Experiences by Group 7- Sharon, Gerald, Karoline and Cecilia

“What drives me is the change I can make for this person” –Monica-

And what drives us are these kinds of stories when we are racing around out in the field trying to catch the stories of Kampala’s social entrepreneurs. This, in addition to, a fantastic group spirit and collaboration! But doing interviews in Kampala’s heat can also be tiring:

Siesta-time!

 We, Sharon, Gerald, Karoline and Cecilia, are investigating the understanding of social entrepreneurship in Uganda and trying to find out what motivates these entrepreneurs. Our project has already taken us on several adventures in and outside Kampala, including a visit to Buloba where one entrepreneur has set up an additional business to his coffee roasting. By using agricultural residues such as g-nut (peanut) shells to make fire briquettes, he is not only conserving the environment, but also empowering women who help collect and supply the production.

 

Gerald and the G-nut shells

The next visit led us to Makerere campus where the “Muzungos” were surprised to find a community of approximately 500 support staff and families living inside the campus area (under rather precarious conditions). Monica, a very inspiring lady, is through her catering business, training and employing the community women in making ‘fireless cookers’. This not only provides them with an additional income, but also gives them a name and makes them feel important, when muzungos like Karo and Cecilia come to visit!   

Mary and Karo bonding, with the fireless cookers in front. Sharon busy documenting on the left. 

The group with Monica (in front) and two of her female collaborators

We are looking forward to a new week full of action and hopefully a lot of interesting interviews!