President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced government plans to establish a cocoa processing factory in Bundibugyo District, marking a major economic boost for one of Uganda’s top cocoa-producing regions.
Museveni, who is also the NRM presidential flag bearer, made the announcement on Friday, 5th December 2025, while addressing supporters at a campaign rally held at Bumadu Playgrounds in Bundibugyo.
He revealed that government has already secured a committed investor to implement the long-awaited project.
“I am going to set up a cocoa factory here in Bundibugyo. I once tried to convince the Americans to establish one. They told me Uganda lacked milk and sugar. I showed them these products were in abundance and realised they were simply playing games. Now, we have identified a serious and wealthy investor who will take on the project,” Museveni said.
The President assured residents that government remains firm on ensuring peace and stability in the region, urging communities to take advantage of ongoing development programmes to create household wealth.
“Our second contribution has been development. We have focused on two key areas: economic infrastructure and social infrastructure,” Museveni noted.
He announced that the dilapidated Fort Portal–Bundibugyo road will be upgraded to improve transport and access to markets for agricultural produce, including cocoa.
Bundibugyo District currently hosts 107 government-aided primary schools and 12 secondary schools. The President reiterated government’s long-term education plan.
“Our plan is to have a primary school in every parish and a secondary school in every sub-county. Many have been completed, and more will be done,” he said.
On health, Museveni confirmed that the district’s main government health facility will be renovated, in line with the NRM’s policy of prioritising preventive healthcare.
“We shall renovate the facility as you have requested. Our policy has always emphasized prevention more than cure,” he added.
The President later proceeded to Ntoroko District for another campaign rally.
