MTN Uganda has handed over confectionery equipment to Nyenje Voice Saving Association in Mukono District as part of its Changemakers initiative, aimed at strengthening vocational skills and improving community livelihoods.
The support, valued at about Shs 20 million, includes electric mixers and stainless-steel working tables designed to enhance baking training, improve product quality, and expand income-generating opportunities for members of the association.
The intervention is part of the third phase of the MTN Changemakers programme, under which the telecom company is investing Shs 500 million into 25 community projects across Uganda. The programme focuses on key impact areas including economic empowerment, education, health, environmental protection, and water and sanitation.
“At MTN Uganda, we believe that everyone should not only enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life but also access opportunities that enable them to improve their livelihoods and transform their communities,” said MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge.
“Through the Changemakers initiative, we are supporting individuals and organisations that are already creating solutions, with the aim of driving sustainable, community-led impact.”
Launched three years ago under the MTN Foundation, the Changemakers initiative has so far funded more than 50 projects, disbursing over Shs1 billion and reaching more than 235,000 beneficiaries across Uganda.
Mukono District leaders welcomed the support, noting that it will strengthen local enterprise development and vocational skills training among youth and women.
“This partnership is a strong example of how private sector support can complement government efforts to promote skills development and economic empowerment at community level,” said Mukono District Woman Member of Parliament elect Sheilah Amaniyo.
Sherifa Peace Barry, the chairperson of Nyenje Voice Saving Association which also offers training in hairdressing, welding, and poultry keeping said the equipment would significantly improve both training capacity and productivity.
“This equipment will enable us to train more people and increase our production capacity, which translates into better incomes for our members,” she said. “We are committed to maintaining the machines and reinvesting proceeds to ensure sustainability.”
Barry noted that the association currently has 100 active members, with plans to expand enrollment to more community members in the near future.
This handover follows a similar engagement in Nakasongola District earlier this week, as MTN Uganda continues rolling out support to beneficiaries under the latest phase of the Changemakers programme.
In Nakasongola, the company donated sewing machines and fabric worth Shs 20 million to the Migeera Women Centre of Influence under the Seventh Day Adventist Church, aimed at expanding its vocational training programme, which currently serves 60 students.
The initiative specifically targets women, including sex workers and other vulnerable community members, seeking to acquire skills in tailoring and entrepreneurship.
MTN Uganda executives reiterated that the programme focuses on scalable, community-driven interventions as part of the company’s broader strategy to drive inclusive growth and shared value across Uganda.
