The Western Region today witnessed a powerful display of unity and political energy as President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni held two highly attended campaign rallies in Kanungu and Rukungiri, drawing thousands of enthusiastic supporters who braved the heat to listen to his message of continued transformation and stability.
The rallies were attended by top National Resistance Movement leaders, including the 2nd National Vice-Chairman Western Region CEC, Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki, the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among, the Rt. Hon. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, and several other senior party members and local leaders who accompanied the President in their distinguished capacities.
In Kanungu at Rwere Playground, President Museveni addressed one of the most vibrant gatherings in the district this campaign season. He acknowledged the concerns raised by tea farmers about the rising cost of fertilisers, noting that the government will establish a special fund to support them through their SACCOs. He emphasized that tea, being the economic backbone of the district, must remain productive and profitable for households that depend on it.
The President assured residents that, just as support is being organized for sugarcane growers and fishermen, tea farmers will not be left behind. He also encouraged those with smaller land holdings to embrace the four-acre model, describing it as a proven strategy for increasing incomes and achieving sustainability at household level.
The message of peace stood out strongly throughout both rallies. Referring to communities near the Congo border, the President reminded the crowd that these areas once experienced high levels of insecurity. He stressed that the restoration of peace remains the most fundamental achievement of the NRM, forming the foundation for all subsequent development.
“Without peace, no progress is possible,” President Museveni reiterated, drawing loud applause from the audience.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, highlighting plans to upgrade the 149 km Hamurwa–Kerere–Kanungu–Butogota–Hamayanza–Ifasha–Ikunza road network. According to the President, improving this critical route will boost trade, tourism, and connectivity, opening new economic opportunities for residents.
After Kanungu, the campaign trail moved to Rukungiri, where another overwhelming crowd turned up in full voice to welcome the President and the NRM leadership. The atmosphere was electric, with residents expressing confidence in the region’s continued development trajectory.
Speaking at the rally, Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki expressed gratitude to the people of Rukungiri for their exceptional mobilisation and support, noting that such commitment reflects the Western Region’s strong belief in progress and stability. He encouraged residents to embrace the President’s message, highlighting irrigation as a game-changing intervention that will allow farmers to produce throughout the year and permanently tackle poverty.
Throughout the day, the theme of protecting the gains already achieved remained central. The leaders emphasized that development is a continuous process requiring consistent leadership, unity, and structures that listen to the needs of the people.
As the rallies concluded, one thing was clear: the Western Region remains energized, hopeful, and determined to advance its socioeconomic journey. The passion displayed in Kanungu and Rukungiri left a strong impression of a community ready to embrace growth, innovation, and improved livelihoods.
With promises of improved infrastructure, increased agricultural support, and strengthened economic capacity, many residents expressed optimism that the future holds even greater opportunities for the region and the country at large.
