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Rogers Manishiimwe his vegatable garden.
My name is Rogers Manishiimwe, and in 2018, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Makerere University.
As someone who had faced countless setbacks in securing employment, I had always harbored the dream of starting my own business. Yet, as a social science graduate, I encountered numerous barriers, particularly in understanding microfinance. I struggled with limited financial literacy and a lack of knowledge about various financial products. This hindered my ability to qualify for loans, potentially depriving me of the opportunity to kick-start my entrepreneurial journey.
Joining the United Persons with Disabilities (UPDS) proved to be a turning point in my life. Through expert-facilitated training sessions, I gained invaluable knowledge in financial literacy including vetting lenders and developing responsible financial habits. Motivated by the valuable lessons I learned and the constant encouragement from my peers, I embarked on my entrepreneurial dream.
Through the launch of the Twezimbe project, which organized us into a cooperative, I secured a microcredit that I utilized to establish my own vegetable garden on an unused piece of family land. Specializing in high-demand crops such as tomatoes and greens, my business not only caters to my personal needs but also paves the way for advancing my studies and supporting my siblings.
Looking back, I am indebted to my comrade, Mr. Harunah Damba, whose unwavering dedication swiftly mobilized us to join the project. His persuasive communication skills, emphasizing the profound benefits of joining UPDS and its pivotal role in our development and empowerment, inspired me to become a member, a decision I will never regret.