President Museveni Pledges Power, Compensation, and Social Services at Buvuma Rally

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged decisive government action to address long-standing infrastructure, energy, and social service gaps in Buvuma District, describing the island community as a strategic but historically underserved part of Uganda.

Speaking at a well-attended campaign rally in Buvuma, President Museveni, accompanied by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataaha Museveni and the National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership, officially presented the NRM 2026–2031 Manifesto to residents of the island district. The rally formed part of the President’s nationwide engagements aimed at mobilising support while directly engaging communities on their development priorities.

Electricity Extension a Top Priority

The President acknowledged that Buvuma remains the only district in Uganda without access to electricity, calling the situation unacceptable. He assured residents that government plans are already in place to finally connect the islands to the national power grid.

According to President Museveni, electricity will be extended to Buvuma through a combination of rainfall-generated energy and an underwater power cable from Mayuge District on the mainland. He directed responsible officials to clearly explain the causes of previous delays and ensure that implementation is expedited.

“Buvuma cannot remain in darkness when the rest of the country is moving forward,” the President said, stressing that access to electricity is critical for value addition, industrialisation, and improved service delivery.

Oil Palm Compensation and Industrialization

Addressing concerns surrounding the oil palm project, President Museveni reassured landowners that compensation funds are available and will be paid. He explained that the remaining step involves verifying the rightful beneficiaries to avoid fraud and ensure fairness.

He further revealed that government plans to establish palm oil processing factories on the island, a move expected to create jobs, reduce transport costs, and increase incomes for local farmers. The President emphasised that value addition remains a core pillar of the NRM’s economic strategy.

Education Solutions for Fishing Communities

Recognising the unique lifestyle of fishing communities in Buvuma, President Museveni announced plans to establish boarding schools on the islands. He noted that many parents spend extended periods on the lake, making it difficult to consistently supervise their children’s education.

The boarding schools, he said, will provide a safe and stable learning environment, allowing parents to work without worry while ensuring children access quality education.

Commitment to Island Development

President Museveni assured residents that all issues raised during the rally — including electricity, compensation, education, and industrial development — have been documented and will be followed up by the relevant government agencies.

He urged the people of Buvuma to continue supporting the NRM, arguing that the party’s track record demonstrates its capacity to identify community challenges and provide long-term solutions.

As Uganda heads toward the 2026 General Elections, the Buvuma rally highlighted the NRM’s focus on inclusive development, particularly for hard-to-reach and island communities that play a vital role in the country’s economy.