Museveni Orders Crackdown on Cattle Theft, Illegal School Fees in Gomba

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed government agencies to urgently tackle pressing issues affecting communities in the Greater Mpigi area, including livestock theft, illegal school charges, youth unemployment, and limited electricity access.

While addressing journalists from Mpigi, Butambala, and Gomba districts at State Lodge Nakasero, the President expressed concern over the growing number of cattle theft cases in Gomba District. He questioned why police had not deployed canine units to track down the perpetrators and ordered an immediate investigation into the matter.

“I don’t understand why there are no police Canine dogs deployed in Gomba to track these criminals. I have instructed police leadership to investigate this and provide a lasting solution,” President Museveni said.

On education, the President strongly condemned the continued imposition of unauthorised fees in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, noting that such practices undermine the government’s commitment to free education for all children.

He attributed the establishment of skilling hubs partly to the deliberate frustration of UPE and Universal Secondary Education (USE) programs by individuals demanding illegal payments from parents.

“We introduced skilling hubs after noticing efforts to derail our free education initiative. So far, three hubs have been set up in Buganda, underscoring our commitment to equipping young people with free, practical skills,” he explained.

In response to complaints about unreliable electricity in some parts of Mpigi, the President instructed the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development to ensure that affected areas are promptly connected to the national power grid.

Journalists from Butambala also raised concerns about the adequacy of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds in light of population growth. While acknowledging the concern, President Museveni advised patience, noting that the current allocation of Shs100 million per parish would have a far-reaching impact if beneficiaries use and repay the funds as intended.

“There’s no need to increase the amount hastily. If used well, the funds will revolve and serve more people in the coming years,” he said.

Responding to reports of negligence by agricultural extension workers in Mpigi, particularly in dealing with poultry and livestock diseases, the President ordered the State House agriculture unit to investigate. He warned that service delivery failures would not be tolerated.

President Museveni reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting farmers, empowering the youth, and ensuring that public servants fulfil their responsibilities to improve the livelihoods of all Ugandans.