Sex workers in Masaka City have publicly declared their support for President Museveni ahead of his campaign rally scheduled for today at Liberation Square.
Speaking during a gathering that brought together sex workers from across the Greater Masaka region, the group praised President Museveni for restoring peace and stability in the country, saying the prevailing security environment has enabled them to carry out their activities without fear.
However, they appealed to the government to extend economic empowerment initiatives to them, noting that despite the prevailing peace, many remain economically vulnerable.
“With peace in the country, we are able to work, but we now need support to improve our livelihoods and transition into other income-generating activities,” one of the members said.
With the support of the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Kimaanya-Kabonera Division, Katumba Ssegawa, the sex workers have formed a Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation (SACCO) comprising more than 900 members from the Greater Masaka region. The group has so far saved Shs 25 million and is seeking additional government funding to strengthen the initiative.
The chairperson of sex workers in Masaka City, Florence Mpomo, said the decision to establish the SACCO was driven by the need to address long-standing economic marginalisation among members.
Assistant RDC Katumba Ssegawa urged the group to remain united, noting that organised groups are better positioned to benefit from government programmes.
“Opportunities favour those who are prepared,” he said.
Masaka City NRM Chairperson Rogers Bulegeya commended the sex workers for their openness and encouraged them to actively participate in government programmes aimed at poverty alleviation and economic transformation.
Nyendo–Mukungwe Deputy RDC Mariam Kaberuka also applauded the group for acknowledging government achievements, particularly in the health sector, and called on them to continue supporting the NRM government.
President Museveni is expected to address supporters from Masaka City and neighbouring districts during the rally as part of his nationwide campaign tour.
