Jinja City, Uganda: Busoga Diocese Bishop-Elect, Rev Canon Prof. Grace Lubaale, has asked the government to partner with the Church in implementing economic empowerment programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, saying faith institutions already possess the structures and trust needed to transform communities.
Speaking at Bugembe Cathedral on Friday during the Busoga Emyooga beneficiaries’ regional showcase, Rev Canon Lubaale said the Church is well-positioned to train communities in financial discipline, mindset change and entrepreneurship.
“Microfinance Support Centre, work with us. We shall train and empower the community because we have the capability to change their mindset,” he said. “We can preach to them how to use their money based on scripture and practical guidance.”
He urged beneficiaries to focus on value addition and investment instead of “simply receiving money without creating impact.” He also warned the public against turning government programmes into political battles.
“Stop politicising government programmes,” he said. “Poverty or wealth does not belong to one political party. Embrace these programmes and invest your money wisely.”
Uganda Microfinance Support Centre’s Busoga Regional Manager, Mr Martin Isabirye, said Emyooga has already demonstrated progress through structured capacity building.
“As the lead implementer of the programme, we have trained our beneficiaries through capacity building. Today’s showcase reflects what they have achieved so far,” he noted.
Beneficiaries from 11 districts and Jinja City exhibited enterprises established using Emyooga funds.
Jinja City RCC Fredrick Gulume Balyaino urged loan recipients to remain accountable and use the funds as intended. “Once you have sincerity and commitment to use the loan accordingly, you progress. Commit yourselves to work and start small-scale businesses,” he said.
He encouraged SACCO members to remain united and strengthen their cooperatives for long-term sustainability.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
