The Ugandan government is exploring new arrangements with the World Bank to reduce collateral requirements for women entrepreneurs accessing funds under the Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) project. This move aims to enhance the accessibility of financial resources for women-led businesses and boost economic growth.  

Residents of Naminya Village in Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, have raised concerns over the pollution of their local river by nearby companies, which has led to widespread health issues in the community. The issue was brought to light during a meeting organized by area Member of Parliament Diana Mutasingwa, who called for immediate action to address the problem.

Leaders in the Bukedi subregion are spearheading an ambitious poverty eradication plan that seeks to utilize 140,000 acres of land across seven districts for large-scale coffee and cocoa farming. The initiative, aimed at boosting economic development and reducing poverty, targets the districts of Busia, Tororo, Butaleja, Butebo, Kibuku, Pallisa, and Budaka.  

Dr. Monica Musenero, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized the importance of the project during its launch in Busia District. She identified coffee and cocoa as high-demand cash crops that can transform the region’s economy. Dr. Musenero urged residents to shift from relying on handouts from politicians and instead focus on sustainable development programs guided by their leaders.  

Dr. James Kisaale, Chairman of the Bukedi Development Consortium (BUDECO), outlined the plan, which requires each district to allocate 20,000 acres of land—10,000 acres for coffee and 10,000 acres for cocoa. The project is expected to be implemented over a 15-year period, with the goal of significantly improving livelihoods and reducing poverty in the region.  

State Minister for Lands, Dr. Sam Mayanja, has issued a directive for the immediate compensation of individuals occupying land within the Sango Bay Estate Limited area to prevent disruptions to the ongoing oil palm project. The minister made the announcement during an inspection of the 26,500-hectare land allocated to BIDCO Oil Refineries for oil palm cultivation and the construction of a palm oil refinery.