By Obbo Yusuf
Cultural leaders from across Eastern Uganda, led by the Emorimor of Teso, Papa Sande, have gathered in Kumi District to launch a non-formal skills training programme aimed at equipping vulnerable communities with practical skills to fight poverty and promote self-reliance.
The programme, initiated by Judith Home Care of Hope Foundation Uganda, was launched in Akalabai Village, Kumi District, with plans to establish training groups village by village across the Teso sub-region and eventually throughout Eastern Uganda.
Beneficiaries will be trained in a range of practical skills, including catering, chalk making, metal fabrication, tailoring, construction, bakery and other income-generating activities.
The launch attracted several cultural kings and leaders from Eastern Uganda, investors and other stakeholders who pledged support for the initiative.
According to Papa Sande, the Emorimori of Teso, equipping communities with practical skills will enable people to become self-reliant while reducing poverty in the region.
He said the initiative comes at a time when communities need sustainable ways of generating income rather than depending solely on formal employment.
Musoke Jonathan, the Communications Director at Judith Home Care of Hope Foundation Uganda, said the programme is in line with the government’s efforts to eradicate poverty by promoting practical and non-formal skills.
He said the programme is being expanded to all districts of Eastern Uganda and called upon cultural leaders, investors, government agencies and other stakeholders to embrace and support it.
At the event, Shilpha Mendoca, Director of Care Foundation Uganda, donated 10 modern sewing machines to support the tailoring trainees.
She also announced plans to support the establishment of a reusable sanitary towels factory in the area, which is expected to provide both skills and income-generating opportunities for local beneficiaries.
The Omukuka of Bamasaba, Papa Jude Mike, welcomed the project to the Elgon region, saying the initiative has the potential to make a significant contribution to poverty reduction and economic empowerment across Eastern Uganda.
Judith Nalumansi, the Executive Director of Judith Home Care Foundation Uganda, said the organisation’s target is to reach communities at village level across Eastern Uganda.
She said the programme will particularly focus on school dropouts, single mothers, widows and other underprivileged groups who often face limited access to formal employment and economic opportunities.
Nalumansi called upon well-wishers and development partners to support the programme, noting that many of the intended beneficiaries cannot afford the raw materials and equipment required for practical training.
She said additional support would enable the organisation to reach more villages and equip more people with skills that can help them establish small businesses and become economically independent
