State Minister for Finance Henry Musasizi has urged residents of the Kigezi sub-region to focus on development rather than pushing for Kabale Municipality to be upgraded to city status.
Musasizi made the remarks while presiding as chief guest during the ordination of eight deacons to priesthood at Our Lady of Rushoroza Cathedral in Kabale Municipality.
He said funds should be directed toward improving major infrastructure projects that have a direct impact on people’s livelihoods.
“We should focus on improving infrastructure such as tourism roads, including the Hamurwa–Kerere–Kanungu road and the Muhanga–Mparo–Kisizi road,” Musasizi said.
He described individuals advocating for Kabale’s elevation to city status as “self-seeking,” echoing President Museveni’s earlier caution that Uganda has in the past misplaced priorities by investing in non-developmental areas.
“The country must now shift focus to real development — infrastructure, tourism, and household income generation — instead of symbolic status changes,” he added.
Musasizi also urged religious leaders to play an active role in wealth creation efforts to combat household poverty.
“In the next five years, as the NRM government, we shall continue championing the fight against poverty at the household level while improving road infrastructure,” he said, calling on the congregation to re-elect President Museveni in the 2026 general elections.