Museveni Lauds Spanish Student Volunteers for Community Service in Gomba

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently hosted a delegation of 33 Spanish student volunteers at State House, Entebbe. The visit marked the culmination of their several-week-long community outreach mission in Uganda’s Gomba District.

This annual volunteering effort, now in its fourth year, has been instrumental in supporting vulnerable communities. The Spanish students dedicated their time to projects such as constructing school facilities, enhancing access to clean water sources, and providing assistance to underprivileged households. Their work has received consistent support from President Museveni and the First Lady, Maama Janet Museveni.

During the meeting, President Museveni reiterated the government’s dedication to transitioning Uganda from a predominantly pre-capitalist society into a modern economy. He emphasized the importance of citizens engaging in commercial production to boost individual earnings and expand the nation’s tax base.

The President highlighted the growing trend of commercial farming in Gomba District as a positive indicator that the government’s wealth creation programs are proving effective.

When discussing Uganda’s sustained peace amidst regional instability, President Museveni attributed it to the nation’s core ideology of prioritizing common national interests over identity politics. He stressed that patriotism is rooted in the necessity of Uganda for personal prosperity and that Pan-Africanism is crucial for continental development, as Uganda’s internal market alone is insufficient.

This unifying principle, he explained, has also fostered strong national institutions, including a professional and inclusive security force, where recruitment is based on merit rather than tribal affiliation.

President Museveni also offered advice to the young volunteers, urging them to embrace discipline, establish stable families, avoid destructive behaviors like alcoholism and promiscuity, and maintain faith.

Dr. Harris Kirumira Kalule of the Kelim Foundation, the local coordinating organization, expressed gratitude for the support provided by the President and the First Lady, acknowledging the meaningful impact of the student volunteers’ projects.

Lady Carmen Sillero, speaking on behalf of the volunteers, thanked President Museveni for the reception and the government’s crucial support, particularly in logistics and security, which facilitated their outreach activities. She expressed hope for the continued growth of the partnership between Spanish volunteers and Uganda.

Source: https://statehouse.go.ug/president-museveni-meets-spanish-student-volunteers-commends-their-community-service