In a strategic collaboration aimed at supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) and Busoga Kingdom have joined forces to empower over 10,000 businesses based in the Busoga region. This initiative, announced during the 2024 PSFU Women’s Day Katale held in Jinja, underscores a commitment to fostering financial inclusion and driving economic growth.
Osman Ahmed Noor, the Second Deputy Prime Minister (Katukiiro) of Busoga Kingdom, officially conveyed the kingdom’s endorsement of the partnership, emphasizing its potential to accelerate economic transformation in the region. Noor highlighted PSFU’s pledge to provide support and resources to empower local entrepreneurs, with a focus on ensuring that at least 70% of beneficiaries are women and youth, who often face significant barriers to success.
The PSFU Women’s Day Katale, organized in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, served as a platform for showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit and creativity of women and youth in Busoga. With over 250 exhibitors participating, the event attracted hundreds of attendees seeking to explore business opportunities, network, and gain valuable insights.
While the trade fair featured exhibitors from various sectors, including agriculture, trade, and ICT, special attention was given to the art, culture, and creative industries. Business clinics dedicated to this sector offered practical advice and training sessions to aspiring artists and creatives, addressing topics such as professional conduct, talent management, and industry standards.
Notable speakers, including Daniel Kazibwe (Raga Dee), emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and establishing clear boundaries in business relationships to avoid conflicts. Ahuurra Andrew, an audio engineer, underscored the need for training and awareness initiatives to safeguard the rights of women in the creative industry.
Damali Ssali, PSFU’s Chief Programs and Projects Officer, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the art, culture, and creative sector, recognizing its potential to drive job creation and contribute significantly to Uganda’s economic development.
The PSFU Women’s Day Katale, which began in 2022 and has since become an annual event, serves as a platform for promoting entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and empowering women and youth across Uganda. As PSFU continues to expand its initiatives, the partnership with Busoga Kingdom stands as a testament to the collective effort to build a vibrant and inclusive private sector ecosystem.
