As funeral expenses continue to rise across rural Uganda, many families are increasingly burdened by the high cost of organizing community gatherings. In most cases, households are forced to borrow or hire utensils such as saucepans, further straining their already limited incomes.
In response to this growing challenge, the Rubanda District Woman Member of Parliament Aspirant who doubles as the Executive Director of Green Environment Project (GEP), Ms Ninsiima Evelyn Kikafunda, has launched a community empowerment initiative worth Shs 350 million in South Western Uganda, Rubanda District.
The project, dubbed the Distribution of Saucepans Initiative, aims to equip over 1,500 Village Burial Groups (Ebibiina by’Engozi) with large cooking equipment to support communal functions.
Speaking during the official launch held at Ndeego Trading Centre in Kashaasha Parish, Ikumba Sub-County, Ms Kikafunda said she was compelled to start the initiative after realizing that most burial and support groups were spending significant amounts on hiring saucepans for large gatherings such as funerals, meetings, weddings, and other social events.
“These groups already stand together during times of joy and sorrow. My vision is to strengthen them with basic tools that make their work easier and more organized,” she noted.
Beyond easing financial pressure, Ms Kikafunda emphasized that the initiative is designed to promote self-reliance and reinforce traditional support systems within rural communities.
She further revealed that this intervention adds to her long-term efforts of empowering residents, especially women, through skills development programs.
“I am not yet done with Rubanda. I will continue training women in soap and jelly making until every household is equipped with an income-generating skill,” she affirmed.
Mr Julius Ndyanamwe, Chairman of Village Burial Groups, applauded Ms Kikafunda for recognizing the critical role of these community structures. He said such support comes at a time when many families are struggling to maintain cultural traditions due to economic hardship.
Rubanda District Secretary for Health and Education, Mr Obed Mutatiina Kitabutuuka, who also serves as Bubare Town Council LC5 Councillor, praised the initiative as a timely supplement to government efforts.
“I want to commend this project because it addresses a real social need often overlooked by development programs, yet central to rural life. It will not only cut costs during funerals and celebrations but also strengthen unity and foster collective development planning,” he remarked.
