The Busoga region in Eastern Uganda has long faced significant socio-economic challenges, with teenage pregnancy rates among the highest in the country. Many young mothers struggle to access opportunities for education and income generation, which often leaves them dependent on family or community aid. This cycle of dependency limits their ability to support themselves and their families, perpetuating poverty across generations. In particular, teenage mothers in this region face additional barriers to self-sufficiency, including stigma, a lack of vocational skills, and limited access to financial resources.

In response to these challenges, Humble Treats Foundation, in partnership with Beauty from Ashes, implemented a targeted skills development program for teenage mothers across Busoga. This initiative aimed to address the socio-economic and cultural challenges these young mothers face by empowering them with essential skills, financial literacy, and mentorship. Through this program, Humble Treats Foundation supported teenage mothers in overcoming poverty-related barriers, fostering a foundation for them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

1. To provide practical vocational skills to enhance economic opportunities
   The program offered hands-on training in trades with market demand, such as tailoring, craft-making, and hairdressing. This skills-based approach enabled the young mothers to develop income-generating activities, creating pathways to economic independence and allowing them to support their families sustainably.
2. To enhance financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills among participants
   Recognizing the importance of financial knowledge for sustainable empowerment, the program included workshops on budgeting, saving, and small business management. This training equipped the young mothers with the tools to make informed financial decisions and manage their income effectively.
3. To deliver psychosocial support and build resilience
   Given the unique challenges faced by young mothers, the program incorporated psychosocial support sessions led by trained professionals. These sessions addressed issues of self-esteem, resilience, and mental health, offering a safe space for participants to discuss their experiences and build a supportive community. This support was crucial for their emotional well-being and confidence in pursuing self-reliance.
4. To increase community awareness and reduce stigma
   A key component of the program involved engaging local leaders, families, and community members through workshops and awareness campaigns. By addressing cultural stigmas surrounding teenage motherhood, the program promoted community understanding, paving the way for a more supportive environment for these young mothers as they rebuilt their lives.
5. To establish connections with market networks and cooperatives
   Recognizing that skills training alone is insufficient, the program actively facilitated linkages to local markets, cooperatives, and support networks. These connections created immediate opportunities for participants to apply their skills and gain an income, enhancing their financial stability and enabling them to contribute positively to the local economy.

The program faced multiple challenges, highlighting the complexity of addressing entrenched social and economic barriers:

• High levels of stigma and cultural biases:Many young mothers reported feeling judged or excluded by their communities. This stigma made it difficult for some participants to fully engage with the program. The community awareness component helped alleviate some of these issues, though cultural change remains gradual.
• Limited initial resources and accessibility issues:Due to the rural nature of many villages in Busoga, accessibility to training centers and resources was limited. To address this, Humble Treats Foundation adapted a mobile training model, which allowed trainers to reach participants closer to their homes.
• Economic instability affecting market opportunities:Due to fluctuating economic conditions in the region, sustaining small businesses proved challenging. The program’s focus on market linkages and cooperatives provided some stability, though these hurdles underscored the need for ongoing support and resource provision.

Through this initiative, Humble Treats Foundation and Beauty from Ashes successfully empowered over 300 teenage mothers in the Busoga region with valuable skills, financial literacy, and the resilience needed to overcome their socio-economic challenges. Participants have since demonstrated an ability to manage small businesses, save income, and pursue livelihoods that contribute to their families and communities.

This program reflects Humble Treats Foundation’s commitment to sustainable change through holistic education, healthcare, and livelihood programs. By addressing the foundational challenges faced by vulnerable populations, the foundation continues to build pathways for self-reliance and brighter futures across Uganda.