The Bank of Uganda is scheduled to conduct a series of Town Hall Meetings in Moroto Municipality on Wednesday, March 5, and Thursday, March 6, 2025. This is meant to take the Central Bank to the people of Karamoja and make them more aware of its mandate in the economic stability and financial inclusion in Uganda. Since mobilization is already underway, the locals have been highly enthusiastic, with many showing up in large numbers to learn more about what will be deliberated. A digital truck equipped with a widescreen has been moving around Moroto Municipality, stopping at strategic locations such as Katanga, Camp Swahili, Main Street, and Market Street.

At each stop, a group of skateboarders has been thrilling audiences with high-energy dances and acrobatics done to local music. The performances not only drew attention but also created a festive atmosphere, clearing the way for announcements about the Town Hall Meetings. The innovative approach has succeeded in stirring up the interest of residents, with many showing a willingness to turn up for the event. Bank of Uganda Head of Stakeholder Engagements, Jonah Waiswa, explained that the meetings are intended to increase public knowledge about the Central Bank’s role, mandate, and contribution to Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation. “This engagement is an avenue for the people of Karamoja to understand how Bank of Uganda contributes to economic stability and financial inclusion.”.

“We have to listen to them and answer any questions they may have,” said Waiswa. He added that the meetings are not just for providing information, but also for listening to the opinions and concerns of the local residents. There are two main sessions during the two-day period. On Wednesday, March 5, there is a public engagement forum to which all residents are invited. This will be preceded by an engagement of leaders on Thursday, March 6, which will bring together policymakers, local leaders, and other stakeholders.

The discussion theme shall be: “Understanding the Role of Bank of Uganda in the Socioeconomic Transformation of Uganda.” Some of the key issues to be dealt with are monetary policy, financial regulation, and economic development. The meetings are aimed at demystifying the activities of the Central Bank and educating the people on its role in the country’s development. The mobilization effort has already generated a lot of interest among the residents, who expressed a strong willingness to learn more about what the Bank of Uganda does. Many see the Town Hall Meetings as a unique opportunity to meet and greet banking regulators face-to-face and to learn how policies of the Central Bank affect their daily lives. For a region like Karamoja, which has consistently been plagued by economic challenges, the event is a chance to bridge the gap between financial institutions and the people. That the Bank of Uganda decided to bring these meetings to Karamoja is particularly significant.

The region, located in northeastern Uganda, has grappled for long with low financial access and financial literacy levels. By taking the discussions to Moroto, the Central Bank is making a step in the right direction to address these issues. The campaign is part of broader efforts to improve financial inclusion and ensure that all Ugandans, regardless of location, have access to the tools and information they need to participate in the economy. The use of a virtual truck and skateboarders to reach citizens is a testament to the Bank of Uganda’s commitment to innovative and inclusive outreach.

Through the use of entertainment as a means of education, the Central Bank has managed to attract an eclectic group of individuals, in addition to young people who are usually underrepresented in this kind of dialogue. This plan not only makes the information more available but also creates anticipation and expectation of the event. The expectations are that the Town Hall Meetings will be well-attended as their approach draws near, and many are speculating that they will be highly attended. The excellent attendance during this mobilization exercise is a sign that citizens are ready to engage with the Central Bank and learn more about its operations in shaping Uganda’s economy. For many, it will be a unique opportunity to ask questions, share their experiences, and gain a better understanding of how financial regulations and monetary policies impact their communities.

The move by the Bank of Uganda is a reminder of the importance of public outreach in establishing confidence and transparency. In opening its doors to Karamoja residents, the Central Bank is demonstrating its resolve for inclusiveness and accountability. The sessions are not just expected to educate residents but also provide valuable feedback that can inform future policies and interventions. Consequently, the upcoming Town Hall Meetings in Moroto are a big step in the Bank of Uganda’s quest for financial literacy and inclusion. By bringing the fora to Karamoja, the Central Bank is ensuring that even the most remote and underserved populations are accorded a platform in the economic transformation of the nation. As the locals prepare to interface with the banking officials, there is optimism that the meetings will mark the beginning of a new era in Karamoja’s quest for economic empowerment and prosperity.