The Blennerhassett Family Foundation of Manitoba has granted the Marquis Project, a Brandon-Westman-based international development organization, $1500 toward the first phase of a project to help young adults in a remote, disadvantaged part of Uganda build small businesses.  Marquis will contribute $1000.  A little money goes a long way in these situations.

Thirty youth, 16 to 25 years old, have formed a group in Kijwenge Village, Nalweyo sub-county, to develop employment opportunities for themselves rather than relocate to large urban areas where poor job prospects and poverty also await them.  Agricultural in the area does not bring in enough earnings to create sustainable livelihoods.

With electricity now available in their local area, these youth hope to become economically self-sufficient by establishing shops that offer tailoring, hairdressing, bicycle and motorcycle repair, and window and door manufacturing, which currently are not available nearby.  Training and mentoring will be provided by local adults in skills and business management.

The Blennerhassett Foundation has praised the Marquis Project for its small-scale, on-the-ground projects that bring a tangible benefit to its overseas partners.

David Gamey of Strathclair, MB a recent recipient of Marquis’ Global Citizenship Award, will oversee the project.  More information is available from David at (204) 365-5350.

– 30 –