On May 8, 2025, the First Lady of
Uganda, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, delivered a timely and sobering reminder
in response to a provocative Daily Monitor article titled “When a Revolution
Eats Its Children.” Her words deserve serious attention especially from us
in Gen Z: It takes much more to build than it takes to tear down.

As National Coordinator of Gen Z for
Generation Seven, I see this truth not only in history but in our current
responsibility to preserve and advance the legacy of the National Resistance
Movement (NRM). Our generation must inherit not amnesia, but purpose.

At the recent Commanders’ Meeting
and Defence Forces Council on May 7 and 8, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
called on young Ugandans to uphold the values of Uzalendo a patriotism
rooted in duty and service beyond party lines. Yet while this message called
for national cohesion, some voices particularly in the opposition worked to
distort it.

Led by Mr. Robert Kyagulanyi, alias
Bobi Wine, this campaign seeks to divorce young Ugandans from their national
memory. It is an attempt to replace responsibility with rhetoric, and context
with chaos. That is not leadership; it is sabotage in the language of
rebellion.

Let us be clear: the NRM’s legacy is
not simply a political record, it is the foundation of our peace. While Eastern
DRC is plagued by violence, and Sudan reels from repeated coups, Uganda remains
stable and open. That is not coincidence, it is leadership. Stability is not
spontaneous; it is built.

Look at our infrastructure. Uganda
today has more kilometers of tarmacked roads than in all the years before 1986.
Power lines, water systems, and rural connectivity are not headlines, they are
the arteries of growth. These aren’t abstractions; they are the reason a farmer
can reach a market or a child can access school.

And yes, education has been
transformed from Universal Primary Education to vocational hubs that equip
youth who don’t attend university. The tools are here. The question is whether
we choose to build with them or waste time pointing fingers.

President Museveni was the Gen Z of
his era. He chose resistance over resignation. His legacy isn’t a story of
slogans, but of sacrifice. Today, our generation stands at a similar crossroads.
Will we echo empty outrage or take responsibility for tomorrow?

The President’s push for economic
empowerment through commercial agriculture, youth enterprises, and mindset
change is not about charity. It’s about dignity. About shifting from dependence
to productivity. And this shift begins in the mind.

Peace, too, has been a constant
pillar. Whether through negotiations with the Lord’s Resistance Army or
reintegrating former rebels, Museveni’s approach has prioritized reconciliation
over revenge. In a region where vengeance often rules, that restraint is rare and
remarkable.

International Lessons in Ruin and
Reconstruction

Ukraine’s war-torn infrastructure
tells the cost of destruction: over $524 billion needed for recovery, three
times its GDP. Roads, housing, power grids, industries, all wiped out in
months. In Libya, where war left institutions fractured, reconstruction remains
stalled amid political instability.

These examples remind us that
building takes vision, time, and peace. Destruction takes only noise and
neglect.

When the First Lady says it takes
more to build, she is right. We may not have fought in the Bush War, but we
must fight for unity, independence, and generational memory. Because even a
smartphone needs memory to function. A generation without history is just as
dysfunctional and loud, yet empty.

Opposition politics should not mean
opposition to truth. It should not glorify dismantling what others labored to
construct. The propaganda flooding our feeds, often bankrolled by foreign
donors, is not empowerment. It is manipulation. The West funds the drama, but
we bear the damage.

So I challenge fellow Gen Zs: reject
the seduction of destruction. Embrace the challenge of building communities,
businesses, ideas, a nation. Let us be remembered not for breaking the
foundation, but for taking it higher.

Because truly, it takes much more to
build than it does to tear down. And we choose to build.

The writer is the National Coordinator of Gen Z for
Generation Seven

The post Why Gen Z Should Choose to Build, Not Destroy appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

As Uganda marked Labour Day 2025, I reflected on the incredible impact one man has had on my life and the lives of so many Ugandans: my employer, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, Chairman of the Ruparelia Group.

In a country where securing stable employment can feel like chasing a mirage, Dr. Sudhir has been a shining light of opportunity. Thanks to him, people like me have found hope and a chance to build a better future.

