President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged Shs2 billion to support Ugandans who have returned from South Africa, with the money expected to help them rebuild their livelihoods, strengthen their businesses and achieve financial stability. The funds will be channelled through Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) established by the returnees to promote economic recovery and create opportunities for sustainable growth.
The financial support is intended to help the beneficiaries invest in their respective areas of business and develop income-generating activities. By providing access to capital through organised SACCOs, the government hopes to empower the returnees to overcome financial difficulties and establish businesses that can support them and their families.
The commitment was disclosed by Ambassador Dickson Ogwang-Okul during a financial literacy training session organised to support Ugandans living in South Africa and those who have recently returned home. The initiative seeks to equip participants with the financial knowledge and practical skills needed to manage their resources, make informed investment decisions and build sustainable livelihoods.
The training also brought together Equity Bank Uganda, which is working to improve access to secure financial services and strengthen financial awareness among migrant communities. The bank’s involvement is aimed at helping returnees understand how to protect their earnings, manage their finances responsibly and identify suitable opportunities for investment.
Bob Lusembo, Equity Bank Uganda’s Head of Micro Segments, said the initiative is designed to address the financial challenges faced by migrant communities while helping them build resilience. He emphasised the importance of financial education in enabling beneficiaries to make better decisions about savings, borrowing and business development.
Ugandans returning from South Africa have faced various challenges, including difficulties adjusting to life back home and rebuilding their sources of income. Some have also experienced vulnerabilities associated with xenophobia and social instability during their stay abroad, making financial assistance and reintegration programmes important for those seeking to start afresh.
Through the planned Shs2 billion support, the beneficiaries are expected to gain an opportunity to strengthen their businesses and expand their economic activities. The SACCO model is intended to provide a structured way of accessing and managing financial resources, although the impact will depend on how the funds are distributed, utilised and accounted for.
The government and its financial sector partners are therefore looking to combine financial support with practical training to help returning Ugandans achieve long-term economic independence. If effectively implemented, the initiative could help the beneficiaries rebuild their lives, create employment opportunities and contribute to Uganda’s economic development.
