Joy and excitement filled the air as Nakabaale Youth Horticulture Cooperative Limited officially launched its offices in Nakabaale Village, Nakabaale Parish, Kyanvuma Town Council, Luuka District.
On the 26th of September 2024, the cooperative celebrated the successful opening of its office and veterinary shop, marking a major milestone after making significant profits from their operations.
The cooperative, which began with a small group of just six people in 2024, has now grown into an organization with over 500 youth members from various parts of Luuka District. It was officially registered in January.
Mukasa Korea, the village chairperson, praised the cooperative, calling it one of the best initiatives in fighting youth unemployment. He highlighted how what started as a casual project in his community has now turned into a powerful force for improving the lives of many young people.
Mukasa emphasized that the cooperative’s efforts have brought national attention to the area through trade and commerce. He urged local residents to continue supporting the cooperative and providing the necessary resources, as this would help attract more NGOs and even government support, including from the President, to help these visionary youths fulfill their dreams.
Mr. Kagoda Fredrick Jonathan, the initiator of the project, shared that it was difficult to achieve this success, but with God’s will and perseverance, they made it happen.
Kagoda explained that the cooperative’s main goal is to uplift and transform the youth, helping them to focus on productive activities instead of wasting their time and resources on unprofitable ventures or politics.
“With the evidence of success today, I believe we have made it,” Kagoda said, despite the numerous challenges they have faced and continue to face.
He called upon more young people, both inside and outside the cooperative, as well as those employed in low-paying jobs, to join the cooperative. By doing so, they can become their own bosses, acquire valuable skills in agriculture, including vegetable and fruit farming, poultry, and animal husbandry.
Kagoda also expressed his gratitude to the NGOs and the Luuka District administration for their cooperation and support in advancing this cause. He specifically recognized Heifer International, which, alongside Haifa Uganda, has supported the cooperative through training programs in livestock management, agribusiness, and sustainable agriculture. These contributions have enabled many members to diversify their income sources and strengthen their farming practices.
In interviews with some of the cooperative members, they expressed their appreciation for the continuous support they have received from Haifa Uganda. This support has included the provision of seeds, expert advice, and access to ready markets for their produce. Members also acknowledged the impact of Heifer International’s involvement, which helped introduce new farming techniques and opportunities for income generation through livestock and poultry farming.
