Prossy Akampurira Mbabazi, a member of the Ugandan parliament, has reported using a controversial Shs400 million 'service award' to establish Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (Saccos) aimed at integrating women into the economy. Akampurira, alongside three other parliamentarians, faces allegations of unlawfully distributing Shs1.7 billion as a 'service award.'
During a delayed International Women's Day celebration in Rubanda District, Akampurira defended her actions, highlighting the societal benefits of Saccos and denying any misuse of funds for personal luxury. She emphasized that these initiatives support government programs like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga.
At the same event, Akampurira donated a Shs25 million ultrasound machine to assist pregnant women in the district. She also launched the 'Prosperous Women Rubanda' project, which provides seed capital to village groups.
State Minister for Finance Henry Musasizi, speaking at the celebration, warned leaders against using public funds to gain voter support, advocating instead for the promotion of government programs to gain political favor. He encouraged Ugandan women to engage in economic activities to improve their household incomes.
Rubanda West MP Moses Kamuntu also participated in the event, distributing mama-kits to aid pregnant women and praising the government's decision to allow the continued use of wetlands for agriculture. He assured farmers of his support against any threats to their crops grown in wetlands.