KAMPALA, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni officially began his new five-year term Tuesday, pledging an aggressive crackdown on corruption and urging citizens to abandon complacency under a mantra of no more sleep.
Speaking at his inauguration at the Kololo Independence Grounds, the president launched his 2026-2031 administration by calling for active participation in wealth and job creation. Museveni said the ruling National Resistance Movement has transformed the country since 1986 through peace and economic empowerment.
The president cited improved household incomes and rapid real estate growth in Kampala as evidence of economic progress. He said his victory in the 2026 general election reaffirmed public confidence in the NRM ideology, which he defined as politics based on national interests rather than identity.
Over the next five years, Museveni said the government will prioritize economic development, job opportunities, regional integration and the strengthening of the East African political federation.
He highlighted success stories from commercial agriculture, mentioning farmers such as Johnson Basangwa of Kamuli District and Joseph Ijara of Serere District. Museveni urged Ugandans to use government financial initiatives, including the Parish Development Model, to boost incomes.
The president unveiled an agricultural plan focused on Uganda’s 40 million acres of arable land. He estimated that if seven million acres were properly utilized for commercial agriculture, the sector could generate more than 105 million jobs.
On industrialization, Museveni maintained his stance against exporting raw minerals, arguing that processing materials within the country is essential for economic benefit. He also promised increased investment in irrigation and fish farming while emphasizing sustainable wetland management.
Museveni issued a warning against the misuse of public funds, telling citizens to use legal mechanisms to hold officials accountable for diverting government money. He dismissed excuses for financial inactivity, noting that the government has provided support through the National Development Plan Four.
Addressing the 2026 elections, Museveni criticized members of the National Unity Platform and the Forum for Democratic Change for what he described as disruptive actions. He called on political parties to agree on clear election management guidelines through the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue.
The president also thanked African nations, specifically Mozambique and Tanzania, for their historical support of Uganda’s liberation struggle.
Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who serves as chairperson of the African Union, praised Museveni for his role in regional security and African unity.
The ceremony included a military parade involving the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, police and prison services. The display featured Sukhoi-30 fighter jets and a Mi-17 helicopter carrying the national flag.
Earlier in the ceremony, Simon Byabakama presented Museveni for the oath of office, administered by Flavia Zeija. Byabakama confirmed Museveni won the election with 71.6% of the vote.
