Mukono Municipality Town Clerk, Francis Byabagabi, has issued a stern warning to all individuals and groups that benefited from the Emyooga program but have failed to return the funds. He said those who misused or diverted the money will face arrest as investigations intensify.
Speaking during a meeting with members of various Emyooga groups at the Mukono Municipal Offices, Byabagabi revealed that several cases of mismanagement had already been uncovered. According to him, some beneficiaries disappeared with the money, while others formed briefcase groups to fraudulently access the funds. He added that certain SACCO leaders also connived to keep the money instead of distributing it to the rightful beneficiaries.
“We have started investigations, and operations to arrest those involved are underway,” Byabagabi said.
“These funds are not political. They are meant to uplift people from poverty. Wrongdoers will not be tolerated because they tarnish the government’s image.”
The meeting, aimed at evaluating the impact of Emyooga funds, brought together leaders and beneficiaries from different sectors.
Concerns were raised about the unfair distribution of funds, with some leaders accusing SACCO officials of hoarding the money.
Betty Asobola, chairperson of the Maternity Zone, together with Harriet Nagayi, said many hardworking people had not received any support due to biased leadership within some groups.
“In my area, caterers, salon operators, and many others have not benefited. Mobilisation should continue, and funds should go to people who truly deserve them,” Asobola appealed.
Despite the challenges, some beneficiaries reported positive outcomes. Fred Gwebayaga, a fisherman, shared how the one million shillings he received enabled him to buy a boat and modern fishing nets after his earlier illegal equipment was confiscated. He now owns two boats.
However, Gwebayaga criticized security officers patrolling the lake, saying their heightened strictness during the election period was affecting livelihoods.
Stephen Okutu, the chairperson overseeing fund monitoring in Greater Mukono, emphasised the need to restore the President’s original vision for the initiative. He said some local leaders had undermined programs like Emyooga and the Parish Development Model (PDM) by diverting funds.
He urged the public to support the program and keep leaders accountable to ensure the intended impact is achieved.
Representatives from supporting organisations also weighed in. Daphine Muhumuza from the Micro Support Centre thanked beneficiaries who had used the funds effectively and encouraged continued commitment.
Other leaders, including Dr Daisy Nabatanzi and Sarah Sonko, appealed to the government to increase the funding and strengthen monitoring mechanisms to safeguard the program from fraudsters.
As investigations proceed, the town clerk reiterated that all defaulters will be held responsible, warning that arrests are imminent for anyone who misappropriated the Emyooga funds.
