Rotary Bulindo drives financial literacy in Uganda

Rotary Club Bulindo launched a financial education initiative with partner clubs from District 9213 to help Ugandans manage their money more effectively. Percy Lubega, club president, said inadequate money management prevents many people from achieving success despite having income. The program will teach saving strategies, investment principles and fraud prevention through community outreach across the district. Participants will learn to protect assets through insurance and develop disciplined spending habits.

Governor Godfrey Martin Kitakule launched the program on Monday and said Rotary aims to build sustainable livelihoods rather than simply providing charity. He explained that basic financial skills enable people to save, invest and access credit responsibly. Daniel Ayebare from the Financial Literacy Association of Uganda praised the effort as a complement to government work, bringing more citizens into the formal economy. Research shows 81 percent of Ugandans have some financial access but only 20 percent feel confident about reaching long-term money goals.

The 2023 FinScope Survey found 90 percent of transactions remain cash-based and 70 percent of people spend beyond their means. National Social Security Fund data reveals 83 percent of savers hold 10 million shillings or less and 80 percent exhaust funds within two years of withdrawal. Ayebare said financially educated populations build personal wealth and strengthen national economic stability. The initiative will help communities navigate modern banking systems and participate more fully in Uganda’s money economy.