Mbarara – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated his dedication to improving the lives of Ugandans still trapped in subsistence farming, emphasizing that his administration’s priority remains to lift the poor into the money economy.
While inaugurating the Ankole Presidential Skilling Hub in Muko Village, Kashari, Mbarara, the President highlighted the significance of skill development and model demonstration farms in equipping young people with practical knowledge to generate wealth.
He announced plans to expand the hub by increasing student intake, constructing additional dormitories, and introducing electrical and motor mechanics training.
“We shall increase the intake, build more dormitories, and introduce electrical and motor mechanics to expand this skilling hub. I have always reminded leaders that poverty should be combated by teaching people how to create wealth,” President Museveni said.
The hub is part of a nationwide initiative comprising 19 similar hubs across Uganda aimed at equipping over 12,000 youth annually with vocational skills, thereby promoting wealth creation, employment, and sustainable development.
In his address, the President emphasised that the hub is a transformative step in the region’s economic empowerment. He commended the beneficiaries for their commitment to acquiring skills that will enable them to thrive in the modern economy.
While currently conducting a performance assessment tour on wealth creation and the Parish Development Model (PDM) in the Ankole subregion, Museveni stressed the importance of guidance and economic discipline in breaking the cycle of poverty.
Reflecting on the introduction of free education in government schools in 1996, he noted that while it was a major step in overcoming financial barriers, many people have not fully utilised these opportunities, leading to high dropout rates—especially in regions like Karamoja, where 87% of learners drop out after Primary Seven.
Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that every sub-county has a primary school and each parish has a secondary school, with a focus on making education more accessible and affordable for rural children. He pledged continued investment in infrastructure, including teachers’ houses, laboratories, and additional schools, to reduce education costs.
Support for the Industrial Hub and Wealth Creation Initiatives
In response to local leaders’ requests, the President promised to increase intake capacity at the industrial hub and prioritize the construction of more dormitories.
He also assured that each zone would have one hub, with a focus on expanding student capacity rather than increasing the number of branches.
Museveni highlighted the importance of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) at the district level, urging all graduates from the hub to join them as part of a broader strategy to integrate into the money economy.
He also unveiled plans for a factory that will produce paper from banana fibres, offering an eco-friendly alternative to polythene bags.
Further emphasising infrastructure development, Museveni announced plans to tarmac roads in the region, including the Bwizibwera-Ndina-Nyakasaka-Nyakabirizi and Biharwe-Rushozi-Bwizibwera roads.
“When our oil comes, we shall repair all of them. Don’t worry, most will be done,” he assured the public.
During his tour of the Industrial Hub, Museveni visited various departments, including Hairdressing, Welding, Carpentry, Tailoring, Building and Concrete Practice, Shoe Making, and Bakery.
So far, 720 students have graduated from the hub, each receiving a certificate from the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) upon completing the six-month program.
The President praised several graduates, including Ninsiima Blair (Baking graduate), who now runs a successful business selling mandazi and chapatis, Busingye Brenda (Carpentry and Joinery graduate), Ainamastiko Diana (Tailoring graduate); and John William (Hairdressing graduate).
These success stories highlight the Industrial Hub’s potential to provide opportunities for self-employment and economic growth.
Financial Support for Graduates and Community Initiatives
Demonstrating support for the graduates, President Museveni contributed Shs 40 million to four graduates who shared their testimonies, helping to boost their businesses.
He also donated Shs 10 million to a local women’s group and Shs 10 million to the Industrial Hub SACCO. Additionally, he pledged 100 cows to a local church.
Vice President Jessica Alupo thanked the President for his zonal tours, urging residents to continue supporting his leadership and its development programs.
Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, who also attended, encouraged youth to embrace saving habits before spending.
The Zonal Hub Chairperson, Mr. Kasagara Edward, also Chief Administrative Officer of Rubirizi District, requested an increase in district capacity from 14 to 25 students and the addition of plumbing and electrical installation courses. He also proposed showrooms in each district to help graduates showcase their work.
The event was attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, local leaders, and parents of graduates.
