The entrepreneurship league has been neglected compared to other areas such as workers, disability, women, youth, and the elderly. - Sanjiv Tana
More than eight National Resistance Movement (NRM) members have expressed interest in contesting for the position of National Chairman of the Entrepreneurship League.
Among the contenders are the incumbent chairperson, Robert Rukaari, who is seeking re-election, businessman Hassan Basajja Balaba, businessman Sanjiv Tana, and the chairperson of the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), Thaddeus Musoke.
Speaking after returning his nomination forms at the Kyadondo party headquarters, former Tororo MP Sanjiv Tana stated that he decided to vie for the position because the entrepreneurship league has been neglected compared to other leagues such as those for workers, people with disabilities, women, youth, and the elderly. Tana, who boasts 35 years of vast experience in business, also highlighted his past roles as a Member of Parliament and a State House employee, believing these experiences give him an advantage through his extensive connections. He criticized the current leadership for poor mobilization.
However, KACITA chairperson Thaddeus Musoke claims to have a long history of advocating for the plight of traders. Addressing the press after his nomination, Musoke pledged to submit policies that will advocate for fair taxation, thereby reducing smuggling.
Meanwhile, Buyamba County MP Javiira Semwanga has also pledged to address the various challenges affecting the Ugandan business community. He specifically mentioned high interest rates, which he believes prohibit most entrepreneurs from accessing loans. Semwanga also highlighted the issue of domestic arrears, where the government delays clearing its suppliers, forcing many out of business. Furthermore, Semwanga pointed out the lack of information among entrepreneurs, which he believes denies them opportunities to conduct business effectively.
