By Ambrose kweronda
In Kabale—-
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Dr. Protazio Begumisa, former Commissioner for Internal Audit and Compliance at the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), on Monday challenged members of the Ndorwa East Muzahuura Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (SACCO) that the cooperative was not established for political affiliation, but rather to promote the development of the people in the Kigezi region.
Speaking during the SACCO’s Annual General Meeting held on Monday May 5, 2025 at Kyanamira Sub-County Hall in Ndorwa East, Kabale District, Dr. Begumisa emphasized that the initiative was created to improve the livelihoods of local people through economic empowerment.
“This SACCO was not started for political affiliation. It was established to support development and financial empowerment among our people,” Dr. Begumisa said.
He dismissed claims suggesting the SACCO is politically linked to him, urging members and the wider public to view it as a platform for income generation and financial inclusion—not as a personal or political entity.
“People should not think this SACCO belongs to Begumisa. It was formed for development, to increase income, and to attract people—even those outside Ndorwa East,” he clarified.
Dr. Begumisa, who also serves as the NRM Chairperson for Ndorwa East and is a hopeful candidate for Member of Parliament, called on members to continue saving, borrowing responsibly, and participating actively in SACCO decision-making to ensure its long-term sustainability. He also underscored the importance of strong governance and strict adherence to operational procedures.
Reflecting on broader development strategies, Dr. Begumisa noted that leaders in the Buganda and Ankole regions convened a few years ago to explore practical solutions for poverty reduction. As a result, communities in those areas embraced agricultural and income-generating ventures such as coffee growing, banana plantations, and cattle keeping. Today, he said, many residents in those regions are reaping financial benefits from these initiatives.
In contrast, he expressed concern that leaders in the Kigezi region have not yet provided similar direction to guide communities out of poverty. He called for urgent efforts to emulate successful development models from other regions.
The Ndorwa East Muzahuura SACCO, founded in 2021, has seen steady growth and now boasts over 111 active members.