I started working at Speke Resort Munyonyo two years ago as a front desk receptionist, a role I never imagined I would hold. Coming from a small village in Mukono, I had seen many friends struggle to find work after school, often forced into informal jobs just to survive.

Youth unemployment has long been a major challenge in Uganda, with rates hovering around 13 to 14 percent in recent years. I feared I might end up selling vegetables on the roadside, barely getting by. But then I discovered job openings at Speke Resort, one of Dr. Sudhir’s premier properties and my life changed completely.

Working at Speke Resort Munyonyo has been nothing short of a dream. Nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Victoria, the resort is more than a hotel, it’s a community of people united by pride and opportunity. I work alongside chefs, gardeners, security officers, and event planners, each of us part of the Ruparelia family.

I learned that Dr. Sudhir’s businesses employ over 10,000 Ugandans directly, which fills me with immense pride.

That means 10,000 families who have food on their tables, children in school, and hope for the future. Beyond that, thousands more benefit indirectly, taxi drivers ferrying guests, farmers supplying fresh produce, everyone part of a larger ripple effect.

Dr. Sudhir’s impact goes beyond job creation. He’s built workplaces where employees are valued and supported. At Speke Resort, I received training in customer service, mastered booking systems, and improved my English—skills that I know will serve me well throughout my life.

Last year, when the resort hosted the Non-Aligned Movement Summit, I had the honor of welcoming guests from around the world. It was a proud moment to see a workplace created by Dr. Sudhir putting Uganda on the global stage.

In a country where many struggle to find decent work, Dr. Sudhir has been a true pioneer. I’ve heard how he began his journey in the 1980s with just $25,000 and grew the Ruparelia Group into one of East Africa’s largest business empires.

From real estate to education through Kampala Parents’ School, and even flower farming at Rosebud Ltd., his businesses touch countless lives. My cousin works at Rosebud, packing flowers for export, and her job helps pay for her children’s schooling. This is the powerful ripple effect of Dr. Sudhir’s vision—uplifting entire communities through enterprise.

What inspires me most is that Dr. Sudhir continues to invest in Uganda. He could have taken his wealth abroad, but he chose to build and expand right here at home. Just this year, the Ruparelia Group has grown even more, creating new jobs at places like Kabira Country Club. For someone like me who knows the pain of unemployment, this means the world.

On this Labour Day, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia—a true patriot and champion of job creation. He has shown that one person’s vision can transform thousands of lives. As I greet guests every day at Speke Resort Munyonyo, I remember that this opportunity—and this life—are thanks to him.

He is more than a boss; he is a hero to workers all across Uganda. May his legacy of opportunity and dignity continue to grow, and may many more Ugandans find the chance I was so fortunate to receive.

Happy Labour Day, Sir, from a grateful heart.

Grace M, Front Desk Receptionist, Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala

The post How Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s Vision Transformed Thousands of Ugandan Lives appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Kampala: Bobi Wine’s recent letter to the elders of Ankole and Kigezi, dripping with sudden concern about ethnic tensions, would be laughable if it weren’t so dangerous. Here is a man who has built his political career on tribal innuendo and divisive rhetoric now posing as Uganda’s unifying figure. The audacity is staggering.

For years, Bobi Wine has weaponized tribalism when convenient, reducing complex national issues to simplistic “Banyankole versus the rest” narratives. His rallies have featured not-so-subtle ethnic jabs, his social media posts laced with regional dog whistles, and his political strategy reliant on stoking resentment. Yet now, in a breathtaking display of hypocrisy, he writes to Ankole and Kigezi elders warning about sectarianism?

This letter isn’t about national unity—it’s about political survival.

Having alienated large sections of Ugandan society with his tribal rhetoric, Bobi Wine now seeks rehabilitation through performative outreach. His sudden interest in Ankole and Kigezi elders comes only after realizing his divisive tactics have backfired. Where was this statesmanship when he needed Banyankole votes? Where was this unifying message when his supporters chanted tribal slogans?

The letter’s content is equally disingenuous. Bobi Wine accuses Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba of ethnic incitement without providing a single verifiable example. Meanwhile, his own record of tribal statements is well-documented. This isn’t just hypocrisy—it’s political gaslighting on a national scale.

