Finance Minister Matia Kasaija has challenged the nrwly formed Uganda National Traders Alliance (UNATA) to address traders issues in harmony with causing any more strikes to paralyse businesses.
Kasaija said that government relies on tax revenues to meet essential national needs hence no reason to strike over taxes.
He pledged to create a fair and equitable tax system, review tax policies to ensure there is fairness so that every sector contributes towards country development.
Officiating at installation of UNATA leadership in Kampala Kasaija also commended KATA for its commitment to promoting solidarity among traders.
“I encourage UNATA to collaborate with other associations such as the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) to amplify traders collective voice,” he said.
He further said installation of new traders association will foster good working relations with government to address traders issues.
The new traders Alliance is headed by Godfrey Kantongole as the Interim President who also doubles as Kampala Arcaders Traders Association (KATA) Chairman.
Katongole pledged to strengthen collaboration with traders and government agencies.
“It is time for traders to work with government in policy making to address traders’ concerns. There should be no more policies passed by the government or parliament without traders’ consent or consultations,” Katongole stressed.
Commenting about his plans,he said, “The issue of strengthening traders’ leadership is key, in addition to educating traders on business management and the importance of unity and mind set change, have been identified as some of the major causes of business failure in Uganda, Katongole noted .
Elected committee members includes, Mwijuka Simon Ssezi of Mbarara as the General Secretary, Ms. Ainomugisha Sharon of Mbarara as Assistant publicity, Kasumba Vincent of Masaka as the Vice Chairman Central region, Atooko Musa of Fort Portal Coordinator Western Uganda, Esudu Francis of Soroti as publicity officer, Ms. Ayo Jenifer from Gulu as Vice-chair person Gulu, Mr. Babalanda Patrick of Busoga Region as Vice-chairman Busoga region.
Meanwhile Muyanda Emmanuel Jinja is the Assistant secretary, Ms. Kenyana Rose of Kasese Vice-chairperson Western Uganda, Mr. Oundo Godfrey Ongwabe as Cross Boarder Coordinator eastern region, Ms. Abdul Hadijja of Mubende as Treasurer.
