Wazalendo SACCO donates items worth 50million to Busoga Community

Wazalendo Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (SACCO) has extended a helping hand to the Busoga community, contributing items valued at 50 million shillings.

The donation, presented during the official launch of Tarehe Sita activities in Buyende District, included 20 hospital delivery beds, 600 mama kits, and a commitment of 600 dozen exercise books.

The Tarehe Sita celebration, commemorating the 43rd anniversary of the National Resistance Movement (NRM)/ National Resistance Army (NRA) struggle that liberated Uganda on January 26, 1986, is set to take place in Bugweri District on February 6, 2024.

During the launch, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East Africa Community Affairs, Rt Hon Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, applauded the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) and Wazalendo SACCO for their collective efforts in supporting the people of Busoga.

Kadaga urged the community to embrace the spirit of UPDF and expressed her gratitude for Wazalendo's generosity.

Brigadier General Emmanuel Rwashande, Chief Civil-Military Cooperation, commended Wazalendo SACCO for not only providing financial services but also for their commitment to community welfare.

"Your contribution will strengthen our efforts and enhance our ability to give back to the community," remarked Rwashande.

Lt Col Allan Kiatanda, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of forming SACCOs and practising prudent investments as tools to overcome poverty.

He announced that Wazalendo SACCO would be offering free training to SACCOs in Busoga during the UPDF's army week activities, aiming to enhance the cooperative industry in the region.

Col Joseph Freddy Onata, CEO of Wazalendo SACCO, highlighted the significance of their Corporate Social Responsibility function, expressing gratitude to the community for their strategic partnership with the UPDF.

He emphasized the focus on critical areas such as health, education, and environmental protection.

"The spirit behind our giving is to appreciate the community where we operate and reside," said Col Onata.

He urged SACCOs to uphold good governance and transparency, pledging continuous support through free training, benchmarking, and sharing experiences.

The donation event saw attendance from government officials, UPDF representatives, and the general public.