Presidential candidate Maj. Gen. (rtd) Mugisha Muntu has pledged to make economic expansion and job creation in the Busoga sub-region a top priority if elected in the 2026 general elections.
Speaking at campaign rallies in Luuka and Karilo districts, the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) flag bearer said his government would focus on unlocking Busoga’s economic potential through agriculture, skilling, cooperatives, and tourism.
Muntu—who was nominated in September 2025—told supporters that Uganda’s economic transformation must begin in regions like Busoga, where natural resources, fertile land, and water bodies offer untapped opportunities.
Key Pillars of Muntu’s Economic Plan for Busoga
1. Agriculture and Agro-processing
Muntu said the backbone of job creation will be value addition to agricultural produce.
“Farmers cannot prosper when they only sell raw products,” he told the crowd, promising investments in agro-processing plants to boost incomes and expand markets.
2. Skilling Youth and Women
He announced plans to build a skilling centre in every district across Busoga to equip young people with practical, market-ready skills.
“We must prepare our youth to participate effectively in a modern economy,” Muntu said, emphasising that skills training will be tied to sectors with immediate job potential.
3. Revival of Cooperative Movements
The former army commander pledged to restore cooperatives to protect farmers from exploitation, especially in the sugar sector, where farmers have long complained about price manipulation and monopolies.
“With strong cooperatives, no farmer will be at the mercy of powerful buyers,” he noted.
4. Boosting Tourism
Muntu highlighted Busoga’s cultural heritage, River Nile attractions, and natural scenery as untapped drivers of regional development.
“A well-managed tourism strategy can pull thousands out of poverty,” he said.
Warning Against “Self-Seeking Leaders”
In a message echoed across rallies, Muntu cautioned the electorate against voting for what he called “self-seeking leaders” who “lack the capacity and honesty to serve.”
He urged voters to support ANT candidates, arguing that the party offers disciplined, accountable, and values-driven leadership.
A Vision of Long-Term Reform
Known for his calm, strategic approach to politics, the former FDC president reiterated that ANT aims to build strong institutions, professional public service, and transparent governance.
“We cannot transform Uganda without changing how the state is run,” he said.
Muntu’s campaign continues to build momentum in the east, where unemployment, land conflicts, and collapsing cooperatives remain central voter concerns.
