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The Rukungiri Producer Cooperative Union is actively engaged in training farmers and youth in improved farming practices and vocational skills to enhance their livelihoods and increase their capital. Dr. Sam Akakwasa, the union’s chairperson, emphasized the importance of transforming farmers into commercial agriculture, focusing on poultry, cattle keeping, apiary, and vocational skills such as cake baking, yogurt making, and silage production. Over 1000 individuals have already received training.
Akakwasa outlined their plan to expand training across five districts including Rukungiri, Rukiga, Kanungu, Mitooma, and Rubanda, aiming to foster a mindset change and boost the local economy. Innocent Bigirwa, CEO of High Mark Waste Management Limited, highlighted that the training will empower beneficiaries to establish and sustain businesses, thereby improving their economic and nutritional well-being.
Beneficiaries like Norah Turyatemba, Mwesigye Kapere, and Mugabirwe Susan from Bwanda Parish in Buhunga Sub County expressed gratitude, noting that the training coincided with government poverty eradication funds, enabling them to initiate income-generating projects. They commended Dr. Sam Akakwasa, High Mark Waste Management Limited, and Minister Jim Muhwezi for their support in agricultural and agribusiness skills training, which they believe will help eradicate poverty in their communities.
Women from Mugamba Village, trained in cake making, appreciated how this skill would reduce their expenses and enable them to start their businesses, boosting their income. Hellen Kabajungu, chairperson of Ruhinda Sub County, thanked the Rukungiri Producer Cooperative Union for their efforts in empowering their community through practical training initiatives.
