In a bid to tackle the growing issue of youth unemployment and to foster national development, the youth in Uganda have been encouraged to embrace agricultural practices. This call was made by Connie Acayo, the Assistant Commissioner for Information and Communication in the Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industries and Fisheries, during the commissioning of a Ushs250 million storage facility for onions in Muhanga Town Council, Rukiga District.
The storage facility was constructed by the Kigezi Potato Farmers’ Cooperative Society Ltd with the support of the AVSI Foundation through the Skilling in Agripreneurship for Increased Youth Employment (SAY) project. The SAY project aims to change the youth’s mindset towards agriculture and equip them with necessary skills for agribusiness.
Connie Acayo emphasized the importance of youth participation in agriculture for the country’s development. “The youth who have already embraced agriculture should encourage their colleagues to join the sector for effective growth,” she stated.
Fred Nayebare, the Resident District Commissioner for Rukiga, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the potential of agriculture to provide sustainable employment and income for the youth.
Julius Turyahabwe, the team leader for the SAY project in the Western region, revealed their comprehensive approach to encourage youth involvement in agribusiness. “We are committed to changing the mindset of the youth towards agriculture, demonstrating its potential as a viable career option,” Turyahabwe said.
Crescent Mugisha the Board Chairperson KFC, highlighted the various support systems in place to aid young agripreneurs.
Beneficiaries of the SAY project shared their success stories, attributing their achievements to the skills and resources provided by the initiative. Noelline Namara, one of the beneficiaries, recounted the positive impact agribusiness has had on her life. “Agribusiness has not only provided me with a stable income but also a sense of purpose and contribution to my community,” Namara said.
Crescent Mugisha also shared his experience, emphasizing the role of agribusiness in improving his economic status.
The Skilling in Agripreneurship for Increased Youth Employment (SAY) project, funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and executed by the AVSI Foundation, targets young individuals aged 18-30, including both nationals and refugees. The project aims to equip them with the agricultural skills necessary for immediate employment in the sector, thereby addressing youth unemployment and contributing to national development.
This initiative represents a significant step towards transforming Uganda’s agricultural sector and empowering the youth to become active contributors to the nation’s economy.
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