Alebtong, Uganda – In a landmark event that brought joy and celebration to the women entrepreneurs of Apala Town Council on Tuesday 17th December 2024, the government has added a substantial 30 million shillings to support their growing businesses under the Emyooga and Grow Project.
The transformative sensitization session, spearheaded by the Deputy RDC of Alebtong, Mathias Lutwama, marked a major milestone in the empowerment of women-led enterprises in the district.
The event, held in Apala Town Council, was attended by Deputy RDC Lutwama, Assistant RDC Ongom Lameck, and coordinated by Hon. Councillor Abalo Grace, the esteemed leader of the Moroto Women Entrepreneurs Group.
It was a moment of pride and inspiration as government officials recognized the hard work, transparency, and resilience of the women entrepreneurs in Apala.
In his address, Deputy RDC Lutwama commended the women for their dedication and the authenticity of their financial audit books, which he emphasized as the key reason for the government’s confidence to inject an additional 30 million shillings into their account.
“The synergy of women in Apala, especially the Moroto Women Entrepreneurs Group, is simply amazing. Their efforts in tailoring, piggery, chicken rearing, and farming are not only improving their livelihoods but also contributing to the community’s growth,” Deputy RDC Lutwama stated amidst applause from the women.
He further encouraged the women to strive for excellence in their ventures while reminding them of the importance of self-care as part of their business strategy.
“Feed well, look good, and present yourselves in ways that can market your products in the global marketplace. Business today is as much about image as it is about quality.”
The session was also a platform to highlight the success and impact of the Emyooga Program, a Presidential Initiative on Wealth and Job Creation launched on 19th August 2019.
The program targets 18 specialized groups of Ugandans, including boda boda riders, taxi drivers, market vendors, tailors, welders, salon operators, and women entrepreneurs, among others.
Its main objective is to create wealth, enhance job opportunities, and uplift marginalized groups by providing funding and financial literacy to boost their productivity and economic independence.
Hon. Councillor Abalo Grace, a key pillar in the success of the Moroto Women Entrepreneurs Group, expressed gratitude for the government’s continued support.
She urged the women to utilize the additional funding responsibly to grow their businesses further.
“This funding is not just a token; it is a vote of confidence in our abilities as women to transform our lives and our community. Let us work even harder to ensure this trust is upheld,” she remarked passionately.
The celebrations that followed were a true reflection of the women’s achievements, with songs, cheers, and traditional dances filling the air.
The added financial support is expected to boost businesses in tailoring, livestock farming, and agriculture, further driving economic growth in Apala and Alebtong at large.
This event marks a shining example of how government initiatives like Emyooga, coupled with field synergy and community leadership, can transform lives and empower grassroots entrepreneurs.
The Moroto Women Entrepreneurs Group now stands as a beacon of hope, setting the pace for women across Kioga County and beyond.
