Editorial
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged traditional and cultural leaders to preserve Uganda’s positive cultural heritage, strengthen government research institutions and promote East African integration as key drivers of wealth creation and socio-economic transformation.
The President made the remarks yesterday while closing a two-day conference for traditional and cultural leaders at State House, Entebbe.
Museveni reaffirmed his support for traditional institutions, describing the abolition of kingdoms as a historical mistake.
He called on cultural leaders to work with existing government research institutions, including Kawanda, Namulonge and Serere, to advance indigenous agriculture, livestock improvement and the preservation of traditional knowledge.
However, he cautioned against harmful cultural practices such as forced wife inheritance and female circumcision, saying culture must respect human dignity and individual rights.
The cultural leaders committed to protecting indigenous crops, livestock breeds, traditional skills and knowledge, which they say can create employment, increase household incomes and contribute to national development.
Museveni pledged to present their resolutions to Cabinet for consideration.