President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised Gen (Rtd) Caleb Akandwanaho, popularly known as Salim Saleh, for his role in Uganda’s liberation struggle, describing him as a symbol of patriotism and a role model for the youth.
The President made the remarks on Monday the National Leadership Institute Kyankwanzi during the seventh day of a retreat for newly elected NRM MPs, where he laid a foundation stone for the Gen Saleh School of Research and the Walter Rodney Block.
Mr Museveni recounted Gen Saleh’s early involvement in the liberation struggle, noting that he joined the fight against Idi Amin at the age of 16 after leaving school.
“People like Saleh should act as good examples to you young people to show you what patriotism means and how what you do can help your country,” he said.
He added that between 1979 and 1986, Gen Saleh played a key role in several battles, including Masindi, Kabamba, Masaka and Kampala.
The President said that after the war, Gen Saleh shifted focus to wealth creation and economic development, citing his involvement in initiatives such as coffee growing and development projects in northern Uganda.
Warning on corruption
Mr Museveni also issued a stern warning against corruption, saying those involved would face tough consequences.
“The corrupt are now in danger and will be dealt with. You cannot underestimate us. You will see what will happen,” he said.
He urged Members of Parliament to lead by example, cautioning them against accepting bribes.
“You in Parliament are now on the frontline. You should not accept bribes. If you have problems, come and tell us, but don’t take bribes,” he said, warning that offenders risk losing their seats.
“We are going to finish this corruption,” he added.
The President commended MPs for attending the retreat, likening it to a renewal of commitment and discipline.
Call for regional integration
On regional matters, Mr Museveni emphasised the need for African unity and economic integration, saying fragmented markets and policies hinder prosperity.
He paid tribute to former Tanzanian leaders Julius Nyerere and Benjamin Mkapa for their role in promoting the East African Community, and called for deeper integration within the bloc.
“The whole of the East African Community should move towards full integration,” he said.
New research facility
The director of the institute, Col Okei Rukogota, said the new facilities will serve as a hub for ideological development, research and Pan-African studies.
He said the complex will include a modern multimedia auditorium and studios to support both physical and virtual engagement, while preserving Uganda’s liberation history.
Public service reforms
The Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet, Ms Lucy Nakyobe, called for patriotism among civil servants, warning that corruption threatens national development.
“Without patriotism, Uganda cannot achieve its development goals. All public servants must love their country and serve with commitment,” she said.
Ms Nakyobe said government has introduced mandatory ideological training at the institute for newly recruited public servants and senior officials.
She raised concern over corruption in recruitment, particularly in district service commissions, and urged legislators to review the legal framework to address the vice.
“Corruption is growing under our watch, and if we do not stop it now, it will become a monster that will destroy the country,” she warned.
She cited procurement fraud, payroll irregularities, absenteeism and bribery in service delivery as key areas of concern.
Health sector update
Health minister Jane Ruth Aceng highlighted progress in the sector but emphasised prevention as critical to reducing disease burden.
“Our population is large, and we cannot meet all treatment needs. The solution is prevention—through proper nutrition, exercise, and healthy living,” she said.
Dr Aceng said government has improved infrastructure to accommodate persons with disabilities and expanded access to mental health services.
She also revealed that Mulago National Referral Hospital has conducted more than 12 transplant surgeries, with all recipients and donors reported to be in good health.
On staffing, she said nurses are being trained to handle diagnostic services at lower health facilities to address the shortage of specialists.
