By Jamillah Kemigisa
Kabarole District Assistant Resident District Commissioner (A/RDC) Frank Asaba has issued a stern warning to young entrepreneurs misusing government and donor recovery funds, reminding them that the money is meant for business development—not leisure.
Asaba made the remarks while addressing participants at a youth dialogue organized by the World Hunger Relief Organisation in Fort Portal. Speaking as the representative of the guest of honour Saleh Kamba RDC Kabalore, he expressed concern over reports of youth diverting enterprise support funds to social outings and non-productive activities.
“Stop spending this money on outings every day,” Asaba cautioned. “It was given to help you build your businesses—not to impress friends who will vanish when the money runs out.”
He also urged the youth to use social media responsibly and productively.
“Promote your businesses online. Don’t waste these platforms attacking politicians, especially in this political season,” he advised.
The dialogue brought together youth entrepreneurs, community development officers, commercial officers, civil society organizations, and representatives from financial institutions. The event aimed to strengthen collaboration between young business owners and stakeholders, improve regulatory awareness, and increase access to support services.
Call for Financial Discipline and Awareness
Magezi Moses, Head of Project at the World Hunger Relief Organisation, emphasized the importance of building trust and financial discipline among youth.
“This dialogue was organized to create awareness on compliance, mentorship, and business sustainability. We also want to prevent tax issues that could shut down these enterprises,” Magezi said.
Boaz Tusingwire from the Microfinance Support Center urged young entrepreneurs to avoid predatory lenders and instead utilize low-interest government funding programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Project Background
The dialogue is part of the Micro Business Recovery Support Project, an initiative by the World Hunger Relief Organisation aimed at reviving youth-led enterprises affected by economic shocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The project offers financial assistance, mentorship, and links to government programs and essential business services.
So far, 80 youth-led businesses in Kabarole District have received support under the initiative. However, concerns over misuse of funds and low tax compliance rates prompted the need for community engagement through such dialogues.
“Giving out money isn’t enough,” RDC Asaba concluded. “We must ensure it is used for its intended purpose—creating sustainable, law-abiding businesses that will thrive beyond donor support.”
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