VSLA members urged to prioritise savings over politics
The call was made by the Kwania District Woman Member of Parliament [MP], Kenny Auma Lapat, during a weekend meeting with leaders and members of eight VSLAs in Etekober and Aornga parishes, Nambieso Sub-county
KWANIA, April 23, 2025 – As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, members of Village Savings and Loan Associations [VSLAs] in Kwania district have been advised to refrain from spending much of their time in partisan politics and instead focus on strengthening their savings to improve their livelihoods.
The call was made by the Kwania District Woman Member of Parliament [MP], Kenny Auma Lapat, during a weekend meeting with leaders and members of eight VSLAs in Etekober and Aornga parishes, Nambieso Sub-county.
MP Auma urged VSLA leaders to remain vigilant and protect their groups from political interference, which she warned could lead to division and undermine their goals.
“VSLAs provide a safe space for members to save, borrow, and learn about financial management, fostering a spirit of community and mutual support,” said Auma. “As your MP, I encourage you to form and join groups to become empowered, but do not bring politics into these associations. Focus on boosting your savings and improving your livelihoods.”
Auma donated Shs 1.5 million to eight VSLAs, which is part of her personal initiative to enhance their seed capital and support grassroots development.
Among the beneficiaries was Magen David VSLA from Aweilok Village in Etekober Parish, which received Shs 500,000. The remaining seven groups from Widam Village in Aornga Parish—Oroc Paco Women VSLA, Rwot Akica, Obanga Amio, Can Opwonya, Obanga Atwero Youth Group, and Note En Mar VSLA, each received Shs 150,000.
Moses Odwono, the MP Auma’s Political Assistant, cautioned beneficiaries against misusing the funds. “This money is intended to boost your savings, not to be shared out,” he said while distributing the funds. “Use it wisely to strengthen your financial base.”
Leaders and VSLA members respond
Ambrose Okori, the LCIII Chairperson of Nambieso Sub-county, commended Auma for her continued support to local communities.
He urged VSLA members to avoid the habit of distributing all their savings at the end of each year, encouraging a more sustainable approach. “Let us appreciate the MP’s efforts and continue to support her, especially as we approach the 2026 elections,” he said.
Grace Alaba, Chairperson of Oroc Paco “Dako Tek Icware” VSLA, welcomed the MP’s contribution, calling it a major boost for their group’s savings.
She also reminded members to uphold core cooperative principles such as voluntary and open membership, member economic participation, and continuous training.
Agnes Aya, Chairperson of Magen David VSLA, shared her group’s progress since its formation in 2020.
“We started with just 12 members and Shs 400,000 in savings. Today, we have 60 members and a loan portfolio of Shs 25 million. This money is transforming lives,” she said in an interview.
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