By Barbara Nansiimbi
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Presidential flagbearer for 2026 elections, has concluded his campaign trail in Ankole sub-region with a final rally being held in Rubirizi District.
The President was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, together with senior NRM and local leaders at Kyenzanza Community Playground in Rubirizi District.
Addressing thousands of supporters, President Museveni emphasized that the foundation of all development Uganda is enjoying today is peace, which Rubirizi situated near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo understands more than most districts.
“You who live near Congo know their problems. You have seen refugees in Kamwenge and Rwamwanja. That is why I take pride in seeing Uganda peaceful. Without peace, nothing we talk about today would have been possible,” the President said.
Turning to infrastructure, President Museveni assured residents that long-awaited road projects are set for action.
“We shall reconstruct the Mbarara–Ishaka road. It must be worked on,” he affirmed.
He went on:
“The Katerera–Kamwenge–Ibanda road has always been in our plan but delays came because of many budget pressures and competing priorities. Even God created the world in stages, six days. I am not God, but we shall do everything in the right order.”
The President also reiterated that Parish Development Model (PDM) funds must reach every beneficiary, directing leaders to ensure transparency and full coverage.
“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 noted.
President Museveni further highlighted ongoing government support to education and health sectors in Rubirizi District. The district currently has 58 government primary schools and 89 private primary schools, as well as 10 government secondary schools and 14 private secondary schools.
In healthcare, all 11 sub-counties in Rubirizi now have Health Centre IIIs or above, including a fully functional Health Centre IV in Bunyaruguru Constituency, which has four doctors.
Beyond social services, the President urged the district to harness its unique natural endowments to grow wealth through tourism.
Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Rubirizi’s emergence as a leading tourism destination in Western Uganda.
The President also handed over the NRM flags to aspiring Members of Parliament, LC V chairperson, councillors, and other party candidates in Rubirizi District, formally endorsing their participation in the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, the First Lady thanked residents of Rubirizi for turning up in large numbers to honor the day.“I thank you for coming in such big numbers and giving this day the respect it deserves,” she said.
“I also thank God for what He has done for our country and for guiding our President and the NRM over the years, so that peace is maintained and people can live confidently, walking even at night without fear.”
Maama Janet highlighted the importance of the youth, noting that they form the largest population in the country.
She cautioned against forgetting Uganda’s history and the struggles that brought the nation to its current state of peace.
“We thank God for using the President and the NRM to maintain peace, which gives confidence not just to Ugandans but also to neighboring countries like Sudan and Congo. You, the youth, have the responsibility and power to protect this peace through your vote.” she said.
The First Lady also urged citizens to ensure that their actions at home contribute to stability for future generations. She emphasized the importance of mobilizing everyone to vote.
“Whatever you are doing in your homes today, think of the generations to come. Don’t forget where we have come from,” she said.
She summed up her remarks by urging voters to massively vote for NRM.
“On voting day, make sure not only you vote but also encourage everyone you know to vote so that together we secure the leadership that will continue to build and protect our country.” she said.
