Creating new opportunities

In a last-mile village in Sironko District, Judith, a 25-year-old mother of three, operates a retail shop and participates in a Youth Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA). Her current work builds on earlier experience in small-scale trade and showcases how access to savings and credit can support income diversification.

Before joining the VSLA, Judith ran a banana trading business, purchasing produce from local farmers and selling it in nearby markets. The business was affected by transport challenges. "I used to operate a matooke business, purchasing bananas from various farmers and then selling them for a profit in local markets in my village and nearby areas. However, I frequently incurred significant losses during transportation, particularly in the rainy seasons when transport costs were quite high," she recalls. After joining the Youth VSLA in 2025, Judith accessed savings and credit to start a retail shop. She combined personal savings with a loan to set up the business. "I utilised some of my savings to lease and renovate a small shop in my village. Additionally, I borrowed UGX 200,000 from the VSLA to purchase my initial inventory for the shop," she explains. "I pay UGX 150,000 annually for rent."

The group initially faced constraints due to limited funds, which affected access to loans. Members addressed this by increasing savings contributions and setting a two-week repayment period. "It took me longer to secure a loan from the VSLA due to our limited funds. However, as a group, we agreed to continuously deposit our savings and established a loan repayment period of two weeks," she says. The retail shop now provides a regular income. Judith saves UGX 10,000 weekly through the VSLA and contributes to household expenses. "I have been able to contribute to my children's school fees and cover some essential household expenses," she shares. She plans to expand her shop, making it the largest in her village.

In addition to her business, Judith grows maize, beans, and tomatoes, adding to her income sources. Her involvement with the VSLA has also evolved into a leadership role, with members selecting her to serve as a key holder for the savings box.

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