Staff Reporter
Leaders in Kabale and Rubanda districts have urged unemployed youth to avoid gambling and instead focus on commercial agriculture as a means to improve their livelihoods.
This appeal was made during a ceremony at the Kabale District Rukiiko Hall, where agricultural incentives—including water harvesting tanks, electric water pumps, tablets, beehives, piglets, fertilizers, and potato seeds—were distributed to seven youth groups from the district.
The support was provided by the AVSI Foundation through the Mushroom Training and Resource Centre in Kyanamira Sub County, as part of the Skilling in Agripreneurship for Increased Youth Employment (SAY) Project.
Speaking at the event on Saturday, Kabale District Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Robert Mugabe emphasized that while gambling may seem enticing due to the prospect of quick profits, it often leads to financial instability and social challenges. He stressed the importance of directing young people toward skill-building activities, such as agriculture, which offer sustainable long-term benefits.
Hamurwa Town Council LC5 Female Councilor Mary Bebwajuba highlighted the increasing internet connectivity among the youth, which often diverts their attention to sports updates instead of more valuable information. She urged greater collaboration with local agricultural organizations and NGOs to provide resources, mentorship, and financial support for young aspiring farmers. This, she argued, would provide a meaningful alternative to gambling and help foster a healthier, more prosperous future for the youth.
Novia Byaruhanga, an agriculture trainer, and Anold Ananura, the market systems and linkages officer at AVSI Foundation, also encouraged the youth to engage in commercial agriculture for national development.
Despite agriculture being a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy, many young people still overlook its potential.
