USSIA in partnership PROJECT with the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), has successfully concluded a transformative leather training program under the
GROW initiative. The program, which ran from August 12th to August 23rd, 2024, focused on empowering women in the regions of Kamwenge, Isingiro, and Arua by equipping them with specialized skills in leather craft.
A total of 75 women—25 from each region—participated in the intensive training. The curriculum was designed to be comprehensive, covering all aspects of leather craft, including material selection, design, cutting, stitching, and finishing. The training also placed a special emphasis on leather shoe-making, equipping participants with the practical skills necessary to start their own shoe-making businesses or enhance existing ventures. The impact of this program has been profound.
As the training progressed, participants gained valuable hands on experience, which is expected to open new economic opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, and improve economic stability within their communities. The PSFU and USSIA are optimistic about the positive ripple effects of this initiative, anticipating that the skills acquired will lead to the creation of high-quality leather products and contribute to the economic empowerment of women in these regions.
As the program concludes, the participants are leaving with a strengthened sense of competence and the confidence to explore new business ventures, further enhancing their economic self-reliance. The success of this training marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to uplift women through skills development in Uganda’s leather industry.