In the heart of the Rhino Camp refugee settlement in Uganda, the Uganda National Association for the Blind (UNAB) is making strides in promoting economic empowerment and inclusion among refugees with visual impairments. Through its Inclusive Livelihood Project, UNAB recently conducted a comprehensive training program for beneficiaries aimed at equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and resources to build sustainable livelihoods and improve their quality of life.
Skills Training and Capacity Building
The training program, tailored specifically for refugees with visual impairments, encompassed a wide range of skills and capacity-building activities. Beneficiaries participated in workshops and practical sessions covering topics such as vocational skills development, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and business management. These sessions provided invaluable opportunities for refugees to acquire new skills, enhance existing ones, and gain confidence in their ability to pursue economic opportunities.
Access to Resources and Support
UNAB understands the importance of access to resources and support in empowering refugees to achieve self-reliance and economic independence. As part of the training program, beneficiaries received access to resources such as assistive technologies, start-up kits, and microfinance opportunities to support their entrepreneurial endeavors. Additionally, UNAB provided ongoing mentorship and coaching to help refugees navigate the challenges of starting and managing their own businesses.
Promoting Inclusion and Community Engagement
Inclusivity is at the core of UNAB’s approach to empowering refugees with visual impairments. Throughout the training program, UNAB fostered an inclusive and supportive environment where refugees could share experiences, learn from each other, and build networks of mutual support. Beneficiaries were encouraged to actively participate in community activities and engage with local stakeholders to promote social inclusion and foster community integration.
Documentation and Monitoring
In addition to the training sessions, UNAB conducted documentation and monitoring activities to track the progress and impact of the Inclusive Livelihood Project. Beneficiary stories were documented to capture the experiences, challenges, and successes of refugees participating in the program. This documentation serves not only to celebrate achievements but also to identify areas for improvement and inform future programming efforts.
Looking Ahead
As the training program concluded, UNAB remains committed to supporting refugees with visual impairments in Rhino Camp Settlement on their journey towards economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. By providing access to training, resources, and support, UNAB aims to empower refugees to build sustainable livelihoods, overcome barriers, and create brighter futures for themselves and their families. As refugees continue to rebuild their lives in the settlement, UNAB stands ready to support them every step of the way, ensuring that they have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive and succeed.