Ugandans should see this letter for what it is: not a genuine appeal for harmony, but a cynical attempt to rebrand a failing political project. True leaders don’t alternate between tribal demagoguery and unity rhetoric based on opinion polls. They don’t attack entire communities then pretend to defend them.

If Bobi Wine truly wants to combat sectarianism, he should start by:

1. Publicly apologizing for his past tribal remarks
2. Disciplining supporters who promote ethnic division
3. Presenting concrete policies rather than ethnic scapegoating

Until then, this letter remains what it is—a desperate politician’s attempt to rewrite his own history while continuing to play the very tribal games he claims to oppose.

Uganda deserves better than leaders who see tribes first and citizens second. We’ve had enough of politicians who treat ethnic identity as a weapon to be drawn or sheathed based on political convenience.

The path to national unity isn’t through performative letters, but through consistent, principled leadership that lifts up all Ugandans—regardless of tribe. On that measure, Bobi Wine’s sudden conversion to national unity rings hollow indeed.

The Author is the head of Digital Media, office of the National Chairman (ONC) and aspiring National Vice Chairman NRM, Central Region.

Email: hakimkim255@gmail.com

Contact: +256781009000 / +256762969420

The post Bobi Wine’s Tribal Hypocrisy: A Failed Attempt to Rewrite History appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The huge number of people participating in the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) structure elections across Buganda is a clear sign that the ruling party is gaining back its support while the opposition struggles with internal fights. Today marks an important shift in Uganda’s politics, setting the stage for the NRM to win big in the 2026 general elections.

The NRM has always stayed strong as a mass party because of its active grassroots elections. The way the party chooses its leaders gives it an advantage over its rivals. Unlike opposition parties, which often have conflicts or handpick candidates, the NRM’s system allows members to elect leaders from the ground up—keeping the party united and strong.

The 2021 Loss and the Comeback Plan

In the 2021 elections, the NRM lost some ground, especially in Buganda and parts of the Eastern region. A major reason was the weak village-level party structures. The NRM’s village system, made up of 30 members per village, is key to its mobilization. With about 72,000 villages in Uganda, fully activating these structures would mean 2,160,000 committed NRM members—already a strong voting base.

To put it simply, President Museveni got 6,042,898 votes in 2021. If each of the 30 NRM members in every village convinces just three more people to vote for the party, that would add 6,480,000 votes—potentially taking the NRM’s total votes past 8.6 million. This is possible if the party fixes internal issues and works well at the grassroots.

Today’s Big Turnout: Proof of NRM’s Support

Anyone watching the news today saw long lines of Ugandans excitedly taking part in the NRM elections. This kind of turnout doesn’t happen by chance—it shows that many people still trust the NRM. While some may argue that a few participants are just looking for opportunities, the large crowds prove that the party still has strong backing. It’s unlikely that more than 8% of those turning up don’t support the NRM.

Also, this time, the NRM Electoral Commission has done a better job. Voting materials arrived on time, rules were followed, and the process has been smooth—reducing the usual fights and disagreements that happen in such exercises. This efficiency makes the party more credible among its members.

Opposition in Chaos: Helping NRM’s Growth

The NRM’s growing strength is also helped by the opposition’s own problems. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) is now divided into two groups, making it weaker. Meanwhile, the National Unity Platform (NUP), which did well in 2021, seems more focused on internal fights—like the Mpuga issue—than on building its support.

Conclusion: NRM’s Clear Path to 2026 Victory

With programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM), stronger party structures, and the opposition’s disunity, the NRM is setting itself up for a major win in 2026. The big turnout in Buganda isn’t just a one-time event—it’s a sign of what’s coming in the next election.

If the NRM keeps this energy, stays united, and takes advantage of the opposition’s weaknesses, the 2026 elections won’t just be a win for the party—they will confirm its lasting power in Ugandan politics.

The future is yellow.

The Author is the head digital media – Office of the National Chairman (ONC) and Aspring Vice Chairman NRM Central region.

