Mukono District and Thrive Together Initiative Launch Training Program for Lower Local Government Councils in Nama Sub-County to Curb Unemployment Using Local Resources.

Nama Sub-County, Mukono North:
In a bid to combat unemployment and promote self-reliance, Mukono District Local Government, in partnership with the Thrive Together Initiative – Raising Communities, Enhancing Lives based in Migo Kabembe, Kyampisi, has rolled out a transformative community training program targeting local leaders and residents in Nama Sub-County. The initiative brought together participants from six parishes Kasenge, Namubiru, Katoogo, Buliki, Namawojolo, among others to equip them with hands-on business skills and entrepreneurial knowledge using locally available resources.

Presiding over the official launch, Nama Sub-County Chief Mr. Nsubuga Louis delivered a passionate call to action, urging participants to embrace hard work and abandon vices such as theft. “We must fight theft and encourage our youth to work and not grab what they haven’t earned,” he said, stressing the need to build a culture of honesty and industry among the youth.

Mr. Ntegge Kenneth, Principal Commercial Officer of Mukono District, inspired the gathering by portraying Nama as a blueprint for rural economic transformation. “If anyone wants to define business, let them look at Nama Sub-County,” he declared.

He introduced practical, low-cost ventures such as pineapple drying, which allows farmers to preserve surplus produce and earn income throughout the year. “You don’t need millions to start. Use what surrounds you,” Mr. Ntegge advised, advocating for the use of cottage industries to spur economic growth at the grassroots.

Ms. Najuma Zamu, Commercial Officer of Mukono District, emphasized the power of creativity and self-initiative in entrepreneurship. Sharing her personal journey, she narrated how her side businesses in horticulture and clay flower pots have enhanced her income. “These businesses are low-cost to start but highly rewarding,” she said, encouraging participants to explore small but viable income-generating activities.

Despite the energy in the room, Mr. Ntegge confronted a common hurdle expecting facilitation before attending community training programs. “Lunch and transport are nothing compared to the skills you walk away with. Let’s stop this mindset,” he challenged, urging a shift toward valuing knowledge over handouts.

He also took the opportunity to correct misconceptions about the naming of Namanve Industrial Park, questioning why it is often referred to as "Kampala Industrial Park" despite being located in Mukono and Wakiso districts.

Ssalongo Mwanje Haruana cautioned against being overly ambitious with limited capital, while Ms. Spacioza Nahola cited poor record-keeping as a major downfall for small enterprises.
Sheik Abasi Mujumba decried increasing insecurity, which he believes hampers business activity. In response, Mr. Ntegge called on local leaders to revive community vigilance and security systems.

The training concluded with remarks from Ms. Nantongo Caroline, Vice Chairperson of Nama Sub-County, standing in for LCIII Chairperson Mr. John Bosco Isabirye. She applauded the initiative as a “life-changing opportunity for the community,” thanking the district leadership for bringing practical knowledge closer to the people.

“These trainings help polish our community's business ideas and give them a path to self-reliance,” she noted, encouraging participants to apply what they had learned and become change agents in their communities.

The Nama Sub-County training initiative stands as a testament to what can be achieved when local governments and community-based organizations work hand in hand. By focusing on practical skills, local resource utilization, and mindset change, the program has set the foundation for a more resilient, enterprising, and self-reliant population. With continued mentorship and support, the seeds planted in Nama could grow into a model of rural transformation not just in Mukono, but across Uganda.