CSOs urged to work with govt to improve livelihoods

Leaders of civil society organisations (CSOs) have been asked to work closely with the Government in an effort to improve people’s livelihood and encounter other challenges affecting the Country.

"This is our country where everybody is responsible for making it a better place to stay. So, leaders, when you get some aid, please be kind and work with the Government to change the lives of the people," finance minister Matia Kasaija said.

Kasaija, who was represented by former Uganda Revenue Authority customs commissioner Venie Tinkumanya, made the call during the installation of the new Lions Club International District 411B governor Dr. Stanley Bubikre at Bugolobi, Kampala over the weekend.

The minister said: "You are all aware of World Bank’s suspension of new loans to Uganda. So, this gap has to be filled by you to ensure Ugandans effectively receive better services in terms of education and medication among others".

Dr. Stanley Bubikire (third right ), the District Governor of Lions Club International District 411B joined with his guests to take a group picture after he was installed as a new Governor. (Photo by Ramadhan Abbey)

"Yes, we appreciate the lion's effort in improving the health of Ugandans but also call upon you also to focus on environment protection given the fact that climate change has become a topical issue globally," Kasaija said.

Pledge to recruit members

Bubikire pledged to embark on recruiting new Lions members so that they can give a hand in uplifting the standards of the vulnerable in society.

“I'm going to embark on recruiting new members to join hands to improve the lives of the less privileged in society. Currently, we are over 2,000 members of Lions and we need the number to grow to over 5,000 in the country,” Bubikire said.

He promised to keep on supporting the ongoing projects of Lion Club International and Uganda such as the ongoing Nsambya Eye Clinic Centre, Mulago Hospital Children Cancer Ward, Pakwach Eye Center, Kisoro, Jinja, Mbala and others to ensure Ugandans receive the best service.

Bubikire, his cabinet and district officers were installed by Assistant Commissioner General of Prisons Robert Munanura who urged them to work as a team to achieve the club's expectations.

Christine Amongin Aporu, the outgoing District Governor of Lions Club International District 411B, promised to give support to new management in an effort to make the lives of Ugandans better.