President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday officiated at the launch of the Federation of Uganda Salon Operators and Beauty Professionals at Kololo, praising the sector for the important service it provides, especially as Uganda becomes more urbanised.
“Salon operators play a key role in our society today. As people become busier, these services are no longer a luxury but a necessity,” Museveni said. He noted that Africans were once conditioned to despise their natural beauty but said that mentality had been defeated. “Today, we proudly define and celebrate our own identity,” he added.
The President pledged government support to the sector through a revolving fund to be implemented via Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs). He explained that with about 850 SACCOs, allocating Shs100 million to each would amount to Shs85 billion annually. “This money will be borrowed by members, used productively and repaid with minimal interest, just like under the Parish Development Model,” Museveni said, adding that shorter repayment periods would apply given the nature of salon businesses.
The Kololo engagement marked the President’s return to official duties after taking a Sunday break following an intensive campaign tour of the Bunyoro sub-region.
