William Otim, a resident of Atogwang Village in Awaliwal Sub-county, Soroti District, is a shining example of how government programs can transform lives and spur economic growth at the grassroots level.

In 2023, William was among the beneficiaries of the first phase of the Prosperity for Development Model (PDM), receiving a startup capital of 1 million Ugandan shillings. With a clear vision and determination, he chose to invest the money in sheep rearing, a venture he believed had great potential in his community.

“After receiving the funds, I decided to buy six healthy sheep. I used the remaining money to construct a shelter to protect them from the elements and predators,” William recalls. His careful planning and commitment to animal welfare soon began to pay off.

Today, William’s flock has grown from six to fifteen sheep, more than doubling in size within a short period. This success has motivated him to expand his farm further and turn it into a commercial enterprise, contributing to both his family’s income and the local economy.

“Growing the flock has not been easy, but with good management and dedication, I have managed to increase the number of sheep. My next goal is to scale up and make this a source of sustainable livelihood,” he says confidently.

William’s success story is not just personal it serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others in Awaliwal and beyond. He is now a vocal advocate for the government’s PDM program, encouraging more people to take advantage of the opportunities it offers.

“I urge my fellow community members to embrace the government’s PDM initiative. It provides a solid foundation for starting and growing businesses, especially in agriculture and livestock,” William advises.

The PDM program, aimed at empowering Ugandans through financial support and training, has seen many beneficiaries like William transform their lives. By promoting small-scale farming, the program aligns with national efforts to boost food security and reduce poverty.

William’s journey from a small investment to a thriving sheep farm exemplifies the impact of targeted government interventions when combined with individual effort and commitment. As he plans to expand his operations, he hopes to create employment opportunities and contribute to the economic development of Soroti District.

In William Otim’s words, “With support from the government and a hardworking spirit, anyone can turn their dreams into reality.”

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By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer