President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Monday inaugurated the Ankole Presidential Skilling Hub in Kashari, Mbarara District, underscoring the importance of practical training in wealth creation.
The initiative, aimed at equipping young Ugandans with skills, now includes model demonstration farms to teach modern agricultural practices.
Addressing attendees, President Museveni reiterated his long-standing message that poverty should be fought by teaching people how to create wealth. He urged local leaders to be proactive in guiding communities towards economic prosperity rather than waiting for interventions from Kampala.
“Opportunities for obugaiga (prosperity) are here—take advantage of them,” he said. The President announced plans to increase student intake at the skilling hub, expand infrastructure by building more dormitories, and introduce new training programs in electrical and motor mechanics.
Later in the day, President Museveni visited Mrs. Ahimbisibwe Harriet from Ibanda District, a beneficiary of the Parish Development Model (PDM) program. Her inspiring story of rearing 21 pigs using PDM funds reflects the growing impact of government initiatives in boosting household incomes.
The President noted that economic participation has significantly increased over the decades. “In the 1960s, only 10% of the population participated in the money economy, while 90% remained asleep. Now, 68% are engaged,” he remarked.
However, he raised concerns over reported cases of corruption within the PDM program, directing leaders to investigate and hold those responsible accountable. “We shall definitely lock up the thieves,” he warned.
President Museveni’s tour highlighted Uganda’s progress in economic transformation, with a strong call to leaders and citizens to maximize available opportunities for sustainable development.