Acholi media panellists and MCs root for Museveni after bagging shs100m

The Acholi sub-regional media panellists and MCs have rallied behind President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni following his financial support of shs100 million under the national SACCO initiative for entertainers.

The support is part of the President’s new socio-economic and wealth creation agenda aimed at empowering creative industry personalities who have long been at the frontline of community mobilisation and public engagement.

President Museveni recently launched a shs1.8 billion SACCO fund to support MCs and media panellists across the country. The initiative is designed to help them organise themselves into formal structures, access affordable credit, and transform their talents into income-generating activities.

In the Acholi sub-region, the initiative has been warmly embraced. During a meeting held on October 15, 2025, members unanimously agreed to strengthen mobilisation at the grassroots level and support local MCs to build both their financial and professional capacity.

The group extended heartfelt appreciation to President Museveni for recognising their contribution to national development and to the Office of the Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilisation for coordinating the initiative.

They also commended the sub-regional Focal Person, Robinson Oyo, who doubles as the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) of Lamwo District, for his leadership and commitment in mobilising and guiding members through the process.

Speaking during the induction meeting, Oyo applauded the government’s deliberate efforts to include MCs and papanellists in its wealth creation programs.

He explained that access to the revolving loan facility will require applicants to present a letter from their LC1 chairperson, a photocopy of their national ID, two guarantors, a business proposal, and recommendations from the GISO and RDC offices.

Oyo explained that the Emcees and Panellists SACCO Fund was conceived under President Museveni’s directive to expand the scope of the Wealth Creation Agenda to include creative and communication sectors.

He noted that MCs and media panellists have been instrumental in mobilising citizens for government programs such as Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and health campaigns, yet they were previously left out of direct economic empowerment initiatives.

“The President recognised that these individuals are key mobilisers who influence communities daily through radio programs, events, and public dialogues. This fund is a reward for their patriotism and a platform to help them become self-reliant while continuing to serve their country,” Oyo said.

He added that the SACCO will operate as a revolving fund to ensure sustainability and long-term impact.

Okene Benjamin from Kitgum District revealed that he is currently compiling the requirements for the revolving loan component of the SACCO to ensure that all requirements are available.

Abalo Doris, a panellist from Lamwo District, expressed gratitude to the President and organisers of the initiative, noting that it offers MCs and panellists a rare chance to uplift themselves economically and professionally.

“For many years, we have been working voluntarily during mobilisations and public events, but now we feel recognised. This fund will help us start businesses, buy equipment, and improve our livelihoods,” Abalo said.

MC Bernard from Gulu City, said the initiative has restored confidence among entertainers who had been sidelined in government programs.

“This is a game changer. We can now access loans to expand our event services and not depend on seasonal gigs. I thank the President for thinking about us,” he remarked.

Vincent Kaguta, another beneficiary from Lamwo, added that the initiative would also promote unity among MCs and panellists across the region.

“The SACCO will not only provide financial support but will also bring us together to share ideas and grow as professionals,” he said.

In his remarks, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kitgum, Jimmy Ssegawa Ebil, commended the beneficiaries for embracing the President’s initiative and urged them to use the funds responsibly.

“This is a golden opportunity from the President. Let us not misuse it. Use the funds to start productive ventures that will transform your lives and showcase that MCs and media personalities can be change agents in society,” he advised.

Ebil also cautioned members against politicising the fund or engaging in internal divisions, saying unity and accountability will ensure the sustainability of the SACCO.

“The President’s intention is to see every Ugandan prosper, regardless of their background. You are now part of the wealth creation drive, be examples in your communities,” he added.

The beneficiaries pledged to use the funds transparently and work closely with their leaders to ensure the success of the program.

With this initiative, the Acholi sub-region joins other areas of Uganda in strengthening the creative and mobilisation sector, aligning with President Museveni’s call for all Ugandans to participate in wealth creation and self-sustainability under the slogan “Protecting the grains.”