Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate James Nathan Nandala Mafabi has promised to scrap commercial boda boda loans and introduce government-backed, interest-free credit for riders if elected in 2026.
Addressing crowds at Bukungu landing site in Buyende District on Thursday, Mafabi said boda boda riders have been unfairly exploited by moneylenders and commercial institutions that impose high interest rates and harsh repayment terms.
Latest
Museveni Rallies Lango, Urges Households to Embrace Wealth Creation
Nandala Mafabi Promises Major Reforms in Health, Transport, and Taxation
Besigye’s Clash With Judge Baguma Deepens
Musician Alien Skin Arrested Over Top Dancer’s Death
Nandala Mafabi Takes Campaign Trail to Iganga on Day Three
“My government will ensure every boda boda rider who needs a motorcycle gets it through free loans. We cannot continue allowing Ugandans to be exploited in their struggle to earn a living,” Mafabi told cheering supporters.
He added that the boda boda sector employs thousands of youth across Uganda, yet most riders remain trapped in debt. “These young people are hustling daily, but much of their income goes to moneylenders. We must free them from this cycle so they can actually prosper,” he said.
While traversing Buyende and Kamuli districts with stopovers at Makanga, Kasolwe, and Buyende Town Council, Mafabi also promised to improve roads, extend better service delivery, and return control of Busoga’s lakes to fishing communities.
FDC party president Eng. Patrick Amuriat Oboi, who accompanied him, echoed the message, pledging that under an FDC government, every village in Uganda would receive UGX 100 million to support local enterprises and cooperatives.
“This election is about change that works for ordinary people. We want to put money into your hands and restore your dignity,” Amuriat said, urging Busoga residents to use their large numbers to vote Mafabi into the State House.
Supporters lined the roads, flashing the FDC “V-sign” and chanting their support, while others decried high taxes, bad roads, and poverty that they said the government has failed to address.