President Museveni has initiated a renewed effort to combat corruption, absenteeism, and medicine shortages in Uganda’s public health sector, emphasizing that unproductive workers may be replaced by younger professionals. Speaking to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus on August 7, 2026, at Speke Resort in Kampala, he identified several pressing issues from his nationwide campaign, primarily focusing on health service delivery.
Museveni expressed concern over the alarming lack of essential medicines in government facilities, urging that this practice must end, promising to personally oversee the matter. He highlighted absenteeism among health workers, particularly doctors, and warned that those who fail to fulfill their duties will be replaced by qualified young medical professionals. He stressed the importance of effective health services for both individuals and national productivity, recalling his own experiences with malaria.
Furthermore, he addressed the rising incidences of non-communicable diseases like cancer and diabetes, indicating a need for governmental investigations into their causes and for the enhancement of preventive measures. He recounted receiving numerous requests from Ugandans seeking opportunities to travel abroad for treatment, particularly in India, and highlighted the necessity of understanding the growing cancer rates and its potential link to factors such as fungal contamination.
Museveni commended certain government officials for their anti-corruption efforts, citing Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara and justifying his actions against local corruption, particularly concerning the diversion of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds. He implored legislators to actively listen to their constituents, exposing corruption and holding public officials accountable. Museveni hinted that public discontent often stems from corruption at the local level.
He ordered Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to ensure thorough investigations into allegations of PDM fund misuse, mentioning specific areas like Pakwach, Maracha, Iganga, and Buwambo. In contrast, he praised the performance of PDM in Kasese District and called it a potential game changer for household support.
Museveni further criticized ongoing corruption in the recruitment processes for local government positions, alleging that jobs were being sold for significant bribes. He urged MPs to oversee recruitment to ensure that appointments are merit-based rather than based on financial transactions.
On a broader scale, he expressed dissatisfaction with the focus on establishing new districts and cities, arguing that resources should instead be allocated to vital sectors such as irrigation, which he regards as critical for poverty alleviation. He referenced plans to divide Ntungamo District, suggesting that such measures often stem from an ambition for political positions rather than genuine administrative needs.
Concluding his address, Museveni encouraged local leaders and MPs to collaborate closely with security agencies to tackle crime effectively. Following this, the NRM Caucus adopted 11 resolutions committed to supporting government initiatives aimed at discipline and strategic development, covering areas like defense, security, infrastructure, and health.
