KYANKWANZI — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has laid the foundation stone for a Pan-African research institution named after retired General Caleb Akandwanaho, also known as Salim Saleh, during the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders’ retreat in Kyankwanzi.
The facility, to be constructed at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), will also include a block named after renowned scholar Walter Rodney. It is expected to serve as a hub for research, ideological training, and the promotion of African integration and cultural identity.
Speaking at the event, President Museveni highlighted Gen. Saleh’s role in Uganda’s liberation struggle, describing him as a model of patriotism for young people.
“People like Saleh should act as good examples to you young people to show you what patriotism means and how what you do can help your country,” he said.
The President recounted that Gen. Saleh joined the struggle against Idi Amin at just 16 years of age after leaving school in Kako and travelling to Tanzania to join the fighters.
“Between 1979 and 1986, he did a lot of good work, especially during the 1981–1986 war. Saleh commanded many of the big battles, including Masindi, Kabamba, Masaka, and Kampala,” President Museveni said.
He added that after the war, Gen. Saleh shifted his focus to economic transformation and wealth creation, particularly through agricultural and development initiatives.
“After the war, he became very much involved in wealth creation. He is now busy with development, working with others in areas like coffee and playing a very active role in the north,” he noted, also crediting him for spearheading development efforts in Kapeka.
“That development in Kapeka was started by Saleh. I am very glad that this is a good idea, and I commend you,” the President added.
The planned research school will focus on advancing what the President has termed “musevenomics,” alongside fostering ideological debate, preserving liberation history through a revolutionary museum, and promoting regional integration.
The foundation-laying ceremony took place during Day 7 of the NRM retreat, where leaders have been discussing national priorities including unity, anti-corruption, and economic transformation.
President Museveni also used the retreat to reiterate his government’s stance against corruption, warning that those involved would face decisive action, particularly cautioning leaders in public office to uphold integrity.
The retreat has brought together NRM leaders and regional partners to reflect on governance and development strategies, as the ruling party prepares for the next phase of its leadership agenda.
