The people of Sebei sub-region in eastern Uganda have expressed their gratitude to Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for their assistance in establishing a local market in the area.
For a long time, the Kaserem weekly market in Tingey County, Kapchorwa district, operated along the busy Muyembe – Kapchorwa highway, putting vendors and buyers at risk, as well as causing traffic hazards.
Fadil Twalla, the area Member of Parliament, highlighted the dangers faced by community members who sold their products in the middle of the highway. He organized a fundraising event and approached Prime Minister Nabbanja and Gen. Muhoozi for support in purchasing suitable land for a safer market.
Both leaders, without hesitation, contributed sh50 million towards acquiring the land for the new weekly market. The announcement of their generous gesture was made by the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rukia Nakadama.
Rukia Nakadama also pledged sh10 million towards the project during the fundraising event at Kaserem Primary School, which raised about sh150 million.
Issa Kamonges, the market chairperson, believes the new local market will benefit farmers and small-scale producers by providing them with a platform to reach a larger customer base, potentially increasing their sales and profitability.
Market vendors like Scovia Chemutai are optimistic that this market will allow local artisans, farmers, and small-scale entrepreneurs to sell their products directly to consumers, eliminating intermediaries and increasing their margins.
Raymond Kadoli, a resident, pointed out that running and organizing a weekly market can create job opportunities in the community, including temporary or part-time employment.
Phyllis Chemutai, Kapchorwa district Woman MP, sees the Kaserem Market as a way to boost Sebei’s role as a food supplier for the country and promote entrepreneurship with low entry barriers.
Various ministers, MPs, district leaders, and local community members generously contributed to support the fundraising event, transcending political affiliations to improve the livelihoods of their communities.
