Bugweri older persons urge govt to raise SAGE money

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BUGWERI - Older persons in Bugweri district have urged the Government to increase the Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment (SAGE) programme money to improve their lives.

Speaking at  Bugweri district-based Idudi Muslim Primary School during an activation drive on October 25, 2025, to rally support for President Yoweri Museveni in the 2026 General Election campaign, older persons said the SAGE funds are insufficient to meet their basic needs.

Busoga Kingdom tourism minister Hellen Namutamba represented First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, to launch the activation drives in the district.

Led by SAGE co-ordinator in Bugweri, Abubakar Waiswa, older persons said the initiative by the Government to give them shillings 25,000 per month is good, but the amount is insufficient.

“Older persons aged between 60 and 80 receive a monthly stipend of shillings 25,000 from the Government, but it is still insufficient. We want the Government to extend further benefits to older persons for their survival,” Waiswa said.

George William Aliyenka requested that the SAGE money come on time.  

Bizuena Nankwanga promised to dance for President Museveni during his campaign rally slated for November 18, 2025, in Bugweri.

Hamis Mutagyaza, the chairperson of Older Persons in Idudi B village, requested the government to increase the SAGE money to at least shillings 200,000 per month.

On behalf of Kadaga, on the same day, the team donated food to older persons in town councils, including Idudi, Busesa and Busembatia, where each received 5kg of posho. Kadaga sent over 300kg of posho packed in 5kg bags.

The recipients, their faces etched with years of wisdom and resilience, broke into smiles as they received the posho. For them, it was a gesture that added years of hope to their lives.

“Kadaga cares about your welfare, and she is committed to improving your lives,” Namutamba said.

Namutamba spoke of the NRM’s unwavering dedication to transforming Uganda through education, health, infrastructure and job creation.

“Busoga stands firm with President Museveni: Tunwerere ku President Museveni, to safeguard our achievements and secure a brighter future,” she said amid cheers from the crowd.

The mobilisation team also engaged with local leaders and community members, listening intently to the challenges facing Bugweri.

James Kibande, the retired headmaster of Lubira Primary School, thanked the Government for the timely financial releases for pensioners and civil servants. 

Kibande also acknowledged the establishment of Bugweri as a district, which was carved from Iganga district