The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Limited has facilitated the skilling of youths from project-affected households as part of the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for socio-economic earning and self sustenance. 

The beneficiaries are from districts of Hoima, Kakumiro, Kyankwanzi, Kikuube and Mubende and the initiative is part of the company’s commitment to empower affected households through a livelihood restoration program, aimed at restoring, support transition and improving their livelihood by utilizing available resources for post-resettlement.

Addressing journalists at the graduation in Mubende district, Eileen Baguma, the Human Resource and Communication Director at EACOP says that these vocational skills are intended to boost members of these affected households’ capacity to earn an income and improve their resilience that may arise after displacement through self-employment or getting paid employment. 

Baguma adds that of the 754 students graduating from affected households in Hoima, Kakumiro, Kikuube, Kyankwanzi and Mubende districts, 249 are female students and they completed three months of vocational training and one month of internship.

She disclosed that they have received skills in the disciplines of Tailoring & Garment Design, Welding, Building and Construction, Carpentry and Joinery, Motor Vehicle and Motorcycle Mechanics, Hairdressing, Catering and Electrical Installations and they will receive starter kits that suit their specific vocational programs to start their journey to employment.

Meanwhile, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kakumiro, Maj. David Matovu has applauded EACOP for such an initiative that helps to decrease youth unemployment.

By Charles Katabalwa

18 Dec 2024

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