Hajji Yusuf Kakande, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the President, has underscored the critical need to ensure the National Resistance Movement (NRM) system remains robust and functional even after President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni's tenure. He made these remarks during the opening of a seven-day national retreat for Deputy Resident District Commissioners (DRDCs) and NRM District Chairpersons at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwazi.
The retreat, which focused on the Manifesto Implementation 2021-2026 and the 23 Presidential Strategic Guidelines and Directives, aimed to equip leaders with the necessary tools to consolidate the NRM's achievements and ensure the party's long-term sustainability. Hajji Kakande urged the leaders to work diligently to maintain the NRM's legacy and values, emphasizing the importance of fostering a deep appreciation for the party's accomplishments among Ugandans.
He also highlighted the need for collaboration with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), led by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to achieve shared national goals. This partnership, he noted, is essential for advancing the NRM's agenda and ensuring the party's continued relevance.
Manifesto Implementation Progress
During the retreat, Mr. Willis Bashaasha, the Director of the Manifesto Implementation Unit, provided an update on the progress of the 2021-2026 Manifesto. He reported that, as of the midterm review, 35% of the manifesto's goals had been achieved, 49% were in progress, and 16% were pending. Mr. Bashaasha expressed confidence that by the end of the term, 80% of the manifesto's objectives would be realized, reflecting the government's commitment to delivering on its promises.
Vision 2040 and Uganda's Historical Mission
Col. Okei Rukogota, the Director of NALI, welcomed the participants and emphasized the retreat's primary objective: to address challenges and ensure the full realization of the 2021-2026 Manifesto. He also stressed the importance of aligning efforts with Vision 2040, Uganda's long-term development plan, to achieve the country's historical mission of transforming into a modern and prosperous nation.
The retreat served as a platform for leaders to reflect on their roles in driving the NRM's agenda forward, fostering unity, and ensuring the party's enduring success. Hajji Kakande's call for continuity and collaboration resonated strongly, highlighting the need for collective efforts to sustain the NRM's legacy and achieve Uganda's development goals.