By Aggrey Baba
The President of the Republic of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has, today, assured Ugandans that the NRM government is committed to creating more jobs, especially in the private sector, as the country celebrates International Labour Day in Nakapiripirit District.
The event attracted ministers, cultural and religious leaders, as well as other dignitaries, who joined residents of Karamoja in marking the day under the theme of promoting employment and economic development.
In his address, the President cited figures from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), showing that Uganda has 1.4 million workers in factories, 3.6 million in agriculture, 5 million in services, 46,000 in ICT, and 480,000 in public service. Emphasizing that the private sector already employs more people than the government.
He outlined a clear formula for job creation, saying that both government and individuals must focus on creating wealth, which will in turn create jobs, stressing the importance of reducing the cost of electricity, transport, credit, and internet as key enablers for economic growth.
“To create wealth, we need affordable electricity, cheaper transport, that’s why we are building the railway, low-cost credit like the Parish Development Model (PDM), and affordable internet, which will help us create more jobs,” Museveni said.
He also used the occasion to criticize those he referred to as enemies of development, including media outlets and political opponents, accusing them of spreading falsehoods and working against national progress. He said such people “act without shame” and vowed that they would be defeated.
Speaking directly to the people of Karamoja, the NRM chairman praised the region for improved peace and security, and urged the Karamojong to stop cattle theft and instead embrace lawful ways of protecting and raising livestock.
“You say you love cows, but actually, you hate them if you steal them. I don’t steal because I don’t want to harm the owner, and I know God would not be happy with me.”
The President also encouraged Ugandans to take advantage of government programs and support initiatives aimed at economic empowerment. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
