In a powerful move to secure the economic future of Alebtong, Dr. Mercy Lakisa has sent a clear and thunderous message to anyone standing in the way of progress. While launching the distribution of nearly sixty thousand hand hoes provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, the State Minister for Children and Youth Affairs and local Member of Parliament made it clear that the era of exploiting public resources for personal gain is over. Any official caught pocketing money meant for the people or sabotaging government initiatives will not just face criticism; they will lose their jobs.
The arrival of 59,384 hand hoes marks a turning point for agricultural productivity in the region, but Dr. Lakisa emphasized that tools alone are not enough if leadership is broken. She pointed out that corruption is a poison that frustrates government programs and keeps local families in poverty. By diverting resources, corrupt officials are effectively stealing the livelihoods of the very citizens they are sworn to serve. The Minister stated firmly that Alebtong must become a model of integrity, ensuring that every cent and every piece of equipment reaches the intended beneficiaries without being taxed by greed.
This stern directive comes in response to troubling reports of extortion surrounding other major initiatives, such as the Parish Development Model and cattle restocking programs. Dr. Lakisa noted that President Yoweri Museveni expects results, not excuses or scandals. She called on local councillors to act as the eyes and ears of the community, monitoring the progress of every project and reporting any misconduct immediately. To facilitate this, a new reporting channel is being established to allow residents to blow the whistle on corrupt practices, ensuring that those who fail the public are held accountable without delay.
Beyond the warning, the Minister’s message was one of unity and hard work. She urged leaders to put the divisiveness of past elections behind them and focus entirely on service delivery. The distribution of these hoes is a massive investment in the backbone of the local economy, and Dr. Lakisa is determined to see Alebtong thrive. Local chairpersons have rallied behind this vision, praising the Minister for her hands-on approach and her commitment to visiting grassroots communities to ensure that the government’s promises are being kept on the ground.
Ultimately, this initiative is about more than just farming tools; it is about restoring trust between the government and the people. By rooting out the officials who delay or withhold projects, Alebtong is clearing the path for true development. Dr. Lakisa’s unwavering stance serves as a beacon of hope for residents, signaling that the path to prosperity is open to everyone, provided that transparency and accountability remain the district’s top priorities.