Uganda: President Museveni to industrialize northern Uganda

(SomaliNet) The Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni has vowed to turn around northern Uganda\'s fortunes by advocating industrialisation in the region despite resistance from some of the local leaders.

Already, the Ugandan leader is also ready to take on any saboteurs to his plans. \"We want industrialisation of northern Uganda by for instance developing the sugar industry in Gulu, Amuru and Adjumani, fruit processing plants in Arua and Soroti.

The government will do everything possible to set up these industries,\" the President said while launching the Peace, Recovery and Development Plan for northern Uganda on Monday.

The plan, estimated to cost shillings one trllion for the recovery, rehabilitation and development of all areas affected by the 20-year rebellion by the Lords Resistance Army.

President Museveni continued as he banged the podium as a way of emphasis: \"We shall build the factories. Why should the people in the north not have factories?

Why are you going to Juba? We are going to fight and ensure we build industries in the north, and I am ready to take on anybody, as usual. Factories are wealth.

\" Several people are opposed to the idea of the government giving out large chunks of land to investors as is happening in Kampala.

Industrialisation of the north would mean that more power is needed to run the factories. To this end, President Museveni said dams are to be constructed at Karuma, starting next year and later Ayago dam, also on the Nile. The other objectives include the introduction of oxen ploughs for food security and income generation.

\"The biggest problem in Uganda is the continued presence of subsistence farmers. They must produce for income as well following the principles of the market,\" President Museveni said.

The President said he wants Uganda to reach a situation where all households are contributing to the economy. \"We cannot have 68% of the homesteads just waiting for money. Disturbing other people in the world is not a good idea.\"-Daily Monitor