KAMPALA, UGANDA — President Yoweri Museveni has reassured Ugandans that the nation will not be adversely affected by the withdrawal of American foreign aid, dismissing continental anxieties over the move.
Speaking at the State Iftar dinner at State House Entebbe on Tuesday, Museveni questioned the distress expressed by several African nations regarding the US President Donald Trump administration’s review of American assistance. He asserted that Uganda would continue to prosper regardless of aid reductions.
“That is the problem with many African countries—when you hear them crying that the Americans have stopped aid, you wonder, how can we die because of American aid? Whether they stop it or not, we shall continue,” Museveni stated.
The US government’s memo, issued on January 20, 2025, signaled a pause in potentially trillions of dollars in federal aid under the US Agency for International Development (USAID), part of a broader strategy to restructure and reduce the federal workforce. This decision has raised concerns about the impact on health programs and other initiatives in aid-dependent countries like Uganda.
During his address, Museveni shared personal reflections on religion, highlighting his family’s decision to maintain traditional beliefs. He referenced the Ankole tradition of constructing (Okwombeka) homes, which symbolized a holistic approach to survival encompassing wealth, education, and religion without discrimination.
Museveni urged Muslims to embrace wealth creation, citing his great-grandmother Nyinachwende’s wisdom that “one cannot have status without wealth.” He emphasized that modern prosperity extends beyond livestock and agriculture to include education and financial stability.
He also commended the unity among Muslims at the event, noting the presence of various sects, including Sunni, Tabliqs, and Shia, dining together, a departure from past sectarian divisions. Museveni encouraged religious leaders to help their followers balance spiritual and worldly responsibilities.
He expressed satisfaction that Muslims had begun accepting funds from the Parish Development Model (PDM), clarifying that the government does not profit from these funds and that the 5% interest rate does not constitute riba (interest).
The government has taken steps to address the financial gaps resulting from the US aid cuts. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja announced the allocation of over Shs 163 billion to fund capitation grants for government-aided schools.
Grand Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, urged Muslims to observe fasting and praised the government’s efforts in promoting unity. He acknowledged Museveni’s personal engagement during the PDM presidential tours and mentioned the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC)’s revised constitution, passed in July 2022.
While expressing gratitude for government support, Mubaje noted unresolved issues but declined to discuss them publicly.
Vice President Jessica Alupo remarked on the consistent support from Muslims for Museveni and their readiness to support him in 2026. She emphasized Ramadan as a time for repentance, forgiveness, and generosity.
