During an oversight visit to West Budama North and West Budama North East constituencies in Tororo district, Hon. Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development (Microfinance), lauded the Microfinance Support Centre for its efforts in forming, funding, and supporting Emyooga SACCOs, announcing an additional UGX 20 million boost to further their wealth creation initiatives.
On a mission to promote financial empowerment and self-sufficiency, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development (Microfinance), Hon. Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, embarked on an oversight visit to Paya village, Paya sub-county, West Budama North East constituency.
The visit, aimed at assessing the impact of the Emyooga SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations), brought renewed hope and tangible support to the local communities.
“Emyooga SACCOs have been pivotal in transforming lives by providing the necessary financial support for wealth creation. Today, I am pleased to announce an additional UGX 20 million to bolster these efforts,” said Minister Kasolo.
The minister emphasized the importance of daily earnings and savings as key components of economic empowerment.
“Ensure you earn and save money every day to create wealth and secure a better future for yourselves and your families,”
He advised the residents.Minister Kasolo also directed the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) to lead the efforts in recovering Emyooga loans, stressing accountability and responsible borrowing.
“The RDC must ensure that all Emyooga loans are recovered. We will also start reading out the names of defaulters on local radios and pinning their names on notice boards to remind them of their obligations,” he announced.
In her address, Hon. Akumu Rebecca, the Vice Chairperson of Tororo district, expressed gratitude to the beneficiaries for embracing the Emyooga program, which aims to create jobs and foster wealth creation.
“Your active participation in this program is a testament to its success. Let us continue to work together to achieve our shared goals,” she urged.
Hon. Max Ochai, the area MP for West Budama North, called for affirmative action on Emyooga for the Bukedi region, highlighting the unique challenges faced by the area.
“I request the minister to consider affirmative action for Bukedi region to ensure equitable distribution and access to resources,” he said.
Deputy RDC Amula Albert reinforced the importance of community involvement in socio-economic transformation programs.
“Leaders and community members must embrace and actively participate in these programs to improve livelihoods. The government has committed substantial funds to ensure their success,” he noted.
Amula also appealed for the establishment of a Microfinance Support Centre branch in Tororo to serve the Bukedi region more efficiently.
“Opening a branch here will reduce the burden on the Mbale branch and provide better service to our people,” he argued.
The minister’s visit, coupled with the additional funding and directives, aims to enhance the impact of Emyooga SACCOs, ensuring that the residents of Tororo district have the resources and support needed to achieve sustainable economic growth and improved living standards