"Cows Eat Grass, Not Tarmac,” President Museveni Emphasises Wealth Creation in Kyotera

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has underscored the importance of peace, infrastructure development and wealth creation as the foundation for Uganda’s transformation, reminding residents of Greater Masaka that stability remains the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) biggest achievement over the last four decades.

Addressing a well-attended rally in Kyotera District after his engagement in Lwengo, President Museveni recalled the turbulent history of the region, noting that Masaka and Kyotera were deeply affected by armed conflicts in 1972, 1979 and 1985. He emphasized that since the NRM came to power, the area has enjoyed uninterrupted peace for about 40 years, creating an environment in which people can work, invest and plan for the future.

“Without peace, there can be no development,” the President said, adding that stability has allowed generations to grow, educate their children and engage in productive economic activities without fear of war.

Looking ahead to the next NRM term, President Museveni outlined key infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and boosting trade in the region. He announced that government plans to work on the Mutukula–Kyotera–Kalisizo–Masaka road, a vital corridor linking Uganda to Tanzania through the Mutukula border, as well as the Kyapa–Kasensero road, which is critical for movement of people and goods around Lake Victoria.

The President also revealed plans to construct a bridge linking Buganda to Nyangoma in Tanzania’s Kagera region, a project expected to enhance cross-border trade, regional integration and economic activity for communities on both sides of the border.

On human capital development, President Museveni announced plans to expand the Presidential Zonal Skilling Hubs, which equip young people with practical, hands-on skills. He said the number of hubs will be increased from the current 19 to 39, in order to reach more youths across the country and prepare them for self-employment and job creation.

“These skilling hubs are producing carpenters, mechanics, welders, tailors and other skilled workers who can earn a living without waiting for office jobs,” he said, urging young people to embrace skills training as a pathway out of unemployment and poverty.

Emphasizing wealth creation as the backbone of development, President Museveni reminded the gathering of his own experience after moving to Rwakitura in 1970. He noted that at the time, the area had no modern infrastructure, but he deliberately focused on productive activities, particularly agriculture.

“When I went to Rwakitura, there was no tarmac, but I concentrated on wealth creation. Cows eat grass, not tarmac,” he said, stressing that prosperity begins with production and income generation before infrastructure can follow.

The President cautioned Ugandans against putting the cart before the horse, explaining that roads, electricity and other services are important, but they must be supported by a population that is economically active and producing wealth.

He urged residents of Kyotera and the wider Greater Masaka region to prioritize commercial agriculture, enterprise and skills development, assuring them that government will continue investing in peace, infrastructure and programs that empower citizens to improve their household incomes.

President Museveni’s Kyotera rally is part of his wider engagement with communities across the country as the NRM leadership outlines its achievements and future plans, with a strong emphasis on stability, economic transformation and inclusive development.