Amidst the most fertile and scenic region of Uganda: a landscape of expansive blue lakes and steep terraced slopes tumbling southwest towards the rainforests of Bwindi National Park and the magnificent isolated peaks of the Virunga volcanoes in Kigezi Sub-Region lies a transformative Presidential Initiative on Wealth and Job Creation (Emyooga) that is silently changing lives and communities for the better. The Emyooga Initiative, a brainchild of the Ugandan government’s effort to promote job creation and improve household incomes as well as promote access to and usage of financial services is greatly fostering unity and economic growth amongst its beneficiaries in the vibrant region of Kigezi.
Embracing the essence of collective efforts, the government empowered these groups of eighteen categories (18) including the youth, boda-boda riders, women entrepreneurs, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), tailors, etc., to form specialised Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), commonly known as Emyooga SACCOs to exploit their unique potentials and build sustainable livelihoods.
During the Emyooga SACCOs beneficiaries exchange visits of Emyooga SACCOs leaders from Bukedi, Sebei, and Bugisu regions who were visiting fellow beneficiaries of the Emyooga in Kigezi sub-region, most revealed that the program has created employment opportunities, increased household incomes which have enabled them to take their children to school and improved their standards of living.
Musiimenta Charity, a member of Kabale Municipality Women Entrepreneurs Emyooga SACCO, said the program has enabled her to expand her poultry business with currently over 100 chicks where she earns UGX 40,000 per hen when sold.
Karwana Peruth, a member of the Central Ward Leaders Emyooga SACCO, said as their association, they chose to have a long-term investment with an aim to have something tangible for future generations, therefore they decided to invest in wine production upon receiving seed capital from Microfinance Support Centre. They produce wine using strictly locally grown fruits like beetroot, grapes, bananas (ripe matooke), guavas, and lemons.
Asasira Isaac, a member of Rukungiri Boda-Boda Association under Rubabo Boda-Boda Emyooga SACCO, said that from this program, he has managed to buy pigs and goats for his family as additional income and this has brought about better standards of living.
One of the most impressive facets of the Emyooga Exchange Visits program is how it has instilled a sense of unity and collaboration among diverse communities in the region. With the creation of SACCOs based on common interests and aspirations, individuals from different backgrounds have been brought together under a shared vision. Through cross-visits among these Emyooga SACCOs, members have been exposed to different skills, knowledge, and perspectives, leading to a rich exchange of ideas and experiences.
Okello Andrew, Chairman of Samia Bugwe North Restaurant Owners Emyooga SACCO, one of the visiting SACCOs said Emyooga exchange visits have been an eye opener where they have learnt ways of mobilising savings and members.
Moreover, the program has promoted a spirit of inclusivity, ensuring that marginalised groups are not left behind. Women, often underrepresented in economic activities, have found new avenues for growth and financial independence through Emyooga groups focused on trade and small businesses.
Nafuna Sylvia, the Secretary of Northern City Division Constituency Produce Dealers Emyooga SACCO in Mbale City, said she learned to produce branding and use local fruits to brew wine.
Youth, who once faced limited opportunities, are now embarking on successful entrepreneurial ventures, tapping into their creativity and potential. This inclusivity has not only contributed to gender and youth empowerment but has also fostered a more cohesive society, promoted social harmony, and reduced disparities.
From an economic standpoint, the impact of the Emyooga Exchange Visits cannot be overstated. As these groups engage in cross-visits, they learn from each other, adopt best practices, and explore new markets, thereby enhancing productivity and competitiveness. The resultant ripple effect has been a flourishing local economy with reduced reliance on external aid. As each group thrives, they create employment opportunities for others, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth within the region.
Mr. Owinyi George, RDC of Bududa and Head OF Emyooga Taskforce in Bududa said that with the exchange visit, the team has been equipped with loan acquisition, savings and member mobilisation, loan recovery, SACCO governance criteria which will be implemented in their respective SACCOs. He recommended that members should continuously be sensitised and have various pieces of training with the help of the technical staff like Microfinance Support Centre and District Commercial Officers.
In conclusion, the Emyooga SACCOs stand as a testament to the immense power of community-driven initiatives in transforming lives and driving economic growth. By uniting diverse groups under a common goal and empowering them to unleash their potential, this program is redefining the narrative of sustainable development in Uganda. With continued commitment and support from the government and other stakeholders, the Emyooga SACCOs can become a model for inclusive growth across Uganda.
Joellah Anshemeza
Communications Officer, Government Citizen Interaction centre – State House
