Politics 28 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kigezi's Seven New Ministers Urged to Unite for Regional Development
Seven newly appointed ministers from Uganda's Kigezi sub-region have been urged by local leaders to overcome personal differences and collaborate on development initiatives to combat poverty and malnutrition in their area. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/can-kigezi-s-7-new-ministers-end-division-deliver--5476456
President Museveni recently appointed seven ministers hailing from the Kigezi sub-region, a move that has generated both gratitude and a call for unity among local leaders.
The appointees include prominent figures such as Henry Musasizi (Finance), Dr. Chris Baryomunsi (Health), Jim Muhwezi (Security), Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde (Gender, Labour and Social Development), Grace Akifeza Ngabirano (State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs), David Bahati (State Minister for Trade and Industry), and Jacqueline Mbabazi (State Minister for Elderly Affairs).
Local leaders, including Kabale District LCV Chairman Denis Nzeirwe Ndyomugyenyi, have expressed their appreciation for the appointments but stressed the critical need for the ministers to work as a cohesive team. The primary objective, they argue, should be to lobby for development programs aimed at addressing pressing issues like poverty and malnutrition that plague the region.
Residents are also encouraged to actively engage with these new ministers to champion regional priorities. These include enhancing cross-border trade, bolstering security, addressing gender issues, eradicating poverty, combating diseases, and promoting industrialization within Kigezi.
Furthermore, leaders like Kanungu District Council Speaker Frank Byaruhanga have highlighted the importance of ensuring that presidential pledges made to the area are fulfilled by these ministers. Specific commitments mentioned include payments to farmers for tea seedlings, the tarmacking of tourism roads, the establishment of an iron ore processing factory, and the development of tea processing factories and an industrial park.
Guidance from former Prime Ministers like Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda and Amama Mbabazi has also been suggested as a valuable resource for the newly appointed ministers to navigate their roles effectively and better serve the people of Kigezi.