Clare
Hope has been rekindled among the business community and residents of Kyegegwa, who have previously suffered financial losses due to crime and trekked long distances to access bank services, following the groundbreaking of a new Centenary Bank branch in their town.
At the construction site yesterday, district leaders highlighted that the rise in thefts can be attributed to the absence of a reliable banking institution for residents to safeguard their money.
The Mayor of Kyegegwa, Mr Muhumuza Swaib Rutangi, pointed to a recent incident where a local businessman lost 100 million shillings to thieves because he kept the money at home, emphasizing that such a loss could have been avoided had a bank like Centenary been available.
Stephen Ndoreriirwe, the Kyegegwa LC1, emphasized the timely arrival of Centenary Bank, noting its potential to alleviate residents’ recent concerns about money theft and provide them with greater financial security.
Hon. Tom Bright, the MP for Kyaka Central, praised the achievement by the Fort Portal Diocese, noting it would protect residents from predatory money lenders, with himself having lost over 15 million shillings to fraudulent lenders in the district.
About the Bank
According to the Fort Portal Diocesan Treasurer, Rev.Fr. Tadius Musabe, The Diocese is yet again set to deliver quality work, following the groundbreaking ceremony of a Centenary building valued at over 900 million Shillings, likening it to that of Kamwenge and the Centenary building in the heart of Fort Portal City.
He noted that in the agreed period of 10 months, the Diocese which is already set with professional contractors will be delivering a complete building to the Centenary bank.
Concerning the concern raised by the Parish priest on land wrangles in Kyegegwa especially on the construction site, Fr Tadius called on political leaders to join the church and ensure construction without disturbances, since the bank is set to benefit all people regardless of their color and religion.
Call for Mindset Change & Utilization of the Bank
In response to community concerns, Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese expressed gratitude for the bank’s commitment to serve Kyegegwa, urging residents to take advantage of this opportunity. He expressed hope that the bank would contribute positively to the development of the region and help combat the issues of robbery and theft.
Bishop Muhiirwa, further encouraged residents to use this year of prayer to seek divine guidance and reflect on the sacrifices made for them.
Kyegegwa RDC Monica Karungi Kanyeihe commended the Catholic Church for its innovative approach, aligning with the NRM Manifesto by establishing institutions like banks and schools that provide quality services.
She emphasized that the new bank would enhance security for residents’ funds and called on other religious organizations to collaborate in advancing development in Kyegegwa.
Hon. Tom Bright noted the presence of over 1,000 savings and credit cooperatives (SACCOs) in the district, asserting that the bank would ensure the security of residents’ money. He encouraged the community to open accounts, save regularly, and take advantage of affordable financial services.
The Centenary Bank Kyegegwa branch, inaugurated by Bishop Muhiirwa, is expected to be completed within 10 months.
