By Brian Atuhura
Leaders in Masindi District have been urged to embrace patriotism and appreciate the country's history as a foundation for sustainable national development.

The call was made during a one day training on national guidance held on Tuesday at the district headquarters and organized by the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology and National Guidance, bringing together political leaders, technocrats, religious leaders and civil society actors.

Delivering a presentation, Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Duties and Acting Commissioner for National Guidance, Bakalikwira J.J said Uganda's nation building agenda is anchored on achieving socio-economic transformation for all citizens.He noted that since 1986,the National Resistance Movement has driven this transformation through four ideological pillars stated as patriotism, pan-Africanism, democracy and economic transformation.

He said these pillars have guided programs aimed at modernizing the country, fostering unity and promoting prosperity at the grassroots.

In a separate presentation, Richard Ssali Ssango from the ICT Ministry outlined key principles underpinning vision 2040, including ownership by stakeholders, strong political will, good governance, efficient resource utilization,balanced development and accountability.

Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Hellen Tugume, urged leaders to work together to drive development in their respective areas.

While representing the District Chairperson,the District Male Councilor for Central Division,Issa Balinda called for unity and appealed for more trainings to strengthen leadership capacity.

Closing the training, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer,Jane Akiror described the training as timely, especially for newly elected leaders,and emphasized the importance of civic education in building responsible citizens and advancing development.