Youth in Kampala Central Division have urged fellow Ugandans to continue supporting President Museveni, commending his government’s efforts to empower low-income earners through the State House Youth Wealth Creation Programme.
The appeal came from some of the 1,700 beneficiaries of the initiative, which was launched in 2022 to uplift small-scale workers and entrepreneurs in the informal sector. During a monitoring visit, programme head Faizal Ndase toured areas like Kisenyi, Owino, Kamwokya, Kyebando, and Mulago to assess how beneficiaries have been utilizing the resources provided under the initiative.
The programme focuses on youth involved in small-scale businesses, such as chapati and chips vending, local brewing, and salon operations. Participants have received equipment and materials like deep fryers, ovens, salon dryers, flour, and cooking oil to boost their productivity and income generation.
Ndase commended the beneficiaries for effectively utilizing the resources, highlighting that many had seen significant income growth as a result.
He also announced that the next phase of the programme will aim to establish Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) within beneficiary communities. These SACCOs will facilitate savings, provide access to revolving funds, and support business growth.
“We are now moving towards group sustainability,” Ndase explained. “The formation of SACCOs will enable youth to save, borrow, and reinvest — ensuring that the programme’s impact extends beyond a one-time boost.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Office of the President, led by Jane Barekye, for its oversight and commitment to ensuring transparency in the programme’s implementation.
Several youth shared their success stories and expressed appreciation for the initiative. Prim Rose Talunga, a baker from Mulago, said her business had flourished since receiving two ovens.
“Before this support, we struggled due to a lack of equipment. Today, our livelihoods have improved, and we’ve even been able to train other young girls in our community,” she shared.
Bridget Naluyima, a chips vendor from Owino, thanked President Museveni for launching the programme, noting that it had restored hope among Kampala’s urban poor.
“We are thankful to the President for considering us. The best way to show our appreciation is through the ballot - by continuing to trust in his leadership,” she said.
Ndase reaffirmed that President Museveni’s vision for youth empowerment focuses on tangible, practical support rather than mere promises.
“This programme is proof that when young people are given the right tools, they can change their futures,” he said.
Officials emphasized that the government remains committed to scaling up similar initiatives across the country to ensure that youth nationwide have access to sustainable livelihood opportunities.