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Farmer group set to earn millions of shillings selling vegetables in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 09/09/2025
In Ogonga village, Yumbe district in Northern Uganda, a group of 30 farmers—15 men and 15 women—are rewriting their story. What began as casual farm work for others has turned into a self-driven farming venture with bold targets, a steady income, and a new sense of purpose. The group was formed in 2022. In the beginning, they practiced small scale farming while relying on the little knowledge they had on vegetable growing, until they learned about Omia Agro Business Center that things began to change. After linking up with Omia, the farmers received training from extension officers and decided to hire a piece of land and grow crops at a larger scale. Their first attempt at commercial farming began with tomatoes. Despite a flood that destroyed 60% of their garden just before harvest, they still earned 8.8 million shillings (€ 2,138) in the off-season. Their original target was 18 million shillings (€ 4,773). Determined to grow, the group used part of their earnings—2.4 million—to rent new land. They’ve already set up nursery beds and planted again, this time tomatoes, onions and cabbages. Their new goal is to earn 40 million shillings by the end of the year. “Some of the money we earned from our first harvest is saved in our group box to help with family needs. We no longer borrow from banks; we borrow from ourselves,” one member proudly said. The change is visible in their homes. “Our standard of living has improved. We are not suffering like before,” said Margaret Okyokoro, a group member who thanked God, Omia, and Enabel for supporting their journey. The group credits Omia and Enabel for providing them with knowledge on nursery beds, crop spacing, and proper farming techniques. Through the training, they have transitioned from small-scale farming to managing two acres. They’ve also received watering cans, a solar-powered irrigation pump, and personal protective equipment. “Our uniform makes us stand out from other groups,” said Margaret, who is eager to train others if given the chance. Still, challenges remain. As the farm expands, the single solar pump they have is no longer sufficient. “We plan to buy another solar panel, but we’re not sure if we’ll have enough money,” said Moses Asiku. Charles Okot, the project manager for WeWork-green and decent jobs for youth project encouraged the group to remain committed. “We shall continue to work with you through our partners, Omia Agro business center. Our goal is that each of you earns at least 250,000 shillings (€ 61) or more per month. Reinvest your income and become more resilient,” he advised. In addition to getting seedlings from Omia, the group also receives technical training and market links. “We used to grow on small land with little capital, but Enabel helped us expand. We can now afford pesticides and irrigation,” one member explained. Though they didn’t meet their earlier target, the group decided to reinvest 8 million shillings (€1,943) to help reach the new goal. If successful, each member hopes to earn at least 1 million shillings (€243) to start their own gardens. Looking ahead, they want to venture into watermelon and other fruits, and are open to learning more about smart agriculture, especially after a recent flood caught them off guard. Omia has started teaching them techniques like mulching and building ridges to protect against heavy rain. Sofian Dahmani, from the European Union, hopes the group’s growing business knowledge will lead to self-sufficiency. “With the right support, they’ll not only feed their families but also run successful agribusinesses,” he said. The WeWork project is co-funded by the European Union and the Kingdom of Belgium and is implemented in the regions of West Nile, Busoga, Fort Portal and Kampala Metropolitan.
