President Museveni’s Visit to Arua: A Rally for NRM and Development
During a recent visit to Arua, the NRM presidential candidate, President Yoweri Museveni, transformed the city into a sea of yellow as he campaigned for re-election. The event was marked by a strong show of support from the local population, who gathered in large numbers to hear the president’s message.
Emphasizing Progress and Unity
Museveni, accompanied by First Lady Janet Museveni, addressed a rally at the Arua City Golf Course. He highlighted the progress made in various sectors, including education, health, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. His speech focused on the tangible improvements that have taken place in Arua District and Arua City.
He mentioned that there are 120 government primary schools in total, with 50 in Arua District and 70 in Arua City. Additionally, there are 7 government secondary schools in Arua District and 9 in Arua City. For someone who has been in the region for a long time, these figures are a source of pride and happiness.
Museveni also reflected on the past, noting that in 1961, when he attended Ntare School, there were very few A’ level schools in the Northern and Eastern parts of Uganda. He emphasized how far the region has come, pointing out that Arua City alone now has 9 A’ level schools.
Addressing Education Challenges
On the topic of education, Museveni discussed the challenges faced by students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He spoke about the Presidential Zonal Skilling Hubs, where children who had left school due to financial constraints could study for free. These hubs offer training in skills such as shoemaking, metalwork, carpentry, and construction, allowing participants to gain valuable skills within six months.
Health Sector Developments
In terms of health, Museveni announced plans to upgrade Orivu Health Centre III to a Health Centre IV in Ayivu Division East and Lazebu Health Centre II to a Health Centre III in Arivu Sub-County. These upgrades aim to improve healthcare access and quality for the residents of Arua.
Economic Empowerment and National Growth
Museveni stressed the importance of income generation and local production, emphasizing that without income, families and the nation face significant challenges. He pointed out that while there are 480,000 government jobs, factories have created 1.2 million jobs. He called for a united Uganda, highlighting the need for a broader market that includes not only the country but also East Africa and the rest of Africa.
Welcoming New Party Members
The president also welcomed 300 new party members introduced by Mr. Lawrence Dangote, the NRM flag bearer for the mayoralty of Arua City. This move is seen as a strategic effort to strengthen the party’s presence in the region.
First Lady’s Call for Patriotism
First Lady Janet Museveni urged the people of Arua to remain patriotic and support the NRM in the upcoming elections. She emphasized the importance of deliberate action to ensure continued growth for Uganda. She noted that the world often views African countries as weak and confused, but she expressed confidence that Uganda would grow from strength to strength.
She called on the residents to ensure that no one in their village stays home on voting day, stressing that every vote counts for the family, children, and the country’s peace. Her message was clear: vote for President Museveni and the NRM.
Local Leaders Highlight Achievements
Ms. Joyce Amaguru, Arua City NRM Party Chairperson, highlighted the president’s role in transforming the city. She thanked him for the peace, health, and educational opportunities provided to the residents. She also mentioned the completion of the Ojipala Market (Vurra) and the funding for the PDWs and elderly.
Amaguru noted the progress in education, with 50 Government primary schools and 7 Government secondary schools in Arua District, and 70 Government primary schools and 9 Government secondary schools in Arua City. All schools offer Universal Secondary Education (USE) and UPOLET programs, which are part of the president’s private sector development initiatives.
Infrastructure and Community Needs
The NRM chairman for Arua District, Boniface Arion, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his support. He shared his personal story of being born in Congo due to security issues and thanked the president for the love and care provided to the region.
