Our Programs

Background

Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 75% below the age of 30. While this presents a great potential for growth, many youths are trapped in poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, early marriages, and limited access to education and healthcare. This crisis has created a generation of "hopeless youth" vulnerable to crime, exploitation, and lost opportunities.

The Arm Stretch Foundation Africa Ltd. recognizes the urgent need to respond by equipping young people with life skills, mentorship, and opportunities that will transform their despair into hope and productivity.

Problem Statement

Despite numerous government and non-government interventions, a significant number of Ugandan youth remain marginalized due to:

• High levels of unemployment and underemployment
• Limited access to vocational and entrepreneurial training
• Psychosocial challenges including substance abuse and crime
• Lack of mentorship and career guidance
• Weak linkages to available opportunities in business and employment

Without urgent interventions, Uganda risks losing a whole generation of young people who could otherwise contribute meaningfully to national development.

Project Goals & Objectives

Overall Goal: To restore hope and empower vulnerable youth in Uganda to become productive, self-reliant, and responsible citizens.

Specific Objectives:

1. To provide vocational and entrepreneurial training to 5,000 disadvantaged youth by 2027
2. To establish mentorship and psychosocial support programs in at least 10 districts
3. To create awareness campaigns on drug abuse, crime, and early marriages
4. To link trained youth with employment and small business opportunities

Proposed Activities

• Conduct skills development workshops in tailoring, carpentry, ICT, agriculture, and crafts
• Establish mentorship hubs led by successful professionals and community leaders
• Run nationwide sensitization campaigns on radio, schools, and community centers
• Facilitate access to start-up kits and small grants for youth enterprises
• Build partnerships with private sector and government programs for job placement

Conclusion

The #SaveTheHopelessYouthInUganda initiative is a timely response to the challenges facing Uganda's young population. With strong partnerships, this project will transform hopelessness into opportunity, restore dignity, and contribute significantly to national development.