President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today officially commissioned the Ankole Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub in Muko Village, Mbarara District.

The hub is part of a nationwide initiative, with 19 similar hubs across Uganda.

The hubs initiative which is spread across the country with 19 training centres aims to equip over 12,000 youths annually with vocational skills, promoting wealth creation, employment and sustainable development in Uganda.

In his address, President Museveni said he believes the hub is a transformative step in the region’s economic empowerment.

He praised the efforts of the beneficiaries, acknowledging their commitment to acquiring the necessary skills to thrive in today’s economy.

Currently on a performance assessment tour on wealth creation and Parish Development Model (PDM) in the Ankole subregion, the President emphasized the importance of taking guidance and advice to break the cycle of poverty.

Reflecting on the introduction of free education in government schools in 1996, he noted that it was a significant step in overcoming financial barriers for families in rural areas. However, he lamented that many ordinary people have not fully embraced these opportunities, leading to high dropout rates, particularly in regions like Karamoja, where 87% of learners drop out after Primary seven.