Africa-Press – Uganda. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate, Nathan Nandala Mafabi, has pledged to revive defunct industries and empower local communities through direct investment if elected in the 2026 general elections.
Launching his campaign in Namasale Town Council, Amolatar District, before addressing supporters at Dokolo Mayor’s Garden, Mafabi said the revival of factories such as Lira Spinning Mill would be central to his plan to rebuild Uganda’s economy and create sustainable jobs.
“The collapse of factories like Lira Spinning Mill crippled the livelihoods of many families. My government will bring back these industries to process local agricultural products and create jobs for our youth,” Mafabi told hundreds of supporters.
He emphasized that industrialization is key to economic growth, arguing that Uganda must move from exporting raw materials to producing finished goods that add value to farmers’ produce.
“We must stop selling cotton, maize, and sim sim in raw form. Processing them here creates jobs, generates income, and strengthens our shilling,” he said.
The FDC candidate, who has served as Budadiri West MP and FDC secretary general, criticised the current government for poor planning and corruption that have hindered industrial growth and widened inequality.
He pledged to channel resources toward revitalizing regional industries that once supported the economy, particularly in northern Uganda.
In northern districts, Mafabi highlighted the potential of factories like Lira Spinning Mill and facilities under the Lango Cooperative Union to revive agricultural value chains, boost farmers’ earnings, and reduce youth unemployment.
Accompanied by FDC Dokolo Woman MP flag bearer Lalam Anna Grace Atine and former FDC president Patrick Amuriat, Mafabi also criticised the poor state of infrastructure in Amolatar and Dokolo, citing limited trade and market access.
“The Dokolo–Namasale road will be our priority to have it tarmacked. Our people are hardworking, but they are trapped by poor roads, high transport costs, and lack of industries to buy their products,” he said.
Mafabi unveiled an ambitious community empowerment plan, pledging that his government would allocate Shs100 million per village to fund income-generating projects supporting small enterprises, farmers’ cooperatives, and the boda boda sector.
“Every village will have its own fund to start small businesses. That’s how we fight poverty—by putting resources in the hands of the people,” he said.
His message of industrial revival, infrastructure improvement, and local empowerment drew applause from supporters, many of whom said they were ready to give the opposition a chance to lead.
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