President Yoweri Museveni has appealed to religious leaders to collaborate with the government in the campaign for wealth creation, aiming to eliminate poverty. Speaking through Vice President Jessica Alupo during a fundraising event for the construction of Regina Caeli Cathedral and St. Peters Parish at Olio Primary School grounds in Soroti, Museveni emphasized the need for collective efforts to address poverty in Uganda.
Museveni highlighted that a significant cause of poverty in the country stems from 39% of households engaging in subsistence farming. He stressed that reliance solely on subsistence farming is unsustainable, as human needs extend beyond food and have a monetary value. The President contributed sh60 million towards the construction of the Cathedral.
During the speech, Museveni underscored the importance of transitioning away from subsistence farming, stating that it perpetuates poverty and backwardness. He expressed gratitude to the Church for its ongoing partnership with the government, focusing on improving living standards through initiatives such as school and hospital construction.
While acknowledging the significance of spiritual nourishment, Museveni emphasized that a holistic Christian ministry must also address the physical needs of believers, such as food, clothing, shelter, and medicine.
The President reiterated that wealth and jobs can be created in four key sectors: commercial agriculture, industries, services, and information communication technology. He urged leaders to assist people in choosing profitable enterprises within these sectors.
Museveni highlighted the Parish Development Model (PDM) as a massive government program aimed at increasing productivity and profitability in agriculture. Launched in February 2022, the PDM seeks to transition 39% of households (3.5 million households or 16.1 million Ugandans) from a subsistence economy to a money economy.
In closing, Museveni emphasized that addressing poverty at the household level empowers Christians to contribute meaningfully to church construction projects. He thanked the faithful and well-wishers for their participation in the fundraising event.
Vice President Alupo expressed gratitude to Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Eciru Oliach, the Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese, for the invitation to the fundraising ceremony. She also thanked all the faithful for their contributions to the noble cause.
