economy 16 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Busoga Youth Embrace 'Ghetto Project' for Economic Empowerment and Crime Reduction
A government initiative, launched by President Museveni, is providing financial support and skills training to thousands of unemployed youth in Uganda's Busoga sub-region, aiming to combat crime and foster economic development. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/youth-bank-on-ghetto-project-to-fix-crime-politics-of-busoga-5497904
In the Busoga sub-region of Uganda, thousands of young people are finding new avenues for success through the ‘Ghetto Project,’ an initiative aimed at alleviating unemployment and curbing criminal activity. Launched nationwide with a focus on financial inclusion and job creation, the project has provided critical seed funding to youth groups, enabling them to establish and grow various enterprises.
One such success story is the China Town Ghetto workshop in Kaliro Town, where young men like Joshua Muyirima are transforming raw metal into window frames, earning a sustainable income. Previously involved in menial jobs, Muyirima and his colleagues received Shs500,000, which allowed them to transition into owning their own fabrication business. They are now seeking further investment to expand their operations and train more young people.
The initiative’s launch in November 2025 (activities commenced then, though the project was launched earlier) comes at a time when Busoga faces significant challenges with crime. Police reports highlight high incidences of theft, assault, and other offenses across several districts within the region, often linked to unemployed youth. Project coordinators believe that providing economic opportunities and skills is crucial to diverting young people from criminal paths.
While some observers suggest the project also carries political motivations, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 general elections, its organizers insist the focus is on genuine empowerment. The project distributes funds through local Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs), with over Shs1.2 billion disbursed to 12 SACCOs, benefiting 5,000 youth in its initial phase. Loans range from Shs200,000 to Shs5 million, with a six percent annual interest rate, intended to be a revolving fund.
Youth have ventured into diverse projects, including metal fabrication, agriculture, and hospitality. Early reports suggest a positive impact, with participants claiming a reduction in criminal activities and an improvement in their livelihoods. While official crime statistics are pending, anecdotal evidence points to the project’s effectiveness in fostering a sense of hope and opportunity among the region’s disaffected youth.