In pursuit of the separation of power, business is being urged to refrain from politics.
Godfrey Katongole, The President of the Uganda National Traders Alliance (Unata), has called on traders in Gulu to avoid political involvement and focus on bettering their businesses.
Speaking during a meeting with traders in Gulu City, Katongole drew from disruptions that often occur in Kampala during political seasons and advised traders to remain neutral and prioritize financial growth.
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Gulu Traders’ Chairperson Jennifer Ayoo, lamented the lack of unity and sustainability in local businesses, adding that l financial support alone was not enough, emphasising the need for long-term business sustainability.
“Why is it that in Gulu, when a business owner dies, the business collapses?” Ayoo? asked.
In response, Unata leaders called for unity and encouraged traders to form a savings and credit cooperative (Sacco).
However, Mego Santa Laker, a shea nut oil producer in Gulu, questioned why the promised funds from the president had not yet reached them.
“Where was this money, my President of Unata? Tell us,” she asked.
“The money is there, and President Museveni is ready to invest in your Sacco,” Katongole responded.
In July 2024, the UNATA leadership met President Museveni, who directed them to tour the country and identify the challenges faced by traders.
Unata Executive Director Kwebiha Muzamil Abwooli urged the Uganda Revenue Authority and the Uganda Registration Services Bureau to continuously sensitize traders on tax compliance and business registration procedures.
Meanwhile, Cross-Border Traders’ Chairperson Godfrey Oundo encouraged businesses in cities like Gulu and Arua to take advantage of their proximity to South Sudan and DR Congo for trade expansion.
The Unata regional consultations will next head to Soroti, with plans for an annual traders’ meeting at the Ministry of Trade starting in 2026.
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