The European Union has committed Shs3.9 billion (€750,000) towards a new Youth Empowerment Project in Uganda’s West Nile region. The three-year initiative, launched under the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, aims to promote vocational skills development, job creation, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement among youth.
Targeting young people in the districts of Madi-Okollo, Nebbi, and Zombo, the project will be implemented by Woord en Daad in partnership with the Uganda National Apiculture Development Organization (TUNADO).
Speaking at the launch, Karolina Andrzejewska, Team Leader for Governance and Social Inclusion at the EU Delegation to Uganda, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to inclusive development.
“This project aligns with EU priorities both in Uganda and globally: youth empowerment, economic inclusion, and participation in governance,” Andrzejewska said. “It goes beyond job creation. We aim to unlock potential, build resilience, and foster entrepreneurship to ensure no youth is left behind.”
The initiative will provide skills training to 1,200 underemployed and unskilled youth, with 60% of the beneficiaries being female and 5% persons with disabilities. The training covers a range of trades, including welding, tailoring and design, bakery, hospitality, carpentry, and phone repair.
TUNADO Executive Director Dickson Biryomumaisho emphasized the importance of linking vocational skills to real economic opportunities.
“Not every young person is cut out to be an entrepreneur. Our Entrepreneurship Booster Platform is designed to both support start-ups and connect skilled youth to employment,” he said. “We’re focused on practical skills development and enterprise growth to empower youth in West Nile.”
Beyond technical training, the project will strengthen civil society and youth-led organizations, equipping them to engage in governance and influence policy at all levels.
Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, welcomed the EU’s investment and reiterated the government’s ongoing support for youth-focused programs.
“Through the Parish Development Model, we are allocating 30% of resources specifically to young people to promote inclusive growth,” Baryomunsi noted.
