Obongi RDC Hasaka Commends Stromme Foundation and Palm Corps for Empowering Youth Through Skilling.
Obongi District, Uganda – The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Obongi Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka has lauded Stromme Foundation and Palm Corps for their efforts in equipping 91 Ugandan and refugee youth with marketable skills, aligning with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government’s vision of free education and poverty alleviation. The commendation came during the graduation ceremony of the youth, who completed a six-month training program in Itula subcounty, Obongi District.
The training, funded by Stromme Foundation and Palm Corps, focused on practical trades such as hairdressing, tailoring, phone repair, carpentry, motorcycle repair, and poultry rearing. Graduates included both Ugandans and South Sudanese refugees, underscoring the initiative’s commitment to inclusivity.
RDC Hashaka emphasized the critical role of skilling programs in reducing unemployment and fostering economic independence. “Stromme Foundation is fulfilling its mandate of fighting poverty by providing young people with relevant skills for job creation,” he stated. He further noted that the partnership complements the NRM’s manifesto, which prioritizes free education and Pan Africanism. “By offering services to Ugandans and non-Ugandans alike, Stromme and Palm Corps embody the spirit of Pan Africanism,” he added.
The ceremony was attended by key local stakeholders, including Assistant RDC Umuhoza Habiba Furaha, Secretary for Education Hon. Azubu Michael, Assistant Settlement Commander Caesar Atiku, and Refugee Welfare Council Chairperson Anthony. RDC Hashaka urged the newly skilled graduates to leverage their training to create jobs and uplift their communities.
Ms. Kelik Tom Gladys, Team Leader of Palm Corps’ Moyo Office, highlighted the program’s scale and future goals. “We invested over 80 million Ugandan shillings in this initiative, covering training costs and skill kits,” she revealed. She confirmed that Stromme Foundation and Palm Corps plan to expand their efforts, targeting more youth and refugees in 2026.
The collaboration highlights the NRM government’s strategy of partnering with local and international organizations to address youth unemployment and support vulnerable populations. By bridging the gap between education and employment, the initiative aims to foster sustainable economic growth and social cohesion in conflict-affected regions.
As the graduates embark on their new journeys, the event serves as a testament to the transformative power of skilling programs in empowering young people and building resilient communities.
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