President Yoweri Museveni has assured communities in Buhweju District that work on the long-delayed Bwizibwera–Nsiika–Nyakashaka–Nyakabirizi road will soon begin, confirming that the contractor is ready and only waiting for the final compensation procedures to be completed.
While campaigning in the district on Saturday, the President revealed that government had already contracted a Chinese company to undertake the project and provided Sh30 billion to compensate affected residents.
“The Bwizibwera–Nsiika–Nyakashaka–Nyakabirizi road will be constructed. A Chinese company has already signed a contract to build this road. They were waiting for Sh30 billion for compensations,” he told supporters.
Museveni used the visit to highlight the importance of peace, recalling moments when Buhweju was insecure during the liberation struggle. He said the contrast today is clear, pointing to the freedom of movement and social interaction that residents now enjoy.
“Recently, I passed here one evening and found men drinking peacefully, without fear of being attacked. All that is because of peace,” he said, describing peace as NRM’s “first contribution.”
He outlined the four pillars he believes define the NRM’s performance—peace, development, wealth creation and jobs—saying these are reflected in ongoing improvements such as extended electricity coverage, increased clean water access now reaching 75% of villages, and better availability of schools and health facilities.
On economic transformation, Museveni urged residents to plan their land effectively. He encouraged those with small pieces of land to adopt the 4-acre model and advised wealthier landowners to focus on tea, coffee, cotton or cattle.
He appreciated the district’s strong interest in tea growing but reminded them that the crop is viable mainly for those with at least five acres. He also mentioned earlier efforts to promote apple growing in the area.
The President added that he would engage China on taxes imposed on Ugandan tea and disclosed that government has set aside Sh360 billion to support large-scale farmers with seeds, fertilizers and to revive struggling tea factories.
Addressing employment, Museveni rejected the notion that government is the country’s biggest employer, insisting that most jobs emerge from private enterprises that thrive under the stable environment NRM has built.
He also expressed frustration with some MPs whom he accused of sidelining critical infrastructure needs. He insisted that roads, electricity and water should come first. “Your MPs are giving me a hard time,” he said. “Before tackling many things at once, we must first handle roads.”
Museveni promised to return to Buhweju for deeper discussions on wealth creation initiatives if re-elected.
During the event, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, who also serves as the NRM Second Vice Chairperson (Female), appealed to the President to treat the Bwizibwera–Buhweju road as an urgent priority.
He will today Monday 1st December ne in
