Over 700 young entrepreneurs in Lubaga are to benefit from the Special Youth Wealth Creation Program, an initiative championed by the Office of the President to support youth engaged in grassroots income-generating activities.
Coordinated by Mr. Faisal Ndase from the Office of the President, in collaboration with State House Comptroller Ms. Jane Barekye, the program was launched in 2022 with the objective of empowering youth economically by providing essential tools and materials for small-scale businesses. These include chapati and chips making items, popcorn making machines, salons items among others.
The latest distribution focused on 100 youth from Lubaga North, who received start-up items such as Irish potatoes, cooking oil, wheat flour, tarpaulins, baking machines, and salon equipment.
Prior to receiving the support, beneficiaries attended a business management training session held at Vox Lounge in Nakulabye. The session covered critical areas such as financial planning, equipment usage, and customer care.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Ndase reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equitable distribution of national resources, emphasizing that political affiliation does not influence beneficiary selection.
“Anyone is free to appreciate President Museveni for the support and even vote for him if they wish, but when we select beneficiaries, we do not consider political party affiliations,” he noted.
The initiative is part of broader government efforts to tackle youth unemployment and poverty by fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance. Youth leaders in attendance expressed gratitude to the President for the timely intervention, noting that lack of start-up capital has long been a barrier to their economic progress.
“As youths, our major problem is capital. These items are crucial and will significantly boost our businesses,” one of the youth leaders remarked.
Renowned economist Daniel Mayombwe, who also addressed the gathering, advised the young entrepreneurs to uphold high standards of hygiene, quality, integrity, and time management in their operations. He stressed that these principles would enhance customer satisfaction and business sustainability.
The Special Youth Wealth Creation Program adds to a growing list of youth-centered government interventions, including the Youth Livelihood Program and the Parish Development Model, which allocate resources specifically to uplift the economic status of young Ugandans.
With continued government support and mentorship, beneficiaries of the program are expected to transform their small-scale ventures into sustainable sources of income, thereby contributing to local and national development.