President Yoweri Museveni has received praise from legislators for his commitment to patriotism, Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy, all aimed at promoting national development.
Hon. Emely Kugonza (NRM, Buyanja East County) highlighted the President’s emphasis on prosperity, strategic security, and unity among African nations, which has positively impacted Uganda’s economy in various sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and information communication technology.
Kugonza mentioned that the President noted the country’s economic recovery since 1986, attributing it to the increased production of locally processed agricultural products that exceed international demand. The surplus is now being traded within Africa and globally.
She also mentioned government initiatives like the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, Women Fund, Youth Fund, and Operation Wealth Creation, which have facilitated socio-economic transformation for low-income individuals.
Kugonza stressed the importance of support from institutions like the Inspectorate of Government, Anti-Corruption Unit, and Whistleblower Policy in combating corruption, urging Parliament to take a leading role in this fight.
Hon. Catherine Lamwaka supported Kugonza’s motion, noting the President’s calls for East African countries to eliminate trade barriers to maximize the region’s market potential.
Lamwaka commended the NRM government’s philosophy and strategies for boosting the economy from US$1.5 billion in 1986 to US$55 billion through foreign exchange methods. She also appreciated the President’s efforts in improving education, finance, and security sectors.
Worker Representative, Hon. Agnes Kunihira, addressed the President’s concern over high interest rates charged by commercial banks and lenders, calling for actions to address this issue for better access to working capital.
Kunihira also appealed to the government to raise the PAYE threshold for the benefit of workers nationwide, urging the President to address this in the next State of the Nation Address.
Press Release by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.