Twegaite Youth Saving Group began as a safe space for women to address mental health challenges, focusing on psycho-social therapy for members who had experienced depression, domestic violence, and other hardships. Over time, the group evolved into a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), helping members save, borrow, and invest in small businesses like selling fruits, vegetables, and second-hand clothes. Today, the group has transitioned into a dynamic income-generating initiative, primarily focused on poultry farming.

On October 10, 2024, the group received 350 one-day-old chicks from Enabel in collaboration with MUCOBADI (Multi Community-based Development Initiative). These were accompanied by two weeks' worth of feed, feeding equipment, and tools such as wheelbarrows, feeders, and drinkers. Vaccination, a critical aspect of poultry management, was left to the group to foster ownership and sustainability.
 
“We don’t provide 100% support,” explains Isaac Keuber, an entrepreneurship and resilient officer from Enabel. “We intervene where the group is constrained, but we want them to take charge of their business for continuity.”

The group embraced this responsibility, working under a structured schedule where six members (three during the day and three at night) manage the poultry daily. Despite losing seven birds, the group sold 353 hens—244 of high quality at UGX 12,000 each and 109 at UGX 10,000 each—earning a total of UGX 4,018,000 by November 24, 2024. The group also overcame logistical challenges like relocating from a rented space to a chicken house they constructed on a member’s land to save costs.

Sara Kawudha, a group representative, shares their future plans: “We sat down, made a budget, and realized we need UGX 5,512,000 to restock with 500 chicks. We already have housing for them.” 

The group’s journey has been supported by tailored training in business and entrepreneurship, along with mentorship from business coaches trained by Enabel. These coaches, part of a Private Sector Model for Sustainability, ensure continuity by equipping groups with record-keeping and business monitoring skills. Twegaite is also supported by a network of extension workers and field assistants to minimize losses and maximize profits.

With 27 women and 3 men, the future for Twegaite Youth Saving Group seems bright.