Uganda at 62: 67% of Uganda’s population now involved in money economy

BUSIA, Uganda | Xinhua | Uganda on Wednesday celebrated 62 years of independence from British colonial rule, with President Yoweri Museveni calling for wealth creation.

During the celebration held in the eastern Ugandan district of Busia, Museveni emphasized value addition to agricultural products.

“The problem with Africa and other colonies is their focus on producing only raw materials, which has been detrimental to the continent,” Museveni said, noting that Uganda has been deliberately adding value to its products to fetch more export revenue.

He noted that under various government development programs, about 67 percent of Uganda’s population is now involved in the money economy.

Visiting Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadera also attended the ceremony, hailing Museveni for his leadership.

“He has transformed the country into a good country of national reconciliation. We came here because he is the person that inspires us a lot,” Touadera said.

The celebration, also featuring cultural performances and a march-past, was attended by diplomats and other officials.

Uganda gained its independence from British colonial rule on Oct. 9, 1962.