KAMPALA — Beneficiaries of the State House Youth Wealth Creation Program have pledged their full support for President Museveni in the upcoming elections, citing the government’s continued investment in youth and low-income earners through business start-up support.
The commitment was made during a monitoring exercise led by Faizal Ndase, a coordinator from the Office of the President, who oversees the program’s implementation and accountability process.
Ndase’s team visited beneficiaries operating small-scale businesses in Kireka, Luzira, Banda Kasokoso, and Mutungo to assess progress and gather feedback.
Since its launch in 2022 under the supervision of State House Comptroller Jane Barekye, the program has empowered more than 1,700 people across Kampala’s five divisions — Lubaga, Kawempe, Nakawa, Makindye, and Kampala Central — with business tools and start-up capital.
Beneficiaries have received items such as sewing machines, hair dryers, cassava, cooking oil, chapati stoves, and other small-enterprise equipment.
According to Ndase, the program’s goal is to enhance self-reliance among youth and small traders by providing the means to earn a living.
“We are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in implementing this program and to realizing the President’s goal of transforming livelihoods,” he said.
Many beneficiaries shared stories of personal transformation.
“Before receiving my sewing machine, life was very hard. But now, I can save at least 10,000 shillings daily from my tailoring work,” said Serena Malutia, a tailor from Kiganda Zone, Kasokoso.
Mary Suzan Nyachwo, another tailor, said her sewing machine has not only improved her business but also enabled her to support her children’s education.
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. This program has given me dignity and stability,” she said.
Zam Namirimu, a chips vendor from Agati Zone in Luzira, said she received cassava, cooking oil, and a frying stove that helped her restart her business after years of hardship.
“The program gave me hope. If we re-elect President Museveni, I believe we shall continue receiving more support,” she said, urging others to remain peaceful and vote for continuity.
Ndase revealed that the Office of the President plans to organize beneficiaries into Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) to improve access to finance and ensure long-term sustainability.
He also commended Ms Barekye for her leadership in directing the program’s expansion to more urban and peri-urban areas.
Suzan Kansiime, the Deputy Women Chairperson of Kireka D and an NRM coordinator in Kasokoso, hailed the initiative for directly engaging grassroots communities without political bias.
“Many people were discouraged before, but now they are happy and productive. This shows that the President’s programs are making a real difference,” Kansiime said.
She noted that the project has revived trust in government interventions, particularly among youth who had lost faith in public programs.
The State House Youth Wealth Creation Program is among several government initiatives aimed at boosting self-employment, promoting financial inclusion, and reducing poverty in urban communities.