Makerere University, supported by the Government of Uganda’s research and innovation fund, has successfully equipped refugees from ten countries with entrepreneurship skills. The six-month training, conducted from June to December 2023 in various centres in Wakiso, Kampala, and Mukono districts, has resulted in 435 refugees being awarded certificates.
Refugees hailing from Burundi, Comoros, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, and Tanzania participated in the program. The training was conducted in diverse communities, including Kisenyi, Najjanakumbi, Kawempe, and Kireka.
Dr. Anthony Tibaingana, a lecturer at the College of Business and Management Sciences and principal investigator of the project, initiated the idea in 2019 after researching the vulnerability of refugees. The training focused on generating business ideas, developing and market testing those ideas, with the aim of transforming them into viable businesses.
The objective was to make refugees self-reliant, fostering economic growth to support their families and thrive in the business arena. Certificates were awarded to ensure that refugees, even if they leave Uganda, possess skills that can sustain them.
Uganda, as the second-largest host country for refugees, sees the integration of refugees into economic activities as crucial for reducing crime rates. Dr. Tibaingana expressed plans to seek additional government funding to support refugees with startup capital for their businesses.
Guest of Honour’s Message
Ms. Patricia Driver, the chairperson of Bondeko Refugee Livelihoods Centre, urged beneficiaries to start small while waiting for financial support, emphasizing the strength found in unity. She encouraged the graduates to be ambassadors for fellow refugees, striving for positive change in their lives and families.
Support and Impact
Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura, head of the Department of Marketing and Business at Cobams, outlined a supportive module for graduates to guide them in their businesses. Mr. Ezra Byakutangaza, representing the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Makrif), pledged ongoing support for impactful projects benefiting vulnerable populations.
Mr. Robert Goobi Kitenda, head of Marketing Africa at Movit Products Limited, highlighted their partnership with Makerere aimed at creating jobs and income-generating businesses for refugees. The emphasis was on using reliable products and knowledge as a compass for success.
Words of Encouragement
Ms. Everline Amokol of the Association of Refugees with Disabilities encouraged refugees to embrace a fresh start in Uganda and not lose hope. Mr. Ismail Ibrahim Ali Mohammed, the leader of the Somali community, expressed their commitment to changing their economic narrative using the skills gained.
Looking Forward
Ali Mohammed urged graduates to collaborate, network, and strive for success not only in financial terms but also in making a positive impact on the world. This marks the second time Makerere University has offered such training, with the first cohort graduating in the 2021/2022 financial year, where over 300 people were trained.
