By Our Reporter
TESO
Over 1,300 young people in the Teso sub-region have received 8,000 one month-old improved chicks from Farm Africa, a non-governmental organisation, in a move aimed at reducing youth poverty through commercial poultry farming.
Farm Africa over the weekend distributed the improved chicks to youth beneficiaries across Katakwi, Amuria and Kapelebyong districts as part of its efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods and increase household incomes.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Regional Coordinator of Farm Africa, Julius Esanyu, said many young Ugandans remain trapped in poverty because they concentrate on searching for white-collar jobs instead of embracing agriculture and other hands-on income-generating activities.
Esanyu noted that the organisation is encouraging young people to view farming as a business capable of transforming their lives and communities.
He revealed that a total of 8,000 chicks were distributed to 1,300 beneficiaries, with Katakwi receiving 3,000 chicks, while Amuria and Kapelebyong each received 2,500 chicks.
Esanyu added that Farm Africa not only provides startup support but also equips beneficiaries with practical skills in poultry management to ensure the projects succeed.
He urged the youth to expand their poultry enterprises and use the opportunity to create sustainable sources of income.
Beneficiaries welcomed the support, saying it offers a practical solution to poverty by providing productive assets instead of loans.
They expressed optimism that continued support of this nature would empower more young people to become financially independent and improve their household livelihoods.
Village-Based Adviser Vincent Okiror encouraged the youth to seek knowledge without expecting allowances, emphasizing that skills and hard work are key to overcoming poverty.
He reminded them that poverty is one of the toughest battles to fight and urged them to take advantage of opportunities while they are still energetic and able to work.
The organisation will continue supporting youth groups with training and agricultural enterprises as part of its broader mission to promote economic empowerment across the Teso sub-region, Esanyu said.
