By Ambrose Gahene,
GULU
The Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation, General (Rtd) Caleb Akandwanaho commonly known as Salim Saleh, on Saturday in Gulu district presided over the pass-out of 419 cadres who underwent a civic education training program organized by the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and National Guidance.
The training that attracted leaders from the Acholi sub-region, Resident District Commissioners, and Local Government leaders and youths was conducted from July 19-25, 2024, in Lokole-Agago district.
Gen Salim Saleh encouraged the leaders in the Acholi Sub-region to adopt mechanized farming, leveraging the available technology and land to boost production. He emphasized that his role is not political but rather focused on transformation, which is why he promoted visiting mechanized and large-scale enterprises in the region to inspire change.
Hon. Akelo Beatrice Akoli, State Minister for Monitoring and Economic Planning and MP for Agago, expressed gratitude to General Salim Saleh for organizing a tour of Terra Agri Farm and Atiaka Sugar Factory for the cadres, which has broadened the perspectives of the people in Acholi.
She also commended the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance for initiating this transformative training in the Acholi Sub-region, noting that it helps to dispel misconceptions and misinformation about government programs.
Brig Gen Felix Busizoori, the 4 Division Commander thanked Gen Saleh for the training initiative in Acholi Sub-region. He encouraged participants to share their knowledge with local communities, fostering patriotism and nationalistic character. He stressed the importance of fighting corruption, and promoting national development, and urged leaders to reject divisive politics, embracing productivity and new ideas instead.
Brig Gen Keith Katungi, the Commander 5 Division urged cadres to change their mindset and embrace hard work after a week-long training. He noted that areas with high illiteracy and poverty levels often experience conflict, highlighting the need for communities to utilize government programs that improve their livelihoods.
At Terra Agri Farm, he encouraged cadres to adapt the 4-acre model system to their small landholdings, without being intimidated by large-scale enterprises. However, he emphasized that streamlining land ownership in Acholi Sub-region is essential for success, citing the principle, ‘What belongs to all belongs to none.’
The training aimed to empower communities for effective participation in national programs and covered various subjects, including civic education, ideology, political economy, and national guidance.
The function was graced by Members of Parliament from Agago District.
