President Museveni Recounts Historic Escape During Engagement with Bugisu Journalists*

*By John Kusolo*

Mbale, Uganda – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, during an interactive session with journalists from the Bugisu sub-region at the State Lodge in Mbale, highlighted the critical role of the media in advancing Uganda’s wealth creation agenda. The President urged journalists to actively participate in and promote government initiatives aimed at fostering socio-economic transformation across the country.

The meeting provided a platform for dialogue on how the media can effectively partner with the government to achieve shared development goals. President Museveni emphasized that the success of wealth creation programs depends on collective responsibility, with the media playing a pivotal role in sensitizing the public and encouraging participation.

“The media is a powerful tool for mobilization,” the President remarked. “If you inform and educate the public about the available opportunities in sectors like agriculture, industry, and services, you contribute directly to Uganda’s development.”

On a lighter note, the President shared a poignant recollection from his personal journey—his narrow escape from Idi Amin’s army 51 years ago in Maluku Estate, Mbale. This anecdote served as a reminder of the region’s historical significance in Uganda’s liberation struggle.

President Museveni vividly described the tense moments when he and his comrades faced the wrath of Amin’s forces. “It was a time of great danger, but also one that taught us resilience and strategy,” he recounted. “The memories of that day remain etched in my mind, and Maluku Estate will always hold a special place in our history.”

The President’s narration painted a vivid picture of the sacrifices made by Uganda’s liberation heroes, many of whom risked or lost their lives in the struggle for freedom and democracy. He encouraged the journalists to document and preserve such stories to inspire future generations.

The President further reiterated the need for journalists to balance their watchdog role with constructive reporting that highlights opportunities for development. He urged the media to focus on issues that matter to ordinary citizens, such as poverty alleviation, access to education, and economic empowerment.

“You have a responsibility to not only inform but also guide the public on how they can improve their livelihoods,” the President said. He underscored the government’s commitment to supporting media practitioners through capacity-building initiatives and partnerships.

President Museveni detailed ongoing government programs aimed at wealth creation, including the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga initiative, and Operation Wealth Creation (OWC). He encouraged the journalists to lead by example by participating in these programs and becoming ambassadors of socio-economic transformation in their communities.

“The government has created an enabling environment for every Ugandan to thrive. It is up to us to take advantage of these opportunities,” he stated. The President also urged journalists to disseminate success stories from beneficiaries of these initiatives to inspire others.

The engagement with Bugisu journalists was a blend of reflection and forward-looking dialogue. While recounting the challenges of the past, President Museveni emphasized the importance of building a prosperous and united Uganda.

The President’s meeting with the media underscored the government’s recognition of the press as a critical stakeholder in national development. It also highlighted the need for collaboration to address the challenges facing Uganda today while honoring the sacrifices that paved the way for peace and stability.

As Uganda marches forward, the President’s call for unity, resilience, and active participation in wealth creation programs resonates as a reminder of the shared responsibility to build a better future for all Ugandans.