Gov’t finally releases Shs. 3 Billion ‘Akasiimo’ funds for civilian veterans

The funds are a one-off gratuity to recognize civilian veterans for their support during the liberation struggle from 1981 to 1986
President Yoweri Museveni halted the release due to irregularities but it has now been announced by Hon. Alice Kaboyo
1,269 beneficiaries from Luwero, Nakasongola, and Nakaseke have been cleared for disbursement

The Akasiimo funds are a one-off gratuity aimed at recognising and thanking civilian veterans for their invaluable support during the liberation struggle from 1981 to 1986.

President Yoweri Museveni had halted the release of this money after he was tipped off about irregularities in the distribution.

Museveni was reportedly informed that some families and individuals who did not participate in the war were benefitting from the funds.

Minister Kaboyo while announcing the release on Wednesday, revealed that the money will be disbursed to 1,269 beneficiaries who have been cleared by the Veterans Verification Committee under the 51st schedule from the districts of Luwero, Nakasongola, and Nakaseke.

Hon. Kaboyo highlighted the government's ongoing commitment to ensuring that all verified civilian veterans receive their due benefits.

"Since the Akasiimo Programme began in 2008, we have verified and paid 87,269 beneficiaries. This reflects the government's recognition of the critical role these individuals played in our nation's history," she stated.

Hon Alice Kaboyo pulse uganda

The Minister reassured the public that the Veterans Verification Committee will continue its work to identify and verify civilian veterans who have not yet been considered.

"My office is committed to ensuring that all allocated funds for Akasiimo are paid to the rightful beneficiaries. This is not just a matter of financial compensation but a gesture of gratitude for their contributions," Hon. Kaboyo affirmed.

She also expressed her gratitude to the President of Uganda for his foresight in establishing the Akasiimo Programme.

"Akasiimo is not commensurate to one’s contribution but rather a ‘thank you’ in recognition of one’s contribution. I therefore wish to thank His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda, who in his wisdom established the Akasiimo Programme in 2008," said Hon. Kaboyo.

Transparency

To ensure transparency and ease of access to information, the lists of the 1,269 Akasiimo beneficiaries, including their names, National Identification Numbers (NIN), amounts received, sub-county, and districts, will be displayed on the notice boards of the respective beneficiary districts and at the Luwero Regional Office.

The beneficiaries' funds are intended to support their livelihoods and wellbeing. This initiative is part of the government's broader strategy to acknowledge and support those who played pivotal roles in Uganda's history. The Minister urged all eligible veterans who have not yet been verified to come forward and participate in the verification process.

"The Veterans Verification Committee will continue verifying the Civilian Veterans that have not yet been considered," reiterated Hon. Kaboyo. "Our goal is to ensure that every deserving individual receives their due recognition and support."

The Akasiimo Programme, which started in 2008, has been a cornerstone of the government's efforts to honour the sacrifices made by civilian veterans. The latest disbursement is part of an ongoing commitment to support these veterans and their families, ensuring they are not forgotten.