Kyenjojo, Uganda: Angelica Kaija, a midwife and former District Councillor in Kyenjojo District, is emerging as a symbol of resilience and economic empowerment after transforming a modest Emyooga loan into thriving agricultural enterprises despite living with a disability.
Kaija lost her leg following a snakebite in 1999, a life-changing incident that could have ended her dreams of financial independence. Instead, she chose to rebuild her life and pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Her breakthrough came through the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Emyooga SACCO in Mwenge South, where she accessed a UGX 1 million loan under the government’s Emyooga Programme.
She invested the funds in piggery and beekeeping projects, enterprises that have since become reliable sources of income and improved her household’s economic stability.
Today, Kaija is not only a successful entrepreneur but also serves as Treasurer of the PWD Emyooga SACCO, helping oversee financial management and supporting fellow members seeking to improve their livelihoods.
Speaking about her journey, Kaija says access to affordable financing through the Emyooga Programme enabled her to turn adversity into opportunity and create a sustainable source of income.
Her story reflects the broader impact of the Emyooga initiative, which seeks to increase household incomes by providing affordable credit and promoting enterprise development among organised groups across the country.
For persons with disabilities, programmes such as Emyooga continue to provide critical opportunities for economic inclusion, entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Local leaders say Kaija’s success demonstrates how targeted government interventions can help vulnerable groups overcome barriers, establish businesses and actively contribute to community development.
As her piggery and beekeeping enterprises continue to grow, Angelica Kaija remains an inspiration to many in Kyenjojo and beyond, proving that determination, coupled with access to financial support, can transform lives.
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