President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has condemned the practice of rearing cattle in wetlands, emphasizing that wetlands should be preserved for sustainable activities such as fish farming.
The President made the remarks yesterday during his performance assessment tour on the Parish Development Model (PDM) and wealth creation in Kigezi sub-region.
As part of the tour, President Museveni officially launched the Kigezi Zonal Industrial Hub in Mulambo Village, Bulanga Parish, Kamuganguzi Sub-county, Kabale District,
Addressing the residents, the President acknowledged their initiative of setting up a fish pond in the wetland but cautioned them against keeping cattle in the natural resource.
“I appreciate the fish pond you have set up, but I advise you to move your cattle out of the wetland because it is not a suitable environment for livestock. Wetlands are meant for fish farming, not cattle,” the President said.
He explained that fish farming can be a lucrative venture, offering substantial returns.
“With fish farming, you can earn 700,000 shillings from half an acre after deducting feed costs, and up to 1.4 million shillings from a full acre. Additionally, the water from fish ponds can be used for irrigation, which improves crop yields,” he stated.
The Kigezi Zonal Industrial Hub is focused on equipping youth with practical skills such as carpentry, bakery, tailoring, hairdressing, shoe-making, and welding. The aim is to train 12,000 youth annually, providing them with the skills needed to create wealth and contribute to economic development.
The President expressed satisfaction with the way parents have embraced the initiative of providing free skills training to their children. He also announced the expansion of the program to include three additional courses: plumbing, motor mechanics, and electrical installation.
“We will continue to expand the skills training here, ensuring that our children are fully equipped for the job market,” the President said.
At the same event, President Museveni contributed 40 million shillings to the four most skilled finalists and 20 million shillings to the Youth SACCO, to enable them to access capital for wealth creation.
However, President Museveni raised concerns about the increasing number of school dropouts, especially when such valuable programs are available free of charge. He reiterated the government’s plan to establish a primary school in every parish and a secondary school in each sub-county, where students can commute from home to save on accommodation and feeding costs.
“This approach would allow the government to focus its resources on paying teachers and covering other school expenses,” he explained.
The President also emphasized that regional industrial hubs would help children from remote areas by providing them with opportunities for skill development and economic empowerment.
Hon. Catherine Ndamira, the Woman Member of Parliament for Kabale District, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his continued support to practical skills training for the youth; ensuring they are better equipped for the workforce.
Mr. Pascal Tibaijuka, the instructor of the Industrial Hub, praised the President for his role in launching the project in 2023, which has already benefited 247 students.
“This project has transformed our community. Many students who faced challenges due to lack of school resources can now acquire skills and participate in the money economy,” Mr. Tibaijuka said.
The event was also attended by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Members of Parliament, among other leaders.
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