On 12th November 2025, the Microfinance Support Center in collaboration with Gomba District Local Government held a mass Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 18 Emyooga Saccos in Gomba East at Saza Grounds, Kanoni. The meeting brought together key stakeholders and Sacco members to review performance, read audit reports, confirm leadership structures, and facilitate applications for additional seed capital under the Presidential Emyooga Initiative.

The Emyooga program is a government initiative aimed at promoting wealth creation and improving household incomes among Ugandans engaged in specialized enterprises such as taxi operators, salon owners, restaurant operators, and produce dealers, among others. Through financial inclusion and enterprise development, the program continues to transform communities and strengthen local economic resilience.

The meeting was attended by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Deputy RDC, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), District Police Commander (DPC), Mayor, Microfinance Support Center officials, State House representatives, District Commercial Officer (DCO), Principal Commercial Officer (PCO), and Community Development Officers (CDOs).

While addressing members, the Resident District Commissioner Mr Katende Ronald noted that previous disbursements had not yielded expected results due to low repayment rates and weak accountability mechanisms. He urged Sacco leaders and members to take this as a golden opportunity to change their financial mindset and create sustainable wealth.

“The Emyooga initiative is a presidential vision to uplift our people from poverty. I urge all Sacco members to embrace this support with responsibility and discipline. Let us make this a turning point in Gomba’s economic transformation,” remarked the RDC.

The District Commercial Officer, Mrs. Nakuya Agnes, underscored the importance of financial discipline and transparent management of Sacco resources, emphasizing that sustainability depends on members’ commitment to accountability and shared goals.

“For our Saccos to thrive, every member must understand the value of collective responsibility. Let us ensure that every shilling received is accounted for, and that records are well maintained. Strong record keeping and clear reporting are the foundation for continued trust and access to additional support,” said Mrs. Nakuya Agnes.

Officials from the Microfinance Support Center guided participants through the process of applying for additional seed capital and improving governance systems. They emphasized the need for leadership training and regular audits to promote transparency.

“We encourage all Saccos to strengthen their internal controls and adopt best practices in management. This will not only improve loan recovery but also position your Saccos to benefit from future government interventions,” noted  a representative from the Microfinance Support Center.

The AGM provided a platform for members to engage with district and national stakeholders on strategies for financial empowerment and enterprise growth. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to embracing financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and collective savings as pathways to improved livelihoods.

As a way forward, stakeholders emphasized the need for continuous sensitization and mindset change among Sacco members to enhance productivity, repayment, and sustainability.

The event marked a significant step toward revitalizing Gomba East Emyooga Saccos and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting community-based financial empowerment initiatives.

Photo Captions:

Members of Gomba District commercial department with Microfinance Support Center Representatives attending the annual general meeting.

District leaders and Sacco representatives posing for a group photo after the AGM.