Africa-Press – Uganda. MTN Mobile Money (U) Limited has formally commissioned and handed over the newly refreshed Lira Main Market to Lira City leadership, concluding a partnership intended to improve the functionality, appearance and business readiness of one of northern Uganda’s most important commercial centres.
The handover ceremony took place on December 19, 2025, in Lira City and was attended by the Lord Mayor, the Resident City Commissioner, the City Clerk, the Market Master and officials from MTN Uganda.
The initiative involved rebranding and repainting the market and is part of a broader effort by MTN MoMo to support traders and small businesses by creating safer, more efficient and modern trading environments that encourage digital payments and financial inclusion.
Speaking at the handover, Peter Ochen, the General Manager for Financial Operations at MTN Mobile Money Uganda, said the project reflects the company’s commitment to supporting traders beyond providing transaction services.
“Markets like Lira Main Market are the heartbeat of our local economy. Through this initiative, MTN MoMo is demonstrating that we are invested in the growth of traders and small businesses, not just in providing a payment platform,” Ochen said.
“Under our Ambition 2025 strategy, we are committed to driving financial inclusion and enabling traders to operate in safer, more efficient, and cashless environments that support their everyday hustle.”
Lira City Mayor Sam Atul welcomed the handover, noting that the partnership aligns with the city’s broader vision of urban renewal and improved public markets.
“Our goal is to beautify Lira City and modernize our public markets. This partnership with MTN MoMo fits well with that vision, helping us keep Lira Main Market tidy, organised, and ready for business while supporting safer and more efficient ways for traders to transact,” Atul said.
Resident City Commissioner Egole Lawrence praised the collaboration, highlighting the role of public-private partnerships in transforming urban infrastructure and service delivery.
“When government and the private sector work together, we create real impact for our people. Initiatives like this one improve livelihoods and strengthen trust in modern, secure systems that benefit the entire city,” Lawrence said.
MTN MoMo said the project is aligned with MTN’s Ambition 2025 Strategy, which focuses on sustainable growth, community development and enabling individuals and businesses to benefit from a modern, connected life.
The company added that the handover underscores its commitment to environmental stewardship, social inclusion and long-term urban renewal, with traders and communities at the centre of its interventions.
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