The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Residents and leaders in the Ankole sub-region have expressed mixed reactions to a report attributing the high poverty levels in Uganda to laziness.
In September 2018, Twaweza released findings from a study titled; “The haves and the have-nots: Ugandan’s opinions on poverty, fairness, and inequality” where 54% of the respondents blamed poverty levels in the country on Laziness.
The brief is based on data from Sauti za Wananchi (Voices of Citizens), Africa’s first nationally representative high-frequency mobile phone based survey. The findings were based on data collected from 1,925 respondents across Uganda carried out between May 4th and 12th. 2018.
Elly Muhwezi the Executive Director for Mbarara Civil Society Forum says that he agrees with the findings by Twaweza.
Muhwezi says that Twaweza is known for publishing credible reports. He added that the citizens have developed a bad attitude towards work.
Muhwezi also blames the government for what he described as the breakdown of systems.
He also says that scrapping of graduated tax has seen most citizens relax instead of working hard.
Ntungamo Resident District Commissioner George Bakunda says that the biggest challenge is excessive consumption of Alcohol that has resulted into laziness. He says that a section of Ugandans have resorted to alcoholism to the extent that some go as far as stealing for survival.
Imam Kagiiko a Local council four councillor for Katete ward, Mbarara Municipality says that the report does not highlight challenges that are a hindrance to development. He explains that the citizens are willing to work but have no opportunities or lack capital to start income generating projects.
Kagiiko says that if people were lazy, Ugandans wouldn’t be struggling to look for jobs in the Middle East and other countries.
Jeremiah Kamurali the Isingiro LCV District Chairperson says that Ugandans are very willing to work but some government policies are not favorable. He cites over taxation of goods especially agricultural products destined for markets, which has affected farmers.
The Bushenyi District Commercial Officer David Byamukama says that the mindset of Ugandans is not fine-tuned towards working hard for their survival.
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