Uganda is taking another important step towards building a stronger and more connected business community through digital technology.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives has begun discussions with MTN Uganda on a partnership to help businesses adopt digital solutions, with particular attention to Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs).
The discussions were held during a meeting between the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Hon. Sanjay Tanna, and MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer Sylvia Mulinge.
The planned partnership seeks to improve the way cooperatives operate by moving away from paper-based systems and encouraging the use of digital tools, especially mobile money. This will make financial transactions easier to manage while improving transparency and accountability.
According to MTN Uganda, digital payments make it easier to trace funds, reduce paperwork, and build greater trust in financial transactions. This is expected to strengthen the operations of SACCOs and make financial services more accessible to millions of Ugandans.
Hon. Sanjay Tanna noted that the government already channels significant funding to cooperatives through programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga. He said these funds present an opportunity to expand digital financial services by using mobile money platforms to reach beneficiaries more efficiently.
The Minister also highlighted financial inclusion as one of the key priorities under Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV). He encouraged MTN Uganda to extend its digital services to small traders, market vendors, startups, and other micro businesses that form the backbone of Uganda’s economy.
He further proposed that mobile financial products, including MoKash loans, could help many small businesses access the capital they need to grow. At the same time, he called on MTN Uganda to review mobile money transaction charges, noting that lower costs would encourage more people to use digital payment systems instead of cash or traditional banking channels.
The meeting also emphasized the importance of using electronic systems to distribute government funds. Digital payments make it easier to monitor how public resources are used and help ensure that support reaches the intended beneficiaries.
Beyond digital payments, the discussions also focused on strengthening financial literacy among Ugandan entrepreneurs. The Minister encouraged MTN Uganda to work with the Ministry to train small business owners in bookkeeping, financial management, and other practical business skills that can improve the growth and sustainability of their enterprises.
The issue of the ongoing trade order to reorganize roadside businesses was also discussed. Hon. Tanna encouraged MTN Uganda to support mobile money agents affected by the exercise by helping them relocate to formal business premises where they can continue serving customers and expand their businesses.
MTN Uganda welcomed the opportunity to work closely with the Ministry of Trade in supporting Uganda’s journey towards a more digital and cashless economy.
This partnership closely supports the objectives of the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) Policy. A strong digital economy gives local businesses the tools they need to grow, compete, and serve customers more efficiently. As more cooperatives, traders, and entrepreneurs embrace digital financial services, Uganda moves closer to building a modern business environment that supports local production, trade, and inclusive economic growth.
Digital transformation is no longer just about technology. It is becoming a key driver of stronger businesses, better financial access, and a more competitive Ugandan economy, which are all central goals of the BUBU agenda.
