Nabbanja Orders Investigation Into Shs10 Billion Event Promoters Grant Over Alleged Misuse
Uganda’s Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has confirmed a formal inquiry into the distribution of a Shs10 billion government grant intended for event promoters, following concerns over how part of the funds was allegedly shared among a small group.
The development has triggered widespread debate within the entertainment and events industry, as authorities move to establish how the money was allocated and whether proper procedures were followed.
The audit now places the high-profile government pledge under official scrutiny.
Shs3 Billion Already Distributed, But Questions Raised
According to Nabbanja, Shs3 billion of the total Shs10 billion grant had already been disbursed to representatives of the promoters’ leadership.
However, she noted that the funds were allegedly distributed among only a few individuals, prompting concerns about transparency and fairness.
This alleged imbalance in distribution has now become a key focus of the ongoing inquiry.
The remaining Shs7 billion is yet to be allocated.
But that’s not the only issue now under discussion…
Government Moves to Review Remaining Shs7 Billion
The Prime Minister explained that a meeting was convened involving key stakeholders in the entertainment and events sector to determine how the remaining funds should be properly distributed.
The session included prominent industry figures such as Balaam Barugahara and Bajjo Events, among other promoters.
The goal, according to officials, is to establish a clearer and more structured approach for handling the remainder of the grant.
Authorities are seeking to avoid repetition of the issues identified in the initial disbursement.
President’s Original Pledge and Purpose of Grant
The Shs10 billion grant was originally pledged by the President as support for event promoters facing financial challenges.
Promoters had reportedly raised concerns about exploitation by moneylenders, which significantly affected their operations within the entertainment industry.
The funding was intended as relief and structural support for the sector.
However, implementation issues have now placed the initiative under review.
Allegations of Unequal Distribution Trigger Audit
Nabbanja stated that following the initial payout, concerns emerged that the funds were not evenly distributed among intended beneficiaries.
As a result, the President ordered an audit to investigate how the money was handled and to identify any irregularities.
The inquiry is expected to determine whether there was any misconduct in the allocation process.
Authorities have described the investigation as necessary to ensure accountability.
Government Says New Plan Will Improve Transparency
Officials involved in the ongoing discussions say the remaining Shs7 billion will be distributed under a more structured framework.
The aim is to ensure that all eligible promoters benefit fairly from the program.
Nabbanja expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved soon, potentially within the week, following consultations with stakeholders.
The government is now focused on restoring trust in the process.
Industry Reaction and Public Debate
The announcement has sparked conversation across Uganda’s entertainment sector, with promoters and stakeholders closely watching developments.
Some have welcomed the audit as a necessary step toward transparency, while others have raised concerns about how the initial distribution was handled.
The discussion has also reignited broader debates about government funding in the creative industry.
For many in the sector, the outcome of the inquiry could shape future support programs.
Bigger Picture Behind the Grant
Government-backed funding initiatives in the entertainment industry often face scrutiny due to the large number of stakeholders involved and competing interests.
In this case, the combination of high public interest and uneven distribution claims has intensified attention on the program.
The audit is expected to provide clarity on both the process and the outcome of the initial disbursement.
Final Note
Uganda’s Shs10 billion promoters’ grant is now officially under investigation, with authorities seeking to ensure proper distribution of remaining funds and accountability for what has already been paid out.
A major government entertainment funding initiative is now facing its biggest test yet — scrutiny over how the money was shared and who benefited.