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Refugee youth drive innovation and technology in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 09/09/2025
Young people, mostly refugees from Congo and South Sudan are harnessing technology to create real solutions for their community in Imvepi Refugee Settlement, West Nile-Uganda. Through a partnership between Hope Foundation, a refugee youth-led organisation, and Enabel, an ICT innovation hub was established in 2023 under the Support to Skilling Uganda project. Since then, about 90 youth, of whom 70% are refugees, have passed through it. The innovation hub, managed by Thomas Okiria, founder and programmes manager at Hope Foundation, first equips youth with three months of ICT training. After that, they are placed in groups and encouraged to turn their ideas into working prototypes that address local challenges. To support this process, Hope Foundation collaborates with other organisations that provide materials the youth need to design and test their equipment. Already, the hub has produced several impressive innovations: a cassava grinding mill, a chapati-making machine now being used to sell chapatis within the community, a soap-making machine, and ovens for baking cakes. One group is working on a baby thermometer to help local clinics, where the only available option is the hard-to-use armpit thermometer. They hope to scale production and partner with the government to supply health centers. “Initially, we only trained youth in ICT,” Thomas explained. “But through our partnership with Enabel, we have gone beyond training to ideation—supporting them to develop prototypes that can be turned into real products for the market.” Enabel, through the WeWork – green and decent jobs for youth project, has strengthened the hub by providing a projector, two laptops, two tablets, a printer, and a laminating machine, along with solar power to ensure continuity of work. The youth are even using AI tools like ChatGPT to design new ideas, including motion detectors. “We make products for people here because we understand their daily needs,” said Thomas. “We are also working with the Office of the Prime Minister and Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) to ensure our products are tested, approved, and fairly taxed.” During a recent visit to the hub, which brought together representatives from the European Union, Enabel, and OPM, Charles Okot, the WeWork project manager from Enabel, encouraged the youth to focus on everyday challenges. “Let’s think about things people need every day so the money keeps coming in,” he told them. Prototypes such as the chapati-making machine, soap-making machine, and a grinding mill are already generating income for the developers, while others like the wheel cart, a tricycle mode of transport, are being piloted in the community. With new plans underway by Enabel to train youth in business and videography, they will soon be able to market their products more effectively. The West Nile Refugee Desk Officer (Office of the Prime Minister), Jena Toma, noted that 50% of Imvepi’s population is youth and thanked the European Union, through Enabel, for investing in their future. “Let’s use this ICT lab to make positive change,” she said. The refugee and host-community youth at Imvepi are proving that with the right skills, mentorship, and resources, local solutions to local problems are possible—even in displacement settings.
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Shaping the future of education in East Africa with Generative AI
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 09/09/2025
In early September 2025, the Nile Spark Innovation Hub in Jinja-Uganda, newly launched as a space dedicated to creativity, technology, and collaboration, became the stage for the Generative AI in Education Bootcamp. The hub’s opening marked a milestone for the region, providing a modern environment where educators, innovators, and policymakers can co-create solutions for the future of learning. Nicolas Oebel, Enabel in Uganda Country Director, explained, “We are establishing eight new hubs, including this one, to address three key challenges: limited digital competencies among educators, restricted devices and connectivity, and the limitations of school computer labs.” Over four days, participants from Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda guided by facilitators from Vives University of Applied Sciences in Belgium, explored how Generative AI (GenAI) can act as a co-pilot in education, enriching teaching and learning without replacing the role of teachers. At the heart of it, the bootcamp emphasised an important message: AI should empower teachers, not substitute them. By simplifying complex information, personalising lessons, and supporting students with diverse learning needs, GenAI is opening new possibilities for inclusive, engaging, and future-ready education. During the training, participants engaged in hands-on sessions that combined technical orientation with practical applications. Educators learned how GenAI can support lesson planning, assessment preparation, and differentiated learning. Equally important, discussions highlighted the ethical and environmental implications of AI, ensuring that the technology is used responsibly. Reflecting on this, the Head of Cooperation at the Belgian Embassy shared, “This bootcamp is more than a technological milestone; it’s about empowering teachers to create inclusive, learner-centred environments. Generative AI can act as a co-pilot for educators, helping design personalised and creative content while reducing workload. Together, we are shaping a future where every teacher is equipped with the tools to inspire, and every learner is empowered to thrive.” The bootcamp also fostered meaningful cross-country collaboration. Representatives from Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda exchanged insights on challenges and opportunities for digital innovation in their education systems. This dialogue will feed into a joint proposal and activity plan for 2026, ensuring that the lessons from Jinja continue to ripple across the region. Juliette Rubenstein, Head of the European Union Delegation to Uganda, highlighted the bigger picture, saying, “Within the framework of the EU-funded Regional Teachers Initiative for Africa (RTIA) and the Belgium-funded Teach2Empower programme are bold commitments to educational transformation. Generative AI holds immense potential to reduce administrative burdens, allowing educators to focus on empathy-driven, student-centered instruction. Let us seize this opportunity to build bridges across borders and ensure every teacher is empowered and every learner inspired.” For the participants, many of whom are teachers and education officials, the experience was transformative. Beyond understanding the technical side of GenAI, they left with renewed confidence to experiment, adapt, and critically apply AI in their classrooms and institutions. Florence Moriuku, an English teacher in Uganda, noted, “I plan to use AI tools to carry out assessment on learners, specifically for formative assessment in teaching grammar, and make my lessons more interactive.” From Uganda’s perspective, the bootcamp aligned with national priorities. Mr. Kyaka, representing the Ministry of Education and Sports, affirmed, “The Government of Uganda is committed to transforming education through innovation and technology. This bootcamp introduces Generative AI as a powerful tool to support our teachers by enabling personalised and inclusive content creation. The Ministry is fully committed to ensuring these benefits reach every classroom in Uganda.” The 2025 GenAI Bootcamp was not just about technology. It was about people, collaboration, and a shared vision of equipping Africa’s youth with the skills they need for the future. By blending empathy, inspiration, and innovation, educators are proving that AI can help them do what they do best: teach, inspire, and empower the next generation.
