Mike and Ronald’s journey has not been a smooth one. From spending nights in shrubs because that’s what their job required, to sleep by the roadside, this was far from the life they envisioned when they left their home in Kayunga. But it is the reality they found themselves in on the streets of Kampala.
Like many young people facing hardship in a new environment, they turn to drugs as a coping mechanism. But the two brothers didn’t let their situation define them. Instead of folding their hands in pity, they hit the ground searching for manual jobs. Eventually, they found work at a poultry farm in Kagoma, coincidently owned by a good friend of mine (Obuyisi bw’omu founder). It was during one of my many random visits to the farm that I first met Mike and Ronald.
Over time, I connected with them because of their strong work ethic and resilience. Life seemed to be taking a positive turn until COVID-19 hit. The farm owner lost his business, and sadly, that meant Mike and Ronald were again out of work. These were difficult times for everyone, but we remained in touch.
When we started Obuyisi Bw’omu Initiative (OBI), I approached them and shared our mission of empowering young people with employable skills. They were excited and eager to explore the opportunities we offered. After hearing about the different vocational paths available, they expressed interest in farming, an area they already had some technical know-how in.
That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter.
With support from OBI, we hired 5 acres of land in Luwero for two planting seasons. They successfully grew maize in the first season, but couldn’t proceed with the second because the landowner reclaimed the land after seeing its potential. Undeterred, they searched elsewhere and secured 7 acres where they planted rice. Despite harsh weather interruptions, their crop is nearly ready for harvest.
Their journey marked by grit, perseverance, and hard work—aligns perfectly with OBI’s mission to empower young people and transform communities.
Looking ahead, OBI envisions establishing a demonstration farm where Mike and Ronald can serve as peer mentors training and inspiring other youth by sharing their knowledge and experiences in farming. Their story is a living testament that with the right support, young people can rise from difficult circumstances and become agents of change in their communities.