Issue
Government efforts to provide economic support to Micro and Small-scale Entrepreneurs (MSEs) affected by the Covid-19 pandemic in Uganda could be enhanced if MSEs were better equipped to engage in policy processes to ensure that economic responses meet their specific needs.
Project partners
How we are helping
This project will increase the capacity of MSEs to engage in policy processes that contribute to a post Covid-19 stimulus package and economic policy reforms that support the growth of MSEs.
About the project
The Government of Uganda responded to the Covid-19 pandemic with a series of measures including border closures, restrictions on movement and instituting utility and debt relief measures.
The direct impact of Covid-19 has caused the loss of jobs and incomes, with Micro and Small-scale Entrepreneurs (MSEs) being identified as especially vulnerable to severe economic shock. The Government of Uganda has committed to restoring household incomes and re-igniting business activity. An Economic and Growth Stimulus package has been put in place, including the provision of credit to support MSEs. However, challenges remain for some MSEs, particularly those in the informal sector, whose ability to access support is constrained.
This project aims to enable MSEs to participate in policy development dialogue; to identify the challenges in accessing the current stimulus package and to ensure that any policy reform addresses the economic impact that the pandemic has had on MSEs.
This will be achieved by:
- conducting research into and analysis of the gaps in the economic stimulus package and existing and post-Covid economic policy reforms
- developing two policy briefs with recommendations on addressing the gaps in the economic stimulus package and post Covid-19 economic policy reforms
- conducting two training programmes for MSEs on economic rights and policy engagement
- facilitating MSEs Associations’ capacity to undertake quarterly monitoring of the stimulus package
- organising a consultation between MSEs and duty bearers (policy makers from Ministries of Trade, Finance and Agriculture, Local Government, agencies such as National Bureau of Standards and National Agricultural Advisory Services, and MPs)
- organising two policy dialogues for MSEs and policy makers
- arranging media coverage with ten media houses
Project Partners
Southern and Eastern Africa Trade Information and Negotiations Institute - Uganda (SEATINI) has 20 years’ experience of promoting equitable and pro-development trade, fiscal and investment related policies at national and regional levels. SEATINI has an effective working relationship with relevant Ministries including the Ministries of Finance, Agriculture and Trade, as well as a track record in building the capacity of MSEs and smallholder farmers to actively participate in trade policy formulation. As part of a seven-year project, SEATINI mobilised farmers and MSMEs to influence the review of annual trade sector performances to inform budgeting processes and the development of country positions to inform trade negotiation processes.
We support people's participation in democracy and development by providing grants, platforms, and expertise.