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Normalizing periods: Breaking the stigma around menstrual hygiene in Ugandan schools
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 01/09/2025
For too long, menstruation has been a subject surrounded by whispers, shame, and stigma. Yet, for millions of schoolgirls, periods are a natural part of growing up—and should never be a barrier to education or dignity. Through its Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) program in schools, Enabel is helping to change this narrative. School clubs and trained patrons are creating safe spaces where students can talk openly about menstrual hygiene, debunk harmful myths, and learn how to support one another. This peer-to-peer approach ensures that both boys and girls understand the importance of menstrual health, helping to break down stigma and foster empathy. Beyond hygiene, it builds confidence, reduces school absenteeism, and creates a culture where no girl feels left behind because of her period. By equipping young people with accurate knowledge and breaking the silence, we are turning periods from a source of stigma into a symbol of strength. Watch the video to learn more.
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Strengthening schools as safe spaces for Sexual Reproductive and Health knowledge in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 01/09/2025
Schools are not only places for academic learning but also safe spaces where young people can gain the knowledge they need to navigate life’s challenges. Enabel, together with school clubs and their patrons, is working to strengthen Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) education through innovative peer-to-peer learning. In this initiative, teachers (club patrons) are trained to guide and support students in their SRHR journeys. The clubs then become hubs of knowledge-sharing, where students educate one another on critical topics such as menstrual hygiene, myths surrounding HIV and drug use, and the importance of building healthy relationships. This approach does more than just pass on information — it breaks down stigma, encourages open dialogue, and builds confidence among students to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. By empowering young people today, we are shaping healthier, more resilient communities for tomorrow. Watch the video to learn more.
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Overview of the Work Readiness Programme in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 15/08/2025
Through exclusive interviews with graduates, supervisors, and employers, this video showcases the outcomes and the value of Enabel’s Work Readiness Programme in the job market. Join us as we explore how this initiative is shaping careers and creating opportunities for recent graduates in Uganda.Watch more: http://bit.ly/3UvUE1k
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Objectives of the Work Readiness Programme in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 15/08/2025
Unemployment remains a challenge in Uganda. The Work Readiness Programme was launched under the Skills, Attitude, Governance and Anti-corruption (SG+) project to address this issue while meeting the labor demands of the private sector. By providing young people with the skills and experience needed by employers, the programme bridged the gap between education and job opportunities, creating a brighter future for the country's youth.Watch video more; http://bit.ly/45PWAbb
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Experience of graduates of the Work Readiness Programme in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 15/08/2025
Follow the journey of Work Readiness Programme graduates working at Busitema University and Akvo International in Uganda. They share how the programme shaped their professional attitude, improved their workplace relationships, and helped them adapt to their role. Their experience reflects the lasting impact of work readiness training in preparing graduates for successful careers.Learn more here:http://bit.ly/4mN0OGr
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Industry relevance of the Work Readiness Programme in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 15/08/2025
The Work Readiness Programme under the Skills, Attitude, Governance and Anti-Corruption (SG+) project bridges the gap between education and employment by aligning training with private sector needs. By understanding labor demands, the programme skills recent graduates and prepares them to contribute effectively in the workplace. Discover how this initiative is creating a workforce that meets industry expectations and drives economic growth.More here;http://bit.ly/4mC2vpO
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Career advancement through the Work Readiness Programme in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 15/08/2025
Edwins Maseruka joined Yopsa Ltd with no experience—now he leads the collections team. Rhonah Nafuka thought she had strong soft skills until training showed her gaps, transforming how she works as an accountant. Moses Byaruhanga, an ICT officer, gained coding expertise at Busitema University. Watch video here:http://bit.ly/4fzo87U
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Uganda on the Road to Better Health: Enabel donates vehicles for improved health access .
