President Museveni announces special fertiliser fund for Kanungu tea farmers

Kanungu, Uganda – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged a dedicated fund to help tea farmers in Kanungu District access affordable fertilisers, aiming to boost productivity and strengthen the district’s tea-based economy. The announcement was made during a campaign rally at Rwere Playground on Wednesday, 26th November 2025.

The President said high fertiliser costs are a major constraint, particularly for large-scale growers, and the financing will be channeled through farmers’ SACCOs, similar to models used for sugarcane growers and fishermen. Tea growing remains a cornerstone of Kanungu’s economy, supported by estate and out-grower factories.

Addressing the rally, Museveni emphasized the importance of peace, noting Kanungu’s proximity to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda’s decades of stability. He also credited the NRM government with upgrading the region’s road network, announcing further improvements including the 149-kilometre Hamurwa–Kerere–Kanungu–Butogota–Hamayanza–Ifasha–Ikunza road.

On wealth creation, the President stressed that while public infrastructure supports opportunity, personal wealth depends on initiative. He cited success stories of farmers and entrepreneurs from Nakaseke, Kamuli, and Karamoja who generate substantial incomes through agriculture and commercial ventures despite limited access to tarmac roads or electricity.

Museveni highlighted Uganda’s employment engine, noting that industrial parks and commercial agriculture create more jobs than government positions. He also addressed education, underscoring the role of Presidential Skilling Hubs, including the Kigezi regional hub in Kabale, which train youth in trades such as tailoring, welding, carpentry, baking, and automotive mechanics.

Local leaders thanked Museveni for development initiatives, including the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga fund, which have supported thousands of households and enterprise groups in Kanungu.

The rally was attended by cabinet ministers, MPs, NRM leaders, and former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi, who endorsed Museveni’s continued leadership.