Volunteers have been urged to carry out thorough research on the challenges affecting communities so they can address the real root causes rather than implementing projects that do not meet people’s actual needs.
The call was made by the Community Development Officer for Ggoma Division, Robina Kayaga, during the launch of the three-year strategic plan for TATCO Uganda, aimed at training youth and women in mindset change and environmental conservation.
Kayaga emphasised the importance of community-led development and encouraged volunteers and organisations to align their work with existing government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) to enhance sustainable development.
“When decisions are made from the bottom up, communities feel ownership of the programs,” Kayaga said. “But when projects are imposed from the top without consulting the people, turnout is often low because the projects do not reflect their real priorities.”
She appealed to NGOs and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) to work collaboratively and learn from organisations such as SERTCO, which actively involves communities in decision-making processes.
She also urged community members to embrace government initiatives targeting vulnerable groups, including UWEP, which supports women through economic empowerment programs.
During the same event, TATCO Uganda, one of the volunteer organisations operating in Ggoma Division, officially launched its three-year strategic plan. The organisation works closely with division leadership to improve community welfare, focusing on education, livelihood support, and bridging the learning gap between rural and urban learners.
Speaking at the launch, Kato Andrew, the Founder and Executive Director of Antitechs Training and Care Organisation (TATCO Uganda), said the organisation was established in 2013 to transform communities through mindset change and skills training.
He explained that the program will be implemented in Ggoma Division, parts of Mukono District, and Njeru in Buikwe District, with a target of supporting at least 3,000 youth and women over the three years.
Kato noted that special attention will be given to youth working in stone quarrying areas, who often lack alternative opportunities.
The Program Coordinator, Bukenya Denis Joseph, stressed the importance of prioritising community needs over organisational interests.
Robert Ocen, the Chairperson of the Board, said the roadmap will strengthen local capacity building and ensure the successful implementation of the four thematic areas.
Some residents who have benefited from TATCO Uganda’s programs shared testimonies of improved livelihoods and skills development, while also highlighting ongoing challenges that require continued support.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the community-driven approach will lead to meaningful and lasting change in Goma Division and the surrounding areas.
