Achan Victoria arrived in Uganda’s Imvepi Refugee Settlement in May 2017 when she settled in Terego District after escaping conflict in South Sudan’s Yei county. In Terego District, she lives with her five children and 11 extended family members. Achan’s husband, a farmer, remained in South Sudan.
A New Start: Joining the DANIDA Graduation Project
Life in the settlement was difficult. Achan separated from her husband, who stayed behind in South Sudan, and struggled to support her large family. She took on various income-generating activities, like baking bread and roasting maize, but the income was never enough. Everything changed in August 2022 when Achan joined the DANIDA Graduation project. With a monthly asset transfer of UGX 150,000/=, Achan was able to feed her family, save, and invest in a new business – a small retail shop.
Building a Business: Facing Challenges and Finding Success
Starting her business wasn’t easy. Even with the retail shop, Achan needed to start another business to reach financial resilience. Achan’s first attempt at poultry farming faced setbacks, but with help from DRC and CEFORD, she learned to manage her business better. Now, her retail shop earns a daily profit of UGX 5,000/=. Her poultry business has brought positive changes, enabling her family to eat more regularly, meet basic needs, and even afford stress-management resources. Inspired by her grandfather’s poultry farm, Achan aspires to expand her business, facing challenges with determination and seeking mentorship.
Looking Ahead
Achan’s life has changed significantly. Her business has brought financial stability and renewed her sense of purpose. Her profits have helped her pay for her family’s basic needs and her children’s school fees. Her business has been a source of joy and motivation. She dreams of a future where her hard work continues to improve her family’s life.
A Story of Change: Achan’s Journey
Achan Victoria’s journey shows how challenges can be turned into opportunities. With support from the Danish Refugee Council, Trickle Up, and CEFORD, she has transformed her situation and become a source of hope for her family and community. Achan’s story is a reminder that with determination and support, even the toughest circumstances can lead to success.
This story is from the Building Self-Reliance and Resilience in West Nile project implemented by Danish Refugee Council, CEFORD, and Trickle Up in Imvepi Refugee settlement, Terego District, 2022 – 2024, This story was originally written by Monday Albert Hakin and Jerry Kiwanuka.
