By Yanjanani Mendulo

Chiradzulu, April 16, Mana: Park street Conventional Savings Loan and Investment (PACOSALI) Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization has launched a two-year “Youth Rise” project in Chiradzulu District with the aim of equipping young people with technical skills and access to financial resources to improve their economic wellbeing.

Speaking during a recent District Executive Committee (DEC) meeting, PACOSALI Foundation, Regional Coordinator and Technical Officer for the Southern Region, Trino Movete, said the project targets all 10 traditional authorities in the district where the organization will engage the youths in technical and vocational skills.

“This project will introduce business skills and support Village Savings and Loans (VSL) groups with K26 million in loans to help youths establish small-scale enterprises,” said Movete.

He added that key focus areas for skills development include; welding and fabrication, carpentry, and bricklaying and other trades that are meant to enable beneficiaries to earn income.

“We are responding to the challenge of unemployment. Through these trainings and loans, community members, especially the youth, will have opportunities to better their lives,” he added.

Chiradzulu District Council, Community Development Officer, Lovemore Kachala, commended PACOSALI Foundation for introducing the project, saying the initiative has the potential to transform livelihoods in the district.

“We are seeing positive changes as more people engage in savings and income-generating activities. This project has come at the right time and will enhance what is already taking shape in our communities,” added Kachala.

Youth Rise project is part of the foundation’s broader efforts to promote inclusive economic empowerment to reduce poverty through practical skills development and access to financial services.