Emyooga exhibition celebrates Tooro Kingdom's economic growth

This government initiative aims to boost economic growth and alleviate poverty through microfinance support.

Emyooga beneficiaries in Tooro Kingdom have called upon Omukama Oyo Kabamba Iguru to become their product brand ambassador globally, furthering the kingdom's economic success.

On September 12, Tooro Kingdom commemorated two significant milestones: the 29th anniversary of Omukama Oyo's reign and the transformative impact of the Emyooga program.

This government initiative aims to boost economic growth and alleviate poverty through microfinance support.

The Emyooga beneficiaries showcased their entrepreneurial skills and a wide array of products, highlighting the program’s success and its contribution to the kingdom's growth.

Launched in August 2019, the Emyooga programme has played a vital role in driving economic change in the Rwenzori Region, where Tooro Kingdom is located.

Spearheaded by the Microfinance Support Center (MSC), the initiative empowers local entrepreneurs, especially women and youth, to create sustainable businesses.

This economic momentum aligns with Omukama Oyo’s vision of using land for productive purposes, encouraging his subjects to maximize their resources for economic gain.

Josephine Kabeeri, representing Buharani Emyooga Women Entrepreneurs, and Alice Kajoiina from Brave Girl Skilling Centre, both from Harugongo Sub-County and Burahya County respectively, were among the notable entrepreneurs showcasing their products at the exhibition.

Their displays symbolised the progress and skill development achieved through the Emyooga program.

Niwagaba Vianney, General Secretary of Mwenge South Produce Dealers, praised the strides made by local entrepreneurs, stating, “The Emyooga initiative has not only transformed livelihoods but also reduced poverty levels across many households.”

During the celebration of his 29th anniversary, Omukama Oyo encouraged his subjects to continue utilizing their land effectively in the fight against poverty.

He pledged ongoing support and security for their economic efforts, affirming his dedication to the kingdom's prosperity.

"No one is going to chase you off your land," Omukama Oyo assured, urging his people to "work hard through agriculture and other economic ventures."

Political leaders, including Irene Linda, Woman MP for Fort Portal City, also expressed optimism regarding the program’s achievements.

“Emyooga has clearly made a difference, with visible reductions in poverty and improvements in livelihoods,” Linda remarked.

However, Linda also emphasized the need for increased government funding to expand the program's reach.

“The current funding for the Emyooga program is just the tip of the iceberg. We request the government to allocate more funds to MSC to ensure that many more people benefit, especially since one group (omwoga) consists of many individuals in a single constituency,” she urged.

The exhibition not only celebrated the economic progress driven by the Emyooga program but also served as a platform for beneficiaries to request Omukama Oyo to represent their products as a brand ambassador.

This proposal underscores the strengthening relationship between traditional leadership and economic development in Tooro Kingdom, paving the way for continued collaboration and growth.