The Meizimera Hotel in Kihihi, Kanungu District, on Friday was a centre of activity as President Yoweri Museveni graced the International Community of Banyakigezi (ICOB) Convention 2024.
The high profile event was attended by prominent figures, including Minister for Security Jim Muhwezi, former Prime Ministers Amama Mbabazi, Ruhakana Rugunda, ICOB Chairperson Grace Mutebile, Minister Chris Baryomunsi, and other distinguished members of the Banyakigezi community.
The gathering showcased the rich culture and solidarity of the Banyakigezi people while providing a platform to discuss development and socio-economic transformation.
“I thank the Banyakigezi group for inviting me to Kanungu today. My message to all these groups is ensuring we get our people into the money economy and out of poverty,” President Museveni said as he addressed the gathering.
He emphasized the need for cautious implementation of the Banyakigezi initiative to avoid potential missteps, aligning his remarks with the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s mass line principle of inclusivity and collective progress.
Addressing a vibrant audience, the President acknowledged the efforts of the Banyakigezi group, commending their commitment to fostering development in their region.
He encouraged the community to tread cautiously in their initiatives to avoid potential problems. Drawing on the principles of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), he repeated the value of the mass line approach, which prioritizes inclusivity and grassroots transformation over arrogancy or pride.
The President highlighted Uganda’s success in population growth, attributing it to the government’s sustained efforts in mass immunization and other programs like Bonna Basome (Universal Primary Education) and Bonna Bagagawale (Prosperity for All).
President Museveni also underscored the dangers of over emphasizing tribal affiliations. “An over emphasis on tribes or origins can undermine Uganda’s socio-economic transformation and progress,” he cautioned, calling for a united approach to nation building.
The President’s speech, which echoed the event’s theme of togetherness, cautious progress, and shared prosperity, motivated those in attendance.
