On Friday, MTN Foundation, the company’s corporate social responsibility division, donated UGX 15.4 million worth of vocational training equipment to the Empowering Single Mothers and Deprived Children in Education (ESMDCE) initiative in Kabarole District.
This assistance is a component of MTN’s Changemaker Program, which aims to improve educational outcomes and promote economic empowerment for marginalised communities.
ESMDCE was established in 2023 with the goal of giving impoverished children and single mothers access to education and skill development, two major obstacles to economic mobility in Uganda.
In addition to providing 135 children with school fees and academic supplies to aid in their education, the donation will help 71 women by giving them the resources they need to start tailoring businesses.
Read also: MTN partners with Airtel Africa to improve network access in Nigeria and Uganda
Donated vocational training equipment
Three industrial machines, an overlock machine, a baby lock machine, ten foot-pedal machines, semi-industrial machines, a cupboard, a flat iron, sewing threads, sewing needles, and various sewing supplies are among the vocational training equipment included in the donation.
In addition to allowing the children to continue their education, these resources will give the women the skills they need to work for themselves—two essential steps in ending the cycle of poverty.
According to ESMDCE founder Robert Kugonza, MTN Uganda’s assistance will improve the lives of those who are most in need.
“This support will equip the beneficiaries with practical skills and educational opportunities that will shape their futures. For many, this is the first step towards financial independence and the chance to change the course of their lives,” he said.
MTN’s commitment to empower underserved communities
Andrew Tusubira, Regional Commercial Head – West at MTN Uganda, emphasised that the telecom company is committed not only to ensuring everyone enjoys the benefits of a modern, connected life but also to promoting a life of dignity and opportunity for all.
“This partnership reflects our belief that empowerment goes beyond just providing resources; it’s about creating sustainable opportunities that uplift entire communities. Together, our ambition is unstoppable,” he said.
According to Tusubira, MTN Uganda is investing UGX 500 million in 25 projects nationwide as part of the second cohort of the MTN Changemakers Initiative, which is run by the MTN Foundation. These projects will support organisations that are promoting change in important areas like economic development, health, and education.
Along with ESMDCE, MTN Uganda has also provided support for educational initiatives run by the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation, vocational training at the Hands of Hope Skilling Centre, and paediatric cancer care at the Bless A Child Foundation.
Additional projects are planned, such as the Bushenyi Carpentry Project, the Kalangala Home for Children with Special Needs, and water access projects in Lira and Soroti.
Read also: MTN South Africa pioneers Africa’s initial satellite phone call
Previous MTN empowerment initiative
Through the MTN Changemakers initiative, MTN Uganda invested UGX 500 million in 25 community-driven projects last year.
These initiatives are a component of MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 plan, which aims to alleviate social injustices and support the nation’s social and economic advancement.