The President of the Uganda National Traders Alliance (Unata), Godfrey Katongole, has urged traders in Gulu to avoid political involvement and focus on growing their businesses.
Katongole, citing the disruptions that often occur in Kampala during political seasons, said traders should remain neutral and prioritise financial growth.
Speaking during a meeting with traders in Gulu City, Unata leaders called for unity and encouraged traders to form a savings and credit cooperative (Sacco).
“The money is there, and President Museveni is ready to invest in your Sacco,” Katongole said.
His remarks followed concerns from Gulu Traders' Chairperson Jennifer Ayoo, who lamented the lack of unity and sustainability in local businesses.
“Why is it that in Gulu, when a business owner dies, the business collapses?” Ayoo asked.
However, Mego Santa Laker, a shea nut oil producer in Gulu, questioned why the promised funds from the President had not yet reached them.
“Where was this money, my President of Unata? Tell us,” she asked.
Ayoo, 52, also stressed that financial support alone was not enough, emphasising the need for long-term business sustainability.
In July 2024, the Unata leadership met President Museveni, who directed them to tour the country and identify the challenges faced by traders.
Unata Executive Director Kwebiha Muzamil Abwooli urged the Uganda Revenue Authority and the Uganda Registration Services Bureau to continuously sensitise traders on tax compliance and business registration procedures.
Meanwhile, Cross-Border Traders' Chairperson Godfrey Oundo encouraged businesses in cities like Gulu and Arua to take advantage of their proximity to South Sudan and DR Congo for trade expansion.
The Unata regional consultations will next head to Soroti, with plans for an annual traders' meeting at the Ministry of Trade starting in 2026.