In an effort to enhance the livelihoods of market vendors and boda boda riders, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has launched affordable loan schemes aimed at stabilizing incomes and boosting economic activity. The announcement was made by Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, Moses Byaruhanga, during a meeting with Kalerwe women vendors at Kalerwe Market, Kawempe Division on May 2, 2025.
The new initiatives, facilitated through the Microfinance Support Centre, include the Katale loan program for market vendors and a special loan scheme for boda boda riders. These loans come with low-interest rates and no collateral required.
Byaruhanga explained that the Katale loan, available in every market, offers a yearly interest rate of just 8%. “For example, if you take a loan of Shs1m, the interest will only be Shs80,000 per year,” he said, emphasizing that the loans come without registration fees.
Boda boda riders will also benefit from the "boda boda loans," which allow them to acquire motorcycles with no down payment. "The loan will cover the cost of a Shs6m motorcycle, and after full payment of Shs7.2m, the bike will be theirs," Byaruhanga explained. Additionally, GPS tracking will be installed on the bikes, and they will be insured.
Byaruhanga also addressed concerns regarding the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) enforcement team's actions towards vendors. "If anyone tries to confiscate your property, take a video and present it to the authorities," he advised, promising to discuss the matter with KCCA Executive Director, Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki.
In his remarks on property tax, Byaruhanga clarified that homeowners who occupy their properties for personal use, not rental or business purposes, would be exempt from the tax.
As part of his support for small businesses, Byaruhanga allocated Shs5m to assist Kalerwe Women Vendors SACCO and an additional Shs5m to luggage carriers at the market. He also pledged further support to Kawempe Boxing Club, with capital for their SACCO and gym equipment.
Kalerwe Women Vendors Association Chairperson, Namata Justine, expressed her gratitude for the president’s initiatives. "The President’s support is helping women take care of their homes and improve their livelihoods," she said.
These loan schemes are part of President Museveni’s ongoing efforts to empower ordinary Ugandans and enhance their economic well-being through accessible financial support.
