Masereka Leo: From Struggle to Self-Reliance Through Agriculture

Masereka Leo, a resident of Kyangwali refugee settlement Nguruwe–Kyeya, lives with his family of five. For years, he faced persistent poverty-related challenges. Providing his household with adequate food and keeping his children in school was a daily struggle. The family survived on limited, unbalanced meals, and financial instability was a constant burden.

Everything began to change when Masereka received support from the CLIRK Project “Climate innovations for resilience in Karamoja and Kyangwali implemented by Uganda Change Agent Association (UCAA), Ubuntu Bwa Casalina, and CARE International in Uganda. With the knowledge and skills gained from the Climate smart agricultural trainings, he embraced improved farming practices and started making effective use of his land. Through vegetable growing, he now ensures that his family enjoys regular, nutritious meals, greatly improving their health and well-being.

Beyond meeting his family’s nutritional needs, Masereka’s vegetable garden has become a dependable source of income. The sale of surplus produce has enabled him to pay school fees, purchase household essentials, and reduce financial stress that once seemed overwhelming. His land which was once underutilized is now a productive resource contributing to both food security and economic stability.

Masereka expresses heartfelt gratitude to Ubuntu Bwa Casalina, UCAA, and CARE for the life-changing support. Today, he is not only able to sustain his household but has also become a source of inspiration within his community. His journey demonstrates that with the right guidance, skills, and determination, transformation is possible for anyone willing to take the first step.