President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a disciplined and democratic Uganda, warning against political hooliganism and intimidation.
Speaking at State House Entebbe while chairing the Defence Forces Council — the UPDF’s highest decision-making body — President Museveni emphasised the need for decorum in political engagement. “On the issue of democracy, which is one of the four principles of the NRM, we want a disciplined democracy, not hooliganism, not bad language. We want Ugandans to choose freely, without fear or intimidation,” the President said.
The Defence Forces Council meeting followed a High Command session held earlier, also chaired by the President. Museveni criticised some politicians for using threats and inflammatory language to influence public opinion.
“This must stop. It’s not the African way. We’ve discussed it with the security agencies, and it’s going to stop. Speak respectfully — that is our culture,” he stressed, citing the example of the Banyankole, who frown upon vulgar speech.
Addressing the military, the President revisited the history of UPDF’s transformation and the welfare reforms initiated to improve soldiers’ livelihoods.
“When we started, soldiers earned very little. But we built army schools, constructed barracks, and introduced SACCOs so soldiers could solve problems even on small salaries,” he said, urging continued improvements in housing, education, and financial access for military families.
On economic empowerment, Museveni promoted the “Four-Acre Model” of intensive farming for households with small land holdings.
“If you have four acres, use them wisely: one for coffee, another for fruits, one for pasture, and one for food crops. Add poultry, piggery, or fish farming in the backyard — fish farming alone can earn Shs 80 million a year,” he explained.
He further encouraged the adoption of high-value crops like palm oil, cocoa, and avocados, pointing to the economic potential already observed in places like Kalangala.
Underscoring patriotism and Pan-Africanism, Museveni called for national and regional integration to boost market access for Uganda’s surplus produce. “We have 700,000 tonnes of sugar, but we consume only 300,000. Who will buy the rest? That’s why Pan-Africanism is critical. Uganda alone is not enough; we must embrace Africa to prosper,” he said.
On the subject of transformation, Museveni drew on a metaphor of pregnancy to describe the need for progress in African societies. “You can’t be pregnant year after year with no baby. Growth must be both quantitative and qualitative — we must transform from generational poverty,” he asserted.
Touching on security, President Museveni warned about global advancements in military technology, including space capabilities, and emphasised the importance of regional strength.
“Even if Uganda becomes a first-world country, we are still too small. Integration gives us strategic size and strength,” he stated.
In his remarks, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba reaffirmed the UPDF’s readiness to safeguard Uganda and its neighbours. “Our forces are alert and prepared for any mission. Internally, security is calm, with significant progress in Karamoja. Rustlers have been suppressed, and we are working to prevent rearmament,” he said.
Gen Muhoozi noted that while most of Uganda remains stable, pockets of instability persist in urban areas like Kampala. “We are addressing criminal activity firmly and monitoring political actors who attempt to destabilise the capital. Kampala belongs to all Ugandans, and we will ensure it remains secure,” he said, adding that the force remains vigilant as the 2026 general elections approach.
He also highlighted continuous improvements in soldiers’ welfare — including clothing, housing, feeding, healthcare, and logistics — and thanked President Museveni for his unwavering support.
“Your Excellency, under your guidance, the UPDF is mission-ready and committed to the peace and prosperity of our nation and our neighbours,” Gen Muhoozi concluded.
The meeting was attended by Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth, top UPDF leadership, and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
