By Frank Kamuntu
In a monumental effort to combat poverty and ignite grassroots economic empowerment, the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) delivered a transformative outreach in Katine Subcounty, Dakabela County, Soroti District—leaving thousands of residents energized and hopeful for a better future.
Led by Chief Muzzukulu Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, who also serves as the Senior Presidential Advisor and Political Assistant to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the high-impact event was marked by the distribution of wealth creation tools worth millions of shillings. The initiative was part of President Museveni’s ongoing empowerment campaign, executed through the ONC’s Kyambogo office.
From sewing machines and chapati-making equipment to brick-laying kits, welding tools, farm sprayers, and groundnut processors, the comprehensive package targeted local groups and individuals with the aim of promoting self-employment, boosting household incomes, and reducing dependency.
Empowering Through Unity, Not Politics
Arriving to thunderous applause and anticipation, Hajjat Namyalo used the occasion not just to distribute tools but to send a strong message of unity, especially within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. She made it clear that the ONC’s loyalty lies solely with the President—Jajja w’Abazzukulu Yoweri Kaguta Museveni—and not with any individual political aspirants.
“As ONC, our main candidate is the President. We don’t endorse any aspirant for political positions,” Namyalo emphasized. “However, we do appreciate and support those who genuinely contribute to empowering the Bazzukulu and advancing the President’s vision.”
Two such leaders—Hon. Harriet Anyimo and Peter Edeku Edopu, both parliamentary aspirants for Dakabela County—were recognized for their notable support of the outreach. Hon. Anyimo’s contribution of over UGX 75 million played a pivotal role in acquiring the empowerment tools, earning her public praise from the ONC Boss.
Local Demands, Longstanding Pledges
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the event also served as a platform for local leaders to voice their longstanding concerns. Mr. Echiku Joseph, the NRM Chairperson for Katine Subcounty, reminded Hajjat Namyalo of unfulfilled presidential pledges dating back to 2011—including the promised construction of a technical school, a secondary school, and the revitalization of NRM party structures in the area.
He also decried perceived injustices in compensation processes, citing that some veteran NRM members had been neglected—issues that Hajjat pledged to forward to the National Chairman’s attention.
A Show of Strength and Solidarity
The outreach drew an impressive delegation of government and party officials, showcasing the strong support behind the empowerment drive. Among the dignitaries were Soroti LC5 Chairperson Edoru Simon Peter Ekuu, RDC Paul Eseru, Deputy RCC Peter Pex Paak, Assistant RCC Enyalu Julius, and NRM Elder Persons Chairperson for Teso Subregion, Mama Teddy Acham. Multiple NRM parliamentary and district chair aspirants were also in attendance, reflecting the unity message Hajjat Namyalo championed.
Culture Meets Development
Capping off the day’s activities was a sensational performance by Ugandan rap icon Gravity Omutujju, whose hit tracks—Winner, Money, Okwepiicha, and Doozi—had the Katine crowd dancing and singing into the evening. The music, just like the day’s message, was a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and the unstoppable spirit of the Bazzukulu.
The Bigger Picture
The Soroti empowerment initiative is a continuation of the ONC’s wider mandate to eradicate poverty, equip youth with practical skills, and prepare communities to thrive economically as Uganda approaches the 2026 elections. By focusing on tangible, community-based empowerment and steering clear of divisive politics, Hajjat Namyalo and the ONC are setting a strong example of what people-centered leadership looks like.
