Thousands Empowered In Katwe As Hajjat Namyalo Leads Massive ONC Outreach

As the sun blazed over Katwe Ku Kisaawe on Wednesday, thousands of youth, women, and ghetto residents from across Makindye Division gathered in anticipation—not just for music or celebration, but for opportunity. At the heart of the excitement stood Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, President Museveni’s Senior Presidential Advisor and Head of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), who delivered a firm message of discipline, unity, and wealth creation under the theme Abanaku Tweyambe.

In a rallying call to Bazzukulu, Hajjat Namyalo urged the youth to reject manipulation by political opportunists, especially as the 2026 elections approach. Her remarks followed recent unrest linked to criminal elements wearing NRM yellow T-shirts during a procession supporting President Museveni’s re-nomination. Videos of beatings and robberies during the event drew sharp public criticism, prompting ONC’s top official to remind the public that such acts do not reflect the values of the party.

“Discipline is our strength. Those using Jajja’s name to commit crimes are not with us,” Namyalo told the crowd. “This support isn’t just about tools. It’s about restoring dignity, inspiring purpose, and affirming our commitment to peace and development.”

The ONC empowerment drive, known for delivering tangible support to communities often left behind by conventional government programs, did not disappoint. On this occasion, hundreds of items were distributed, including over 50 sewing machines, 20 car washers, 10 groundnut grinders, 50 welding machines, 150 mattresses, and sports kits to promote youth development. For many, it was a lifeline. For others, it marked the first step toward independence.

Nakiwogo Sarah, a single mother from Katwe, cradled a sewing machine with tears in her eyes. “I had lost hope. This machine will help me care for my children and stand on my own,” she said. “It’s proof that Jajja hasn’t forgotten us.”

President Museveni, often referred to as “Jajja” by his youthful supporters, was at the center of the day’s narrative. Namyalo reminded attendees to mark July 5 as a historic moment—when Museveni is expected to be officially nominated as the NRM presidential flagbearer and National Chairman.

“Makindye must lead by example. We shall not be provoked into violence. Our campaign is one of ideas, productivity, and peaceful mobilization,” Namyalo added, drawing applause from the crowd packed beneath tents and trees.

Apostle Benson Kayondo of the Reformed Generation of Pastors and Preachers Association, which co-organized the event, praised the initiative. “This is not just charity—it’s transformation. Empowerment at this level reshapes communities. Families that had lost direction now have tools to build again,” he said.

Local leaders also echoed the sentiment. Caroline Nashemeza, the Deputy RCC of Makindye, pointed out that the ONC initiative filled gaps left by other programs. “There are bottlenecks in traditional systems. This intervention meets people where they are. It brings real change,” she said. Her remarks were met with nods from dozens of beneficiaries, some still holding their equipment in hand.

The day’s program wasn’t all speeches and distribution. As the evening drew in, a lineup of Uganda’s top performers took the stage. Gravity Omutujju, Ykee Benda, and San Yo brought high energy to the crowd, blending music with messages of unity and resilience. For many attendees, especially the younger crowd, the entertainment was a fitting climax to a day rooted in hope.

The event also attracted a host of NRM political aspirants eyeing positions in Kampala, from Lord Mayor hopefuls like Kizito Moses Nsubuga and Dr. Thaddeus Musoke Nagenda, to MP and mayoral candidates vying for seats in the city’s vibrant political arena. Their presence signaled the strategic significance of Makindye as a political battleground ahead of the 2026 general elections.

What stood out most, however, was the atmosphere of empowerment that lingered after the music faded. Bazzukulu left Katwe with more than just tools; they carried renewed purpose, a stronger sense of identity, and a reaffirmed belief in peaceful, value-driven progress. As one local elder remarked, watching youth walk away with welding kits and sports gear slung over their shoulders: “This is what development looks like—not promises, but action.”