By Nanteza Ruth Walusimbi
KAMPALA
BRAC Uganda on Thursday 23rd October 2025, launched a shs17.4 billion (USD 5 million) project aimed at transforming the lives of 3,300 poor households in the Busoga sub-region through asset transfer, skilling, and financial inclusion.
The launch of the project at Protea Hotel in Kampala, was attended by key stakeholders from government ministries, the private sector, and Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) from the targeted districts.
The Scaling Graduation in Peri-Urban Areas Project, a 27-month initiative, will be implemented in the districts of Luuka, Iganga, and Bugiri with the aim of promoting sustainable socio-economic development by empowering women-headed households and strengthening family resilience.
Speaking during the launch, BRAC Uganda Country Director, Spera Atuhairwe, said the project builds on BRAC’s five decades of experience in poverty alleviation through its globally recognized Graduation model.
“It is a well-tested model that empowers people through mindset change, skills, assets, and access to financial services so they can move out of poverty sustainably. “Said Atuhairwe.
Atuhairwe explained that the intervention focuses on entire households rather than individuals, with special attention given to women as entry points for change.
Project Manager Joseph Kabanda said the program targets peri-urban populations who are often overlooked by traditional poverty alleviation models.
He noted that Busoga was selected because of its persistently high poverty levels, adding that the model will be adapted to the region’s unique economic and social context.
“Busoga remains one of the regions with the highest poverty rates in Uganda, we will begin with a market assessment to identify viable economic ventures, followed by skilling, daily coaching, and linkage to financial institutions, including BRAC Bank.” Noted Kabanda.
Kabanda added that the program aims to ensure that by the end of two years, participants have food security, savings, and at least three productive assets, while improving hygiene and sanitation at the household level.
Representing the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Commissioner Bernard Mujuni applauded BRAC for championing a comprehensive and inclusive model aligned with Uganda’s national development priorities.
“This project provides holistic, climate-sensitive, and time-bound interventions that enable households to transition towards sustainable livelihoods, resilience, and social inclusion,” Said Mujuni.
He emphasized that the initiative complements government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Women Entrepreneurship Program, and Youth Livelihood Program.
