Kampala’s youth and vendor SACCOs have received UGX 150 million from the government, a move by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni aimed at empowering local communities and improving accountability in government programs.

The funds were handed over on Monday, 22nd September 2025, by Moses Byaruhanga, Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, during a meeting at Okello House, Nakasero.

Beneficiaries included the Kawempe Youth Council Leaders Coalition (UGX 50 million), Makindye Youth Leaders (UGX 50 million), Makerere Tukolere Wamu Group (UGX 5 million), Katanga Book Makers (Shs15 million), Kalerwe Women Market Vendors (UGX 20 million), and Kalerwe Street Vendors SACCO (UGX 10 million).

Byaruhanga highlighted that although the government has previously disbursed UGX 20 billion to Myoogas across Kampala including youth, mechanics, vendors, and tailors, an investigation found that only 300 out of 516 SACCOs were fully functional.

“The problem has been that some leaders received funds but failed to inform the rest of the members, leading to ineffectiveness,” Byaruhanga said. “That is why we called you here today, so you can witness the funds being delivered directly to your SACCOs.”

He urged the beneficiaries to use the money responsibly, emphasizing that it serves as start-up capital to economically empower them and reduce poverty.

Byaruhanga further assured that successful utilization of the funds would open doors for additional government support in the future.

Haji Hassan Ssempala, Chairman of Katanga Book Makers, confirmed receipt of the funds, saying, “Before we came here this morning, I received a message confirming the funds in our SACCO account, and I can testify that we got the money.”

Beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude, noting that the support would help strengthen their SACCOs, grow their businesses, and uplift their communities.

The meeting, attended by SACCO leaders and members, highlighted the government’s commitment to transparency, ensuring that funds reach the intended recipients, and empowering low-income earners in Kampala.

As the government continues to channel resources into community-based groups, the direct injection of funds into SACCOs is seen as a step toward restoring accountability, building trust, and ensuring that youth and vendors in Kampala are not only supported but also empowered to drive their own economic growth.