By Ambrose Mugisha
NTUNGAMO – Emyooga beneficiaries in Ntungamo District received a resounding call to combat corruption, urging them to prioritize wealth and job creation.
The call came from Rushenyi County MP, Hon Naome Kabasharira, who represented the State Minister for Microfinance and Small Enterprises, Haruna Kasolo, as the chief guest during the official launch of the Ntungamo District Emyooga SACCO Leaders Association (NDESLA) at the Ntungamo District Council Hall on Thursday.
Hon Naome Kabasharira emphasized that Emyooga’s primary objectives revolve around creating wealth and employment opportunities. Therefore, she called upon NDESLA SACCO to play an active role in eradicating corruption within Emyooga SACCOS.
She appreciated the efforts of the Ugandan government but also acknowledged that some funds fell into the hands of corrupt officials, unknowingly harming the very beneficiaries they were meant to assist.
Hon Naome expressed concern about the lack of outreach by Community Development Officers (CDOs) to the beneficiaries. She noted that certain communities still relied on traditional farming methods and urged for modernization to boost development.
Sam Mucunguzi Rwakigoba, the Chairperson LC5 Ntungamo District, highlighted the district’s challenges in accountability and savings. He encouraged members from other districts to follow NDESLA SACCO’s example, as they had managed to save approximately 20M on their account.
Mr. Natamba Edward Salongo, the Chairperson of Ntungamo District Emyooga SACCO Leaders Association (NDESLA), urged the government to provide more training and support to Emyooga SACCOs. This would enable them to transition from subsistence to commercial farming, thereby enhancing local income generation.
The Ntungamo District Emyooga SACCO Leaders Association brings together leaders of various SACCOS from the entire district, fostering a collaborative effort to uplift the community and promote sustainable development.
With a united front against corruption and a focus on fostering growth, the Emyooga beneficiaries in Ntungamo District are poised to make significant strides in their pursuit of prosperity.
