President Museveni has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding and modernizing road infrastructure in Ibanda District, saying the developments will support farmers, enhance trade and strengthen the peace enjoyed in the region.
Addressing thousands of supporters during a campaign rally on Saturday, Museveni praised the strong collaboration between residents and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, noting that their joint efforts were crucial in defeating insurgents and restoring stability.
“The unity between the people and the UPDF is what helped us defeat the wrong elements and secure lasting peace,” he said.
The President announced that the long-awaited reconstruction of the Ibanda–Kagongo–Kabujogera–Kamwenge road will soon begin, saying the upgrade will significantly improve accessibility and spur economic activity across the sub-region.
“This road is important for farmers and traders. We are going to reconstruct it so that transport becomes easier and business grows,” Museveni assured.
Local leaders had earlier cited the same road — and the establishment of a coffee factory — as outstanding pledges, urging the President to address them.
In response, Museveni reiterated the government’s commitment to both projects and confirmed that a coffee factory will be set up to support value addition for farmers in Ibanda.
The President further revealed that the government will study possible improvements to the Nyamarebe–Kyegegwa road, another vital route relied upon by farmers and traders for transporting produce to major markets.
“We shall continue assessing roads that are economically strategic so that farmers can fully benefit from their hard work,” he added.
In a major transport intervention, Museveni also announced plans to introduce a ferry on Lake George aimed at easing the movement of cattle from Ibanda to Kasese.
The ferry, he said, will lower transport costs, open up better markets for livestock farmers and strengthen cross-district trade.
“This ferry will help our livestock farmers access markets more affordably and efficiently,” the President said.
Following the President’s address, Ibanda District Chairperson Happy Herbert Mayanja expressed appreciation, saying the community felt heard and reassured.
“We are grateful that the President has reaffirmed his commitment to address the concerns we raised. Our people are hopeful that these projects will transform their livelihoods,” Mayanja noted.
Museveni emphasised that all these infrastructure interventions are part of the broader NRM strategy to secure livelihoods, uplift household incomes and ensure that communities fully benefit from the peace restored over the years.
