MTN Uganda Fuels Vocational Training in Kabarole with UGX 15.4M Boost

MTN Uganda’s Corporate Social Responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, has made a significant contribution to the Empowering Single Mothers and Deprived Children in Education (ESMDCE) project in Kabarole District, donating vocational training equipment valued at UGX 15.4 million.

This support is part of MTN’s Changemaker initiative, which is committed to fostering economic empowerment and improving educational outcomes for vulnerable communities.

ESMDCE, founded in 2023, focuses on providing single mothers and underprivileged children with access to skills training and education, two key barriers to economic mobility in Uganda.

The donation will benefit 71 women, equipping them with the tools necessary to launch tailoring businesses, while 135 children will receive school fees and scholastic materials to support their education.

The donation includes a range of vocational training tools: three industrial machines, an overlock machine, a baby lock machine, 10 foot-pedal machines, semi-industrial machines, a cupboard, a flat iron, sewing threads, sewing needles, and a variety of sewing materials.

For the women, these resources will provide the skills needed for self-employment, while the children will be able to continue their schooling—critical steps in breaking the poverty cycle.

Robert Kugonza, founder of ESMDCE, said MTN Uganda’s support will help transform the lives of the vulnerable population.

This support will equip the beneficiaries with practical skills and educational opportunities that will shape their futures. For many, this is the first step towards financial independence and the chance to change the course of their lives.

– Robert Kugonza, Founder, ESMDCE

Andrew Tusubira, Regional Commercial Head – West at MTN Uganda, emphasized that the telecom company is committed not only to ensuring everyone enjoys the benefits of a modern, connected life but also to promoting a life of dignity and opportunity for all.

This partnership reflects our belief that empowerment goes beyond just providing resources; it’s about creating sustainable opportunities that uplift entire communities. Together, our ambition is unstoppable.

– Andrew Tusubira, Regional Commercial Head – West, MTN Uganda

Tusubira said that in this second cohort of the MTN Changemakers Initiative, under the MTN Foundation, MTN Uganda is investing UGX 500 million in 25 projects countrywide, supporting organizations that are driving change in key sectors such as education, health, and economic development.

In addition to ESMDCE, MTN Uganda has extended support to pediatric cancer care at the Bless A Child Foundation, education programs under the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, and vocational training through the Hands of Hope Skilling Centre, among others.

More initiatives are planned, including support for Kalangala Home for Children with Special Needs, the Bushenyi Carpentry Project, and water access projects in Lira and Soroti.

Last year, MTN Uganda, through the MTN Changemakers initiative, invested UGX 500 million in 25 community-driven projects.

These efforts are part of MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 strategy to address social inequalities while contributing to the country’s economic and social development.