
Museveni acknowledged the importance of the request from Tumwebaze to establish a permanent military presence along the forest line. In response, he pledged to set up a battalion near Kibale National Park, with district leaders tasked to identify land for the base. This move aims to ensure future security in the region and prevent incursions from armed groups.
Additionally, the President addressed ongoing infrastructure projects in the district, including the Lyantonde–Ibanda–Kamwenge road and further expansion of the Kihuura road. These projects are expected to enhance regional connectivity and support economic growth.
Encouraging Agricultural Innovation and Economic Diversification
Museveni also urged the people of Kamwenge to embrace modern agricultural practices such as irrigation to boost productivity. He cited successful examples of irrigation-based farming, such as the Presidential Banana Initiative in Bushenyi, where farmers using irrigation yield up to ten times more bananas than those relying on rain-fed agriculture.
“Don’t work just for food; work for both food and income,” Museveni advised. “By using modern techniques like irrigation, you can increase your productivity and transform your livelihoods.”
He also encouraged the youth to seek opportunities outside the public sector, highlighting the potential of the private sector, particularly in industrialization and tourism. Drawing from the success of Mbale Industrial Park, which has created over 40,000 jobs, Museveni emphasized that private-sector growth could offer more sustainable job opportunities than the government alone can provide.
With respect to Kamwenge’s tourism potential, the President encouraged local leaders and residents to tap into the opportunities offered by Kibale Forest, a region rich in biodiversity. Tourism, he said, could create hundreds of new jobs in the services sector.
Museveni’s Personal Connection to Agriculture
In closing, President Museveni shared his own experiences as a farmer, stating that his wealth and contribution to Uganda come from agriculture. He emphasized that by adopting modern agricultural practices, residents of Kamwenge can achieve both economic prosperity and national development.
“I produce milk, beef, and bananas. This is my wealth, and it also helps employ people in Uganda,” he said, reinforcing the message that economic growth is closely tied to sustainable farming and commercial agriculture.
Conclusion: A Unified Vision for Kamwenge’s Future
The leaders of Kamwenge District and the local residents have expressed their gratitude to President Museveni for his leadership in bringing peace and fostering economic growth in the region. With continued investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and security, the district is poised for even greater development. As Museveni’s government focuses on enhancing regional security and economic prosperity, Kamwenge stands as an example of the positive outcomes that come from coordinated efforts between government leadership and local communities.
