Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential flag bearer Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi has promised to end the long-standing pay disparities between science and arts teachers, pledging equal and improved salaries for all teachers in public service once elected president.
Addressing thousands of supporters at Kapchorwa Boma Grounds, Mafabi said the current pay structure under the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government is “divisive and unfair,” emphasizing that every teacher deserves equal recognition and reward.
“Some people say a Mathematics teacher must be paid more than an English teacher. I have never seen physics taught in Kupsabiny nor chemistry taught in Lugisu. All subjects are taught in English, all teachers complement each other,” he said to applause.
The rally, held under the theme “Fixing the Economy, Money in Our Pockets,” saw Mafabi highlight a range of reforms aimed at improving livelihoods, job creation, and fair distribution of national resources.
Teachers’ Welfare and Education Reform
Mafabi’s message resonated strongly with teachers and civil servants, coming at a time when the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) continues to demand equal pay for arts and science teachers. He further promised that under an FDC government, the children of teachers would receive free education from primary through university.
“When a country is educated, everything falls into place. Equal pay is not charity, it is justice,” he added.
The pledge follows years of tension between the government and teachers over salary gaps that have sparked repeated strikes and disrupted school calendars.
Economic Revival and Local Development
In his broader economic agenda, Mafabi pledged to allocate Shs100 million annually to every village across Uganda to support local development projects, replacing the Parish Development Model (PDM) with what he called a “grassroots empowerment model.”
“The current system benefits a few at the top. We will take the money to the people where it belongs,” he said, adding that his background as an economist would guide him in rebuilding Uganda’s economy.
He also announced plans to revive cooperative unions, starting with the Sebei Cooperative Union and Bank, to boost agricultural production and strengthen farmers’ bargaining power, a move inspired by his experience as chairperson of the Bugisu Cooperative Union.
Turning to the informal sector, Mafabi vowed to make motorcycles available to youth on low-interest loans to combat unemployment and reduce exploitation by predatory lenders.
“Today, a boda boda rider pays money equal to four motorcycles by the end of a loan term. That is daylight robbery, and it must stop,” he said.
Infrastructure and Regional Challenges
Residents of Kapchorwa and neighboring districts raised concerns about the poor road network that has crippled tourism potential around Sipi Falls. Mafabi promised to prioritize climate-resilient roads and ensure maintenance funds are used transparently.
“Contractors are underpaid and cut corners. We will fix roads and fix corruption,” he stated.
However, critics from regions such as Tooro and Rwenzori have challenged Mafabi’s manifesto for overlooking region-specific issues, including tea prices and flood management. Analysts also warn that his promises, such as free education and equal pay, may face scrutiny over budget feasibility.
Who is Nandala Mafabi?
Mafabi, an economist, accountant, and lawyer, has represented Budadiri West since 2001 and previously served as Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. He is widely known for his vocal stance on financial accountability and grassroots economic empowerment.
As Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections, his message of reform, equity, and economic justice is gaining traction among voters frustrated by rising inequality and regional imbalances.
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