UGANDA HAS THE WORLD’S YOUNGEST AGE STRUCTURE AND ONE OF THE HIGHEST POPULATION GROWTH RATES, BUT ALSO FACES AMONG THE HIGHEST YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT RATES AND LOWEST EDUCATION IN SUB SAHARAN AFRICA.

COVID-19 has only worsened the socioeconomic issues, affecting first and foremost those who were already most vulnerable, in particular women and youth. The majority of Uganda’s population is dependent on agriculture. However, climate change is causing more and more weather extremes affecting the livelihoods of local farmers and their families. The districts of Oyam and Amolatar, where the project is being implemented, are no exception. It is therefore important to support those who are most vulnerable in building capacities to adapt to climate change and in creating alternative employment opportunities.

SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLE’S SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The project is implemented by SA4D together with its partner organisation Action for Child Social and Economic Transformation (ACSET). It aims to support the socio-economic development of young school dropouts by improving opportunities for sustainable (self)employment. This contributes to reducing youth poverty.

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR BETTER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

To reach this objective, the project supports disadvantaged young adults in acquiring technical competencies and certification in a specific trade or in agriculture, and equips young people with the capacities, skills and networks needed to find decent employment or start up their own business.

GREEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAININGS

In addition to technical and vocational training, the young people take part in entrepreneurship training, including green skills. The agriculture training will also be adapted to integrate environment-friendly approaches. The trainings are adapted to the local economic context and meet the participants’ needs and interests. As more local businesses and farms adopt greener production methods, the project communities will benefit from access to more organic products and a cleaner living environment.

SPORT & PLAY AND HIP-HOP & MUSIC AS APPROACHES

The project uses the “training of trainers” method and applies SA4D’s validated approach using sport and play for development. It will also use ACSET’s approach, using hip-hop and music to raise awareness and involve the community.