Preliminary investigations reveal that Muwaya collected between UGX 150,000 and 250,000 from parents seeking bursaries, which was not reflected in the organization's bank account. He allegedly took UGX 3 million from each of 450 individuals, promising low-cost motorcycles that were never delivered.
Police in Kiira region have launched an investigation into alleged fraudulent activities involving Ericka Kanayaka Muwaya, the country coordinator of the Anaya African Child and Gifts Foundation. Muwaya is accused of defrauding members of the public by falsely promising bursaries, low-cost motorcycles, and credit facilities.
Muwaya and his assistant director, Mukhtar Mayanja, were arrested and are currently detained at Budondo Police Station. The arrest followed a tip-off from Shanita Nakasango, a field officer and account signatory for the organization, who alerted authorities to suspected fraudulent practices.
Preliminary investigations reveal that Muwaya collected between UGX 150,000 and 250,000 from parents seeking bursaries, which was not reflected in the organization's bank account. He allegedly took UGX 3 million from each of 450 individuals, promising low-cost motorcycles that were never delivered.
He also collected UGX 80,000 from 1,000 individuals under a credit facility program, with no services provided. The total amount allegedly defrauded is estimated to exceed UGX 1 billion, affecting victims in over 28 districts.
Jinja Resident City Commissioner Richard Gulume convened a public meeting at Budondo Police Grounds, providing complainants with an opportunity to confront Muwaya. Aidah Wandira borrowed UGX 2 million from a village bank to fund her grandchildren’s education, only to lose the money. She now demands a refund to repay her loan.
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Naome Nangobi sold a calf for UGX 350,000 to register with the foundation, hoping to support her grandchild’s education. The child subsequently missed this year’s Primary Leaving Exams, leaving Nangobi distressed.
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Muwaya claims that the Anaya African Child and Gifts Foundation was established in July 2024 and was in the early stages of donor solicitation. He admits to using collected funds to run the NGO and apologizes to victims, asking for patience as he devises a repayment plan.
So far, 200 complaints have been registered against Muwaya. Commissioner Gulume urged victims nationwide to submit their grievances to strengthen the case against the suspect. Authorities are coordinating with regional counterparts to collect evidence.
