Rukungiri Muslim Community Launches Rujumbura Muslims Sacco to Boost Local Development

Rukungiri: The Rukungiri Muslim community has officially launched the Rujumbura Muslims Sacco at the Rukungiri Main Mosque. The event, held in Rukungiri municipality, marked a significant step towards community development.

During the ceremony on October 5, 2024, Rukungiri District Kadhi Sheikh AbdulMalik Byaruhanga Kayole explained that the Sacco aims to raise the profile of Rujumbura for the benefit of the entire Rukungiri community. He emphasized that the Sacco will not lend money at interest but will focus on buying and selling properties to generate profits for its members. Sheikh Kayole encouraged the guest of honor, members of Parliament, and other prominent individuals to open accounts with the Sacco to support its mission.

Rubabo County Legislator Hon. Naboth Namanya highlighted the importance of such initiatives, noting that it is rare for Muslims in different communities to come together in this way. He described the Sacco as a unifying force for Muslims and others, especially as many individuals seek funding for various projects.

Clare Ainembabazi, representing Rukungiri District Woman MP Hon. Midius Natukunda Kaharata, commended the Muslim community for setting an example as the first to establish a Muslim Sacco in the district.

LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama, who represented Security Minister Rtd Maj Gen Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, urged the district Khadi and Sacco management to save within the Sacco before seeking loans. He advised the public to avoid multiple borrowing and focus on repaying existing loans to foster development. Kyomukama acknowledged that while the Sacco originates from the Muslim community, it is intended to serve all members of the public without discrimination based on religion.

Since its inception on May 12, 2024, the Sacco has attracted 333 members, with a target of reaching 20,000 members by the end of the year.