Mbale, Uganda – A wave of excitement has swept across Uganda’s Eastern Region after creatives received access to a grant worth more than UGX 3 billion, channelled through their SACCO in the form of manageable and affordable loans aimed at transforming the region’s creative industry.
The funding initiative is expected to empower artists, actors, content creators, designers, and other creative professionals by providing them with the financial support needed to expand their work, invest in equipment, and build sustainable careers.
This grant is among several government initiatives designed to help young people across Uganda discover, nurture, and develop their talents and skills while creating employment opportunities within the creative sector.
Speaking to our reporter at the Bungokho Fukilisa SACCO headquarters in Mbale District, Bwangani Shakuru, the SACCO’s Creative Loans Handler, revealed that beneficiaries from across the region have already started receiving their loans.
We have begun disbursing the funds to qualified creatives, and many have already received support to boost their projects and businesses, Mr. Shakuru said.
He emphasized that the SACCO has put in place transparent procedures to ensure that every eligible creative receives the financial assistance they qualify for.
We are committed to ensuring that no deserving creative is left behind. Whoever meets the requirements will receive the loan and have an opportunity to grow their talent into a sustainable source of income, he added.
Mr. Shakuru also called upon creatives from other parts of the Eastern Region who may still be skeptical about the program to change their mindset and take advantage of the opportunity.
This program is real and is already changing lives. We encourage all creatives to come forward, seek information, and participate so they can benefit from this government-supported initiative, he said.
The funding is expected to play a significant role in strengthening the creative economy in Eastern Uganda, unlocking opportunities for innovation, job creation, and talent development across the region.