Alebtong District Launches Presidential Skilling Enterprise Fund to Boost Youth Livelihoods

Alebtong District has rolled out the Presidential Skilling Enterprise Fund (PSEF), a government initiative aimed at empowering youth and accelerating the monetization of the local economy.

The fund, introduced under the directive of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and aligned with the National Development Plan IV, is intended to support graduates of Presidential Skilling Hubs in establishing sustainable income-generating ventures.

Speaking on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mathias Lutwama, said the programme will provide startup capital to skilled youth while promoting formalization of small enterprises.

“The fund is designed to help all graduates of the Presidential Skilling Hubs in Alebtong access credit financing for their businesses and transition into the formal economy,” Lutwama said.

He noted that eligibility for the fund is limited to individuals who have successfully completed training at the Presidential Skilling Hubs. Applicants are also required to join the Alebtong Presidential Skilling SACCO, which has been established to oversee the fund’s implementation.

The initiative targets seven priority enterprise categories: bricklaying, tailoring, carpentry, bakery, shoemaking, hairdressing and welding. Beneficiaries will receive financial support specifically earmarked for the acquisition of essential working tools and equipment.

Under the funding structure, carpentry graduates will receive sh1,356,000, welding sh1,115,000, shoemaking sh998,000, bakery sh707,000 and hairdressing sh705,000. Those in bricklaying and construction will receive sh309,000.

Lutwama emphasized that all funds will be directly deposited into beneficiaries’ personal bank accounts to ensure transparency and accountability.

He added that application forms are available at the district’s Commercial Department headquarters.

Government has already injected sh50m into the fund through State House, with officials indicating that additional funding will be provided based on the success of the initial phase.

The Presidential Skilling Programme is part of broader government efforts to equip youth with practical skills and integrate them into Uganda’s money economy.