President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni officially launched his 2026 reelection campaign on November 8, 2025, in the Bugisu subregion of Eastern Uganda. The President began his tour with massive rallies in Bududa and Namisindwa districts, where he was warmly received by thousands of enthusiastic supporters who braved the rain to hear his message.
During his address, Museveni highlighted the achievements of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government in key sectors such as infrastructure, irrigation, health, education, and wealth creation. He emphasized that the NRM’s work in the region is visible and has greatly improved the lives of ordinary Ugandans.
Showcasing NRM’s Achievements
The President pointed to several major projects completed under his leadership, including the Mbale–Bumbobi–Bubulo–Lwakhakha road, which has boosted transport and trade between Uganda and Kenya.
He also mentioned the Namaistu Irrigation Scheme, which has improved farming productivity, and expanded clean water access in Bududa District, reaching up to 99% coverage.
Museveni further noted that new health facilities and schools have been built to bring essential services closer to the people. “We are pushing for free education at all levels, a primary school in every parish, and a Health Centre III in every sub-county,” he stated.
Wealth Creation and Household Income
In his speech, President Museveni urged Ugandans to focus on wealth creation, not just infrastructure development. He explained that while development brings physical progress, wealth ensures that everyone benefits from it.
“Since the 1960s, we have been teaching that development and wealth are not the same. You can have development, but only a few benefit unless people use the opportunities to create wealth,” Museveni said.
He encouraged citizens to take advantage of government support programs such as Entandikwa, NAADS, Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and the Youth and Women Funds. These initiatives, he said, are designed to help families join the money economy and lift themselves out of poverty.
Addressing Inequality and Unemployment
Although the campaign rally drew large, cheering crowds, some critics have pointed to ongoing challenges such as youth unemployment, which stands at about 13%, and persistent inequality in income distribution. In response, Museveni assured the people that his government will continue supporting job creation and entrepreneurship among young people, particularly in agriculture and small-scale industries.
The President’s message was clear: the NRM government has laid a strong foundation for development, and now is the time for Ugandans to build on it by working hard and embracing government programs.
“I continued my campaign today in Namisindwa District together with the NRM leadership. I reminded our people that the Movement’s work is visible,” Museveni tweeted after the rally. He ended his address with a warm greeting in the local language, saying, “Mwanyaala naabi, Namisindwa!” — meaning “Thank you very much, Namisindwa!”
Looking Ahead to 2026
As Uganda moves closer to the 2026 General Elections, President Museveni’s campaign in Bugisu marks the beginning of a nationwide tour aimed at consolidating NRM’s support. His message centers on continuity, stability, and empowering every Ugandan to benefit from the country’s progress.
With the campaign season officially underway, all eyes are now on how both the ruling NRM and opposition parties will mobilize across the country in what promises to be a highly competitive election year.