By Atukwatse Ritah,
APAC,
Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party leader Nathan Nandala Mafabi has vowed to revive cotton production in Lango and ensure compensation for livestock lost during past conflicts, saying the region has been reduced from greatness to beggary despite its historic contribution to Uganda’s economy.
Addressing supporters in Apac Town, Mafabi reflected on Lango’s proud history, recalling a time when families thrived through cotton and livestock. He recounted studying with students from Lango at Busoga College Mwiri who, he said, “had a lot of pocket money” because cotton was a flourishing source of wealth.
“I now feel disturbed that you have been reduced to beggars,” Mafabi told the crowd, accusing government of deliberately crippling industries such as the former Lira Spinning Mill.
He added that only the FDC has a practical plan to restore the region’s economic dignity.
Mafabi pledged to reintroduce cotton growing in Lango, describing the crop as White Gold due to its high value on the global market. He said an FDC-led government would directly serve as the market manager for farmers to ensure fair prices and protect producers from exploitation.
The FDC leader criticized ongoing government statements about planned compensation for cattle lost during past insecurity in northern Uganda, calling the claims deceptive.
Using an illustration, he argued that if a million families across Lango, Acholi, Teso, Karamoja, West Nile and other regions each lost an average of five cows, the total would exceed five million cows.
“Tell me, which farm in Uganda has that number of cows?” he asked, telling residents that government promises of compensation would expire on January 15, immediately after elections.
Mafabi said only his leadership would deliver a credible compensation plan and appealed to voters to entrust him with a five-year term to see a difference.
Mafabi also praised former President Dr. Milton Obote, whom he called a fellow congressman, for establishing district and referral hospitals that have stood the test of time.
He promised to upgrade Health Centre IVs into district hospitals and convert existing referral hospitals into national hospitals to improve access to quality healthcare.
On transport sector reforms, Mafabi criticized the high-interest boda boda loan schemes that have left many youth trapped in debt. He announced plans to provide motorcycles at USh 2 million, payable over five years at USh400,000 per year, saying the initiative would free riders from predatory lenders charging up to 20% interest per month.
Mafabi emphasized that Lango, once central to Uganda’s political and economic history, deserves restoration and development.
“I want to tell you that it’s me, Nandala Mafabi, who has a better plan,” he said. “Please lend me your vote for just five years and you will see a difference.”
He concluded by urging unity and renewed confidence, saying the region’s future prosperity depends on leadership that values honesty, economic fairness and inclusive growth.
