BUCODEF marks three years of community empowerment

16 December 2024, 11:01 pm

By Paul Kabali

BUCODEF celebrated its third anniversary on 15 December 2024 with a special event at Ntinda Hospital. The gathering brought together community members, local leaders, and well-wishers to acknowledge the organisation’s remarkable achievements in improving the financial and social well-being of low-income residents in Bukoto.

The celebrations began with skill-building workshops for children and members, focusing on bookbinding. This initiative aims to equip individuals with practical skills and promote self-reliance. The event continued with a Thanksgiving Mass, where the community expressed gratitude for BUCODEF’s contributions and sought blessings for its future endeavours.

Honourable councillor Kalanzi Lawrence, founder and director of BUCODEF, expressed his gratitude to the community and supporters for their unwavering commitment. He highlighted the organisation’s role in promoting a savings culture, building partnerships, and providing access to essential resources. Councillor Kalanzi also underscored the vital importance of effective leadership in driving community development.

The event was honoured by the presence of esteemed guests, including Mayor Paul Mugambe of Nakawa division and former Deputy RCC of Lubaga division, Anderson Burora. Mayor Mugambe emphasised the importance of financial discipline and responsible spending, particularly for boda boda riders. He contributed 2 million Ugandan Shillings to BUCODEF to further empower its members.

Anderson Burora, who is also a BUCODEF member, highlighted the value of unity and collaboration within the community. He donated a book cupboard to enhance the organisation’s resource centre and pledged an additional 2 million Ugandan Shillings to establish a loan fund for members. This fund aims to provide individuals with access to capital for business ventures and personal development.

Musinguzi Justus, Head of the Boda Boda Savers in BUCODEF, expressed concerns about the negative impact of police arrests on riders’ ability to save. He called for greater understanding and support for these individuals as they work towards improving their financial situations.

Nakassinde Lydia, representing the women’s group within BUCODEF, encouraged women to prioritise saving over impulsive spending. She emphasised the importance of financial independence and urged women to make well-informed financial decisions.

As BUCODEF enters its fourth year, the organisation remains committed to its mission of empowering community members and fostering sustainable development. Honourable Kalanzi Lawrence reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to strengthening partnerships and continuing to transform the lives of Bukoto residents.