GOVERNMENT GIVES UGX 631 MILLION TO YOUTH UNDER THE YOUTH LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has earmarked UGX 631 million for distribution among 75 youth groups in Kampala under the Youth Livelihood Program (YLP) during the financial year 2023/2024.

The announcement came after a thorough verification process of the groups held at the Mayor's Parlor, ensuring transparency and fairness in the distribution of funds.

His Worship Erias Lukwago, the Lord Mayor of Kampala witnessed the verification exercise to ensure the funds go to the rightful beneficiaries.

Eunice Tumwebaze, the Manager Gender, Youth and Children, confirmed that the identified groups, representing a diverse range of projects, will soon start 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 and Kampala Central Division: 14 groups.

These groups are involved in projects like poultry farming, carpentry, disco sound systems, tailoring, welding, bakery, salon services, as well as tent and chair rentals, among others.

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 benefitted over 5,000 youths across all five divisions.

Notably, 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.

Furthermore, the program has demonstrated its commitment to financial responsibility, with at least UGX 1 billion already recovered from previous disbursements but also to note is that the program has suffered a set back of Youth who get this revolving fund and do not pay back. This limits the chance for other youth to access the fund.

The Youth Livelihood Programme is a Government of Uganda-financed initiative strategically designed to combat the escalating rates of unemployment and poverty among the youth.

By fostering entrepreneurship and empowering young individuals with the necessary 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, ultimately contributing to the broader development goals of the nation.​

Story By Geoffrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer