SOROTI, UGANDA – In a significant development for the Teso sub-region, former NRM Eastern Region Vice Chairman Captain Mike Mukula has held a high-level meeting with the Vice President, H.E. Jessica Alupo. The closed-door discussions focused on a dual-pronged strategy aimed at accelerating socio-economic transformation through a modern dairy value chain and unprecedented sports development .
The meeting’s primary agenda centered on a landmark proposal to establish a modern dairy processing plant in the region. Acknowledging the success of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in boosting local agriculture, the leaders emphasized that adding value through the production of yoghurt, butter, cheese, ice cream, and long-life milk is the next logical step . This investment is viewed as a critical engine to expand markets for local farmers, create jobs, diversify household incomes, and stimulate sustainable industrial growth.
“We are looking at a comprehensive strategy to make Teso a leading agro-processing hub,” a source close to the meeting revealed. “This plant will not just process milk; it will catalyze the entire value chain.”
Complementing the agricultural push is a revolutionary move for the region’s sporting calendar. For the first time in history, the Teso sub-region is set to host the 4th Round of the KCB National Rally Championship. This historic event, discussed extensively by the two leaders, is expected to position Teso on the national tourism and sports map, providing a massive boost to local hospitality and service industries.
Capt. Mukula, whose tenure as the NRM Vice Chairman for the Eastern Region left an indelible mark on Teso, is leveraging his experience to drive this new wave of development. Long celebrated for his accessibility and “common man” touch, Mukula’s legacy includes championing the disarmament of the Karacuna and facilitating cattle compensation, which restored livelihoods to thousands of families .
While his recent political evolution has included a pivot to grassroots sports—most notably with the launch of the Arrow Boys Football Academy—his commitment to youth and economic empowerment remains unwavering . The academy aims to scout and export local talent internationally, a vision that aligns perfectly with the incoming rally championship to showcase Teso to the world .
The discussions between Mukula and Vice President Alupo signal a unified front in harnessing Teso’s vast potential. With PDM beneficiaries already recording success in commercial farming, the establishment of the dairy plant represents the critical infrastructure needed to ensure these gains translate into lasting wealth and industrial growth for the region .
About Captain Mike Mukula: A former Member of Parliament for Soroti Municipality and State Minister for Health, Capt. Mukula is a prominent businessman and politician known for his extensive network and advocacy for the Teso sub-region. His legacy includes spearheading the motion for cattle compensation in Parliament and continuous efforts to foster community development through sports and enterprise .
