In a significant move to support the reintegration and economic empowerment of former Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) combatants, the Ugandan government has donated a state-of-the-art brick-making machine to returnees in the Rwenzori sub-region. The initiative, aimed at fostering income generation and poverty alleviation, was officially launched at Verina Gardens in Kasese Municipality. Local leaders and government officials praised the project as a critical step toward helping ex-combatants rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

The handover ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including Lt. Joe Walunsimbi, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Kasese, who commended the government’s commitment to supporting former combatants. “This donation is a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Ugandans, regardless of their past, have the opportunity to contribute positively to national development,” he said. Lt. Walunsimbi urged the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity and work hard to improve their livelihoods, emphasizing the connection between peace and economic stability.

Hon. Karim Baluku Kisembo, the Kasese District Secretary for Works and Technical Services, revealed that five acres of land in Rukoki had been allocated for the brick-making project. He called on the beneficiaries to protect the initiative and remain united. “This project is not just for you; it is for the future of your families and communities. Appreciate the government’s efforts and use this opportunity to change your lives,” he emphasized.

The brick-making machine, manufactured in South Africa, has a production capacity of up to 5,000 bricks per day. Henry Basaliza Araali, the Demobilization and Rehabilitation Team Leader for the Amnesty Commission in Kasese, highlighted the machine’s potential to transform lives. “This is a major investment, and if well managed, it has the potential to uplift many lives,” he said. However, Araali cautioned against tribalism, favoritism, and extortion, warning that such vices could undermine the project’s success.

The donation is part of the government’s broader efforts to economically empower ADF returnees in districts such as Kasese, Bunyangabu, Ntoroko, and Bundibugyo. Many of these individuals have faced significant challenges in reintegrating into society, including economic hardships and societal stigma. The brick-making project is designed to provide them with a sustainable source of income, helping them rebuild their lives and regain their dignity.

Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the government’s support, vowing to work together to ensure the project’s success. “This project gives us hope. With this machine, we can produce and sell bricks to sustain our families. We are grateful to the government and promise to protect what has been given to us,” one returnee remarked.

The initiative is not just about economic empowerment; it also aims to foster social cohesion and reconciliation. By providing former combatants with the tools to earn a livelihood, the government hopes to reduce the risk of recidivism and promote lasting peace in the region. The project also aligns with broader national efforts to address the root causes of conflict and instability, particularly in areas affected by armed groups like the ADF.

Government officials reiterated their commitment to monitoring and supporting the project to ensure its long-term sustainability. This includes providing technical assistance, training, and oversight to help the beneficiaries manage the brick-making enterprise effectively. The success of the project could serve as a model for similar initiatives in other parts of the country, where former combatants and vulnerable groups struggle to reintegrate into society.

The donation of the brick-making machine marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate former combatants. It reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of economic empowerment in fostering peace and stability. By investing in initiatives that provide tangible benefits to returnees, the government is not only addressing immediate economic needs but also laying the foundation for long-term development and social harmony.

As the returnees embark on their journey toward financial independence, the brick-making project stands as a symbol of hope and renewal. It is a reminder that, with the right support and opportunities, even those who have experienced the darkest chapters of their lives can rebuild and contribute to a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

The government’s initiative in the Rwenzori sub-region is a testament to its commitment to inclusive development and peacebuilding. By empowering former combatants to become productive members of society, Uganda is taking a crucial step toward healing the wounds of the past and building a more prosperous and united nation.