Emyooga programme helps Alice Asiimwe transition from struggling shopkeeper to successful poultry farmer, inspiring others.

Alice Asiimwe, a resident of Nyarusozi Village in Fort Portal City, has experienced a remarkable transformation through the Emyooga program.

Struggling to make ends meet as a retail shop owner, Asiimwe took a bold step in 2020 by securing a Shs400,000 loan through the Nyarusozi Women Restaurant Owners Association, a SACCO under the Emyooga initiative.

With this modest amount, she ventured into poultry farming, starting with just 100 chicks.

"Joining an Emyooga SACCO was a game changer for me," Asiimwe shared during an exchange visit hosted by the Microfinance Support Centre.

Over the past four years, her poultry venture has grown exponentially. "I started with 100 chicks and have multiplied them to hundreds," she reflected, highlighting her journey from financial instability to becoming a successful commercial farmer.

Asiimwe's story is not unique. Other beneficiaries in Kabarole, like members of the North Division Women Entrepreneurs Emyooga SACCO, are also witnessing significant transformations.

This SACCO focuses on teaching vocational skills to school dropouts and children during holidays, while also engaging in income-generating projects such as poultry farming and arts and crafts.

"Our SACCO empowers women and youth with skills that change lives," said Clare Dorcus Kasande, the chairperson of the SACCO.

The success stories from Kabarole have also inspired others, including beneficiaries from Kampala Rural, who visited the region to learn best practices. The exchange visit also highlighted the achievements of the Kibale East Market Vendors SACCO.

"Returns from our businesses have transformed the socio-economic stature of our households," said Sofia Namukasa, chairperson of the SACCO.

As more people like Asiimwe continue to benefit from the Emyooga program, the future looks promising for small-scale entrepreneurs across Uganda.