During the ongoing 10-day NRM Parliamentary Caucus retreat at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, President Museveni lauded the members of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus for their support of value addition.
The President acknowledged the agreement among NRM MPs that value addition is crucial for the benefit of all Ugandans.
Under the theme “Increasing Household Incomes and Wealth Creation: The Critical Role of the Leader,” the retreat saw the participation of Vice President Jessica Alupo and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.
President Museveni highlighted the importance of value addition by questioning the losses incurred when exporting unprocessed coffee. He expressed his satisfaction with the MPs’ alignment on the minimum requirement of value addition for the progress of the country, emphasizing the need to focus on developing infrastructure such as roads and electricity.
“How much money does Uganda lose in exporting unprocessed coffee? That should be the question,” President Museveni said.
“I am happy to hear that now you agree with me that value addition is a minimum position for all of us; for me and you. Once we have good roads and electricity in place, all other sectors will follow, but let’s start with power and electricity,” he said.
The President urged the legislators to prioritize key sectors in budget allocations, emphasizing that focusing on critical areas like infrastructure would enable progress in other sectors as well.
Drawing from the lessons learned during the National Resistance Army (NRA) era, he stressed the significance of prioritization.
President Museveni also agreed with the MPs on the establishment of a caucus to address any issues, particularly those concerning presidential proposals, ensuring amicable resolutions.
He further advocated for allocating one billion Ugandan Shillings to each district for the construction of murram roads, emphasizing the developmental benefits they bring when properly maintained.
“These murram roads are good if they are worked on and drained well,” President Museveni said.
Regarding healthcare, the President proposed empowering health centers IIIs and IVs with doctors, highlighting their crucial role in disease management.
He emphasized the importance of preventive measures, including antenatal clinics and immunization, from an early stage to ensure the well-being of unborn babies.
President Museveni’s remarks at the retreat underscore the shared commitment of the NRM MPs and the government to prioritize value addition, infrastructure development, and healthcare improvements for the betterment of all Ugandans.