By Emma Bwayo
MBALE
Young people across the seven districts that make up the Bugisu sub-region have been encouraged to join and support initiatives under the Bugisu Cooperative Union (BCU).
Barbra Wasagali, the General Manager of BCU, called on the youth to join lower primary cooperative societies and contribute to the development of Bugisu. She made the appeal during a meeting with a group of youth leaders from the region at her office on Tuesday morning, 8th April, 2025.
Wasagali emphasized the need to clearly define the role of young people in agriculture, particularly in coffee farming. She noted that the union is ready to partner with the youth in promoting and expanding coffee production.
She also highlighted ongoing efforts by the union to support young people through various initiatives, including an education bursary scheme and a sports tournament aimed at identifying and nurturing talent.
Wilson Lukaye, the Youth Councilor for Industrial Division, welcomed the initiative and expressed his commitment to mobilize fellow youth to engage in coffee farming and add value to the union.
Ayub Kahadi, the Vice Chairperson of the NRM Youth League in Mbale, also welcomed the invitation, saying it was the first time youth were being directly engaged by the union. He applauded the BCU management for recognizing the vital role of young people.
During the recent 64th Annual General Meeting (AGM), BCU Board Chairperson Hon. Nandala Mafabi warned dormant leaders of inactive primary societies that they risk being replaced, as the union continues to encourage the admission of young members.
BCU currently has 299 primary cooperative societies spread across nine zones in the Bugisu region.
