Nansana Authorities Probe Shs300m Mechanics Fund Mismanagement

Investigations are underway in Nansana regarding the alleged misappropriation of Shs300 million, part of the Presidential Skilling Programme aimed at supporting local mechanics and artisans.

The funds were channeled through the Nansana Garage Owners and Mechanics SACCO, with expectations that they would benefit numerous individuals. However, complaints from SACCO members have surfaced, alleging that former leadership withdrew and diverted the money.

Former SACCO chairman Kasasa Quasim and his vice, Abdul Ddamba, are among those implicated. The allegations suggest irregularities in the beneficiary selection process, with claims that non-mechanics were included while genuine artisans were excluded, and some were reportedly charged registration fees.

Concerned members, like Steven Sserunkuuma, whose son was reportedly the former treasurer, expressed disappointment, stating the initiative failed to deliver on its promise of improved livelihoods.

The matter has drawn the attention of the Office of the President, with directives issued to investigate and recover any misused public funds. Police have arrested four out of fifteen suspects, with ongoing efforts to trace the missing money and examine claims of internal fund sharing.

Further scrutiny has revealed questionable SACCO membership records, with only a fraction of listed members verified as genuine. Nansana Resident District Commissioner Charles Lwanga vowed a thorough investigation to ensure public funds are not treated as personal assets.

Investigators are also looking into the circumstances surrounding the death of the former SACCO treasurer, who reportedly had raised financial concerns prior to his passing, to determine any potential link to the financial disputes.

Disbursements to the Nansana SACCO have been halted pending the investigation’s conclusion, as authorities work to account for the Shs300 million. Investigations are ongoing at Nansana Police Station.