PM Robinah Nabbanja moves to resolve Shs10 billion promoters’ fund dispute – Sqoop

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has announced an inquiry into the distribution of the Shs10 billion support package President Yoweri Museveni pledged to concert and events promoters, following concerns that the first tranche of Shs3 billion benefited only a handful of individuals.

Speaking on Tuesday during a meeting with promoters and stakeholders, Nabbanja said the President ordered an audit after learning that the money had not been equitably shared among members of the industry.

“The President pledged to give promoters a Shs10 billion grant after they complained about exploitation by moneylenders, which had affected their business,” Nabbanja said.

“A few months ago, the promoters received Shs3 billion, but it was shared among a few of them. The President ordered an audit to find the thieves and directed us to convene a meeting with all promoters to determine how the remaining Shs7 billion should be distributed.”

The meeting brought together prominent industry figures, including State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Barugahara and veteran promoter Bajjo Events, among others, to chart a way forward on the remaining funds.

Nabbanja commended Hon Balaam Barugahara for exposing individuals she said had attempted to divert money meant for promoters through their SACCO.

She also assured stakeholders that the issue would be resolved quickly, revealing that she would sign the necessary documentation to facilitate the release of the outstanding funds.

“I am certain that before the end of this week, we shall have settled this matter,” she said.

President Museveni initially pledged the Shs10 billion package after promoters complained about mounting debts and predatory moneylenders, which they said had crippled their businesses. The remaining Shs7 billion is expected to be distributed once the ongoing audit and consultations are concluded.

PM Nabbanja has summoned all Event promoters over the controversial Shs10bn pledge. The meeting will review the Shs3bn already spent and plan for the remaining Shs7bn. She also hailed Balaam Barugahara for exposing alleged attempts to divert promoters’ SACCO funds. #SqoopUpdates pic.twitter.com/ranbCU0UKO

— SQOOP; It’s Deep (@MonitorSqoop) June 24, 2026