President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has presided over the swearing-in ceremony of Cabinet ministers appointed to serve in the new government, officially ushering in a fresh team tasked with implementing the National Resistance Movement's development agenda. The president used the occasion to call for integrity, efficiency, and accountability in public service as the country embarks on a new five-year term.

State House Entebbe was a hive of activity as newly appointed ministers took the oath of allegiance and oath of office before President Yoweri Museveni, formally assuming their responsibilities in government.

The ceremony attracted senior government officials, Members of Parliament, diplomats, security leaders, and family members of the ministers.

The swearing-in exercise was coordinated by the Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, Lucy Nakyobe Mbonye, who guided ministers through the official procedures before the signing of government documents.

One by one, ministers pledged to uphold the Constitution and faithfully serve the people of Uganda.

Among the first leaders to take the oath were Vice President Major (Rtd) Jessica Alupo and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, both beginning another term in their respective offices.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga was also sworn in, alongside Dr. Crispus Walter Kiyonga, who assumed office as Second Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader of Government Business in Parliament.

Several senior ministers also took the oath, including Kiryowa Kiwanuka as minister of defense and veteran affairs, Norbert Mao as minister of justice and constitutional affairs, and Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng as government chief whip.

Others sworn in included Frank Tumwebaze as minister of agriculture, animal industry, and fisheries; Judith Nabakooba as minister of lands, housing, and urban development; Sam Engola as minister for relief, disaster preparedness, and refugees; and Hillary Onek as minister in the Office of the Prime Minister in charge of general duties.

Businessman and legislator Sanjay Tanna officially joined the cabinet after taking an oath as minister of trade, industry, and cooperatives.

Jim Muhwezi assumed office as minister in the Office of the President in charge of security, while Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi took an oath as minister for local government.

Hajjat Minsa Kabanda was sworn in as minister for Kampala Capital City and metropolitan affairs, while Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde returned to the cabinet as minister of gender, labor, and social development.

Engineer Jonard Asiimwe assumed office as minister for science, technology, and innovation, while Justine Kasule Lumumba took an oath as minister for ICT and national guidance.

Dr. Chris Baryomunsi was also sworn in as minister of health.

Despite the successful ceremony, four ministerial appointees did not take the oath.

According to Lucy Nakyobe Mbonye, one minister was indisposed, while four others were still under review following consultations involving her office and the Solicitor General.

She noted that a report had already been submitted to the president for guidance.

Nakyobe further announced that all newly sworn-in ministers will undergo an induction program at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi. The orientation is intended to familiarize them with government policies, leadership principles, Cabinet procedures, and their roles in implementing the National Development Agenda.

She congratulated the ministers upon their appointment and successful swearing-in, urging them to serve Ugandans with integrity, commitment, and a strong sense of patriotism.

Government officials, however, maintained that all legal procedures are being followed and that guidance on the affected appointees will be communicated in due course.

With the swearing-in complete, the new Cabinet now begins the task of implementing government priorities aimed at driving economic growth, improving service delivery, and transforming livelihoods across the country.