Effect of social assistance grant for empowerment (sage) on the economic development of elderly persons in Kagadi district. a case of Kagadi sub county.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of Social Assistance Grant for Empowerment (SAGE) on the economic development of elderly persons in Kagadi district. Guided by the following objectives; to assess the effect of cash transfers on the economic development of elderly persons, to examine the relationship between utilization of funds and the economic development of elderly persons, to evaluate the effect of consistence payments on the economic development of elderly persons. This study employed a cross-sectional research design. The research utilized a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches for the quantitative component, a sample size of 141 elderly beneficiaries was determined using Krejcie and Morgan's (1970) sample size determination table. The qualitative component involved purposively selected participants, comprising elderly beneficiaries and key informants. The study employed a combination of stratified random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. The study employed a structured questionnaire and an interview guide.Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 22, employing both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study's findings collectively demonstrate that Uganda's SAGE program significantly enhances economic development for elderly persons in Kagadi Sub County through three key mechanisms: cash transfers exhibit a near-perfect positive effect (r=0.980, B=0.877), primarily through direct poverty alleviation and consumption support; effective fund utilization shows a strong association (r=0.633, B=0.460), highlighting the importance of strategic resource allocation; and payment consistency demonstrates substantial influence (r=0.774, B=0.528), explaining 59.6% of outcomes by enabling financial planning and local market stimulation. Importantly, financial management practices mediate 25.8% of SAGE's total impact (indirect effect=0.1795). In conclusion, the study affirms that cash transfers, efficient fund utilization, and consistent payments under the SAGE program significantly enhance the economic development of elderly persons in Kagadi Sub County, though complementary interventions are essential to fully maximize their impact. The study recommends that the Government of Uganda, development partners, and local stakeholders prioritize the expansion of cash transfers, strengthen fund utilization through training.