Skilling Karamoja youth into self-employment

Hamza, 28 started navigating life on his own so early having lost his mother and receiving little support from his dad. By the age of 10, Hamza was already making chapati (a local street food) to raise money for his school fees. Despite his determination, he eventually dropped out of school. Like many youth, he found himself in a cycle of low-paying casual jobs, limited opportunities, and supporting his young family became a daily struggle.

In 2024, Hamza joined the Irish funded Vocational Education and Skilling Project (VESP) for youth in Karamoja which is implemented by AVSI Foundation. Although he initially hoped to join the bakery cohort, the spaces had already been filled, he settled for welding and metal fabrication a decision that turned out right for him. Hamza embraced the training. He learnt how to weld and fabricate doors, windows, beds, and cooking stoves, among several other items. Beyond the technical skills, the life skills training helped rebuild his esteem and self-efficacy. Upon completion of his training, Hamza was retained at the vocational institute as an employee earning UGX 20,000 per day. In addition, he received a start-up kit that included a compressor, generator, grinder, welding machine, and fabrication materials.

Hamza has transitioned into fulltime self-employment, trains other young people and plans to start other income streams. He plans to purchase land, construct a permanent home for his family and is determined to support his children’s education and to build a stable future for them.

“I am very happy that I can take good care of my family and I am determined to expand my business, train and employ more youth but most importantly build a stable future for my family,” he says confidently.

About the programme

Since 2016, Ireland has supported technical and vocational training in Karamoja, with over 5000 young people mostly female benefiting from quality training. This youth skilling programme aims at increasing employment opportunities and key trades supported include tourism and hotel management, construction, agriculture, plumbing, welding, hairdressing, and mechanics. It is implemented by AVSI Foundation, Institute for International Cooperation and Development (C&D), the local government and vocational institutions in Karamoja.