Kampala traders umbrella body, KACITA has called for urgent and productive dialogue between the youth and the government as an alternative measure to address pressing issues rather than drawing on strikes.
This call comes after KACITA received an invitation from the youth who organized peaceful demonstrations aimed at marching to the Parliament of Uganda to protest rampant corruption, especially among members of parliament and other public servants.
"We acknowledge the efforts by the government to curb corruption, such as the zero tolerance to corruption policy and the national anti-corruption strategy. However, corruption tendencies have intensified, with an estimated cost of shs9.144 trillion , equivalent to 23% of the total government annual budget of 2021/2022," KACITA chairperson, Thadeus Nagenda said.
As leaders of the business community, KACITA believes in the power of productive dialogue.
"We have various ongoing engagements with the government, spearheaded by the president, aimed at streamlining the business environment for our traders. Corruption is among the key issues we have raised, as it affects business growth and sustainability."
KACITA is also planning a business meeting with the president on July 31, 2024, to address traders' grievances, including multiple taxation and corruption in government agencies.
"We have observed protests in countries like Kenya and Bangladesh that began as peaceful demonstrations but escalated into violence, leading to the destruction of businesses, loss of lives, and scaring away investors and tourists."
In light of these examples, KACITA urges the government of Uganda to take decisive action against those found guilty of corruption.
"It is imperative that justice is served and appropriate measures are taken to deter future acts of corruption," Dr. Nagenda asserted.
KACITA requested the government to release all those arrested and jailed during the protests but also strengthen transparency and accountability mechanisms within all levels of government and public institutions.
"We appeal to the discontented Ugandan youth not to underestimate the power of engagement and dialogue with the government. By taking these steps, we can create a more transparent, accountable, and prosperous nation for all citizens. The business community stands ready to support efforts aimed at eradicating corruption and fostering a fair economic environment conducive to growth and development," KACITA appealed.