Rubirizi — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential flagbearer for the 2026 elections, on Wednesday concluded his campaign tour of the Ankole sub-region with a final rally in Rubirizi District.
The President, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, joined senior NRM leaders and local officials at Kyenzanza Community Playground, where thousands of residents turned up to hear his message.
Peace as the Foundation
Museveni told supporters that Rubirizi—situated close to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo—understands the value of peace more than most places.
“You who live near Congo know their problems. You have seen refugees in Kamwenge and Rwamwanja,” he said. “That is why I take pride in seeing Uganda peaceful. Without peace, nothing we talk about today would have been possible.”
He said Uganda’s stability remains the cornerstone of all development the government has achieved and continues to deliver.
Road Projects Back on Track
Turning to infrastructure, Museveni assured residents that long-awaited road works are firmly on the agenda. “We shall reconstruct the Mbarara–Ishaka road. It must be worked on,” he said.
He added that the Katerera–Kamwenge–Ibanda road is still a priority, but faced delays due to budget constraints. “Even God created the world in stages, six days. I am not God, but we shall do everything in the right order,” he noted.
PDM Funds Must Reach the People
Museveni reaffirmed his directive that Parish Development Model (PDM) funds be disbursed transparently and reach all targeted beneficiaries.
“Rubirizi has so far received Shs18 billion. I have already instructed that PDM money must be provided in every budget cycle so that people’s lives continue to improve,” he said.
Social Services Improving
The President highlighted ongoing government investment in education and health. Rubirizi District now has 58 government primary schools, 89 private primary schools, 10 government secondary schools, and 14 private secondary schools.
In healthcare, all 11 sub-counties have Health Centre IIIs or higher-level facilities, including a fully functional Health Centre IV in Bunyaruguru Constituency staffed with four doctors.
Tourism as a Wealth Driver
Museveni urged residents to take advantage of Rubirizi’s rich natural attractions to grow household income.
He reaffirmed government support toward positioning the district as one of Western Uganda’s leading tourism destinations.
During the rally, Museveni handed over NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson aspirants, councillors, and other party flagbearers in Rubirizi, formally endorsing them for the upcoming elections.
In her remarks, Maama Janet thanked residents for their massive turnout and attributed Uganda’s stability to God’s grace and the leadership of the NRM. “I thank you for coming in such big numbers and giving this day the respect it deserves,” she said.
She reminded Ugandans—especially the youth—of the country’s turbulent past and urged them to safeguard peace through their vote. “You, the youth, have the responsibility and power to protect this peace,” she said.
“On voting day, ensure not only you vote but also encourage everyone you know to vote, so that together we secure leadership that will continue to build and protect our country.”
Entrepreneurs Pledge Support
Alhajji Hassan Basajjabalaba, chairperson of the NRM Entrepreneurs League, assured the President of Rubirizi’s unwavering support. “For the people to vote for the President, they should understand that by supporting him, they are also benefiting themselves,” he said.
The rally also featured testimonies from beneficiaries of the Presidential Skilling Hubs. Susan Naturinda shared how training at the Ankole Industrial Presidential Skilling Hub in Mbarara transformed her life.
After completing a free six-month hairdressing course, she used Shs200,000 from her parents to start a business. She now employs another person and earns a consistent daily income.
“I now do dreads and style my own hair,” she said proudly.
The event drew NRM Central Executive Committee members, Members of Parliament, cultural and religious leaders, and thousands of supporters who gathered to close the Ankole campaign trail.