By Eye Media Uganda
When President Museveni launched the Shs 1.8 billion Emcees and Panelists SACCO fund, it was meant to give entertainers a rare opportunity to organize themselves, access affordable credit, and turn their talent into income-generating ventures. But while many welcomed the initiative, some entertainers chose the path of negativity.
Leading the outburst was MC Kats, who rushed to his X handle to downplay the funding. In a bitter rant, Kats posted:
“Really we have worked all our lives with our own efforts. Never funded. But we talk to millions of people every night countrywide. And money is given to people like these… oba who are they?”
Kirunda Schools him
Special Presidential Assistant for Press and Mobilization, Hajji Faruk Kirunda, who has been entrusted by the President to oversee the SACCOs, wasted no time in setting the record straight.
“This money is for Emcees to borrow and return and not as a donation to Emcees who speak at functions because you are individually paid by function organizers for your efforts,” Kirunda clarified, stressing that the loans will be accessed at 6% interest.
He explained that the program is open to all recognized Emcees, with guidelines to be displayed at RDC/RCC, CAO, Town Clerk, DISO and Commercial Offices by September 29, 2025, and lists of coordinators released earlier on September 26, 2025.
Who Received the Cheque?
On the individuals who posed with the symbolic cheque, Kirunda named them as:
- Meddy Dhakaba, respected Emcee in Busoga and initiator of the proposal.
- Butuume Geoffrey Speed, a prominent voice in Western Uganda.
- Ssegujja Fred, chairperson of Abogezi bo ku Mikolo in Buganda.
Jealousy and Ignorance Exposed
It is worthy noting that some Ugandans are quick to bad-mouth government programs simply because they are not at the frontline of benefiting. “Some talk out of jealousy while others base their attacks on ignorance,” noted some analyst in The Eye Media Newsroom.
Hajji Kirunda urged Emcees to welcome this historic opportunity instead of pulling it down. “For all the time you have worked as Emcees, this is likely to be the first time such an activity is implemented,” Kirunda said, adding that government is ready to support those willing to cooperate.
Museveni’s Commitment
The initiative is part of President Museveni’s wider program to empower Ugandans—especially the youth—with capital to build sustainable livelihoods. The Head of State has over the years supported groups of women, youth, the elderly, PWDs, ghetto youth, and now entertainers.
Instead of crying foul on social media, government says entertainers like MC Kats should position themselves to access and benefit from the SACCOs rather than trying to mislead the public.
