PSFU, Busoga Kingdom officials ready to aid women-led businesses

PSFU and the Busoga Kingdom have joined forces to support businesses in Eastern Uganda.

The partnership aims to drive growth and prosperity for the region’s populace and the nation as a whole.

Both the Kyabazinga and the Inhebantu have publicly endorsed PSFU’s efforts in the Busoga region.

During the 2024 PSFU Women’s Day Katale, held from March 15-17 at the Dam Waters Rugby Ground in Jinja City, messages from the King and Queen were conveyed by Owek Osman Ahmed Noor, the Busoga Kingdom Second Deputy Prime Minister (Katukiiro).

He expressed the kingdom’s commitment to collaborating with PSFU to enhance opportunities for the people.

An MOU will be signed to formalize this collaboration, aiming to empower and educate the populace on available opportunities.

The three-day event brought together over 200 exhibitors, with a significant representation from women-founded and women-led businesses.

Themed “Bridging Economic Divides for Women’s Prosperity,” the Katale received support from the Young Africa Works (YAW) Lead Firm Structure program, implemented in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.

Sarah Kagingo, PSFU Vice Chairperson, highlighted the benefits Busoga-based businesses could gain from various programs such as Lead Firm Structure (LFS), Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW), and others.

The Jinja edition featured Business Clinics, Panel Sessions addressing women’s challenges, and the Kreative Village, fostering interaction among industry stakeholders and leaders in arts, culture, music, and fashion from the Busoga region.

Rebecca Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister, commended PSFU for extending support to entrepreneurs in Busoga, stepping beyond their usual operations in Kampala.

Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Resident Representative for Uganda, emphasized the pivotal role of women entrepreneurs in national development, praising PSFU for their commitment to women’s economic empowerment.

PSFU CEO, Stephen Asiimwe, highlighted Busoga’s potential as a prime investment destination, particularly in tourism. PSFU intends to establish a liaison office in partnership with the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) to facilitate collaboration across various sectors.

The Katale, aligned with International Women’s Day celebrations, is an annual event recognizing the contributions and potential of women and girls as entrepreneurs, building upon the successes of previous editions in Luweero and Kampala.