President Museveni Vows Universal Electrification and Enhanced Water Access in Rukiga

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged to accelerate rural electrification, expand safe water access, and strengthen wealth creation programmes as he addressed supporters during his campaign rally in Rukiga District on Monday.

Speaking at his first rally of the day, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential flag bearer reflected on the progress made since his government came into office, particularly in extending electricity and water infrastructure to previously underserved areas.

The President noted that when the NRM took over leadership, electricity distribution in the Kigezi sub-region was minimal, with power supply having stopped in Kasese and Kabale relying on a small, outdated dam. Over the years, government has extended the grid to Ntungamo, Kabale, Kisoro and most recently to Rwamucucu in Rukiga.

Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that every part of the country is connected to the national grid.

“We promised to electrify all districts, and the next step is taking power to every gombolola,” he said, emphasising that universal access to electricity is vital for industrialisation, job creation and lifting households out of poverty.

83% Safe Water Coverage Achieved in Rukiga

On water provision, the President highlighted ongoing efforts to improve safe water coverage across the district. He cited the Kashumuruzo and Kabumbiro–Nyakarambi water schemes, which have collectively pushed Rukiga’s safe water coverage to 83 percent.

He assured residents that the government will work to close the remaining gap.

“We shall complete the work so that everyone can access clean water,” Museveni said, adding that reliable water supply is crucial for public health and community development.

Museveni also used the platform to explain the government’s stance on investing heavily in science education. He clarified that the priority given to science teachers is based on national development needs, not a devaluation of arts education.

“Uganda needs more science teachers not because arts teachers are less important, but because we must prioritise where the need is greatest,” he said. The President stressed that the country must build a workforce capable of driving technological growth, scientific innovation and industrial advancement.

Turning to economic transformation, Museveni urged residents to concentrate on sectors with the highest potential to generate income and employment. These include commercial agriculture, industries, services and ICT—areas the government continues to promote through programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.

“The principle remains to prioritise what builds the future,” he told supporters, encouraging households to embrace modern farming methods, value addition and entrepreneurship.

Throughout the rally, Museveni reiterated the NRM’s long-term approach to development, centred on infrastructure, human capital investment and targeted wealth creation. He assured the people of Rukiga that the government will continue working systematically to ensure no community is left behind.

The rally attracted thousands of enthusiastic supporters who welcomed the President’s message of stability and ongoing transformation in the region.