Published on 08/10/2024
President Museveni has pledged to inject a whooping UGX 2 billion into the Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Women’s Council.
The President, who also doubles as NRM National Chairman, made the pronouncement on Tuesday, October 08, at the official inauguration of the Women Council, held at the UMSC headquarters in Old Kampala.
Speaking to the congregation of Muslim faithful on the evening, Mr Museveni affirmed his commitment to supporting the economic empowerment of women within the Muslim community, noting the crucial role SACCOs play in enhancing access to financial resources for development.
He emphasized that such initiatives align with the NRM government’s wider strategy to alleviate poverty by promoting financial independence at the grassroots level.
“The government is committed to empowering women economically, and this support to your SACCO will give you the boost needed to grow your businesses, create jobs, and improve household incomes,” President Museveni stated.
The pledge was in response to a request made by Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, the Senior Presidential Advisor and Manager of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) who earlier at the event urged the President to provide financial support to the Women’s SACCO to enable its members to uplift their livelihoods through entrepreneurship and income-generating activities.
SPA Namyalo in her remarks before Museveni suggested an injection of UGX 2 billion, which the President later endorsed. The ONC boss praised the President for his continuous support towards the empowerment of women and vulnerable communities, particularly in the Muslim community.
The Uganda Muslim Women’s SACCO is expected to provide financial assistance to Muslim women across the country, helping them start or expand small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in various sectors, including agriculture, trade, and crafts.
The inauguration of the UMSC Women’s Council is part of ongoing efforts by the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council to strengthen women’s leadership and participation in community development.
The event was attended by religious leaders, government officials including Vice President Jessica Alupo, and representatives from the women’s council, who took oath of office.
