From Grassroots to Greatness: How One Woman Is Transforming Her Community in Uganda
In the heart of Uganda, where the red dirt roads wind through lush green landscapes, a quiet revolution is taking place. It’s not led by politicians or funded by international organizations. Instead, it’s driven by the determination of one woman—Nakato Namugga—who is proving that even the smallest actions can create ripples of change.
Nakato, a 32-year-old widow and mother of three, lives in the rural village of Kisoga, just outside Kampala. After losing her husband, she struggled to provide for her family alone. But in 2019, everything changed when she attended a local workshop on cooperative farming. Inspired, Nakato rallied the widows in her community to pool their resources, hire land together, and grow food not just for their families but also for sale.
At first, the idea seemed impossible. Many widows were skeptical, but Nakato’s determination was unwavering. She gathered a small group, and together they rented a plot of land. They planted beans, maize, and vegetables, using simple, low-tech irrigation methods like recycled plastic bottles and drip systems. Slowly, the land began to yield a bountiful harvest. The widows not only fed their families but also sold surplus crops at the market, earning much-needed income.
Word of their success spread quickly. More widows joined, and the group grew into a cooperative of over 30 women. They named it “Tusituke”—a Luganda word meaning “Let’s Rise.” Together, they negotiated better prices for their produce and invested in community projects, like building a small nursery school. In 2021, they harvested enough maize to buy a second plot of land, expanding their operations. They also started a savings group, allowing members to take out loans for emergencies or small businesses.
Nakato’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Limited water access, unpredictable weather, and societal expectations have tested her resolve. But she remains undeterred. “When I see the smiles on my children’s faces and the progress in my community, I know it’s all worth it,” she says. Her work has not gone unnoticed. In 2022, Nakato was recognized by a local NGO for her contributions to sustainable development and women’s empowerment.
Nakato’s story is a testament to the power of grassroots action. She may not have a fancy title or a large budget, but her impact is undeniable. Her vision for the future is simple: to see every widow in her community thrive. “If we work together and support each other, there’s no limit to what we can achieve,” she says. As Nakato tends to the cooperative’s fields, she dreams of a day when her community will no longer depend on handouts but instead harness its own potential to create lasting change. And with every seed she plants, she’s one step closer to making that dream a reality.