‘Uganda will develop with or without loans’ – President replies World Bank

Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni, has responded to the World Bank’s decision to suspend new loan requests. The bank’s announcement, made on August 8, came in the wake of Uganda’s enactment of an anti-LGBTQ law.

In a letter shared with the citizens via Twitter, President Museveni expressed his concerns about the global lender’s actions, which he perceived as an attempt to pressure Ugandans into forsaking their faith and cultural values in exchange for financial assistance. The President emphasized that Uganda remains committed to its development goals, irrespective of the availability of loans. He also highlighted that ongoing discussions are taking place with the World Bank to address and regularize areas of cooperation.

The President’s message underscores Uganda’s determination to pursue its developmental path, asserting that the country will continue its progress even in the absence of new loans. The engagement with the World Bank signifies the commitment to maintain cooperation while addressing any differences that may have arisen due to recent legislative decisions.

Full text: Museveni’s message to the nation

Ugandans, especially the Bazzukulu.
Greetings.

Things are moving well in Uganda in spite of the corruption of some Public Servants and some elements of the political class.

Last night, an official from the World Bank rang me to alert me about the statement from that Bank regarding the suspension of any new requests from Uganda for loans. I want to inform everybody, starting with Ugandans, that Uganda will develop with or without loans.

It is, therefore, unfortunate that the World Bank and other actors dare to want to coerce us into abandoning our faith, culture, principles and sovereignty, using money. They really under-estimate all Africans.

We do not need pressure from anybody to know how to solve problems in our society. They are our problems. We are continuing to talk with the World Bank so that both they and we avoid this diversion if possible.

Signed:
Yoweri K. Museveni
Gen(rtd)
Ssaabalwanyi

–The Post Ghana