In a passionate address to National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders in Busoga, President Yoweri Museveni reflected on his leadership journey and why he believes his management of Uganda is crucial for the country’s future. He emphasized that unity, humility, and discipline are essential for overcoming political divisions and fostering national development.
Speaking to thousands of party leaders at Iganga Girls’ Secondary School on January 10, 2026, Museveni warned against the persistent internal conflicts among leaders, which he believes hinder progress and delay the region’s socio-economic transformation. He made a personal appeal to the leaders, urging them to embrace humility in their leadership roles, stating, “If I were not humble, I would not have managed Uganda.”
Museveni stressed that unity among political leaders is not just desirable but necessary for the nation’s advancement. He noted that when leaders fight, the consequences are borne by the poor, who rely on stable governance to improve their lives. “Poor people need unity among leaders because you are delaying their escape from poverty,” Museveni remarked, drawing attention to the need for coordinated leadership to improve the lives of Uganda’s most vulnerable citizens.
In his speech, the President shared his disappointment over the continued political rivalries within Busoga, which have created divisions among senior NRM figures. Despite this, he highlighted how other regions like Bukedi, Lango, and Acholi have shown greater political unity, focusing on regional development despite their differences.
Museveni also shared a story about the meeting’s organization, revealing how the divisions in Busoga even affected the attendance of senior leaders like Rebecca Kadaga, whom he had to personally call to clarify an invitation issue. Despite these challenges, the meeting aimed to energize grassroots NRM structures ahead of the 2026 general elections and ensure the party’s message is consistent at all levels.
Peace and Unity as the Cornerstones of Progress
President Museveni identified peace as one of the NRM’s greatest achievements since taking power. He argued that without peace, no meaningful development can occur. “Even without doing other things, so long as we have peace, everything can be achieved,” he stated, citing regions once plagued by conflict that have since recovered due to the NRM’s focus on national unity.
The President’s commitment to national unity extends beyond Uganda’s borders. He highlighted the importance of Pan-Africanism and the East African Community (EAC) market in fostering regional prosperity. He emphasized how Uganda’s surplus production of commodities like sugar and milk depends on markets beyond its borders to remain viable.
Economic Prosperity Through Unity
Museveni also emphasized the role of economic interdependence in national prosperity. He illustrated how his own success as a Munyankore cattle keeper depends on markets outside his region, a point he believes underscores the importance of national unity and patriotism.
The President credited the NRM for its contributions to infrastructure development, including roads, electricity, water, and schools, which have been critical to Uganda’s economic growth. Additionally, he pointed out the importance of wealth creation programs, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), which provides funds to support small-scale farmers and lift communities out of poverty.
He shared the success stories of individuals like Fred Byamukama, a farmer whose four-acre model farm generates millions of shillings, demonstrating the potential for small-scale agriculture to boost Uganda’s economy.
Job Creation and National Development
Job creation was another key area Museveni addressed, noting that jobs naturally arise from commercial agriculture, manufacturing, and skilled trades. He highlighted successful businesses, such as Jeka Poultry Farm in Kamuli, which employs hundreds of people, showcasing the NRM’s role in facilitating job growth through economic development.
The President’s message to the NRM leaders in Busoga was clear: unity, humility, and a commitment to the development of Uganda are essential for the country’s future success. He called on all leaders to work together for the benefit of the Ugandan people, especially those in rural areas who rely on stable governance to lift them out of poverty.
In his speech, President Museveni reminded NRM leaders that their responsibility extends beyond their local communities. “You are presidents of your villages,” he told them, stressing the importance of message discipline and cooperation at every level of government. With the 2026 elections fast approaching, Museveni’s message is one of unity, discipline, and focus on national development—a call to action for all Ugandans to work together for a prosperous future.