President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged billions of shillings in financial support to mechanics and garage operators in Kampala and the surrounding areas, during a Sunday meeting held in the capital. The meeting was attended by the President and First Lady Janet Museveni, and focused on supporting informal sector workers through SACCOs and shared infrastructure.
Museveni announced an immediate release of Shs200 million to mechanics’ SACCOs, while promising Shs1 billion for each of Kampala’s five divisions, as well as Wakiso and Mukono districts, in the next financial year. According to the President, the funds will be used to strengthen savings groups and improve working conditions for mechanics.
In addition, the government committed to buying land for the construction of modern, shared garages equipped with heavy machinery such as wheel loaders and other essential tools. Museveni emphasized that the garages will remain publicly owned to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of government resources.
An unscripted moment from a mechanic in Kawempe Division quickly caught public attention online. Instead of asking for personal financial help, the mechanic raised policy-based concerns, focusing on long-term solutions rather than handouts. His remarks were widely praised on social media, with many Ugandans saying the moment reflected a growing demand for structural reforms instead of short-term relief.
However, the meeting also exposed deep frustrations among mechanics and other citizens. Some mechanics spoke directly to the President about the harsh realities they face, questioning the sustainability of government promises.
One mechanic raised a powerful concern, saying:
“You see the former Resident District Commissioner who served you faithfully but now cannot afford medical bills. If such a person is struggling, what about us local mechanics?”
The question, delivered boldly and without gloves, struck a nerve. It highlighted broader issues such as healthcare access, social security, and life after public service, sparking renewed debate about the state’s responsibility to both current and former workers.
These rising voices suggest that while financial pledges are welcomed, many Ugandans are increasingly concerned about education, healthcare, employment security, and long-term economic planning—especially as the country heads toward the 2026 general elections.
President Museveni, who has been in power for over 40 years, is seeking another term for the 2025–2031 period. As campaign season approaches, moments like the one in Kawempe indicate that voters may be shifting from asking for personal assistance to demanding accountable leadership and lasting solutions.
Whether these pledges will translate into real change on the ground remains to be seen, but the voices from Kampala’s garages are clearly signaling that Ugandans want more than promises—they want systems that work.
