Kamya to probe government funds in Kampala

Traders operating business in Kibuye market a city suburb have accused Rubaga division officials for failing to deliver youth and Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCO) funds to their organisations.

Traders under their SACCO 'WANSANSO Kibuye Co-operative Savings and Credit Society' said, "For the five years they have been in existence, they have been applying for funds with all requirements attached adding that they have failed to get support."

The three hundred traders made the accusation during a meeting with the Kampala Minister Beti Kamya at their market in Kibuye on Tuesday.

The Chairperson of the SACCO Salim Kabogwe revealed that the SACCO has been acquiring loans from other finance institutions to lend to their members, adding that they have stopped due to high interests' rates.

"We are seeking for government funds to lend our member at low interests to boost their businesses," Kabogwe said.

He explained that few customers are visiting the market saying that this is one of the reasons hindering other members of the market from joining the SACCO. He added that they hardly get money to save, as the little money they get is used to address their family issues.

Responding to the traders, Kamya said that she is going to investigate government funds in Kampala to find out why people are not receiving it as it is supposed to be.

"I have for long heard people complaining about loopholes in getting government development funds. I will not allow confusion from other districts about government funds to happen in Kampala where I am Minister," she vowed.

She assured traders that she was going to inquire from all the officers responsible where the problems is and find a solution.

Kamya further cautioned traders not to mix up politics with their SACCO adding that politics can divide them hence the downfall of their groups.

She however explained that, "The government cannot give financial support to ill prepared people. We are moving in different places sensitizing and preparing them for this support.

President Yoweri Museveni's plan for Kampala includes constructing industrial parks in all city divisions, markets and good roads fully installed with security roads."

On the issue of vendors Kamya reechoed that they should leave the streets to available markets, and requested traders in markets to be hospitable to them for development of the city.

The chairperson of Kibuye market Robert Sewava told Kamya that she should consider traders operating in markets under the management of Buganda Kingdom to benefit from government programs.

Sewava said, this will help them develop at the same pace as those under the central government in terms of infrastructure and other developments.

Traders speak

Harriet Namuli a trader operating in Kibuye market and a member of WANSANSO SACCO explained that she joined the SACCO to benefit from the opportunities that move along with the group.

"Apart from getting saving and getting loans to boost businesses, I have got friends that always assist me during the hard times." She said.

Andrew Kamya also a trader in the market appealed to traders to join the SACCO, to save money for their future and also develop their saving culture.

Kamya further warned traders on being told by politicians not to take part in government development programs, adding that they do not wish them good.