Government to Create Special Emyooga Categories for Karamoja Miners and Cattle Traders

The Ugandan government is exploring the creation of special Emyooga fund categories targeting artisanal miners and cattle traders in the Karamoja Sub-region. The initiative aims to integrate these major economic actors into wealth-creation programs following appeals from local leaders who noted that the region’s primary livelihoods were left out of the initial 18 program categories.

Minister of State for Finance in charge of Microfinance, Shartsi Kutesa Musherure, announced the commitment during a meeting with Emyooga beneficiaries and Sacco leaders from Nakapiripirit, Moroto, Amudat, and Napak districts. She acknowledged that Karamoja possesses unique economic realities that require affirmative action.

John Peter Mujuni, the Executive Director of the Microfinance Support Centre, backed the proposal, emphasizing that Karamoja operates under distinct circumstances. He highlighted the successful performance of Karacuna groups that have organized into functional Saccos, demonstrating a strong culture of saving and loan repayment.

Beyond financial inclusion, Minister Musherure pointed out that the government is tackling broader infrastructural challenges in Karamoja, such as prolonged drought and limited water access necessary for both livestock and mineral processing. Plans are also underway to enhance the capacity and number of district commercial officers to effectively mobilize and support local groups.

Local leaders and residents have welcomed the proposed intervention. Albert Lokoru, a Member of Parliament from the region, noted that improved security has paved the way for expanded livestock markets and mineral exploitation, making financial support timely and impactful.

Read more about this development on the Nile Post.