The President of the Republic of Uganda and Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has reiterated Uganda’s commitment to socio-economic growth, rooted in peace, stability, and regional cooperation.
Celebrating the country’s 63rd Independence Anniversary at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala, President Museveni said, “Uganda is now unstoppable, most especially in the field of development and socio-economic transformation.”
The President congratulated Ugandans on reaching this milestone, acknowledging the country’s turbulent journey to independence. “By the 10th anniversary of 1972, Uganda was under vicious dictatorship,” he recalled, noting the collapse of the economy due to mismanagement, smuggling, and speculation. He further mentioned that even the much-needed security had also gone down around this time, as evidenced by the mass graves in Luwero.
President Museveni highlighted the National Resistance Movement (NRM) regime’s significant contributions to Uganda’s growth since 1986. “The economy has now grown up to $66 billion in size, with a 7% GDP growth,” he announced.
He attributed this success to the emphasis on minimum revival of the 3Cs (coffee, cotton and copper) and 3Ts (tobacco, tea and tourism) through the implementation of poverty eradication programs, and diversifying the economy.
“We have expanded the economy, diversified it, and added value to raw materials,” President Museveni said, citing examples such as milk, bananas, and cassava.
He emphasised the importance of a knowledge-based economy, highlighting the achievements of Kiira Motors Corporation.
To sustain this growth, the President stressed the need for systems that promote economic integration, a strong defence and security apparatus, and prioritisation of development projects. He gave the example of salary enhancements to scientists and the judiciary as a priority since science, technology, and innovation nowadays move the world.
“There’s now enough electricity for factories to stand,” he said, noting the impact of investments in infrastructure and power generation.
The President also highlighted the potential of the oil and gas sector to accelerate economic growth, promising to prioritize projects that generate revenue. “The economy is now growing fast, and with prioritisation, we shall generate money to cover other areas,” he said.
He called for avenues that raise government revenue as opposed to indiscipline when budgeting and collecting revenue, saying the practice leads to unnecessary wastage.
In conclusion, President Museveni saluted peace-loving Ugandans and the UPDF for ensuring peace, which has enabled the country’s transformation. “All that is happening is on account of the peace available,” he emphasised.
Colonel (Rtd) Samson Sande, a former rebel and one of the founders of the NRA, spoke as a returnee and advocate for peace, stability, and socio-economic transformation. “I am back home to contribute to the development of Uganda,” he said. “I went bitter, but now it’s better to contribute to national development.”
The Minister for Presidency, Hon. Milly Babirye Babalanda commended Ugandans for protecting the gains of the revolution, adding that President Museveni is the only realistic choice to secure these achievements.
This year’s celebrations were hinged on the theme “63 Years of Independence. A reason to double our efforts in sustaining a united and progressive nation.”
The celebrations were attended by prominent figures, including the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, Deputy President of Kenya, Kithure Kindiki, Vice President Hon. Maj (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, Speaker of Parliament, Right Honourable Annet Anita Among, Chief Justice His Lordship Alphonse Owiny Dollo, and former Vice President Dr. Specioza Wandira Kazibwe.
Others were: Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Sam Okiding; Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba; Commissioner General Prisons, Dr Johnson Byabashaija; Diplomats, Ambassadors, Defence Attaches, Service Commanders, UPDF General Officers, Cultural and Religious leaders, and delegations from United Kingdom, UAE, Iraq, Russia, Burundi and Rwanda, among others.
