Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has designated UGX 631 million for distribution among 75 youth groups in Kampala as part of the Youth Livelihood Program (YLP) during the financial year 2023/2024.
The announcement followed a meticulous verification process of the groups conducted at the Mayor’s Parlor, ensuring transparency and fairness in fund distribution. Erias Lukwago, the Lord Mayor of Kampala, personally oversaw the verification exercise to guarantee that the funds reached the deserving beneficiaries.
Eunice Tumwebaze, the Manager of Gender, Youth, and Children, affirmed that the identified groups, representing a diverse range of projects, would soon commence receiving their allocated funds. A total of 375 youths from the five divisions of Kampala City are expected to benefit from this initiative.
The distribution breakdown for the youth groups is as follows:
- Lubaga Division: 10 groups
- Nakawa Division: 16 groups
- Kawempe Division: 16 groups
- Makindye Division: 19 groups
- Kampala Central Division: 14 groups
These groups are engaged in various projects, including poultry farming, carpentry, disco sound systems, tailoring, welding, bakery, salon services, as well as tent and chair rentals.
Since its inception in 2014, the YLP has successfully funded 458 youth projects in Kampala with a total value of UGX 4.4 billion. This has benefited over 5,000 youths across all five divisions. The program has played a crucial role in providing interest-free revolving funds to unemployed and economically disadvantaged youth aged 18-30, including school dropouts.
While demonstrating its commitment to financial responsibility, the program has recovered at least UGX 1 billion from previous disbursements. However, it faces challenges as some youth recipients of the revolving fund fail to repay, limiting opportunities for other youth to access the fund.
The Youth Livelihood Programme, a Government of Uganda-financed initiative, strategically combats escalating rates of youth unemployment and poverty. By fostering entrepreneurship and providing resources, the program aims to create sustainable solutions and opportunities for the country’s younger generation.
This injection of funds is anticipated to catalyze economic growth within the youth demographic, fostering innovation and self-sufficiency, thereby contributing to the broader development goals of the nation.
