Shs200 Million Per Youth SACCO for Kampala: Presidential Advisor Reaffirms Funding Pledge

Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilisation, Moses Byaruhanga, has reiterated President Yoweri Museveni’s pledge to allocate Shs200 million to every youth SACCO in Kampala’s five divisions. This financial injection is intended to broaden economic prospects for young Ugandans.

Byaruhanga explained that the funding, initially slated for the previous year, was postponed to accommodate the general elections. He addressed this to a gathering of youth in Kawempe Division during belated Youth Day celebrations, emphasizing the government’s commitment.

During the event, Byaruhanga urged young people to actively pursue entrepreneurship and focus on generating employment rather than solely depending on formal job opportunities. He highlighted existing government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, imploring youth leaders to ensure the 30 percent PDM allocation for youth effectively reaches its intended beneficiaries.

Further, Byaruhanga confirmed the government’s plan to increase PDM funding from Shs100 million to Shs300 million per parish, aiming to expand the program’s reach. He also defended the Shs1 million PDM allocation per beneficiary in Kampala, encouraging critics to verify its impact firsthand.

However, concerns were raised regarding the performance of Emyooga SACCOs in Kampala, with a significant number reportedly non-operational. Byaruhanga stated that a thorough assessment would be conducted, followed by reorganization and additional funding for viable SACCOs. He noted the government’s annual contribution of approximately Shs100 billion for Emyooga top-ups.

Additionally, Byaruhanga touched upon the ‘Boda boda’ and ‘Katale’ loan programs, assuring that mechanisms are being improved for easier access. He mentioned a Shs12 billion injection into boda boda SACCOs in Kampala last year, alongside Shs100 million for ghetto SACCOs.

The government has also established a common-user facility in Mulago II Parish, providing skilled youth with access to machinery for manufacturing various products, initially free of charge.

In his address, Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Kawempe Division, Kagenyi Lukka, stressed that while financial support is crucial, a shift in mindset is equally important for youth empowerment. He encouraged them to create employment and leverage their skills for community development.

Source: Nile Post