Residents of Kitagwenda District have raised a strong call for inclusion in national development programs and more effective political representation, citing growing frustration over continued neglect and marginalization.
The outcry follows the recent launch of major road construction projects in neighboring Kamwenge District, including the 68km Kyenjojo (Kihura)–Bwizi–Rwamwanja–Kahunge road, the 38km Mpara–Bwizi road, and 20km of town roads in Kihura and Kahunge towns.
While appreciative of the government’s efforts in improving infrastructure across Uganda, Kitagwenda locals feel left behind.
"We commend the government for investing in development, but it is disheartening that Kitagwenda has yet to receive similar attention," said one concerned resident. "Our people are suffering from poor infrastructure, lack of clean water, inadequate health services, and high unemployment. We feel abandoned."
They say it is disheartening that President Museveni didnt visit Kitagwenda during the recently concluded wealth creation tour in Tooro.
“It is particularly disappointing that the president did not visit Kitagwenda during his regional tour. That omission spoke volumes,” another local added.
According to residents, districts across the country frequently host high-profile leaders, including the president, Prime Minister, Ministers, and the Speaker of Parliament, who launch or inspect various development projects. Kitagwenda, however, has reportedly seen no such visits since its inception.
"There is a symbolic expression here—'we are left drinking waragi'—that reflects the level of frustration among our people. It is as if we have been forgotten," a local leader lamented.
Residents are also calling for more accountable and proactive political leadership.
“We are concerned about the quality of our political representation,” one elder shared. “Our voices and development needs are not being adequately presented at the national level. It is time our leaders became true advocates for Kitagwenda.”
The citizens have laid out clear demands including equitable distribution of resources, high level engagements and equal representation.
Kitagwenda District Chairperson, Ismail Mushemeza urged leaders at all levels to work together for the district’s development.
“For Kitagwenda to attract national projects, there must be good leadership from the grassroots up to the national level,” Mushemeza told The Nile Post. “This eases lobbying and ensures that our needs are heard.”
He also emphasized unity among leaders, warning against internal divisions: “Where there is cooperation, everything is possible. We must avoid divisionism if we want to see our district grow.”
Kitagwenda District, formerly part of Kamwenge, was created by an Act of Parliament in 2019 and became operational on July 1 of the same year. With a population of over 180,000 people, the district forms part of the Kingdom of Tooro.
Residents remain hopeful that their voices will spark action and that the district will finally receive the attention and investment it has long awaited.