Uganda

"Other NGOs are like firefighters, they come and go but nothing changes. What our people need is mindset change, a way to save and use what they have. I like that Five Talents builds sustainability and is there for the long-term."
Bishop Joseph Abura, retired bishop of Karamoja, Uganda.

19,475

Cumulative Members

3,598

Current Members

% of Women

From literacy and livelihoods to peacebuilding and leadership, savings groups in Karamoja are helping families increase incomes, strengthen cohesion, and create a more hopeful future.

Jean Bizimana 2018 -Five Talents UK, Uganda 3304

Karamoja, Uganda’s most marginalised and fragile region, is still recovering from decades of conflict. It has the country’s highest rates of infant mortality, female genital mutilation (FGM) and lack of education. Research states that 53% of households in our target communities live below the extreme poverty line of $1.90 a day (PPP), with 84% surviving on less than $2.50 a day (PPP).

Uganda’s fast-growing population, averaging nearly six children per family, depends on subsistence farming. Yet rural communities continue to face significant financial and development challenges, including limited access to electricity, education and opportunity.

Our Programme in Karamoja

Five Talents’ partnership with Karamoja Community Development Trust (KCDT) began in 2016 and the programme launched in 2017. As well as the usual savings group programme (financial literacy and business skills training), the programme has incorporated functional literacy & numeracy training (for those identified as illiterate within the programme - c.600 members each year) and promotes gender equity and peace building throughout all programme activities.

Jean Bizimana 2025 - Five Talents, Uganda - 1615

In line with our commitment to sustainable, community-rooted financial inclusion, we launched a new savings programme in Karamoja. Over 1500 members in Karamoja receive literacy and numeracy training, business skills, and access to life-changing financial services.

Our work in Karamoja is delivered with Karamoja Integrated Development Services (KIDS), an experienced local partner governed independently from the church, ensuring programmes are community-led and sustainable. KIDS’ team of skilled community trainers empowers families to build brighter futures for their children.