Mbale restaurant operators hail Emyooga for transforming their lvies
Mbale City Northern Division, Restaurant owners Emyoga sacco has become a beacon of success, transforming the lives of its members through their savings and borrowing activities.
This sacco is part of the broader Emyoga initiative, a presidential program aimed at shifting 39% of Uganda’s population from subsistence to market-oriented production.
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Aisha Nagudi, an outside catering service provider and chairperson of the sacco, is a shining example of the positive impact of the Emyoga initiative.
We caught up with her during one of her catering jobs in Mbale City, where she shared her journey and the transformative effect of the Emyoga initiative on her business.
Nagudi detailed how the initiative has significantly boosted her catering services, thanks to the financial support from the sacco
“I used to operate a small food kiosk in Kumi Road Market but emyoga has helped us women,” Nagudi said.
“I got shs3 million which earns me money weekly” she added.
Nagudi’s success story is mirrored by many within the sacco.
Beth Nambafu, a member of the Nabuyonga Association, highlighted the collective benefits experienced by members.
“We got shs6million and we invested in liquid soap, shampoo and adding value to Malewa.I am very busy marketing our products, not idle as we used to be."
The sacco which comprises 15 affiliated associations with 195 individual members received shs50 million from the Microfinance Support Centre to enhance members' savings and provide loans at a minimal interest rate of 8% per annum.
Currently, the sacco boasts of shs 25 million in savings, has disbursed shs67 million in cumulative loans, and recovered shs25 million in loans.
Out of 15 member associations, nine have received loans, each investing in enterprises of their choice either individually or as associations.
Nagudi’s success extends beyond her gains, reflecting a multiplier effect on her employees.
“I employ 30 people 10 youths working on tents and 10 women in catering.”
Looking ahead, Nagudi expressed the members' aspirations to establish a catering school to empower women and youth with culinary skills.
