Museveni promises free education in 80th birthday celebration

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has promised to provide free education in government primary and secondary schools while celebrating his 80th birthday on Sunday, September 15.

The event was marked by prayers and reflections on his nearly four decades of leadership since he came to power in 1986.

Joined by his family, Ugandan citizens, political allies, and religious leaders, the president noted that all Ugandans must have access to education regardless of their financial background. 

"Now, we must tackle the issue of free education. No child should be paying a fee in govt primary and secondary schools. We shall deal with this," he said. 

He also appealed to Ugandans to hold their leaders accountable in service delivery. 

"We are also going to rehabilitate some of the roads;  Masulita-Luwero, Kiwoko-Butalangu,  Butalangu-Kapeeka-Nakwaya etc. I will visit the area soon and engage with the Wananchi," he added. 

The celebrations were held in Kijjaguzo village, Nakaseke District on Sunday, September 15.

He expressed his gratitude to all who have walked with him throughout his personal and political journey.

"I thank everyone for showering me with birthday wishes. I am grateful for the gift of life and the past 80 years I have lived. I thank my parents for raising me and Maama Janet for blessing me with a large and loving family," he said. 

Kijjaguzo village holds a significant place in Museveni’s reign and National Resistance Movement (NRM’s) rise to power as they aided their campaign when they sought to overthrow Milton Obote.

Museveni first gained prominence as a revolutionary leader, leading a successful guerrilla war that made him president.

His reign has been defined by both economic development and political controversy, with improvements in agriculture and infrastructure boosting trade and investments.

His administration has faced criticism for human rights violations and a tightening grip on political freedoms and has faced continuous opposition from the likes of opposition politicians Kizza Besigye and Ugandan musician and politician Robert Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine, whom he has been quoted referring to as ‘Foreign agents.’

Museveni's relationship with Western nations has also been a mix of cooperation and tension. Initially seen as a reformist, he has over time clashed with the West over governance and human rights issues.

Despite these challenges, he continues to rely on international partnerships, particularly in areas such as defense, health, and trade.

Uganda has seen growth in infrastructure and agriculture under his leadership, with a significant share of its exports being tea, coffee, and gold.

As Uganda’s longest-serving president, Museveni shows little sign of stepping down. With constitutional amendments removing presidential age limits, he has no intention of taking a back seat in local or continental politics.