The post OP-ED: NRM’s Big Turnout in Buganda Shows Strength as Opposition Weakens appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Recently, I had an eye-opening conversation with a District chairperson who shared his frustrations about service delivery. He revealed that he had spent three months trying to meet the Minister of Local Government to discuss critical issues affecting his district—yet he never got the opportunity.

This encounter made me reflect deeply. I did not rush to blame the minister, but it raised a fundamental question: How overburdened are our ministers and MPs that they cannot even spare time for the people they serve? If a minister cannot meet a district leader for months, what does that say about their availability for party work?

Now, imagine a scenario where such ministers—already stretched thin by government duties—also double as members of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC). Can they truly dedicate the required time and energy to the party? Or do they simply want these positions for prestige and political clout?

The 2021 Election Exposed a Fatal Weakness
The 2021 general elections were a wake-up call for NRM. The party suffered unprecedented losses, especially in Buganda and parts of Busoga. One glaring observation was that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the party’s National Chairperson, was almost alone on the campaign trail, rallying support for the party. Meanwhile, most CEC members were preoccupied with their own parliamentary campaigns, leaving the party’s mobilization efforts weakened.

This was a direct consequence of a constitutional loophole that allows individuals with heavy government responsibilities to contest for CEC positions. Since presidential and parliamentary elections occur on the same day, a CEC member who is also vying for an MP seat will naturally prioritize their own survival over the party’s broader interests. The result? A disjointed campaign and a weakened party structure.

Ministers as CEC Members Create a Disconnect

The NRM is a mass party that thrives on grassroots connectivity. However, when ministers—who are often shielded by layers of security—occupy top party positions, a dangerous gap emerges between the leadership and ordinary members. How can a leader who is inaccessible to even local government officials effectively address the concerns of party members at the village level?

On top of that, as a mass party, the NRM often experiences internal wrangles, necessitating readily available leaders to resolve conflicts and ensure the party’s continued progress.

A current example is the ongoing NRM grassroots elections. There are already complaints, such as the requirement for village-level aspirants to travel to sub-counties for nomination—an unnecessary burden on candidates. Yet, no CEC member has addressed this issue because they are all engrossed in their own political survival games.

The Monetization of Party Politics

Another critical concern is the monetization of internal party elections. Many ministers in CEC use ill-gotten government resources to manipulate delegates, turning the party into a playground for the highest bidder rather than a meritocratic institution. This undermines democracy within NRM, as competent leaders are edged out in favor of deep-pocketed opportunists who see the party as a means to personal gain, not service.

The Way Forward: Dedicated Party Leaders
As the NRM prepares for its internal elections, I urge all party supporters to reject any candidate who is vying for both parliamentary and CEC positions. The party needs leaders who are fully committed to its growth—not part-timers who will abandon their party duties the moment they secure their personal political ambitions.

By electing dedicated cadres—individuals who are not weighed down by ministerial or parliamentary duties—the NRM will foster inclusivity, strengthen internal democracy, and ensure that the party remains vibrant and responsive to the needs of its members.

For the sake of the NRM’s future, let us choose leaders who will prioritize the party above personal interests.

For God and My Country.

The author is a Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Bukomansimbi District and is an aspiring Member of Parliament for Bukoto East Constituency – Masaka District.

Contact +256753362000

The post OP-ED: Ministers in NRM’s CEC: A Conflict of Priorities That Weakens the Party appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Faruk Kirunda’s recent defence of the NRM’s decision to bar losing primary candidates from running as independents presents the move as a necessary step towards party discipline and democratic maturity.

While the intention to reduce internal divisions is understandable, the method raises serious concerns about political freedom, fairness, and the health of Uganda’s multiparty democracy.

At its core, democracy thrives on competition and choice. Forcing candidates to sign away their right to contest independently if they lose party primaries does not strengthen democracy—it weakens it. Instead of fostering loyalty through transparency and fairness, this approach relies on coercion, effectively telling aspiring leaders, “Comply or quit politics.”

The real issue is not independents “splitting” the NRM vote but rather whether the party’s primaries are free and fair. If candidates believe the primary election was rigged or biased, should they not have the right to seek alternative paths? A party confident in its internal democracy should not fear competition—it should welcome it.

