Rubirizi, Uganda – Rubirizi Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Bruno Kikanshemeza has issued a stark warning to Emyooga Sacco leaders accused of misappropriating funds meant to alleviate poverty in Uganda.
Following widespread complaints from members, the RDC vowed to arrest those responsible for diverting the government-funded program’s resources.
Kikanshemeza, who has visited numerous Emyooga groups, has uncovered instances of ghost members and, crucially, allegations that leaders have pocketed the money intended to boost household incomes.
Members have voiced their frustration to the RDC’s office, detailing how their Saccos have stagnated due to missing funds. The President’s initiative, designed to improve economic prospects, has been undermined by these irregularities.
Addressing members of the Bunyaruguru Women Entrepreneurship Emyooga Sacco, Kikanshemeza emphasized the need for government intervention.
“It’s unacceptable that government funds are being misused,” he stated, vowing to hold accountable those responsible for diverting these vital resources. He underscored the need for the groups to become productive and for affected members to be supported.
Rubirizi District has at least 35 Emyooga Saccos, and the RDC’s stance reflects the critical need for accountability. A number of accounts paint a concerning picture of mismanagement.
Madam Nagaba Maria, a member of the Bunyaruguru Women Entrepreneurship Sacco, blamed their leaders for failing to repay loans despite members having contributed.
Madam Tereza Kabwizuka added that the Sacco’s businesses were collapsing due to the defaulters, highlighting the detrimental impact on their enterprises.
Kyomugisha Sylivia, Chairperson of the Bunyaruguru Women Entrepreneurship Emyooga Sacco, while acknowledging some member challenges, appealed for voluntary repayment rather than forceful action.
She attributed some delays to the COVID-19 pandemic, famine, and devastating hailstorms that affected members’ livelihoods. She urged members to pay back willingly to prevent arrest and court proceedings.
The RDC’s hardline stance highlights the critical need for transparency and accountability within the Emyooga program.
The case underscores the importance of ensuring these vital funds reach their intended beneficiaries and contribute to the economic upliftment of Ugandan communities.
The government faces a challenge not only in recovering the misused funds but also in implementing measures to prevent future occurrences and rebuild trust in the program.
Compiled by: Tugume Muzafaru
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