President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has challenged Ugandan intellectuals, especially academics and researchers, to move beyond theoretical studies and contribute practical solutions that can drive the country’s development.
Speaking to journalists at Mbale State Lodge as he concluded his campaign in the Sebei subregion, the President expressed disappointment that many educated Ugandans remain detached from real economic transformation.
“Even professors can’t help, apart from doing research at Makerere,” Museveni said pointedly. “What are you researching? You don’t talk about the market. China has a population of 1.4 billion, yet they are still looking for markets abroad.”
Museveni said it was worrying that many intellectuals and leaders spend time on academic debates without addressing Uganda’s most pressing needs—such as expanding production, finding markets for goods, and integrating the East African economy.
He urged politicians, academics, and journalists alike to discuss critical issues that can push the country forward. “You should be talking about markets and East Africa’s political integration,” he said. “That is where the real future lies.”
The President noted that despite significant progress in peace and stability, Uganda’s next big challenge is creating wealth and jobs through meaningful participation in the money economy.
“When I see some of these politicians moving around, I will take the time to dismantle their arguments,” Museveni said. “Already, 67% of Ugandans are part of the money economy, but we need thinkers who can push it further.”
The interaction highlighted President Museveni’s belief that Uganda’s intellectual community must move from theory to practice—offering innovations that respond to the realities of ordinary people and strengthen the country’s economic base.