Moreover, independents play a crucial role in keeping parties accountable. When voters choose an independent over an official party flagbearer, it sends a message that leadership should be earned, not guaranteed by party affiliation. Restricting this choice undermines the very essence of representative democracy.

Rather than silencing dissent through legal threats, the NRM should focus on improving its internal electoral processes. Transparent primaries, fair dispute resolution, and genuine engagement with grassroots supporters would do more to reduce rebellion than forced loyalty pledges ever could.

Uganda’s democracy is still evolving, and political parties must lead by example. True discipline comes from trust and fairness, not suppression. If the NRM wants to strengthen its dominance, it should win hearts and minds, not by binding them.

The Author is the Head Digital Media Office of the National Chairman—NRM (ONC).
Email: hakimkim255@gmail.com Tel: 0781009000

The post OP-ED: Binding Losing Independents; A Misguided Approach to Party Discipline appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

On this special day, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us take a moment to honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of women in Uganda and across the world. This day is not just a celebration but also a call to action—a reminder that women’s emancipation is essential for the progress of our society.

Condemning Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a grave injustice that continues to plague our communities. In Uganda, 56% of women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence, and 22% have faced sexual violence (Uganda Demographic and Health Survey, 2016). These statistics are not just numbers; they represent the pain and suffering of our mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends. We must stand together to condemn all forms of violence against women and create a society where every woman feels safe, respected, and valued.

Empowering Women Through Faith
Both the Bible and the Quran emphasize the dignity and rights of women. Let us draw inspiration from these sacred texts:

The Bible:
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)
This verse reminds us that equality is a divine principle. Women and men are equal in the eyes of God, and we must strive to reflect this truth in our communities.

The Quran:
“And for women are rights over men, similar to those of men over women.” (Quran 2:228)
Islam grants women inherent rights and emphasizes fairness and respect in all relationships. Let us uphold these teachings to empower women and ensure their voices are heard.

Uganda has made strides in promoting women’s rights. For instance:

• Women hold 34% of parliamentary seats, one of the highest rates in Africa.
• The government has implemented policies to promote gender equality, such as the National Gender Policy and the Domestic Violence Act.

However, challenges remain. Many women still face barriers to education, economic opportunities, and healthcare. We must continue to advocate for policies and practices that empower women and girls to reach their full potential.

A Call to Action
This Women’s Day, let us commit to:

1. Ending Gender-Based Violence: Speak out against violence, support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable.
2. Promoting Education: Ensure every girl has access to quality education.
3. Economic Empowerment: Support women entrepreneurs and workers to achieve financial independence.
4. Amplifying Women’s Voices: Encourage women to take on leadership roles in all sectors of society.

Together, we can build a Uganda where every woman is free to thrive, where her dreams are not limited by her gender, and where her rights are protected and respected.

Happy Women’s Day to all the incredible women out there! Your strength inspires us, and your potential is limitless. Let us continue to fight for a brighter, more equitable future.

With hope and determination,

KYESWA HAKIM
Vice Chairperson NRM Central Region (Aspiring)

The post Hakim Kyeswa’s Women’s Day Message: Advancing Women’s Empowerment in Uganda appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Absalom, the third son of King David by his wife Maacah, seemed to have everything going for him, but like other tragic figures in the Bible, he attempted to take what was not his.

Absalom’s story is one of pride and greed, about a man who tried to overthrow the plan of God. His ambition and rebellion against his father not only led to his own demise but also brought turmoil to the kingdom of Israel. Interestingly, Absalom was known for his extraordinary good looks and luxurious hair, which he cut only once a year; this very hair ultimately contributed to his death.

The Bible says Absalom was praised as the most handsome man in all of Israel: “He was flawless from head to foot.” (2 Samuel 14:25) When he cut his hair once a year—only because it became too heavy—it weighed five pounds. It seemed everyone loved him.

Absalom had a beautiful sister named Tamar, who was a virgin. Another of David’s sons, Amnon, was their half-brother. Amnon fell in love with Tamar, raped her, then rejected her in disgrace.

For two years Absalom kept silent, sheltering Tamar in his home. He had expected his father David to punish Amnon for his act. When David did nothing, Absalom’s rage and anger seethed into a vengeful plot.

