Top Ugandan events promoters, including Abitex and Bajjo, are facing possible jail time over allegations of misusing billions of shillings meant to support promoters through a government SACCO.
Recently, several promoters were seen celebrating after receiving over UGX 3 billion from the Government of Uganda. The money was disbursed through the promoters’ SACCO and was intended to be issued as loans to individual promoters to boost their businesses and help them recover after the presidential campaigns.
However, it is now alleged that the funds were shared among only a few individuals, leaving many promoters without access to the money.
Following a formal petition by Nobart Events to the government over the alleged misuse, Abitex, Bajjo and others have reportedly been given six months to refund the money or face jail.
Government has since issued a warning and demand notice, ordering the promoters involved to return the funds by June this year or risk serious legal consequences.
According to Nobart, the money never reached the intended beneficiaries and was instead divided among a few leaders within the Uganda Promoters Association, contrary to the original purpose of the SACCO.
The scandal has sparked outrage within the entertainment industry, with many promoters demanding accountability and transparency over how the billions were handled.