Masaka: young population and an agriculture-based economy
Masaka is a city that relies economically on agriculture and is located near Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa. The majority of its population is aged below 25 years, and close to 70 per cent of its residents belong to the Baganda ethnic group.
Vision and Strategy
We hope to become a model learning area in the East African region, offering support to other emerging cities in the form of human resource and advice. We see lifelong learning as a tool to improve public administration; encourage the participation of all stakeholders; boost the mobilization and use of resources (especially for underprivileged members of the community); promote individual empowerment and social cohesion; and ensure that every development agenda makes provision for environmental protection and conservation.
Policies, Plan and Implementation
Sustainability and health
Masaka has used a range of mass-media platforms to promote public awareness on the importance of proper waste management and personal hygiene. The city’s planning department has implemented open green spaces to ensure that the municipality is both liveable and sustainable, and has introduced a system of zoning for housing settlements to facilitate waste management and respond to emergencies.
Equity and inclusion
The city has set up a public library and established funds for youth, women, people with disabilities, older people and other vulnerable groups. Masaka is working towards procuring learning/teaching aids for the visually impaired and deaf learners, and has started an NGO forum that coordinates learning and instructional programmes for underprivileged members of society with partner civil society organizations.
Decent work and entrepreneurship
- Masaka is making strides in the fight against all forms of illicit business by providing those who used to engage in these activities with vocational and entrepreneurship training that equips them to pursue socially acceptable livelihoods.
Good practices
Plastic recycling plants
- Plastic recycling plants have provided employment to women, especially from less privileged families, and helped to create a plastic-free environment.
Metal workshops
- The workshops ensure that metallic objects are collected and hazardous items are eliminated. The artisan community recycles these materials to make implements for both domestic and commercial use.
Learning-oriented social clubs
- NATURE is one example of a social club bringing together active members from both within and outside the school setting. The clubs are facilitated by Masaka city council to ensure adherence to environmental protection regulations.
‘I will see to it that Masaka becomes a hub of lifelong learning activities, and I hope to mobilize resources for free adult learning and skills training for people without formal education. I appreciate diversity and inclusiveness.’
Ms Florence Namayanja
Mayor
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