Poverty Graduation CHALLENGE; Uganda
PROVEN INTERVENTION TO BE DISTRIBUTED
Poverty Graduation Program
Learn more about the Poverty Graduation Challenge and why an evidence-based program that combines cash or asset transfers with mentorship and other forms of financial and social support helps graduate the ultra poor from poverty.
DISTRIBUTION MODEL INNOVATION
Jagguza Capital Enterprise empowers ultra-poor women in rural communities to escape poverty by building sustainable, climate-smart businesses through seed funding, skills training, and community-based support.
Jagguza Capital Enterprise will implement its pilot in Kasanda District, Uganda, using a group-based distribution model where 90 ultra-poor women are organised into 30 micro-business groups of three members each. Each group is paired with a trained local business mentor who delivers skills training, monitors progress, and provides ongoing coaching. Participants receive seed capital in two instalments, join business savings groups (BSGs), and are linked to financial institutions and local markets.
What sets Jagguza Capital Enterprise apart is its scalable, cost-effective model that leverages peer accountability and mentorship within group enterprises, increasing success rates while reducing operational costs.
The founding team is led by Nakabuye Joanitah, Executive Director, with a strong background in strategic leadership and rural development. She is supported by Sserunga Paul, Operations Manager with expertise in community engagement and logistics, and Justine Nanono, Finance Officer and Growth Catalyst with experience in financial planning and grassroots coordination. Together, they bring deep local knowledge, technical expertise, and a shared passion for empowering ultra-poor communities.
PILOT AND SCALING GOALS
Reach 90 beneficiaries within three months.
Distribute 30 proven interventions during the pilot.
Raise an additional USD 25,000 during the pilot.
FOUNDING TEAM
Nakabuye Joanitah - Executive Director
Nanono Justine - Finance Officer and Growth Catalyst
Sserunga Paul - Operations Manager