One day Absalom invited all the king’s sons to a sheep-shearing festival. When Amnon was celebrating, Absalom ordered his soldiers to kill him.

After the assassination, Absalom fled to Geshur, northeast of the Sea of Galilee, to the house of his grandfather. He hid there for three years. David missed his son deeply. The Bible says in 2 Samuel 13:37 that David “mourned for his son day after day.” Finally, David allowed him to come back to Jerusalem.

Gradually, Absalom began to undermine King David, usurping his authority and speaking against him to the people. Under the pretense of honoring a vow, Absalom went to Hebron and began to gather an army. He sent messengers throughout the land, proclaiming his kingship.

When King David learned of the rebellion, he and his followers fled Jerusalem. Meanwhile, Absalom took advice from his counselors on the best way to defeat his father. Before the battle, David ordered his troops not to harm Absalom. The two armies clashed at Ephraim, in a large oak forest. Twenty thousand men fell that day. The army of David prevailed.

As Absalom was riding his mule under a tree, his hair got entangled in the branches. The mule ran off, leaving Absalom hanging in the air, helpless. Joab, one of David’s generals, took three javelins and thrust them into Absalom’s heart. Then ten of Joab’s armor-bearers circled Absalom and killed him.

To his generals’ surprise, David was heartbroken over the death of his son, the man who tried to kill him and steal his throne. He loved Absalom dearly. David’s grief showed the depth of a father’s love over the loss of a son as well as regret for his personal failures that led to many family and national tragedies.

For a person who does not read the Bible, these episodes raise disturbing questions. Did Absalom murder Amnon because David had failed to punish him? The Bible does not give specific answers, but when David was an old man, his son Adonijah rebelled in the same way Absalom had. Solomon had Adonijah killed and executed other traitors to make his own reign secure.

The name Absalom means “father of peace,” but this father did not live up to his name. He had one daughter and three sons, all of whom died at an early age (2 Samuel 14:27; 2 Samuel 18:18).

Absalom was charismatic and easily drew other people to him. He possessed some leadership qualities.
He took justice into his own hands by murdering his half-brother Amnon. Then he followed unwise counsel, rebelled against his father, and tried to steal David’s kingdom.

Absalom imitated his father’s weaknesses instead of his strengths. He allowed selfishness to rule him, instead of God’s law. When he tried to oppose God’s plan and unseat the rightful king, destruction came upon him.

The most interesting biblical references of this story are when Absalom sent secret messengers throughout the tribes of Israel to say, “As soon as you hear the sound of the trumpets, then say, ‘Absalom is king in Hebron.’”—2 Samuel 15:10

And also when the king was shaken. He went up to the room over the gateway and wept. As he went, he said: “O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you—O Absalom, my son, my son!”—2 Samuel 18:33

There is so much to learn about the life of Absalom. We learn how to respond when we are wronged, when we see injustice, when people wrong us. We need to pray for those who have authority over us. Although we may not always agree with their decisions, we need to bestow honour upon them.

The story of Absalom from the Bible teaches valuable life lessons about the dangers of unchecked ambition, the destructive power of pride, the importance of healthy family dynamics, the need for forgiveness, and the consequences of betrayal, highlighting how even seemingly positive traits can be twisted into harmful actions when not guided by morality and humility.

Absalom’s physical beauty and charming demeanor masked his inner turmoil and malicious intentions, highlighting the danger of judging people solely based on outward appearances.
His arrogance and self-centeredness prevented him from seeing the destructive path he was on, illustrating how pride can blind individuals to their own flaws and lead to disastrous choices.

David’s favoritism towards other sons likely contributed to Absalom’s bitterness, emphasizing the need for fair treatment and open communication within families to prevent resentment.
Absalom’s desire for power, fueled by resentment and a sense of entitlement, led him to rebel against his own father, demonstrating how unchecked ambition can lead to devastating consequences.

Despite Absalom’s treachery, King David’s deep love for his son is shown through his grief and willingness to forgive, highlighting the importance of forgiveness even in the face of great wrong.
Absalom’s failure to listen to sound advice from those around him contributed to his downfall, emphasizing the importance of seeking wise counsel when making significant decisions.

