On June 5, 2025, President Yoweri Museveni delivered his highly anticipated State of the Nation Address to the Parliament of Uganda at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, marking the opening of the fifth session of the 11th Parliament. The address was not only a reflection on Uganda’s socio-economic progress but also a clear signal of continued political backing for President Museveni’s leadership within the parliamentary ranks.
In the weeks following the address, Members of Parliament (MPs) formally expressed strong support for President Museveni by backing a motion thanking him for providing a clear and precise exposition of government policy. The motion was first moved by Hon. Faith Nakut (NRM, Napak district) during the House sitting on July 31, 2025, and seconded by other MPs including Hon. Dicksons Kateshumbwa (NRM, Sheema Municipality) and Hon. Jane Avur (NRM, Pakwach district).
Hon. Nakut highlighted significant achievements cited during the President’s address, such as the government’s steadfast support for small businesses and an impressive increase in national revenue — which has surged from Shs5 billion in 1986 to Shs31.9 trillion today. She noted key government programs like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga, which have transformed lives by boosting economic participation and trading activities across Uganda. Nakut also praised the stabilization of fuel prices and investment in mineral processing, both of which have created jobs and contributed to the economy’s growth.
Echoing this sentiment, Hon. Kateshumbwa emphasized the remarkable economic growth from a mere US$3.92 million in 1986 to a projected US$60.4 billion in 2025. He highlighted that the Ugandan economy is expected to continue growing at 7 percent in the upcoming financial year. Kateshumbwa credited the government’s wealth creation initiatives, such as the Youth Livelihood Project, for enabling ordinary Ugandans to increase their incomes significantly, with some earning up to a million shillings for the first time. He also pointed to the tourism sector’s rapid expansion, with receipts growing from US$562 million in 2020 to US$1.4 billion in 2024, spurred by peace, better infrastructure, and expanded Uganda Airlines routes.
Hon. Avur praised the President for maintaining macroeconomic stability, noting that the Ugandan shilling appreciated by 6.1 percent over the past year and inflation remains under control, with Uganda boasting the second-lowest inflation rate in Africa over the past decade. She underscored that price stability is vital as an enabler of greater investment and economic predictability. Avur also highlighted a 26 percent surge in export earnings to US$9.3 billion, pointing out the positive impact on diverse sectors such as cosmetics, which employs over two million Ugandans, predominantly women and youth.
The Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Anita Among, welcomed the commendations from MPs, reiterating that Uganda currently enjoys peace, a stable economy, and development driven by exports and services that are creating jobs across the country. The contributions from MPs also included praise for the President’s leadership in advancing women’s representation in government positions, a result credited to affirmative action policies.
President Museveni’s June 2025 address also launched the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), aiming to further accelerate Uganda’s transformation into a modern and prosperous nation by 2030. The plan focuses on agro-industrialization, tourism development, mineral resources exploitation including oil and gas, and promoting science, technology, and innovation.
The parliamentary backing for President Museveni following his State of the Nation Address signals strong confidence from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and its allies. It underscores a shared commitment to continuing development initiatives, enhancing peace and security, and driving wealth creation to lift more Ugandans out of poverty.
Looking ahead to the January 2026 elections, President Museveni maintains a dominant political position bolstered by tangible economic achievements and broad support within Parliament. This political backing will be critical as Uganda strives to meet its ambitious goals of economic diversification, industrial growth, and social development articulated in the President’s address.
In summary, the June 5, 2025 State of the Nation Address has reinforced President Museveni’s leadership standing through demonstrable parliamentary support, concrete development achievements, and a reaffirmed focus on inclusive economic growth—setting the stage for Uganda’s continued progress under his stewardship.