The Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, Moses Byaruhanga, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering effective services to Ugandans.
He made the remarks during the five-year anniversary celebration of Akaserengeto Savings Group in Kalerwe Abattoir, Kawempe Division.
The savings group comprises cattle traders, butchers, dealers, retailers, and vendors, among others.
Byaruhanga revealed that the government has given out Shs 18 billion Emyooga money to SACCOs in Kampala alone, but unfortunately, the money has not been well handled.
A team sent to monitor the program found that 57% of beneficiary SACCOs were active, while 47% were inactive, with over Shs 8 billion given to inactive SACCOs.
Byaruhanga attributed the ineffectiveness to leaders’ failure to monitor government programs.
“The problem is with your leaders,” he said. “Ask your leaders if the project is moving on well or they are just castigating the President.”
Due to inconsistencies in the Emyooga program, Byaruhanga stopped authorities from injecting more funds until issues are resolved.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni injected Shs 20 million into Akaserengeto Savings Group to support members’ businesses.
“Use this money well for sustainability,” Mr. Byaruhanga advised. “The interests should be minimal so that they don’t affect members.”
Byaruhanga assured members that they would receive funding from the Microfinance Support Centre now that they have a SACCO.
He also informed traders about the Katale loan, a government-funded program targeting low-income earners with an 8% interest rate per annum.
The government is rolling out the Katale loan to empower market vendors this July.
A boda boda loan is also in the works, with more favorable terms, including no collateral requirement, insurance, and GPS.
Byaruhanga pledged to help traders acquire a cold room for storing meat and work with relevant authorities to address the ban on hides and skins importation.
Hajjat Madina Nsereko, Kawempe South Parliamentary aspirant, commended Mr. Byaruhanga for empowering Kawempe residents.
Ssalongo Ssekanyo Sulaiman, Chairperson of Kalerwe Abattoir, hailed Akaserengeto Savings Group for uplifting lives in the area.
The group started with six members in 2020 and now has 1,018 members.
Members save daily, starting from Shs 1,000, and have a savings account.
The group is registered and operates legally.
