Government In Final Stages Of Releasing 10Bn Stimulus Funds For Entertainment Industry.
Written by Derrick Asaba on April 30, 2021
This year’s national celebrations on May 1, as revealed by the State minister of Youth and Children affairs, Nakiwala Kiyingi while addressing the press on the day’s celebrations 2021 at the Uganda Media Center on Friday, will be held scientifically at State House, Entebbe.
“The International Labour Day is a gazetted public holiday in Uganda. Every year, ceremonies are organized at National and District Local Government level. However, in order to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) prescribed by the Ministry of Health to curb the spread of COVID-19, this year’s national celebrations will be held scientifically at State House, Entebbe. H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will grace the celebrations as the Chief guest,” Nakiwala revealed.
Nakiwala revealed that as one of the hard-hit sectors by the COVID-19 pandemic effects, government is finalizing arrangements for the stimulus fund pledged for the art industry to be given.
“The Labour industry particularly the docket of music and art was highlighted as one of the sectors that were hard-hit by the pandemic. A stimulus fund of 10billion was earmarked for this industry and the government is finalizing arrangements so that this money gets to the targeted beneficiaries where the ministry of gender together with the relevant stakeholders are working tooth and nail to see this exercise reach completion,” she noted.
In order to make celebrations national, Nakiwala appealed to all local governments and Kampala Capital City Authority to mark the day in accordance with the COVID-19 SoPs which celebrations will be broadcasted live on all major Television stations beginning at 8:00.a.m.
In light of the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the minister said that adoption of innovative ways as a means of creating jobs and enhancing Labour productivity is critical thus an inspiration to this year’s theme.
“This year’s theme has been chosen to enhance national consciousness about the important role that innovation will play in increasing job creation and enhancing Labour productivity during and post the COVID-19 pandemic,” Nakiwala said.