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KARUGUTU, Uganda — Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the National Unity Platform presidential candidate, pledged to halt the export of raw cocoa from the Rwenzori region by establishing chocolate processing factories in Ntoroko and Bundibugyo districts.
Kyagulanyi made the promise in Karugutu, Ntoroko district, as he campaigned in an effort to secure votes in the cocoa-rich region. He argued that increasing local processing would create more jobs and substantially increase farmers’ income per acre.
“We shall have factories here,” Kyagulanyi said. “Trucks that come to this area shall not take your raw cocoa but chocolate.”
Uganda currently earns close to $150 million, or about 532 billion shillings, annually from cocoa exports. According to Bank of Uganda figures, Bundibugyo alone contributes nearly $100 million, or about 354.8 billion shillings, much of it from cocoa sold in its raw form.
Economic and Infrastructure Reform
The presidential hopeful outlined a broad platform of economic and infrastructure reforms that he would pursue if elected.
He pledged to revive the nation’s railway system to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity in the region. He also questioned the country’s lack of developed air travel infrastructure.
“Why have we had only one airport in 40 years?” he asked, noting that a flight from Bundibugyo to Rwanda takes less than an hour, yet current travel requires an indirect, lengthy trip through Entebbe. He promised to build at least one airport in every region to boost connectivity and promote tourism.
Health and Unity
Kyagulanyi also criticized the current government’s budget priorities, specifically the perceived overemphasis on security while the health sector suffers from severe shortages.
“Instead of tear gas, we shall have tablets to treat the sick,” he said, pledging to put essential medicines in hospitals and procure more ambulances.
He reiterated his call for national unity, urging supporters to reject tribal divisions.
“In a new Uganda, all of us, regardless of where we come from, shall be equal,” he said. “We want even a baby born here in Ntoroko to say he or she can become president of Uganda.”
Kyagulanyi urged supporters not to be intimidated and reminded them of their constitutional right to freedom of association as he wrapped up his Rwenzori tour.
