Butebo District
By John Kusolo
In a momentous event in the history of Uganda's development, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni officially launched the Bukedi Sub-Region Strategic Plan 2024–2040, a comprehensive roadmap designed to elevate household incomes, boost industrial production, and foster sustainable development in the Bukedi sub-region. The plan is a bold and ambitious initiative aimed at transforming Bukedi into a model of socio-economic prosperity, in line with Uganda's broader national development goals.
The launch, held in the heart of the Bukedi sub-region, was marked by significant celebrations, including a tribute to Dr. Monica Musenero, Uganda's Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation. Dr. Musenero was celebrated for her pioneering work in veterinary medicine and her heroic efforts during the Ebola outbreak in Kibale.
President Museveni, in his address, commended Dr. Musenero for her unwavering commitment to serving the people of Uganda. “Dr. Musenero showed remarkable courage when others hesitated,” he said. “Her commitment to serving the people reminds us that if you work for the people, God works for you.”
Dr. Musenero's family was also recognized for their decision to consolidate their land and manage it collectively, a model the President highlighted as key to sustainable land use and poverty reduction. He pointed out that improper land management has led to the depletion of natural resources, further entrenching poverty in many regions, including Bukedi. The President emphasized that the Strategic Plan aims to reverse these trends by promoting better land use, environmental conservation, and value addition to locally produced goods.
The Bukedi Sub-Region Strategic Plan is a 16-year roadmap with a primary goal of reducing household subsistence farming to less than 5% by 2040 and raising annual household income to UGX 30 million. This plan is underpinned by seven strategic objectives that include increasing industrial-level production of prioritized crops and livestock, implementing a "District a Factory" model for value addition, and building human capital to support regional development priorities.
One of the critical components of the plan is the adoption of a science-based approach to planning, which includes tools like Kibalo (economic analysis) and value chain analysis. These tools have been piloted and confirmed as effective in driving economic empowerment at the household level. The plan also emphasizes the importance of perennial cash crops, particularly coffee and cocoa, as well as sustainable production methods that promote nutrient recycling, environmental conservation, and irrigation.
The President stressed that the success of this Strategic Plan would require a coordinated effort from all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and development partners. To this end, two key entities will be established: the Bukedi Development Consortium (BUDECO) and the Bukedi Think Tank. BUDECO will mobilize and coordinate efforts for the plan's implementation, while the Bukedi Think Tank will serve as a research and strategic advisory platform, monitoring and evaluating the plan’s progress.
Dr. Musenero, expressing her gratitude to President Museveni and the people of Butebo, emphasized the importance of unity and the transformative power of science. “We are deeply honored that you accepted our invitation, Mr. President. Today, we come together to say thank you,” she stated. Her remarks underscored the critical role that scientific innovation will play in realizing the ambitious goals set out in the Strategic Plan.
The launch was attended by several prominent leaders, including Vice President Jessica Alupo, who echoed the President’s sentiments and expressed gratitude for the community’s unwavering support of President Museveni and the National Resistance Movement (NRM). "Your steadfast support for the NRM and President Museveni is vital as we work to advance national development," Alupo said.
As the ceremony concluded, it was clear that the Bukedi Sub-Region Strategic Plan represents more than just a development agenda—it is a symbol of hope and a promise of a better future for the people of Bukedi. With collective effort, strategic planning, and a commitment to sustainable development, Bukedi is poised to unlock its full potential and secure a prosperous future for its people, setting a model for other regions in Uganda and beyond.
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