Progress on the NRM Manifesto Commitments (2021-2026): Insights from Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs*

*By John Kusolo*

The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA), under the leadership of Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, the State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs in charge of Veterans, has made remarkable progress in fulfilling the commitments outlined in the NRM Manifesto for 2021-2026. With an implementation success rate of 90%, the ministry has played a crucial role in securing Uganda’s peace and stability, ensuring veteran welfare, and driving socio-economic transformation.

*Key Achievements:*

*1. Strengthening Internal and Regional Security*

MODVA has reinforced Uganda's security through various initiatives:

*Counter-Terrorism Operations:*

Over 400 personnel have been trained and equipped to counter the activities of groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and Al-Shabaab.

Disarmament in Karamoja: The "Usalama Kwa Wote" operation led to significant reductions in illegal firearms, with 1,279 guns recovered and over 55,000 livestock returned to rightful owners.

*Cybersecurity Measures:*

A dedicated cybersecurity unit and collaboration with the National Forensic Sciences University in Jinja have improved Uganda’s resilience against cyber threats.

*2. Professionalisation and Modernisation of the Defence Forces*

The UPDF has achieved substantial progress in its professionalisation:

Recruitment drives have added 50,523 personnel, focusing on equitable regional representation.

Advanced training programs, including the establishment of the National Defence College, have enhanced the skills of over 117,000 personnel.

*3. Welfare Improvements*

Salary Enhancements: Incremental pay increases for UPDF personnel, with privates now earning UGX 650,000.

*Healthcare Services:*

Expansion of medical infrastructure, including a 362-bed Defence Referral and Teaching Hospital, and enhanced preventive and curative healthcare.

*Educational Support:*

Enrollment in 52 MODVA schools has grown to over 50,000, with consistent academic performance improvements.

*4. Infrastructure Development*

Construction of 670 housing units and multiple health and training facilities.

Establishment of solar energy systems in barracks, notably the Kololo Solar Project, reducing electricity costs.

*5. Support for Veterans*

MODVA has cleared pensions for 15,498 veterans since 2014, amounting to UGX 163 billion. Efforts to settle the remaining 14,535 cases are ongoing.

*6. Productive Activities and Wealth Creation*

The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) has spearheaded economic initiatives, including:

Rehabilitation of the meter-gauge railway.

Development of a textile and leather factory in Buikwe Industrial Park, with trial production underway.

Engagement in agriculture to boost Uganda's food security.

*Unmet Targets and Challenges*

Despite the impressive progress, certain challenges persist:

*Unfinished Projects:*

The Defence Referral Hospital and housing units are yet to be completed.

*Funding Shortfalls:*

Delays in acquiring resources have impacted key projects and veteran pension payments.

*Operational Pressures:*

Escalating security operations in Karamoja and DRC strain the budget and resources.

Hon. Huda Abason Oleru remains optimistic about achieving a 95% completion rate of manifesto commitments by the end of the period. Her dedication to addressing veteran welfare and MODVA's comprehensive approach to security and development highlight the ministry's pivotal role in Uganda's transformation journey.