Museveni orders action on livestock theft, illegal charges

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President Yoweri Museveni has directed government agencies to urgently address critical challenges affecting communities in Greater Mpigi, including livestock theft, illegal school fees charges, youth unemployment and access to electricity.

Addressing journalists from the districts of Mpigi, Butambala, and Gomba at State Lodge Nakasero today, June 17, 2025, the President expressed concern over the increasing cases of cattle theft in Gomba. He questioned why the Police had not deployed Canine units to track down the thieves and ordered an immediate investigation into the matter.

“I don’t know why there are no police Canine dogs deployed in Gomba to help with tracking these criminals. I have directed Police leadership to investigate this issue and provide a solution,” the President said.

President Museveni addressing members of the media from the greater Mpigi region during a press briefing at Nakasero as regards the progress of the PDM program on Tuesday. (PPU Photo)

Unauthorised fees

On the issue of education, Museveni strongly condemned the practice of levying unauthorised fees in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, warning that such practices undermine the Government’s vision of providing free education to all children.

He emphasised that the introduction of skilling hubs was partly due to the sabotage of his UPE and Universal Secondary Education (USE) initiatives by those demanding illegal payments from parents.

“We started the skilling hubs after realising that some people were frustrating the government’s free education program. Currently, there are three skilling hubs in Buganda as a demonstration of my commitment to ensuring Ugandans, especially the youth, can acquire free skills,” the President explained.

Some of the journalists from the greater Mpigi region listening to President Museveni's address during a press briefing at Nakasero as regards the progress of the PDM program on Tuesday. (PPU Photo)

The electricity question

In response to complaints about unreliable electricity supply in some parts of Mpigi, President Museveni directed the energy ministry permanent secretary to follow up and ensure that affected areas are connected to the national grid.

Increase PDM funds

Meanwhile, journalists from Butambala district requested that the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds be increased, citing population growth in the area.

The President explained that the current annual allocation of sh100 million per parish will, if properly utilised and repaid by beneficiaries, serve a larger population over time. He added that the government also has long-term plans to increase the funding.

“There’s no need to rush to increase the amount now. If beneficiaries use the money well, it will revolve and help many more people in the coming years,” he said.

The President also responded to reports of job negligence by agricultural extension workers in Mpigi District, especially regarding poultry and livestock diseases. He directed the State House agricultural department to investigate the matter, warning that negligence in service delivery will not be tolerated.

President Museveni reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting farmers, empowering youth, and ensuring that public servants perform their duties diligently for the benefit of all.