Ministry of State for Gender and Culture Affairs has confirmed significant progress in operationalizing the Creative Uganda Revolving Fund (CURF).
Speaking at a press conference held at the Uganda Media Centre on January 7th, 2025, Minister Peace Mutuuzo re-echoed the government’s commitment to recognizing creatives as key economic contributors rather than mere entertainers.
“The Creative Uganda Revolving Fund addresses long standing financing gaps that have constrained the growth of Uganda’s creative sector despite its vast potential,” Mutuuzo said.
The Minister emphasized that Ugx 28 billion Ugx was allocated as follows: 5 Bn Ugx earmarked for Musician SACCOs under the Uganda National Musician Federation (UNMF), 5 Bn Ugx earmarked for Strengthening Copyright Management which is to provide for the procurement of a Copyright Management System and Collecting Management Organizations(CMOs), while 18 Bn Ugx earmarked for SACCOs for the other 9 domains including: Performing Arts, Film & Video, Visual Arts & Crafts, Fashion & Design, Books & Press, Interactive Media, Software & Digital Innovation, Cultural & Natural Heritage, and Culinary Arts.
She shared that CURF operates as a sustainable revolving facility, with repayments ensuring ongoing support for more beneficiaries. Key details shared include Creatives will primarily access the fund through artist led and domain-based Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), promoting ownership and accountability within the sector.
The music domain is served by 26 musicians’ SACCOs under the Uganda National Musician Federation, covering all regions, while other nine creative domains access financing via prequalified and verified SACCOs approved by the government.
According to Mutuuzo, UGX 9.5 billion has already been disbursed to implementing partners, including Collective Management Organizations (CMOs) and creative sector institutions. A progressive collateral approach is being piloted, allowing the use of intellectual property rights and performance contracts.
Minister Mutuuzo projected that effective implementation of CURF will support thousands of creatives, generate employment, increase incomes, and enhance Uganda’s cultural exports.
However, she issued a strong warning against misuse of funds, misrepresentation, or political interference, stating unequivocally that the Fund belongs to the creative community and such actions will not be tolerated.
Registered as a company limited by guarantee, the Foundation aims to support creatives across nine domains of the arts and creative industry as defined by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.
The Shs28 billion initiative was put in place to empower Uganda’s creative industry and driving economic growth through arts and culture.
