Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya Commends Mpanga Market for Driving Economic Growth in Fort Portal City

As Mpanga Market continues to grow, it remains a shining example of how local markets can drive community transformation and economic resilience, aligning with Uganda’s vision for sustainable development.

Jan 15, 2025 - 11:54
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Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya Commends Mpanga Market for Driving Economic Growth in Fort Portal City
PS Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya(2L) interacts with Market Vendors
Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya Commends Mpanga Market for Driving Economic Growth in Fort Portal City

Last week, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya, visited Fort Portal City to assess development initiatives and their impact on community livelihoods. His visit underscored the government's commitment to empowering local economies and supporting communities through innovative programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).

During his tour, Mr. Kumumanya commended Mpanga Market, a vibrant commercial hub with over 600 stalls, for its critical role in driving economic growth and improving community welfare. He lauded the market for transforming businesses, connecting farmers to markets, and boosting household incomes within the region.

Mpanga Market has become a cornerstone of Fort Portal’s economy, fostering entrepreneurship and providing a platform for farmers, traders, and artisans to showcase and sell their goods. The market's strategic role aligns with the PDM’s objective of increasing rural productivity and ensuring that no one is left behind in Uganda’s development journey.

Mr. Kumumanya highlighted that through enhanced market access, farmers in Kabarole District and beyond are earning better incomes. “Mpanga Market is not just a place of trade; it is a vehicle for transforming livelihoods. It connects producers directly to buyers, reducing the exploitation often experienced through middlemen,” he stated.

The Permanent Secretary reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for all. He emphasized that initiatives such as the PDM aim to empower communities at the grassroots level by fostering economic inclusion and self-sustainability.

“The government recognizes the pivotal role of markets like Mpanga in enhancing the welfare of our people. That is why we are dedicated to supporting local governments with funding, capacity building, and infrastructure development to enable such initiatives to thrive,” Mr. Kumumanya added.

He also commended Fort Portal City’s leadership for their efforts in ensuring that the market remains a well-managed and inclusive space for all stakeholders.

During his visit, Mr. Kumumanya interacted with market vendors, local leaders, and community members, listening to their experiences and challenges. The vendors expressed gratitude for the government's interventions but highlighted the need for improved infrastructure, such as waste management systems and storage facilities, to enhance their operations.

In response, Mr. Kumumanya assured the vendors that their concerns would be addressed. He emphasized that markets like Mpanga are critical to Uganda's economic blueprint and that the government will continue to invest in their growth and sustainability.

The Permanent Secretary’s visit also included discussions with Fort Portal City officials on enhancing service delivery, urban planning, and fostering public-private partnerships to spur development. He encouraged local leaders to leverage the city's tourism potential and strategically position Fort Portal as a model city for economic and social transformation.

Ben Kumumanya’s visit to Mpanga Market and Fort Portal City underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to grassroots development and economic empowerment. By supporting initiatives like the PDM and enhancing market access, Uganda is taking significant strides toward achieving inclusive growth and improving the livelihoods of its citizens.

As Mpanga Market continues to grow, it remains a shining example of how local markets can drive community transformation and economic resilience, aligning with Uganda’s vision for sustainable development.

John Kusolo John Kusolo is a Ugandan Journalist, Sport fanatic, Tourist, Pastor, and Motivational Speaker. * Journalist: He works for Nile Chronicles News, NCN. * Passion: Known for his dedication to his work and strong motivation. * Ambitious: He sets goals for himself and strives to achieve them. * Enjoys challenges: He thrives in challenging situations.