Beatrice Shukuru – A mother re-writes her future from Agriculture innovations.

In the quiet village of Kavule, Kyangwali Refugee Settlement lived Beatrice Shukuru, a dedicated mother of five. For years, she carried the weight of providing for her family with very limited means. Saving money was almost impossible, her income was inconsistent, and meeting daily household needs often felt overwhelming. With each passing term, she worried about whether her children would stay in school. Though hardworking, Beatrice felt stuck her hopes for a better future seemed distant.

Her turning point came when the Uganda Change Agent Association (UCAA), with support from CARE International Uganda, introduced a series of livelihood and skills-based interventions in her community. Curious and determined to change her situation, Beatrice joined the program. There, she was trained in financial literacy, modern farming techniques, and poultry rearing knowledge she had never had access to before.

Armed with new skills, Beatrice ventured into poultry farming. What began as a small start soon grew into a meaningful source of income. The sale of chicks and eggs brought in steady earnings, and for the first time in her life, Beatrice developed a saving culture. Being able to save consistently empowered her to pay her children’s school fees without fear of them dropping out.

Her farming journey also took a positive direction. She learned to use organic frass fertilizer derived from black soldier fly larvae, an affordable and highly effective solution. With this innovation, the health and productivity of her maize and bean gardens changed dramatically. Bigger harvests meant food security at home and surplus that she sold to earn additional income.

But Beatrice’s transformation didn’t end with her household. Her confidence grew, and she naturally stepped into a leadership role within her community. Today, she trains neighbors, supports fellow women, and encourages families to practice saving and adopt improved farming methods. She has become proof that change is possible even when resources are few. Beatrice is no longer defined by struggle. She is now financially empowered, agriculturally skilled, and a trusted community trainer. Her story is a powerful reminder that when women are equipped with knowledge and opportunity, they not only uplift their families but they uplift entire communities.