MUGABE R
Members of Kyaburere Mukaka Group Association in Kyaburere Parish, Bugangari Sub County, Rukungiri District have appealed to government and well-wishers for financial support to strengthen their savings and credit activities and expand access to loans among members.
The association, which comprises 80 elderly women from Kyaburere Parish, operates as an informal savings and credit unit meeting at Kyaburere Parish headquarters. The group was supported by the NYAKA Project based in Kambuga Town Council, Kanungu District, which provided a seed capital of 12 million shillings. The funding boosted membership and improved access to financial services, although demand for loans has since outgrown the available capital.
The Chairperson of the association, Florence Twinomukama, expressed appreciation to the NYAKA Project for supporting the group’s inclusion in financial services aimed at transforming livelihoods in the area. She noted, however, that the limited seed capital remains a challenge, as it cannot adequately meet members’ borrowing needs. She also highlighted the lack of uniforms, which the group considers important for identity and visibility.
The Association Treasurer, Scora Tushabe, explained that despite the limited funds, members are committed to timely loan repayment. She said competition for loans has increased as more members save and seek credit, reflecting trust in the group’s financial system.
One of the members, Jackline Kyomukama, said she was unable to access a loan in time to support her Christmas plans due to limited capital. Nevertheless, she welcomed the association’s collaboration with Rubabo County Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo Kebirungi, whom she credited for supporting Mukaka groups in the area.
Other members, including Verentina Kamaduuka, Furida Tumwine, Tereza Zikandeeba and Bibiana Tumushabe, shared positive experiences, noting that access to loans with affordable interest rates has helped them meet household needs, support small businesses and improve their overall welfare.
The members say additional financial support would greatly enhance the group’s capacity to empower more women economically and sustain livelihoods in Kyaburere Parish.
