A farm in Uganda has empowered about 500 street youths by teaching them aquaculture skills and providing employment opportunities.
Masheda Mixed Farm, a subsidiary of Masheda Holdings Ltd, launched the initiative in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The programme has given hope to formerly homeless youths, enabling them to earn a stable income and contribute to Uganda’s economy.
At the height of the pandemic, lockdowns left many without food or shelter, prompting Masheda Holdings Ltd to support vulnerable street children.
“We conceptualized this initiative in 2020 when unemployment and crime rates were alarmingly high,” Managing Director Mavin Lwasa said. “So far, Masheda Mixed Farm has directly impacted, skilled, and trained about 500 street youths under this program.”
The farm initially trained 300 street youths in various aspects of fish farming, from pond construction to fish harvesting and processing.
The success of the initiative led to an expansion, and today, 500 former street youths have been transformed into skilled fish farmers and factory workers.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this initiative is its ripple effect. Beyond just offering employment, Masheda Mixed Farm has empowered many of these youths to start their fish farms.
The company now sources fish from some of the youths who once relied entirely on its support, turning them into independent business owners.
“Some of them have started their ponds, and we source from them,” Mr Lwasa explained.
“This has created a sustainable income for them, allowing them to support their families and contribute to their communities. It’s a true example of socio-economic transformation.”
This programme has reduced crime rates, and Uganda’s aquaculture sector has also gained a skilled workforce that is driving growth in fish production and exports.
Masheda Mixed Farm, located in Buyala, Mpigi District, specializes in the farming of cut fish, a highly nutritious fish that is in high demand across Africa.
The farm’s initiative has set a powerful example of how businesses can play a vital role in social transformation.
Their efforts continue to change lives, proving that with the right opportunities, anyone regardless of their past can build a better future.
