Museveni Orders Audit of Veterans’ Funds, Expands Support During Heroes Day Commemoration.
By Gabriel Oligo
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed an audit into Shs 231 billion that was disbursed to veterans under government wealth creation programs and ordered expedited medical treatment for veterans at Entebbe Grade B Hospital.
The directive was issued during the virtual commemoration of the 37th Heroes Day celebrations held at State House Nakasero.
Addressing participants, Museveni said Uganda has largely achieved the objectives of the liberation struggle, highlighting progress in economic growth, peace and security, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and wealth creation initiatives. He also pointed to improvements in immunization services under the Uganda National Expanded Programme on Immunization (UNEPI).
The President ordered a comprehensive review of funds channelled through veterans’ SACCOs and projects implemented under Operation Wealth Creation, including the distribution of agricultural seedlings to veterans.
He emphasized the need for stronger accountability and better management of veterans’ cooperative societies to ensure government resources benefit the intended recipients.
Museveni further reflected on the 1980 liberation war, attributing the conflict to poor governance that had hindered Uganda’s development. He paid tribute to both armed and civilian veterans for their contribution to the country’s stability and transformation.
During the event, veterans appealed to the government to reconsider the ban on public national celebrations.
The Vice Chairperson of the Luwero War Veterans Association, Kiggundu Kabandwa, called for a meeting with the president and urged government to strengthen patriotism training as a measure to combat corruption.
Meanwhile, the State Minister for Luwero Triangle and Rwenzori Region, Alice Kaboyo, revealed that 250 civilian veterans’ SACCOs across Luwero, Busoga, Rwenzori and other regions have received government funding to support income-generating activities.
Kaboyo also said the Ministry for Luwero Affairs is partnering with the National Enterprise Corporation to construct houses for veterans, with the first phase commencing in Nakaseke District. In addition, the ministry is undertaking the reconstruction of schools that were destroyed during the liberation war.
As part of continued support to veterans, Museveni directed his Principal Private Secretary to fast-track arrangements for medical services at Entebbe Grade B Hospital, ensuring easier access to healthcare for liberation war veterans.