So to parents, you need to be sensitive to your children’s feelings, sensitive to how your words and actions can impact their feelings. You need to make time for them, affirm, encourage, and pray for them to grow in the knowledge and the fear of the Lord.

For God and My Country, Africa!

lukangasamuel55@gmail.com
+256 785 717379

The writer is an Adventist, an Ambassador of Humanity and a social development enthusiast from Nakaseke District.

The post Parents! Meet Absalom: The Mutinous Bolshie Son of King David appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

President Yoweri Museveni’s ongoing countrywide tours to assess the Parish Development Model (PDM) are a strategic move to boost his chances in the 2026 presidential elections. The PDM aims to improve household incomes, especially in rural areas and sub-regional communities, by channeling resources to the parishes through their saccos.

Since inheriting a broken economy in 1986, the NRM government has made significant strides in improving the livelihoods of Ugandans. Household poverty rates have decreased from 19.7% in 2013 to 8.4% in 2020. Museveni has introduced various initiatives in the past, including the rural farmers scheme in the 1990’s, Bona Bagaggawale in 2007, Youth Capital Venture that later turned into Youth Livelihood Program, NAADS, OWC and Emyooga in 2020. However, these initiatives have always faced challenges such as corruption, bureaucracy, and financial illiteracy which left 38% of Ugandans outside the money economy.

To address these challenges, the NRM and President Museveni allocated 100m to parishes, which will double to 200m in the next financial years. The PDM focuses on grassroots economic development, similar to initiatives like Rwanda’s Vision 2020 and Kenya’s Big Four Agenda. By promoting financial inclusion and enhancing productivity, the PDM seeks to transform the livelihoods of Ugandans, particularly in rural areas.

Museveni’s tours have taken him to various regions, including Eastern Uganda, Busoga, and Kigezi sub-regions, with Ankole sub-region being his next destination. During these visits, he meets successful farmers who have benefited from the PDM, launches development projects, and engages local stakeholders to evaluate the program’s progress.

A key aspect of Museveni’s tours is the official opening of zonal skilling hubs like Nakabango,Teso & Kigezi presidential hubs which aim to equip the nation’s young workforce with practical skills for self-employment and job creation. For instance, 12,000 youths have been equipped with skills in motor mechanics, plumbing, and electric installation across 19 facilities in Uganda.

These tours have undoubtedly given Museveni and the NRM an upper hand in the 2026 elections , bringing him closer to the people than ever before. The recent defections of opposition MPs to the NRM, such as Twaha Kagabo from NUP and Hon. Anthony Akol from FDC, break away of Mpuuga from NUP, the internal divisions in NUP like we saw in selection of candidates for Kawempe North by-election further demonstrate the shifting political landscape in Uganda. As the 2026 elections approach, Museveni’s commitment to the PDM and his engagement with local communities are likely to bolster his campaign.

With the NRM poised for a potential landslide victory, Museveni’s strategic move to focus on grassroots development may prove to be a decisive factor in the upcoming elections.

The Writer Is A Senior Cadre And Works With Office Of The National Chairman Nrm.

The post Museveni’s Parish Development Model Tours: A Strategic Move for 2026 Presidential Elections. appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The executive order freezing USAID, a premier organisation through which the US has benefitted the world with “uncountable” dollars has bitten quite hard. Trump, through his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), run by his right-hand man, Mr. Elon Musk (of Tesla, X, Starlink and SpaceX fame) has dug deep into USAID and effectively disbanded it, with activities globally put on halt as a groundbreaking audit of its functions and funds use is done. USAID workers and those of affiliate organisations globally are affected, including Uganda. This is a bitter pill, and many are cursing, others unsure about the future.

However, for the alert, this shouldn’t come as a shock. As long as you are dependent on a source on which you have no control, the taps could run dry anytime and you find yourself stuck. The reaction from many is of consternation, disappointment and fear.

President Trump has his reasons. He wants every dollar spent tracked and accounted for, as well as the entire structure through which the funds were disbursed. Fervently at odds with the left and the pro-choice (abortion) and LGBTQ) agenda, he is doing anything to defund these activities.

