In a world where adversity often seems insurmountable, I have learned that empowerment is the key to unlocking our true potential. My journey with the Safe and Inclusive Cities project has shown me that when we are empowered, we can uplift others, creating a ripple effect of positive change that transforms our entire communities.
In the densely populated Katwe Lufula Zone 1, a neighborhood notoriously known for high crime rates and social challenges, a sense of urgency propelled a group of 17 young individuals, led by Mayajja Nasifu, to take bold steps towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment. This community, burdened by unemployment and poverty, often forces residents into difficult circumstances just to survive.
In 2022, the Lufula Together We Can initiative emerged as a beacon of hope, recognizing the need to unite the community. Faced with a rising number of young people, teenage mothers, school dropouts and drug abusers, we chose a daring path—one that aimed to educate, empower and transform lives. Our mission is tailored to uniting the community, offering sex education to young mothers, equipping teenagers with skills, small-scale businesses, and combating both stigma and substance abuse.
Through relentless advocacy and intervention efforts, we have touched countless lives and inspired positive transformation. Many young people who were once caught up in gang activities have reclaimed their lives, thanks to the tireless dedication of our team.
The Safe and Inclusive Cities project, spearheaded by Plan International in partnership with ACTogether Uganda and the National Slum Dwellers Federation came at a critical juncture for us. At the time, we were grappling with a myriad of challenges, including financial constraints, inadequate leadership skills, and limited advocacy knowledge.
Through the project’ comprehensive trainings and mentorship programs, we gained invaluable insights and tools to navigate these obstacles. The capacity-building initiatives empowered us with knowledge and practical skills, enabling us to address pressing community issues more effectively.
As a team, we have benefited immensely from booster grants and capacity-building programs. These resources have empowered us to stand tall against the challenges we face. Individually, I received a booster grant that helped expand my chapati business, significantly increasing my daily savings and financial stability.
Beyond individual success , our group received a grant that fueled our advocacy campaigns. This support allowed us to provide counselling services to vulnerable youth who included teenage mothers and former gang members. We also launched sexual health awareness campaigns and strengthened group projects such as liquid soap production, bakery, and books making.
One of our most significant achievements was securing office space, a move that cemented our presence and legitimacy within the community. This milestone not only gave us a physical base for operations but also fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment among our members.
Today, we stand as a testament to resilience and transformation. The Safe and Inclusive Cities project has elevated our social capital within the entire Makindye region, establishing us as a reputable community-based organization—LUFULA TOGETHER WE CAN SAVING GROUP. We are proud to be fully registered and certified, a status that has amplified our advocacy efforts.
Through various platforms, we successfully secured a Youth Livelihood Fund from the government, enabling us to further invest in our initiatives. We are deeply grateful to our partners who have mentored and supported us every step of the way.
Our dreams remain ambitious and boundless. As a team, we envision partnering with other community-based organizations to expand our advocacy work and create an even safer, more inclusive environment for our youth. We aim to become a leading voluntary organization in our community, championing positive change and fostering a culture of safety and inclusivity.
Our story is far from over. With every challenge we overcome and every life we touch, we move closer to realizing our vision of a brighter, safer, and more united community. We are proof that with resilience, empowerment, and unwavering determination, transformation is not only possible but inevitable.
Written by Lutakome Benon, KYCTV- Lubaga Division
