Stories
February 19, 2025 • 3 min read
In many parts of Africa, individuals with disabilities often face significant challenges, including limited access to education, employment opportunities, and social inclusion. These obstacles can create a cycle of poverty and isolation, hindering their potential to thrive. However, individuals like Ronald Ogwal are powerful reminders that determination and support can overcome these barriers.
Overcoming Doubts
Ronald Ogwal took a leap of faith when he enrolled in a tractor operation and maintenance training program offered by Shalom Ventures, a company specializing in agricultural tools and services. Shalom Ventures is a partner to GOAL’s Markets for Youth Program. Despite his physical disability, Ronald was undeterred in pursuing his dreams. His unwavering hope fuelled his determination to succeed. Ronald, a resident of Bar sub-county in Lira District, Northern Uganda, is a proud Bed Igen Youth Group member.
In November 2023, Ronald joined the training for tractor operators conducted by Shalom Ventures. Afterwards, he was placed at a garage in Lira City, where he applied his newfound skills. While at the garage, he learned to repair motorcycles, ox ploughs, and bicycles. Ronald recalls the scepticism he faced from some community members when he began the three-month training. “This job isn’t for you, how will you drive a tractor or even hold a wrench with your hands?” they jeered. Undeterred by their negativity, Ronald drew strength from his vision for the future and the support of his group members. He had also gained confidence through the Markets for Youth program.
Upon graduating in February 2024, Shalom Ventures provided Ronald and his fellow graduates with startup kits, including a wrench and a toolbox. Ronald borrowed UGX 500,000 (equivalent to €130) and UGX 1,000,000 (equivalent to €260) from his group to launch his own business. He established a garage and spare parts shop for motorcycles, ox ploughs, and bicycles. The shop has been profitable, generating at least UGX 30,000 (equivalent to €7.80) in daily earnings. “Initially, I wanted to drive a tractor, but my village had very few tractors, and it was difficult to find a job. Looking back, I believe that was a blessing in disguise because it motivated me to start my own successful business,” Ronald explained.
A Transformative Journey
Previously, Wezesha Impact, a civil society organisation partnering with GOAL under the Markets for Youth Program, had trained Ronald and his group members in business management. This training proved invaluable. Before participating in these training programs, Ronald lacked confidence in his abilities. He was idle and only farmed to provide food for his family. “Today, I’m proud of my journey because it proves that disability is not inability. I can now comfortably provide for my wife and children,” Ronald said with joy. Ronald advises young people with disabilities to seek knowledge and improve their skills continuously, emphasising that this is the path to success.
About the Markets for Youth programme
The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organisations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. It is one of the largest private foundations in the world with a mission to advance learning and promote financial inclusion to create an inclusive and equitable world. The Foundation was created by Mastercard in 2006 as an independent organization with its own Board of Directors and management. For more information on the Foundation, please visit: www.mastercardfdn.org
Young Africa Works is Mastercard Foundation’s strategy to enable 30 million young people, particularly young women, across Africa to access dignified and fulfilling work by 2030. To realise this vision, the Foundation aims to contribute to the development of strong education and training systems that prepare young people for work, effective labour markets that link young people to opportunities, and strong financial and key sector markets that drive productivity and create work opportunities.
