Museveni Launches Affordable Loans for Vendors and Boda Boda Riders in Kampala
Kampala, Uganda – May 7, 2025 — President Yoweri Museveni has introduced two low-interest loan schemes to empower vendors and boda boda riders, aiming to stabilize incomes and improve livelihoods.
During a meeting at Kalerwe Market on May 2, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, Moses Byaruhanga, launched the initiatives on behalf of the president.
Byaruhanga explained that vendors can now access “Katale loans” through the Microfinance Support Centre at a minimal 8% annual interest. “A Shs1 million loan will attract only Shs80,000 in interest yearly, with no collateral or registration fees,” he said.
For boda boda riders, the government introduced a plan to offer motorcycles at Shs6 million, repayable with a final cost of Shs7.2 million, also without deposit requirements. The motorcycles will be fitted with GPS trackers and insured.
Byaruhanga also warned KCCA against confiscating vendors’ property, urging affected individuals to document any such incidents with video evidence. He pledged to engage KCCA’s Executive Director on the matter.
He added that homeowners not using their property for rental or business should be exempt from property tax.
To reinforce community support, Byaruhanga donated Shs5 million each to the Kalerwe Women Vendors SACCO and market luggage carriers, and pledged further backing for Kawempe Boxing Club.
Ms. Namata Justine, chairperson of the Kalerwe Women Vendors Association, praised the initiative. “The President’s support is helping women care for their families,” she said.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMAk3Hj7Xe8
