EDITOR
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon the people of Kigezi sub-region to adopt strategic farming methods in order to combat rising poverty levels.
The President made the remarks on Thursday while addressing local leaders at Rukungiri Main Stadium. His visit to Kigezi is part of a three-day tour aimed at assessing the impact of the Parish Development Model (PDM) and promoting wealth creation among rural farmers.
During the meeting, leaders from Kigezi presented alarming statistics highlighting the rising poverty levels in the region. According to a memorandum read by the Minister of Security, retired Major General Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, poverty in Kigezi sub-region has surged from 13.3 percent in 2016 to 27.3 percent in 2020.
The leaders attributed this increase to issues such as land fragmentation and declining soil productivity, which have hindered agricultural output. In response, Vice President Jessica Alupo urged leaders to take advantage of the existing peace and stability to encourage communities to participate in government development programs aimed at eradicating poverty at the household level.
Providing a solution to the worsening economic conditions, President Museveni emphasized the need for what he termed “calculated farming,” centered on the Four-Acre Model Plan. He stressed that while other services are essential, prioritizing increased household income is critical for economic transformation.
As part of his visit, the President will travel to Kabale on Friday, where he is scheduled to commission the Kigezi Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub in Kamuganguzi. The facility, a State House initiative, is designed to equip youths with practical skills. Additionally, he will inaugurate three new roads in Kabale Municipality.
The tour will conclude with a public rally at Rushebeya Playground in Rwamucuucu Sub-county, Rukiga District, where President Museveni is expected to further address the region’s development challenges and opportunities.
