Renowned statistician and researcher Patrick Wakida, founder of Research World International (RWI), recently made headlines with his decision to officially join the National Resistance Movement (NRM), a move he sees as essential to fulfilling his mission of addressing poverty in Kibuku and beyond.
Wakida, who previously served as a political assistant to opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and was a prominent member of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), shared his motivations in a recent statement that has sparked widespread discussion in political circles.
Last month, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni appointed Wakida to the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) Board, giving him a strategic platform to influence investment decisions aimed at economic development.
In his statement, Wakida expressed gratitude for the appointment and optimism about his role in driving positive change in Kibuku, a region close to his heart and one he describes as being deeply affected by poverty.
For Wakida, the decision to align with the NRM is not just about politics but a deeply personal mission rooted in his experiences growing up in Kibuku, one of the poorest areas in Uganda. “Kibuku is a place where you walk into a home and can feel the weight of poverty in the air. This isn’t just about statistics—it’s about real lives, real people,” he said.
As a statistician, Wakida has an intimate understanding of the socioeconomic challenges facing Ugandans, especially in rural and underserved areas like Kibuku. For him, the pressing need to address these issues goes beyond data points and graphs; it’s about creating tangible change.
He expressed that his decision to join NRM came after considerable reflection on how he could best leverage his expertise and influence to improve the lives of those who, for too long, have struggled in poverty.
“I took a decision to work with NRM to look for power and neutralize poverty,” Wakida explained. “Those who know me know that I deliver on my promises, and I am committed to ensuring that the NRM will see results from my efforts. I want to go where I can make a real impact.”
Wakida’s entry into the NRM also aligns with his pragmatic approach to addressing Uganda’s development challenges. He sees the NRM’s structure and resources as essential tools that will enable him to attract investment and create programs targeting poverty alleviation. In his view, the NRM provides a powerful platform to drive the kind of change Kibuku needs, and he is confident that his contributions will make a difference.
“Joining NRM offers me access to resources and networks that are critical for real change. I am here to bring data-driven solutions to complex issues. If we are to lift Kibuku out of poverty, we need a strategic and focused approach,” Wakida said. He further emphasized that he joined NRM because he believes in a results-oriented approach. “I do not want to go where they don’t deliver. Those who have interacted with me know that I am serious about getting things done.”
Wakida also extended his gratitude to President Museveni for the opportunity to serve on the UIA Board. In this role, he plans to advocate for investments that will bring meaningful development to impoverished areas. He believes that by steering investments toward projects that promote local job creation, infrastructure, and small business development, he can help foster economic growth in struggling regions.
“I want to use my position on the UIA Board to influence decisions that bring value to communities like Kibuku. We need investments that are targeted and sustainable, and I will make it my mission to ensure that these investments reach those who need them most,” he said.
Wakida’s shift from the opposition to the ruling party reflects a larger trend in Ugandan politics, where leaders increasingly look to collaborate across party lines to address national issues. Having been a staunch member of FDC, Wakida’s move surprised some in political circles. Yet for Wakida, the decision is less about politics and more about the practical realities of development work.
“I respect my past affiliations and the values they represent. However, my primary goal is to uplift communities, and right now, I believe NRM offers the most effective path to achieve that,” Wakida explained. He acknowledges the role of the opposition in holding government accountable but feels his skills and experience can be best utilized within the NRM to make a direct impact.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Wakida remains steadfast in his commitment to Kibuku and Uganda at large. His message to the people is one of hope and assurance. “I have made a promise to the NRM and to the people of Kibuku: I will deliver. I am here to bring my skills, my knowledge, and my dedication to the table. I am ready to make a difference.”
Patrick Wakida’s journey from researcher to political figure in the NRM signals a renewed focus on economic empowerment and poverty reduction. With his commitment to data-driven development and his determination to bring real change to Uganda’s underserved communities, Wakida’s presence in the NRM could mark a significant step toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for Uganda.