But, as Africans, let’s not cry (Tukaabe mpola). For how long are we going to preach the gospel of self-sufficiency while practicing dependence?

Luckily, our visionary leader, President Yoweri Museveni, a Pan-Africanist par excellence foresaw this, and more to come. President Museveni has taught, preached, begged, cajoled, demonstrated and practically guided us to forget about foreign aid and aim for production and fair trade.

Whenever he has stepped out of the country and gone overseas, it is always to negotiate for business for our goods and services, less of aid. Aid only comes as a bonus to bolster bilateral relations, but it is not a given and, unfortunately, it has captured mindsets of generations of post-independence Africans expecting freebies from the developed world.

If I could ask a question; who aided the developed nations to achieve their current status? They had no resources or climate like ours. They looked inward and used their brains to find self-sufficiency. Raiding for colonies and channeling natural resources to boost their industry and production was still a consequence of their diligence.

Africa has “mined” aid from them for over half a century but have we used that aid to buttress our economies to a point where no policy revision out there would jolt us? This is the hard lesson we are learning.

Just last year, there was effusive debate on rationalising certain agencies which were extra to need in terms of cost and efficiency.

That’s how Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), etc, were dissolved and reintegrated into their mother ministries.
President Museveni was audibly and demonstrably pro-rationalisation, while the opposition and sections of their local and foreign backers, plus armchair critics pushed against the idea. But, eventually, the rational side won and “rationalisation” carried the day. What Trump is doing with USAID-and I hear soon the Pentagon-is rationalisation, the way it was done here. The American President is literally copying from President Museveni’s script. The Trump administration is planning to merge USAID with the Department of State.

President Museveni’s opponents talk a lot about lean government, prudence in expenditure, fighting corruption and extracting maximum value-for-money. However, when it comes practical steps to achieve that, they have little to offer. Their aim is obviously political, not considerate because they know that efficiency strengthens service delivery and gains support for the Government.

Yet rationalisation doesn’t, in fact, earn automatic popularity for one as it comes with loss of opportunities for many such as employees and others that benefit along the value-chain. Its benefits are only seen after a time. Good leaders don’t do things just for popularity. They do them because they must.
Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta came out in free style questioning those crying out about the “USAID purge”.

“Why are you crying?” he said, at a meeting. “It’s not your money.” He advised Africans to build their own economies and stop looking at foreign aid which some use to buy guns to kill one another. No one is really celebrating anyone’s loss of opportunity but these are sane ideas to consider seriously.

As part of his proactivism, President Museveni has fought to create and preserve peace and stability in this region for people to be safe and work for their transformation. Then, he has created support mechanisms for different levels of homegrown producers to get them to go commercial. Some have warmed up to the idea while others are still sitting on their hands, perhaps waiting for more “USAID-like” shocks.

Among the far-sighted interventions is the Parish Development Model (PDM) initiative which was introduced to lift subsistence farmers into the money economy since 2022.

As of now, trillions have been sunk in and Ugandans are making the most of it. PDM was intended to awaken everyone that dependency, whether on family, relatives, friends, neighbours or even looking to Government for basics is unsustainable. Eventually, one has to do something to survive on their own but also support the cause of building a robust and diverse economy.

Once that happens, production, processing and trade increase; more foreign exchange is earned and wealth is created. You find more people in the private sector driving business, spurring tax revenue which generally improves the economic outlook of a country, as opposed to looking to Washington or to London every time there is a change in policy direction.

Teaching the PDM category to make money automatically means that a white collar worker in an agency facing phasing out is under more pressure to look beyond formal employment and diversify because you can’t know what the future holds.

Someone employed as an expatriate for twenty years to be found stranded when austerity procedures are taken at their work place shows that the “aid basket” mindset is very much at work, and is responsible for low innovation zeal and productiveness. People always expecting sustenance from elsewhere- and miracles.

Rational government and inclusivity of all citizens in production is the only way we shall survive future economic and donor-dependent shocks.

The author is the Special Assistant to H.E the President of Uganda-Press and Mobilisation
Contact: faruk.kirunda@statehouse.go.ug
0776980486/0783990861

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