news 7 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lango Skilling Hub Graduates Gain Shs550m SACCO Boost for Business Startups
Graduates from the Lango Zonal Presidential Youth Skilling Hub in Lira can now access Shs550 million in SACCO funding to buy startup tools, addressing previous capital shortages. The initiative supports over 1,200 vulnerable youths trained in vocational skills across the sub-region. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lango-presidential-skilling-hub-graduates-to-access-shs550m-sacco-funding-for-startup-tools-5416224
Vulnerable youths graduating from the Lango Zonal Presidential Youth Skilling Hub at Lira University will receive startup support through Shs550 million injected by State House into district SACCOs.
The hub, launched in 2020 and commissioned by President Museveni in January 2025, has trained about 1,200 people aged 18-35 across five intakes. Each of the nine districts, one city, and one municipality in Lango gets 21 slots per intake, totaling 240 trainees per cohort.
Previously, many graduates struggled to afford tools like sewing machines. Now, each district SACCO receives Shs50 million, allowing automatic membership and affordable loans for business launches, as explained by hub chairperson George Abdul.
The centre offers free six-month courses in skills such as tailoring, welding, carpentry, hairdressing, bakery, and leather processing. New programs in plumbing, motor mechanics, and electrical installation are planned for this year.
Trainees are selected by district committees verifying residency, age, and medical fitness, with no formal education needed. Assessments by the Uganda Vocational Training Assessment Board have aided opportunities like military recruitment, with over 100 placed recently.
Hub manager Harriet Daisy Amule reports over 60% success rate, with graduates starting businesses, gaining jobs in Uganda and abroad, or even employing others. Demand remains high, prompting calls for more slots.
Source: Daily Monitor