Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa, has advised residents in Kagadi to capitalize on the opportunities presented by oil and gas exploration in the Albertine graben to enhance wealth creation.
Dr. Nankabirwa highlighted the potential for wealth creation in Bunyoro, emphasizing the region’s advantageous position with good road infrastructure and ongoing petroleum exploration. These endeavors offer avenues for capitalizing on agricultural products, employment opportunities, trade, and other business ventures.
Addressing the youth, she urged them to embrace a variety of economic opportunities. Additionally, she called upon leaders to refrain from engaging in derogatory remarks and blaming one another. Instead, they should collaborate to advocate for additional resources that foster wealth creation.
Expressing concern over acts of indiscipline among leaders, Dr. Nankabirwa emphasized the importance of working together to combat sectarianism based on factors such as tribe, ethnicity, religion, gender, selfishness, character assassination, and political intrigue.
The Minister made these remarks during her participation as the chief guest at the belated international women’s day celebrations for Kagadi District. The event, organized by Jenifer Kyomuhendo Mbabazi, the Kagadi District Woman MP, showcased various hands-on projects initiated by women in sectors such as weaving, beauty salons, tailoring, and soap making.
During her tour of the exhibitions, Dr. Nankabirwa encouraged women to maintain focus and independence, advising them against relying solely on men for basic necessities like clothing, soap, healthcare, and food.
She commended Dr. Mwalimu Musheshe, the Vice Chancellor of African University, for his initiatives aimed at empowering women economically. Notably, she highlighted the establishment of the African Rural University (ARU) and Technical Institute, as well as agricultural demonstration farms and schools exclusively for female students.
In response to demands from local representatives for various developments, including a university, ambulance services, road infrastructure, and funding for women’s cooperatives, Dr. Nankabirwa pledged to advocate for these requests with relevant authorities.
Jenifer Kyomuhendo Mbabazi, the Kagadi District Woman MP, expressed gratitude to Minister Nankabirwa for attending the event. She praised the role of women in nation-building across sectors such as health, education, and politics, attributing the success of women’s projects to their integrity and financial discipline.
Benjamine Tumusiime, the Kagadi Deputy Resident District Commissioner, raised concerns about rampant domestic violence in the region, citing factors such as polygamy, drug abuse, and poverty as contributing factors.
Adrine Tibaleka, the Kagadi District Chairperson of the Women’s Council, appealed to President Museveni for support in accessing farm equipment to enhance agricultural productivity, showcasing her successful ventures in poultry, piggery, fruits, bananas, sugarcanes, and coffee.
