Kabale – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated the need to protect wetlands, condemning the practice of rearing cattle in these sensitive ecosystems. He emphasised that wetlands should be preserved for sustainable activities like fish farming to enhance livelihoods while maintaining environmental balance.
The President made these remarks during his ongoing performance assessment tour on the Parish Development Model (PDM) and wealth creation in the Kigezi sub-region. As part of his visit, he officially launched the Kigezi Zonal Industrial Hub in Mulambo Village, Bulanga Parish, Kamuganguzi Sub-County, Kabale District.
Addressing residents, President Museveni commended their initiative of establishing a fishpond in the wetland but warned against keeping cattle there.
“I appreciate the fishpond you have set up, but I advise you to move your cattle out of the wetland because it is not a suitable environment for livestock. Wetlands are meant for fish farming, not cattle,” he stated.
The President highlighted the economic benefits of fish farming, explaining that it can be a lucrative venture.
“With fish farming, you can earn 700,000 shillings from half an acre after deducting feed costs, and up to 1.4 million shillings from a full acre. Additionally, the water from fishponds can be used for irrigation, improving crop yields,” he explained.
Empowering Youth Through Skills Training
The Kigezi Zonal Industrial Hub, launched by President Museveni, is designed to equip young people with practical skills in carpentry, bakery, tailoring, hairdressing, shoemaking, and welding. The facility aims to train 12,000 youth annually, helping them secure employment and create wealth.
President Museveni expressed satisfaction with how parents have embraced the free training initiative and announced the expansion of the program to include plumbing, motor mechanics, and electrical installation.
“We will continue to expand skills training, ensuring our children are fully equipped for the job market,” he assured.
At the same event, the President contributed 40 million shillings to the four most skilled finalists and 20 million shillings to the Youth SACCO to support their access to capital for wealth creation.
Addressing School Dropout Rates
President Museveni also raised concerns about the increasing number of school dropouts, despite the availability of free skills training programmes.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring every parish has a primary school and every sub-county has a secondary school, allowing students to commute from home and reduce the cost of accommodation and feeding.
“This approach will enable the government to focus resources on paying teachers and covering other school expenses,” he said.
Additionally, the President emphasized that regional industrial hubs would provide children from remote areas with opportunities for skills development and economic empowerment.
Hon. Catherine Ndamira, the Woman Member of Parliament for Kabale District, thanked President Museveni for his continued support of youth skills development, which she said is crucial for job creation.
Mr. Pascal Tibaijuka, an instructor at the Industrial Hub, praised the President for initiating the project in 2023, which has already benefited 247 students.
“This project has transformed our community. Many students who previously struggled due to a lack of school resources can now acquire skills and participate in the money economy,” he said.
The event was attended by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Members of Parliament, and other leaders.
