In Mpigi District, beneficiaries of the Emyooga programme have praised President Museveni’s government for introducing the initiative, saying it has lifted them out of debt, provided financial stability, and transformed their livelihoods.
A walk through Mpigi Town reveals numerous small enterprises — chips stalls, chapati kiosks, chicken roasters, metal workshops, and mechanical garages — many of which were established or expanded using funds from Emyooga.
One prominent example is the Mawokota North Welders SACCO. Members say Emyooga has given them economic direction, strengthened unity, empowered youth, and instilled financial discipline through saving and borrowing.
“The first funding we received was Shs30 million, which we used to offer loans to fellow youth. Many young people, especially those in villages, were supported gradually until we agreed to set up a joint workshop and are now progressing well,” said Umaru Kibira, Chairperson of the SACCO.
He added that an additional Shs20 million allowed them to expand operations and start training young people aged 18 and above in metal fabrication.
“Members who once struggled with basic fabrication tasks can now produce high-quality window and door designs that meet modern construction standards — something we never imagined achieving,” Kibira said.
Before joining Emyooga, Kibira worked in a privately owned workshop with delayed payments, which left him financially constrained.
“Emyooga empowered us and gave us confidence. I was able to start my own workshop with a small loan from our SACCO, and it is now steadily growing. We appreciate President Museveni and request him to increase funding so more youth can benefit,” he said.
Another notable group benefiting from the programme is the Mawokota North Taxi Operators Savings and Credit Society Ltd. Taxi drivers say Emyooga saved their property from being seized by banks due to high-interest loans.
“Before Emyooga, we were trapped in bank loans where we mortgaged our vehicles, houses and even land. Once you failed to pay, the bank would seize your property,” said James Nsubuga Kayizi, chairperson of the SACCO.
Kayizi explained that their first Shs30 million funding enabled them to purchase a taxi, which now generates daily income and allows other members to borrow.
Isa Serugo, a taxi driver, noted, “We thank President Museveni for bringing Emyooga. It has genuinely helped us, but we request him to increase our funding because Shs30 million is not enough — at least Shs80 million would make a bigger impact.”
Mpigi District Commercial Officer Ronald Kazibwe said Emyooga has become a key driver of economic transformation in the district.
“We have seen many people, especially unemployed youth, become productive, improve their livelihoods, and now support their families,” he noted.
Unlike many other regions, Mpigi has shown remarkable progress, with beneficiaries demonstrating increased financial literacy, confidence, and business management skills.