Sharon IBENU | 14/08/2025
One of the biggest challenges facing Uganda’s health sector is the lack of reliable transportation for health workers and essential supplies, which limits access to quality healthcare—especially in remote and underserved areas.To help address this critical gap, Enabel has handed over four vehicles to the Ministry of Health to strengthen the health system’s ability to reach those most in need. This support aims to ensure that timely and effective health services are accessible to all Ugandans, no matter where they live. The vehicles will help the Ministry of Health respond faster to emergencies, deliver medicines and supplies, conduct outreach and supervision activities, and ensure quality health services across the country. With better mobility, health workers will reach more people faster, leading to timely treatment and reduced deaths.For communities, this translates into faster access to care, timely interventions, and ultimately, a reduction in disease morbidity and mortality. The vehicles will play a crucial role in supporting quality assurance activities, responding to epidemics, outreach activities, emergency response, and routine supervision, all of which are vital for a resilient health system. This hand-over is part of the long-standing partnership between Enabel and the Ministry of Health, built on a shared goal to strengthen health systems, ensuring quality services reach every corner of Uganda. "These vehicles have come at a critical time when the health sector is under increasing pressure to serve all communities,” said Mr. David Katabarwa, Principal Assistant Secretary at the Ministry of Health. “We thank Enabel for the continuous partnership in strengthening health services across the country.” Imakit Richard, Quality Assurance Expert at Enabel, noted that these vehicles represent more than just transportation. They symbolize Enabel’s ongoing commitment to partnership, progress, and impact. “By investing in the tools and resources that empower our partners, we are helping to build a stronger, more responsive health system. This handover is a testament to what can be achieved when partners and government institutions work hand in hand, guided by a common purpose”
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Saving Mothers’ Lives: How Virtual Reality is Transforming Midwife Training in Uganda .
Sharon IBENU | 14/08/2025
Maternal mortality remains a significant public health challenge in Uganda, with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) standing out as one of the leading causes of preventable maternal deaths according to the 2022/23 Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDS) report. Despite ongoing efforts to improve maternal health outcomes, many health workers—especially those in rural regions face barriers to accessing up-to-date, practical training on managing life-threatening complications like PPH. To address this critical gap, Enabel, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has introduced Virtual Reality (VR) technology to train midwives in the Rwenzori and Busoga regions. Health workers in Enabel-supported health centers are now using VR headsets to learn and practice essential skills for managing PPH, equipping them with hands-on experience that can help save lives. Even with more mothers giving birth in health facilities and improvements in clinical guidelines, PPH remains a big challenge. This shows the need for new solutions that help midwives not only learn the right procedures but also apply them quickly and effectively during emergencies. The VR training focuses on the EMOTIVE procedure—Early detection, Massage, Oxytocics, Tranexamic acid, IV fluids, and Examination. This method is based on evidence and helps midwives manage heavy bleeding after childbirth step by step. With VR headsets, they can practice in a realistic, risk-free environment, repeating the procedure as many times as needed. Through interactive simulations, trainees experience real-life scenarios, make critical decisions, and refine their skills in managing PPH. This hands-on approach not only boosts confidence but also ensures that midwives are better prepared to act swiftly and effectively when faced with real emergencies. Rita Niwamanya, the National Treasurer of the Uganda National Midwives Association and a member of the national safe motherhood experts committee, noted that the VR device is an excellent tool that improves how midwives think and act in emergencies. It helps to strengthen their decision-making, problem-solving, and hands-on skills needed for medical procedures. Marion Kainza, a nurse at Bukuku Health Center IV, shares a similar view. She highlighted that practicing with VR technology allows midwives to use their hands in a realistic, safe setting, helping them refine their techniques before working with actual patients, thereby improving the quality of care to mothers and newborns. “Empowering midwives with practical, hands-on training is essential to reducing maternal mortality,” says Okello Ambrose, Digitalization for Development Officer at Enabel. “VR technology enables us to scale up training efficiently, reaching more health workers across different locations while maintaining high-quality and consistent learning, which is vital for building a resilient health system.” Enabel and the Ministry of Health remain committed to ending preventable maternal deaths in Uganda. With each simulation, every skill mastered, and each life saved, Uganda moves closer to a future where childbirth is a moment of joy, not loss.
