President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has declared the beginning of what he described as a “no more sleep” era for Ugandans, urging citizens to actively engage in wealth creation as he officially commenced his seventh term in office.
Speaking shortly after taking oath at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Tuesday, Museveni said the new term must focus on productivity, household income generation, and economic transformation rather than complacency.
“This term should be regarded as one for no more sleep for all Ugandans. This term we don’t want people to sleep and make scapegoats yet the medicine is here,” Museveni said.
The President emphasized that while government has invested heavily in infrastructure, peace, and public services over the years, the next phase of Uganda’s transformation depends on individual participation in wealth creation.
He said many Ugandan families that embraced the National Resistance Movement’s economic message had successfully moved out of poverty.
“Families that cared to listen to our messages and advice have gone out of poverty,” he noted.
Museveni pointed to visible developments such as the rapid construction of residential properties along the Kampala–Entebbe corridor as evidence that wealth creation among Ugandans is achievable.
“All those new houses you see are built by Ugandans, not foreigners. Yes, there are still poor people, but there are also rich Ugandans who listened to our message,” he said.
The President reiterated that sustainable wealth lies in four key sectors namely commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and Information Communication Technology (ICT).
“If you want wealth, join these four sectors. It is wealth that creates jobs. You cannot have many jobs without wealth,” Museveni stated.
He cautioned against over-reliance on government infrastructure projects alone, arguing that roads, electricity, railways, and social services cannot by themselves transform livelihoods without income generation at household level.
“Some people talk about roads, railways and electricity but never talk about wealth. Development is good, but wealth must also be there. Wealth is created by individuals,” he added.
Museveni also linked Uganda’s economic future to regional integration, stressing that expanded African markets are necessary to absorb locally produced goods and support industrial growth.
“We must unite Africa so that we can have a market for the products we produce,” he said.
The President further credited the NRM government’s longevity to its rejection of sectarian politics based on tribe and religion, arguing that national unity had contributed to political stability and continued electoral support.
As Uganda enters another five year political cycle, Museveni signalled that his administration’s next major focus will be translating peace, infrastructure, and service delivery into direct household wealth and employment opportunities.
“The challenge now is for you to do your part. Be part of wealth creation and once you do this, you will create jobs,” he said.
