The Ugandan government has launched an important new program in Lira City called the Regional Business Rescue and Aftercare Programme (BRAP). This initiative aims to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) become stronger and more resilient. Many of these businesses are currently facing tough times, struggling with financial difficulties, weak management, and the lasting impact of recent economic challenges.
The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) is leading this effort, working alongside international partners and with support from the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The program is designed to give business owners practical skills. These skills will help them prevent their businesses from failing, improve how they are managed, and speed up their growth.
According to Lira Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole, this program arrives at a critical moment. Many businesses are struggling due to poor money management, lack of expert advice, and widespread economic disruptions that have forced some to shut down. Lira, being a rapidly growing commercial hub in Northern Uganda, will especially benefit from this push to help businesses recover, stay afloat, and grow stronger. This effort also supports the government’s broader goal of building a lively, competitive, and inclusive local economy.
SMEs are vital to Uganda’s economy; they create jobs, spark new ideas, and provide income for many families. Business owners are strongly encouraged to adopt good financial practices, ensure proper management, embrace new ideas, carefully manage risks, and follow all legal rules for lasting success. They should also take advantage of existing government support like the GROW Project, which can offer funding, help them find new markets, adopt digital tools, and explore investment and export chances.
The government is committed to creating an environment where private businesses can thrive, working closely with various partners to achieve this.