President Yoweri Museveni has criticised Bunyoro leaders for prioritizing demands for infrastructure improvements—such as electricity, water, and roads—while neglecting efforts to uplift the region's population economically.
Museveni made the remarks during a meeting with Bunyoro leaders in Masindi, where he also attended a youth symposium organised by State Minister for Youth, Balam Barugahara.
Speaking at Barugahara's hotel, which is still under construction, Museveni expressed disappointment with local leaders for focusing solely on service delivery requests, while the region continues to suffer from high levels of poverty.
"Even in areas where power and water have been extended, people are still living in absolute poverty," Museveni remarked, adding that the true focus should be on sensitizing communities about economic empowerment.
The meeting was attended by prominent leaders, including Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, religious leaders led by former Archbishop Stanley Ntagali, and Bunyoro cultural figures such as Queen Omugo Margaret Karunga and Kingdom Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaga.
During the meeting, Barugahara reminded the president of several unfulfilled pledges, including the construction of Masindi market and hospital, the tarmacking of roads, and the installation of street lights.
He also accused Minister Kasaija of deliberately removing the budget for Masindi Hospital, a claim Kasaija refuted by explaining that Shs 1 billion had been allocated for renovations two years ago but had not yet yielded results.
In his response, Museveni challenged the leaders to change their approach.
"When I worked to become rich in Kiruhura, we had no electricity, no water, and no tarmac roads. The services came later. Leaders need to focus on economic transformation instead of always pushing for more infrastructure," Museveni stated.
The president emphasised that leaders should focus on the implementation of government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, aimed at improving livelihoods across Uganda.
"All I expect from you now is to report on the progress of these programs. Handouts are not sustainable, but programs that empower communities are," he said.
After meeting the Bunyoro leaders, Museveni addressed the youth symposium at Masindi Booma Stadium, urging young people to embrace government programs and avoid destructive habits like alcohol consumption and drug abuse.
"This country belongs to you, the youth. Avoid alcohol, drugs, and gambling. They will only ruin your future," Museveni advised.
The president also promised to fast-track infrastructure projects in Kijunjubwa and Kimengo sub-counties, known for cattle grazing and milk production.
He pledged Shs 20 million for boda boda groups, funds for the renovation of Kabalega Secondary School, tractors for 14 SACCOs in Bunyoro, and Shs 80 million to former Hoima municipality mayor, Joshua Amanyire.
