KYANKWANZI – National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretary General Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong has urged Ugandans returning from South Africa to embrace Uganda as their permanent home, invest in the country's growing economy, and contribute to national development.

Speaking to the returnees at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) Kyankwanzi, Todwong said the ideological training they are undergoing is intended to instill patriotism, discipline, national unity, and responsible citizenship.

He explained that the government deliberately brought the returnees to Kyankwanzi immediately after their arrival to help them develop a positive mindset and appreciate the opportunities available in Uganda.

Todwong assured the returnees that although they had endured difficult experiences abroad, their return marked the beginning of a new chapter, noting that Uganda has undergone remarkable transformation over the past four decades.

He encouraged them to redirect their energy from seeking opportunities in foreign countries to investing in Uganda, saying the country now provides a stable environment for business, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation.

"I know many of you have been away from home for a long time, and by now, you have seen how much Uganda has changed. I appeal to you not to return to South Africa. Stay home, invest here, and be part of Uganda's transformation," Todwong said.

The NRM Secretary General also expressed concern over the treatment of African migrants in South Africa, saying it was disappointing that some leaders had remained silent while fellow Africans faced hostility.

"Uganda has always embraced Africans. We have hosted South African banks, and our doctors have served in hospitals across Africa for the good of the continent," he said.

Todwong noted that Uganda, once regarded as a failed state, has been rebuilt under the NRM government and is now politically, economically, financially, and socially stable.

He further encouraged returnees who are not members of any political party to consider joining the NRM, while emphasizing that government programmes are open to all Ugandans irrespective of political affiliation.

"Even if you do not support the NRM, you will still benefit from government programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and many other initiatives, provided you actively participate," he said.

His remarks come as the government continues to receive and rehabilitate hundreds of Ugandans repatriated from South Africa following anti-immigrant pressure that forced many undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. The returnees are undergoing orientation and ideological training at NALI Kyankwanzi before being reintegrated into their communities.