Caritas Nebbi boosts single mothers with piggery project, donates wheelchairs to PWDs

Nebbi: Caritas Nebbi, a faith-based organization under the Catholic Diocese of Nebbi, has launched a transformative piggery project aimed at improving the livelihoods of young single mothers in the Nebbi district.

The initiative provides an opportunity for small-scale subsistence farmers, particularly those facing challenging circumstances, to generate a steady income.

The project was initiated in Jupakenu village, Ayomu Parish, Jupangira Sub-County, where a group of 20 young mothers, members of the Anyim Lac Youth Women Group, have received large white exotic piglets for breeding.

These pigs were chosen due to their ability to thrive in smaller spaces, which is ideal for the beneficiaries who do not require large amounts of land. A well-furnished pigsty has been constructed to house the animals, ensuring they are kept in a conducive environment for growth.

According to Rev. Father Benedict Abiwekango Benson, the Director of Caritas Nebbi, the project was developed to give these young mothers, many of whom are living independently and shouldering the responsibility of raising their children, a second chance at life. He noted that some of the mothers had dropped out of school due to pregnancy or other challenges but are now being empowered with this initiative to rebuild their lives.

Piggery, known for its fast growth rates and high feed-to-meat conversion ratios, is an ideal business for these mothers. The pigs can breed twice a year and produce 8-12 piglets per litter, offering an opportunity to generate income quickly. Rev. Abiwekango is optimistic that with proper care and management, this project will significantly improve the beneficiaries’ financial stability.

The project is expected to expand over time, potentially benefiting other members of the local community. According to Uganda’s National Livestock Census, around 2.2 million households in the country keep pigs, with a growing demand for pork. The piggery project is part of Caritas Nebbi’s efforts to contribute to this thriving industry while providing hope and financial independence to the most vulnerable members of society.

Mildred Tekakwo, the chairperson of Jupangira Chapel, expressed her gratitude for the project, emphasizing her careful selection of the single mothers based on their specific needs. She believes the initiative will help improve their livelihoods significantly.

Another beneficiary, Scovia Anirwoth, who is also a mother, expressed her hope that the project will eventually help cover education expenses and provide capital for future business ventures. She also requested training on how to effectively manage the pigs for long-term success.

In addition to the piggery support, Caritas Nebbi also donated pig feed made from maize, small grains, and concentrates, which will serve as a start-up package for the beneficiaries. The organization also briefed the group on the proper feeding and management practices required for successful pig farming.

Emmanuel Oyirwoth, a field officer with Caritas Nebbi, is confident that with proper care, the piglets will multiply rapidly and significantly improve the economic conditions of the young mothers. Chris Mulindwa, a pig business consultant, highlighted the importance of feed supply, which accounts for approximately 80% of the production costs in pig farming, stressing that it is crucial for the success of the project.

Additionally, as part of its Christmas special package, Caritas Nebbi donated wheelchairs to several Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across the Diocese, furthering its mission of restoring hope to the most marginalized members of the community.

Rev. Abiwekango Benson affirmed that all of Caritas Nebbi’s projects are aimed at restoring hope and improving the livelihoods of the most vulnerable, with the piggery project being one of the key initiatives to provide a sustainable source of income for these young mothers and their families.

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