Ministry of Gender to Equally Distribute GROW Funds per Sub Regions
By Nyakoojo William.
The Ministry of Gender, Labor, and Social Development has launched an equity formula for distributing the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) project funds across the country, aiming to ensure equal access for women in all sub-regions.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Nationwide
The GROW project is a government initiative that seeks to increase access to entrepreneurial services for women, helping them scale their businesses from micro to small, and small to medium, particularly in target areas including refugee hosting districts.
According to Hon. Betty Amongi, the Cabinet Minister for Gender, Labor, and Social Development, the first batch of funds primarily benefited women in central Uganda, including Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, and Masaka. She noted, “Many women across the country have been approaching banks to apply for the funds, but by the time they arrive, the money has already been depleted.”
Zoning for Equal Distribution
In response to concerns about unequal access, Hon. Amongi announced that the government is zoning the country into 19 sub-regions, ensuring each region receives an equal share of the GROW funds. She reassured women: “I urge you to be patient, in the next three weeks, this issue will be resolved, and funds will be more equitably distributed.”
Bank Collateral Challenges
A major barrier for women applying for the GROW funds has been the stringent collateral requirements set by banks, particularly the need for land titles, which many women do not possess. “We understand that many women are unable to meet these collateral demands,” said Hon. Amongi. To address this, the government plans to work with cooperatives and women’s associations to guarantee loans for amounts under 10 million shillings, making it easier for more women to access the funds.
Support from Local Leaders
At a consultative meeting held at Nyaika Hotel on Tuesday in Fort Portal City, Asaba Edson Ruyonga, Mayor of Fort Portal City, commended the Ministry for creating an equitable distribution strategy and establishing cooperatives. “This initiative will help women in rural areas access funds and grow their businesses,” he said.
He committed the support of the leadership to ensure the project works well in city. ‘‘Our doors are always open for all the support that is needed to ensure that this project meets its intended objective in Fort portal’’ he said.
Jennifer Kengaju, Chairperson of the Bunyangabu Women Council, praised the project’s potential to uplift women. “The GROW project will take women from poverty to prosperity,” she said. “It will help women move from medium-sized businesses to larger, more successful enterprises.” Kengaju vowed to mobilize women in her community to embrace the opportunity, helping them become more self-sufficient and less reliant on their husbands.
Success Stories
Nyamata Anita, who received GROW funds in August 2024, shared how the program helped her business. “I accessed the funds through Post Bank, which offers low-interest rates,” she explained. “The funds have significantly boosted my business, and I am now able to expand my operations.”
The Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Rt. Hon. Steven Kiyingi, urged women to seize the opportunity offered by the GROW project. “This is a great chance for women to grow their businesses and improve their lives,” he said. “I encourage all women to take advantage of this initiative.”