Nwoya Youths Abandon Gangster Life

A group of about 36 youths in Nwoya district who were formerly living a ‘gangster’ lifestyle have reformed and formed a saving group.

The group, mostly comprising of young men   aged 18-28 were operating in Anaka Town council, majority of them marijuana smokers and often involved in burglary and robberies.

The group recently, under the mobilization of Mr. Stephen Nyeko, a youth   councillor has since reformed and embarked on decent income generating activities

In an interview with this reporter, Mr. Nyeko noted that it was not easy to convince the youths to change their lifestyle and start living a normal life where they contribute positively to the growth of the Society.

‘’I started to convince these youths through their leader known as Kennedy Ojok alias ‘Otunge’ 30. It was not easy, but later I involved the Police CID, officer who talked to them and later they accepted to reform.’’ Said Nyeko.

He says the group has since formed a Sacco where they are able to save some money.

There are also plans to re-unite some of these former streets youths with their parents and relatives who are scattered across Nwoya district.

Mr. Nyeko appealed to Nwoya Leaders and Civil society organizations working in Acholi to come and support this    group.

The youths have already opened up a 1-acre farm where they want to plant various vegetable crops

Nwoya district Chairman, Hon. Patrick Okello   Oryema applauded the Youths for a positive transformation and promised them support.

“I advise these Youths to write a proposal for an Agricultural   Project so that they can be funded and supported in Agriculture,’’ Said Oryema.

Mr. Oryema also revealed that they are going to use these youths as an example, so that they also convince other street-connected youths in other Sub-counties in the district to reform.

‘’Some of these youths are out on the streets because of parental negligence, so we shall also use them to sensitize the Parents to take care of their Children.’’ Mr. Oryema added