By Infora Media
Kampala – In a show of commitment to grassroots development, the Manager of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC), Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, today empowered youth and women from Kampala’s informal settlements, equipping them with tools and resources to transform their livelihoods.
The engagement, held at ONC headquarters in Kyambogo, brought together youth groups from several ghetto areas. Namyalo praised their resilience and loyalty, acknowledging their continued support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. She urged them to channel their energy into productive ventures that can sustainably improve their lives.
Highlighting the day’s impact, 20 brand-new motorcycles were handed over to selected youth groups, courtesy of businesswoman Maria Markh Honda. Each motorcycle, valued at over UGX 5 million, is intended to enable youths to venture into boda boda transport services and other income-generating activities. Markh Honda said her contribution is inspired by President Museveni’s long-term efforts to uplift Ugandans from poverty.
Namyalo also extended support to women in informal settlements, including sex workers often marginalized in society. Sewing machines, complete with accessories, were donated to groups such as Kiwa Group, Dancers Group, and Kabalagala Women Group, giving them the opportunity to start small tailoring businesses and earn a livelihood.
Youth groups involved in mechanics from Ndeeba, Kabalagala, and Kisenyi received toolboxes to strengthen their garages and improve business prospects.
Addressing critics, Namyalo defended her outreach, cautioning against those she termed “mafias” within government circles seeking to exploit ghetto youths. She emphasized that her focus remains on genuine empowerment, regardless of opposition or criticism.
“This initiative is part of the Office of the National Chairman’s broader strategy to support grassroots communities, enhance self-reliance among urban youth, and provide marginalized groups with the means to transform their lives,” Namyalo said.
The empowerment drive underscores ONC’s dedication to bridging political support with tangible development, ensuring vulnerable communities have access to tools that can secure their futures.