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Building Stronger Leaders for Better Health Training in Uganda.
Sharon IBENU | 14/08/2025
Strong leadership is the backbone of any institution and in Uganda’s health training schools, it can mean the difference between producing well-prepared graduates or sending under-trained professionals into the Health Sector. A recent self-assessment at Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery, Hoima School of Nursing and Fort Portal College of Health Sciences revealed pressing gaps in leadership and governance. Weak internal communication, unclear decision-making, and ineffective delegation were slowing down operations, creating confusion among staff, and ultimately affecting the quality of training and services. When leadership falters, graduates are less equipped to deliver quality care to the communities they serve.In response, Enabel, through the WeTrain4Health project, designed a targeted leadership and management training programme for key staff from the three institutions. The training includes modules such as “Foundations of Delegation”, “Segregation of Duties” and "Applying Mentorship and Support Supervision.” The sessions are interactive and practical, focusing on helping leadership teams understand their roles, communicate more effectively, and build systems that promote accountability and continuous improvement. Kate Kamanda, Principal at Fort Portal College of Health Sciences, noted how the training had helped them rethink leadership with the institution. “Previously we had challenges in delegation and leadership. However, the training has equipped us with practical tools to delegate effectively, communicate clearly, and foster a culture of accountability. I am confident that these new skills will not only strengthen our institution but also enhance the quality of training we provide to our students.” Hannah Nayoga, the Project Manager for the WeTrain4Health project at Enabel, explained that building leadership capacity is essential in transforming the health sector. “Effective leadership not only improves day-to-day operations but also creates an environment where staff feel empowered, students receive quality training, and communities benefit from better healthcare service and ultimately outcomes.” At Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deputy Principal Kobusinge Juliet said that the training had helped their team to see the importance of mentorship and defined roles. “By improving our internal processes and support systems, we are better positioned to nurture competent, confident health professionals who will make a real difference in our communities.” Through investment in leadership development, Enabel is not just addressing immediate operational challenges but is also laying the foundation for sustainable institutional growth. Strong leadership and good governance are essential for creating an environment where staff feel valued; students are well-trained, and communities ultimately benefit from higher standards of care.
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Saving for Health: A Lifeline for Ugandan Families
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 14/08/2025
Health expenses remain one of the most significant financial burdens for many households in Uganda. While saving groups such as SACCOs and Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) have helped families manage various costs, few specifically focus on health-related expenses. This gap leaves many vulnerable to unexpected medical bills, especially pregnant mothers who require timely and safe deliveries. Enabel’s “saving for health” model addresses this challenge by encouraging families, particularly mothers, to set aside savings dedicated to health needs. By promoting this targeted saving strategy, Enabel is helping communities improve their financial preparedness for medical care, making access to health facilities more affordable and reliable—particularly in areas where health insurance coverage is limited.
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Saving Mothers’ Lives: Tackling the Three Delays in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 14/08/2025
In Uganda, maternal mortality remains a pressing challenge, with an average of 16 mothers dying every day during childbirth. These preventable deaths are often linked to what health experts call the “three delays” — the delay in making informed health decisions to seek care, the delay in physically accessing a health facility, and the delay in receiving adequate medical attention once at the facility. Our current development programme addresses these barriers through an integrated approach that places mothers at the heart of care. We are empowering women and families with the knowledge to make timely health decisions, improving transport and infrastructure to bring care within reach, and strengthening health systems to deliver safe, high-quality services. By targeting the root causes of maternal mortality, we are working to give every mother the chance to survive and thrive.
