KYANKWANZI — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced plans to roll out a large-scale, countrywide fish farming project aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Uganda’s wetlands and boosting household incomes.
The President revealed the initiative on the sixth day of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary retreat at the National Leadership Institute, where he has been engaging newly elected Members of Parliament on key national development priorities.
“I intend to launch a big, countrywide project for fish farming,” President Museveni said. “These wetlands we have cannot be effectively utilised using the Parish Development Model funds alone. The Shs1 million is not enough; it requires machinery and organised state support.”
He explained that while some wealthy individuals may invest independently, the proposed project will require direct government leadership and long-term planning, noting it could extend beyond the current financial year due to competing priorities such as preparations for the African Cup of Nations.
On security and infrastructure, the President disclosed plans to establish a military barracks in Bulambuli District, describing it as a long-standing proposal. “Bulambuli borders Kween, and we have been planning for that barracks for quite some time,” he said.
He also directed that government land across the country be utilised for seedling production to support agriculture and environmental restoration.
President Museveni further issued a directive aimed at improving transparency and coordination at the district level. “I am going to order Chief Administrative Officers that anything sent to districts must be communicated to Members of Parliament and LC5 chairpersons,” he said.
“No funds, whether for government programmes or the Parish Development Model, should go to districts without the knowledge of political leaders.”
The President was responding to issues raised by legislators following presentations from key government officials, including Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Adonia Ayebare.
“When interacting in the foreign policy space, Members of Parliament should bear in mind that the Executive takes the lead,” Amb. Ayebare said, noting that the field is complex and requires coordination to avoid institutional clashes.
He highlighted Uganda’s growing diplomatic role, including its leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), where President Museveni has been advocating for peace amid global tensions in regions such as the Middle East and Europe.
Ayebare also noted that Uganda remains active in regional and international bodies such as the African Union, East African Community, and COMESA, urging Parliament to support strategic diplomacy focused on technology, skills development, value addition, and investment promotion.
Presenting a paper on agricultural commercialisation, Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze said Uganda is still operating below its agricultural potential. “We have only utilised between 35% and 38% of our land for full agricultural production, and fertiliser use remains very low at about 2.5 kilograms per hectare,” he said.
He called for a shift toward modern, intensive farming practices, particularly for smallholder farmers under the four-acre model, which integrates enterprises such as poultry, piggery, fish farming, and dairy.
“There must be a clear linkage between smallholder and large-scale farmers. Each has a role to play in transforming agriculture,” he added.
Tumwebaze also stressed the need for increased investment in agricultural research, irrigation, and energy, noting that Uganda’s productivity remains far below its potential compared to countries like China.
“Our coffee exports are growing, but we are still largely exporting raw materials. Value addition would significantly increase earnings,” he said.
He further highlighted growing global demand for milk and fish, noting that Uganda is well-positioned to expand production and tap into international markets.
Meanwhile, Security Minister Jim Muhwezi emphasised the importance of maintaining national stability as a foundation for development. “National security is multi-dimensional. It involves protecting territorial integrity, safeguarding national interests, and ensuring the welfare and dignity of citizens,” he said.
He added that a stable security environment is essential for economic growth and the successful implementation of government programmes.