Nakawa Officials Arrested Over Alleged Mismanagement of Emyoga Funds

Kampala, Uganda, July 2, 2026 - Authorities have ordered the arrest of two leaders of the Nakawa Market Vegetable Emyoga SACCO over allegations of mismanaging more than Shs6 million allocated under the government's Emyoga programme. The arrests target the SACCO chairperson, Denis Muliisi, and the secretary, identified only as Kasoma, following complaints from market traders who accused the leadership of failing to account for funds intended to support members through the government initiative. The allegations emerged during a meeting convened to address concerns raised by SACCO members. The organisation's treasurer accused the chairperson of managing the SACCO independently, making financial decisions without consulting other leaders, and exercising sole control over members' funds. Authorities subsequently demanded an explanation for the whereabouts of the reportedly missing funds. In response, Muliisi denied misappropriating the money but stated he was willing to reimburse the amount to protect the credibility of the Emyoga programme. He also attributed any administrative shortcomings to his limited educational background. Several SACCO members further alleged that funds had been distributed to beneficiaries in ways that did not comply with the programme's operational guidelines. Following the meeting, police were instructed to arrest Muliisi and Kasoma to facilitate investigations into the management of the SACCO's finances. Authorities warned that any leaders found to have mismanaged public funds allocated under government programmes would face legal action. The two officials have denied the allegations, arguing that the accusations are part of an internal leadership dispute aimed at undermining their positions. Investigations are ongoing.