Paul Lakuma, research fellow, Economic Policy Research Centre
The bailing out of struggling companies can get the whole economy to its knees. It could have been the best response in other countries such as Britain and America to revitalize failed but important industries.
If Uganda is to do it, it should be implemented with a business plan of repayment of the bailed out money. Outside the bailout, there is need to raise productivity in all industries by pressing on with infrastructure projects and making sure the environment is conducive for businesses to thrive.
Let there be a mechanism for long-term and affordable finance. Otherwise, everyone is going to ask for a bailout.