By KT Reporter
President Yoweri Museveni has said wealth creation begins with individuals who establish income-generating activities to create jobs for others, rather than depending on the government for employment.
Museveni, who is also the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential flag bearer, said his government has ensured a peaceful environment that has enabled the growth of both local and foreign investments.
Addressing crowds of NRM supporters at Kyabazinga Grounds in Bugweri and later at Kaiti Grounds in Namutumba, Museveni accused what he called “selfish politicians” of misleading the public by encouraging people to wait for government jobs instead of starting small enterprises.
He argued that such politicians prey on unemployed youth by spreading falsehoods about the government’s capacity to provide jobs for everyone. “I am usually polite, but I get sick of such people. Those people telling you to look for government jobs are enemies of Uganda and Africa,” he said. Museveni said this mindset leaves many young people desperate, yet small agricultural ventures can enable them to live sustainably. He stressed that globally, jobs are created mostly in the services and manufacturing sectors—not necessarily in government—and urged youth to embrace this reality.
“In Europe and across the world, where development has been realized, people are working largely in the service sectors and factories, not entirely depending on government jobs,” he said. Museveni noted that he has spent much of his life training citizens in improved agricultural practices, which he believes can help them create wealth and provide jobs for others.
He said those who have followed his guidance have earned more from personal investments than they would from government employment. He cited the four-acre model as one of the initiatives that has helped many individuals secure decent incomes while creating jobs within their communities.
The president also highlighted the Parish Development Model (PDM) as a “game changer,” saying beneficiaries have used the one million shillings provided to establish profitable agricultural enterprises. He said such initiatives drive long-term economic transformation and inspire others to follow suit.
However, the youth received his message on wealth and job creation with mixed reactions. Fatina Mutesi said many young people have attempted to start small businesses but are frustrated by the high cost of doing business. She said heavy taxes begin immediately when a business is opened, limiting its chances of survival.
Mutesi urged the government to provide incentives to small enterprises run by young people, saying such support would help them stay afloat despite challenges. On her part, Norah Nakyere noted that several youths in Namutumba Town Council have benefited from PDM funds and are using them to create meaningful jobs.
She said this has reduced redundancy among the youth as more of them engage in income-generating activities. Nakyere called on district officials to organize monthly business clinics to train young people on how to manage startups using the limited resources available to them.
-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
