Museveni Highlights Wealth Creation as Key to Uganda's Employment

President Yoweri Museveni has called for a shift in focus towards wealth creation as the most effective path to establishing sustainable employment opportunities for Ugandans. Speaking at the International Labour Day event held in Matale, Buikwe District, the President emphasized that existing resources, particularly in agriculture, can yield significant returns if managed effectively.

He cited the example of a farmer in Fort Portal who, on a small plot, generates substantial income through poultry and dairy farming, creating jobs in the process. Museveni argued that with Uganda’s vast arable land, emulating such successful models could naturally lead to widespread job creation.

The President encouraged Ugandans to heed government advice and adopt proven agricultural strategies, suggesting that even small-scale ventures can be highly profitable. He cautioned against hasty business ventures and advised seeking loans from institutions like the Uganda Development Bank, which offers more favorable terms than commercial banks.

President Museveni also touched upon workers’ welfare, pledging government efforts to provide affordable housing near industrial parks. He acknowledged concerns regarding the relevance of certain university courses and promised that the Ministry of Education would offer clearer guidance.

Reflecting on Uganda’s industrial growth, the President attributed the establishment of over 5,000 factories to sustained peace and strategic investments in electricity. He urged Members of Parliament to support crucial infrastructure projects, including power expansion, oil refinery development, and water transport initiatives.

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of transitioning more Ugandans into the money economy and called for stricter regulations in fisheries and the protection of wetlands, highlighting successful alternative livelihoods like fish farming.

Concerns were raised about the underutilization of funds in the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), with suggestions for investment in infrastructure projects such as toll roads. The Vice President and several ministers commended the President’s focus on workers’ issues, while union and employer representatives acknowledged government progress while raising ongoing concerns about worker accommodation and educational alignment.

This article is based on information from the State House Uganda.