The Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope, has welcomed a high-level delegation from Heifer International Uganda and its implementing partners at Igenge Royal Palace in Jinja District.
Led by John Ssenyonga, Project Director of the Stimulating Agribusiness for Youth Employment (SAYE) initiative, the delegation presented plans for the $48 million (Shs182 billion) project, which aims to empower 250,000 young residents of Busoga aged 15-35 with meaningful work over the next five years.
“Through a multi-partner approach, SAYE supports youth to start and grow enterprises in areas such as production, value addition, access to finance, and market development,” Ssenyonga explained.
The Kyabazinga praised the project’s focus on women and youth, emphasizing agriculture as the backbone of the sub-region.
He highlighted the need for digital skills alongside traditional agricultural training to ensure sustainability and competitiveness.
“If you introduce a bit of computer learning, it will really make more sense. In this dynamic global world that is changing every other day, our youth need those skills to sustain themselves and become better leaders in society,” he said.
Busoga Kingdom’s 2nd Deputy Prime Minister, Alhaji Osman Ahmed Noor, requested that 5% of the $48 million investment—equivalent to $2.4 million—be channelled through Kingdom structures to enhance impact on the ground.
The Kyabazinga reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to the initiative, stating, “I look forward to working together to ensure we score one goal and serve my people.”
The meeting underscored the potential for a strategic partnership between Heifer International Uganda and Busoga Kingdom to empower youth and drive economic growth in the region.