President Yoweri Museveni has directed leaders of veterans’ associations to account for more than Shs231 billion that the government has disbursed over the years to support former bush war fighters and their wealth creation initiatives.
Speaking during the 37th Heroes’ Day celebrations held at State Lodge Nakasero on Tuesday, Museveni said a special meeting would be convened to establish what became of the funds intended to benefit veterans of the 1981–1986 liberation struggle.
“We are going to have a meeting to find out what happened to that money,” the President said while referring to funds that arose from a 2009 resolution to pay ex-combatant leaders and support cadres in recognition of their contribution to the liberation war.
Museveni praised both civilian and armed veterans for their role in overthrowing past regimes and restoring stability to Uganda, saying the liberation struggle was launched to rescue the country from insecurity, poor governance and economic collapse.
The President also announced plans to support veterans through government-operated seedling breeding centres and revealed that government intends to acquire 60 acres of land at Migadde along the Kampala–Bombo Road for the establishment of a liberation war museum.
In addition, he directed his Principal Private Secretary to expedite arrangements for veterans to receive treatment at Entebbe Grade B Hospital to reduce dependence on costly private healthcare facilities.
Vice President Jessica Alupo paid tribute to Uganda’s national heroes, saying their sacrifices laid the foundation for the peace, security and economic progress the country enjoys today.
The event was attended by few top government officials, including Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth Oboth, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Chief Justice Flavian Zeija.
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