Hajjati Minsa Kabanda, Minister of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, has said that the government has designated a significant amount of money specifically for empowering women in businesses through the Grow Initiative.
Kabanda, while speaking to councillors who are currently attending a leadership and patriotic course in Entebbe on February 15, 2024, said that this initiative, led by the Ministry of Gender, is set to encourage and foster the growth of women-owned businesses, thereby contributing to the economic and social development of the country.
“The financial assistance will be provided in the form of a loan ranging from Ugx5 million to a hundred million, and the recipients will be required to repay the borrowed money within a two-year period with an interest rate of 10% per annum,” Kabanda said.
She noted that individuals with existing businesses or those earning a salary who are interested in adding to their incomes can substantiate this by managing other side incomes like rearing chickens, making soap, selling products, or fulfilling any similar entrepreneurial endeavours.
According to Kabanda, the initiative aims to provide financial support to women entrepreneurs for the expansion and development of their businesses and livelihoods, encouraging female councillors to seek further information and ensure that the funding earmarked for the initiative is fully utilised.
“If any obstacles are encountered, engage the Ministry of Gender officials and ask them to address any concerns to ensure that financial support reaches the deserving women entrepreneurs in your localities, and please embrace government programmes and work together to realise results and get out of poverty by 2024,” Kabanda said.
Kabanda emphasised that the ruling government in which she serves is non-discriminatory, stating that it does not discriminate based on tribal affiliation, religion, or upbringing and that it welcomes everyone for the country’s growth.
She urged the councillors to tap into the available government projects and work together for the good of the people they represent.
