The Ministry of Tourism Trade and Industry is to invest over 13 billion shillings in the construction of facilities where artisans can do their work.
Simon Lokodo, the Minister of State for Industry and Technology says that the parks, referred to as Common Facility Centres, are to be established in Luzira and Makindye.
He says the government is aiming at improving the working conditions of the handicraft workers, locally referred to as Jua Kali entrepreneurs.
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Government has before tried to establish such parks, but the move received a lot of criticism. These parks are supposed to be a centre for art and crafts, metals work, ceramics and pottery among others.
The artisans however say that what the government is offering would make sense for their businesses, if it was provided in the places where they are currently working from.
Thomas Baluku, the Chairman of the Nsambya Jua Kali Handicraft Village, a group of over 100 artisans, says that what they really need is cheaper electricity and links to international markets, to make a better living.
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But Lokodo argues that this time round, the artisans will be provided with equipment, and if need be and their first stock, to encourage them to move and work from these centers.
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In 2007, the ministry received 2 billion shillings for the venture, but it was never spent fully. In the 2008/09 financial year, the same department requested parliament for 4 billion shillings for setting up these parks.
