Youth in Kazo District who received training at the Greater Ankore Zonal Industrial Hub in Mbarara District have united to form a Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) aimed at facilitating continued support from the Office of the President. The young people acquired various skills, including welding, hairdressing, carpentry, and tailoring and many more.

In a meeting held today at the Kazo Council Hall, participants gathered with representatives from the State House and the district leadership to formally establish the SACCO. This initiative will enable graduates of the Presidential Industrial Hub to access startup capital for their enterprises.

Mr. Julias Muheirwe, the coordinator of the industrial hub for Central and Western Uganda, emphasized the government’s commitment to training youth nationwide. He highlighted President Museveni's goal to equip skilled individuals in every family as a strategy to combat unemployment in Uganda. Muheirwe encouraged Ugandans to embrace this plan, assuring them of continued support.

During the meeting, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mugisha Bazirio Paddy, who chaired the gathering, expressed gratitude to the president for empowering Ugandan youth particularly those with limited educational opportunities. He noted that the skills acquired will enable them to earn a living and the SACCO will provide accessible startup capital at low interest rates.

The LC5 Chairperson for Kazo District, Rev. Samuel Mugisha Katugunda, also thanked the president for investing in youth skilling and urged the participants to utilize the SACCO responsibly. He reassured attendees that the selection process for trainees at the industrial hub was thorough and well-considered.

Furthermore, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Keith Bahemuka recognized the efforts of those involved in the skilling program as he read the names of the participants from various intakes
District Commercial Officer Mr. Aaron Muzahura also provided guidance to the youth on registering their SACCO and outlined steps for ensuring its success.

In addition, the District Internal Security Officer, Mr. Rwabwere Moses, encouraged youth without national identity cards to obtain them and promised to monitor the SACCO's performance alongside the Resident District Commissioner.

President Museveni's Presidential Industrial Hubs initiative is a significant step towards addressing youth unemployment in the country. By focusing on skills development and entrepreneurship, the program aims to empower young people with the necessary tools to create their own enterprises. The approval of a plan allowing graduates from the zonal hubs to access start-up loans for their businesses is a crucial addition, providing them with the necessary financial support to turn their ideas into reality.

Tinyefuza Naboth: Kazo District Communications Officer.