Museveni pledges Shs85 billion revolving fund for salon operators
The pledge was made during the launch of the Federation of Uganda Salon Operators and Beauty Professionals at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today announced a landmark Shs85 billion revolving fund to support Uganda’s salon operators, marking a significant boost for the country’s informal beauty sector.
The pledge was made during the launch of the Federation of Uganda Salon Operators and Beauty Professionals at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala.
The President emphasized the vital role salon operators play in Ugandan society, particularly as urbanization grows and lifestyles become more fast-paced.
“Their work is not just about aesthetics; it’s about building confidence and affirming African identity,” he stated, reflecting on the colonial era when African beauty standards were undermined.
“We were made to believe we were not beautiful and had to imitate Europeans. But today, Africans have reclaimed their beauty and diversity, especially in the Great Lakes region.”
Museveni highlighted the importance of self-reliance, praising salon operators for developing their own beauty products. He outlined the government’s plan to channel support through a revolving fund, allocating Shs100 million annually to each of Uganda’s 850 SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperatives).
This would total Shs85 billion yearly, mirroring the successful Parish Development Model (PDM). Under this model, borrowers repay loans with minimal interest, ensuring sustainability.
The President proposed tailoring the fund for salon operators, suggesting loans with a one-year repayment period—shorter than the two-year term for crop farmers under PDM—to align with their business cycles.
Grassroots Applause, Calls for Action
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, lauded the President for prioritizing “ordinary Ugandans,” noting that many leaders neglect marginalized groups.
He commended Operation Wealth Creation, a government initiative under Gen. Salim Saleh, for early engagement with salon operators. However, he raised concerns about delayed fund disbursement by the Microfinance Support Centre, urging accountability.
Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, reiterated Uganda’s commitment to empowering its informal sector, which includes tailors, artisans, and entrepreneurs. He urged youth to continue supporting President Museveni’s leadership, calling it critical to poverty eradication.
Federation’s Vision and Demands
Kamanyire Celestine, Chairperson of the newly launched federation, thanked the President for recognizing grassroots initiatives. He requested the formal launch of all 850 SACCOs, a mandate for the federation, and Shs100 million per SACCO in funding. “Each SACCO has over 50 members, and we seek a common user facility to streamline operations and training,” he added.
The initiative is expected to bolster livelihoods across urban and rural areas, with salon operators contributing significantly to economic growth and cultural revitalization.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the fund signals a boost for the sector, stakeholders have called for transparent implementation to ensure timely access for beneficiaries. With a focus on self-reliance and African identity, the move aligns with broader development goals, positioning Uganda’s beauty industry as a catalyst for both economic and social empowerment.
The launch of the federation and the government’s financial commitment underscore a growing recognition of the informal sector’s potential to drive national progress.
