Uganda’s Kasese Region: A Blueprint for Stability and Sustainable Growth in a Turbulent Region
With over 700,000 refugees fleeing instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo seeking safety within its borders, Uganda is facing a complex humanitarian and economic landscape. Yet, President Museveni’s recent campaign trail launch in Kasese district signals a renewed focus on leveraging peace and strategic development to not only manage this influx but to propel the entire Rwenzori sub-region – and Uganda as a whole – towards sustained prosperity. This isn’t simply about infrastructure projects; it’s about building a resilient economic model capable of absorbing shocks and creating opportunities for all.
The Pillars of Progress: Peace, Infrastructure, and a Shift in Priorities
President Museveni’s address in Kasese underscored the seven key contributions of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) over the past four decades, with peace as the foundational element. His assertion that peace in Uganda “will remain like ripe bananas—you only see them but you cannot touch or eat them” is a potent reminder of its fragility and the constant vigilance required to maintain it. This peace, however, isn’t merely the absence of conflict; it’s an enabling environment for the ambitious infrastructure projects highlighted during the campaign stop.
Roads like the Fort Portal–Kasese, Katunguru–Ishaka, and Kikorongo–Bwera are not just about connectivity; they are arteries pumping lifeblood into the regional economy. The planned upgrades to the Mityana–Kyegegwa road and the provision of additional road machinery for districts like Kasese and Ntungamo – currently hampered by insufficient funding – demonstrate a commitment to addressing logistical bottlenecks. This prioritization of infrastructure over short-term gains, as the President pointedly noted regarding salary increases, is a crucial lesson for sustainable development. The Lyantonde–Kazo–Ibanda–Kamwenge stretch of tarmac stands as a testament to the power of focused investment.
Beyond Connectivity: Powering Uganda’s Future with Energy and Rail
The vision extends beyond roads. President Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to universal electricity access, with full sub-county coverage as the next target. This is critical for attracting investment and fostering economic diversification. Equally significant is the shift from repairing the existing railway line to constructing a new Standard Gauge Railway through Kasese. This strategic move positions the region as a key logistics hub, facilitating trade and reducing transportation costs. The planned international airport in Kasese, following the Hoima airport built for the oil sector, further solidifies this ambition, promising a surge in tourism and economic activity.
From Subsistence to Surplus: The Wealth Creation Imperative
However, infrastructure alone isn’t enough. The President rightly emphasized the need for households to actively participate in wealth creation. The re-introduction of the four-acre model – advocating for a diversified approach encompassing coffee, fruits, pasture, food crops, poultry, pigs, and fish farming – is a practical strategy for boosting household incomes. The success story of George Matongo, earning Shs 21 million monthly from dairy farming, serves as a powerful example of what’s possible, even in areas lacking basic amenities. Addressing the fact that 30% of Ugandans remain outside the formal money economy is paramount, and community mobilization will be key.
Safeguarding Progress: Combating Corruption in Development Programs
The President’s firm warning regarding the theft of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds is a crucial signal. Corruption undermines development efforts and erodes public trust. Swift and decisive action against perpetrators is essential to ensure that these vital resources reach their intended beneficiaries. Transparency and accountability must be at the heart of all development initiatives.
The Job Creation Equation: Factories, Skills, and Commercial Agriculture
The focus on job creation is equally important. President Museveni correctly identified commercial agriculture, services, ICT, and factories as the primary drivers of employment. The impressive figure of 1.3 million jobs created by factories, compared to 480,000 in the government sector, underscores the importance of private sector-led growth. Investing in skilling centers to equip youth with employable skills is a vital component of this strategy.
Kasese as a Case Study: Regional Stability and Collaborative Development
The praise from Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among for maintaining peace in Kasese, despite its proximity to the DRC, highlights the region’s strategic importance. Her call for upgrading Kasese Airfield into an international airport aligns with the broader vision of transforming the area into a regional hub. Addressing the challenges raised by Kasese District NRM Chairperson Mr. Mbahimba James in Lwehingo, Kabukero, and Kyabatukura will be crucial for ensuring inclusive development.
The developments in Kasese aren’t isolated; they represent a broader strategy for stabilizing and developing Uganda’s border regions. As the country continues to host a significant refugee population, leveraging this situation as an opportunity for economic growth – through initiatives like the Refugee and Host Population Empowerment (RHPE) framework – will be critical. The World Bank offers valuable insights into best practices for managing refugee situations and fostering sustainable development.
What will be key to watch in the coming years is the government’s ability to translate these ambitious plans into tangible results, maintain peace in a volatile region, and ensure that the benefits of development are shared equitably across all communities. The future of Uganda’s Rwenzori sub-region – and indeed, the nation – hinges on a continued commitment to strategic prioritization, good governance, and inclusive growth.
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