By Our Reporter
The Uganda NRM Entrepreneurs League Members Savings & Credit Cooperative Society Limited (SACCO) has officially been launched in a colorful and highly spirited ceremony at Maya Natural Resort. The launch marks a significant milestone in empowering entrepreneurs aligned with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ideology.
The initiative is spearheaded by Hon. Phillip Kakuru, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Trade and a frontrunner in the race for Chairman of the Central Executive Committee (CEC) for the NRM Entrepreneurs League.
In his keynote address, Kakuru commended NRM leaders from across the country who attended the event, praising their commitment to the party and entrepreneurial growth. He hailed President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his visionary leadership, which he credited for Uganda’s socio-political and economic transformation.
Kakuru also lauded Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, the Chief Guest and Manager of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), for her relentless grassroots mobilization. He noted that Namyalo’s efforts have brought many bazzukulu (youth) back to support the NRM and President Museveni.
Highlighting the importance of the newly launched SACCO, Kakuru pointed to the broader benefits of such financial cooperatives under the Museveni administration. He said the SACCO will offer members access to affordable credit, promote a savings culture, and facilitate collective investment—especially vital for small and medium enterprises. These benefits align with the government’s goal of economic inclusion and poverty eradication through wealth creation initiatives.
To underscore his commitment, Kakuru announced a UGX 100 million injection into the SACCO as start-up capital. He also revealed that operational offices will be opened nationwide, starting with the first one in Bugolobi, Kampala.
Hajjat Namyalo, in her address, opened up about the behind-the-scenes struggles that preceded the SACCO’s formation. She revealed that KACITA Chairman Tadeus Musoke played a pivotal role by reaching out to her to sell the SACCO idea to President Museveni. Despite numerous hurdles—including opposition from selfish individuals and repeated appointment cancellations—she persisted until the dream became reality.
Namyalo criticized leaders who failed to defend entrepreneurs, describing them as silent and self-centered. She emphasized that the business community faces real issues, but their voices are often muted by those entrusted to represent them. She singled out Tadeus Musoke and Phillip Kakuru as rare examples of leaders who consistently stand up for traders.
In a passionate appeal, Namyalo warned Ugandans against electing leaders who buy votes with petty cash. She noted that such individuals often enter office focused on recouping their campaign expenses rather than serving the people. She urged voters to seek out leaders of integrity who prioritize development over personal gain.
She further called on entrepreneurs to rally behind the SACCO, stressing that it will soon receive government support, making it a crucial vehicle for accessing public funding and programs.
Namyalo concluded her speech by rallying support for President Museveni’s anticipated 2026 re-election bid. She urged all NRM leaders and supporters to remain united and committed to the party’s vision.
“Settle for best—Museveni is the best,” she declared emphatically.