President Museveni Rallies the People of Kaabong, Announces Plans for an International Airport to Boost Tourism and Wealth Creation

Kaabong District, Karamoja Sub-region — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the transformation of the Karamoja sub-region, with a special focus on peace consolidation, infrastructure development, and economic empowerment. The President made these remarks while addressing thousands of enthusiastic residents of Kaabong District during his ongoing nationwide campaign trail as the NRM presidential flag bearer.

In his speech, President Museveni reflected on Karamoja’s remarkable journey from conflict to peace, highlighting how stability has paved the way for social and economic progress. He recalled his first visit to the region in 1980, when Karamoja’s total population stood at 190,000 people. Today, he noted with pride, Kaabong District alone has a population of 264,000 — a clear indicator of improved health and security.

“When I first came to Karamoja in 1980, the population was 190,000. Today, Kaabong District alone has 264,000 people, thanks to good planning and immunisation. I thank all who supported peace, ending the deaths once caused by guns,” the President said.

From Guns to Growth: The Fruits of Peace in Karamoja

President Museveni attributed this growth to the successful disarmament campaign, which ended decades of cattle rustling and insecurity. He said peace has restored hope to communities, allowing them to invest in agriculture, education, and trade.

“Where there was once fear, we now have stability. Where there was hunger, we are beginning to see production,” Museveni emphasized, adding that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government’s interventions in health, security, and education have transformed the lives of the people.

Vision for the Future: Infrastructure and Wealth Creation

Looking ahead, the President unveiled a bold development vision for Kaabong and the wider Karamoja sub-region. Central to this plan is the establishment of an international airport in Karamoja — a move he said would open the region to global tourism and investment opportunities, particularly in connection with the scenic Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations.

“We now look to the future: an international airport for Karamoja to harness tourism from Kidepo National Park, and greater wealth creation through the Parish Development Model (PDM),” President Museveni stated.

The proposed airport, he explained, would not only ease access for international tourists but also stimulate local enterprise by creating demand for agricultural and hospitality products.

Empowering Communities Through the Parish Development Model (PDM)

The President encouraged the people of Kaabong to fully embrace the Parish Development Model, an initiative designed to drive Uganda’s socio-economic transformation by empowering households to engage in commercial agriculture.

“Let us produce milk, fruits, and vegetables so visitors buy from us. Our mission is not only politics but lifting our people out of poverty,” he urged.

He emphasized that the PDM offers every household a chance to participate directly in the money economy, reminding residents that prosperity will only come through production, not dependency.

A Region on the Rise

Over the years, Kaabong has seen significant improvements in social services, including expanded road networks, electricity connections, and improved access to education and healthcare. The government’s continued investment in peace and infrastructure has turned the once marginalised region into a new frontier for economic opportunity.

The President’s address was received with applause from the crowd, many of whom expressed optimism about the proposed airport and the promise of tourism-driven development.

As the NRM campaign continues across the country, Museveni’s message remains consistent — that peace, wealth creation, and infrastructural development are the foundation for Uganda’s continued progress.

Key Highlights from President Museveni’s Visit to Kaabong:

Reaffirmed peace and security as the cornerstone of Karamoja’s transformation.

Announced plans to establish an international airport to promote tourism and investment.

Emphasized wealth creation through PDM, encouraging locals to produce milk, fruits, and vegetables.

Celebrated population growth as evidence of improved health and governance.

Called on citizens to unite in building a self-sustaining and prosperous Karamoja.

President Museveni’s message in Kaabong underscored his enduring belief that sustainable peace and practical economic empowerment — not just politics — are the keys to transforming Uganda’s rural communities.