Examining the implementation process of the youth livelihood program in Kawempe division, Kampala District

Abstract

This study sought to examine the implementation process of the Youth Livelihood Fund program in addressing unemployment rate among the youths in Kawempe division, Kampala district. It examined the extent to which program procedures were followed in implementing the program, the challenges faced by the youths in accessing services of the YLP, in order to suggest the possible recommendations for improving the livelihood program. A total of 60 primary respondents participated in this study. These were the youths, male and female aged 18-35 years who had benefited from the Youth Livelihood Program at the time of the study. In addition five key informants that included local council authorities and KCCA official (program implementers) participated as secondary respondents. The methods of data collection included the use of questionnaires with the youth beneficiaries and interviews with the key informants. Data was analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Qualitative data were analysed thematically with extensive use of quotations and narratives as evidences. Quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and presented in the form of descriptive statistics. Results showed that most of the program principles and guidelines were followed during the implementation of the Youth Livelihood Program. These include; identifying eligible beneficiaries, training of the youth before and after receiving funds, monitoring and evaluation among others. Some challenges however characterised the YLP implementation process; delayed release of funds, lack of feedback from monitoring teams, delayed maturity of the projects etc. Some recommendations were thus suggested; regular visits of the projects as a means for effective monitoring, case by case train of the youth beneficiaries, mass sensitization on the program content among other suggestions made.