30 refugee entrepreneurs equipped to digitalise businesses in Nakivale
The localised programme focuses on establishing an online presence, trading through digital marketplaces and improving internal business operations using mobile technology.
Rosette Kyomuhendo, an International Labour Organisation (ILO) trainer, takes refugee entrepreneurs in Nakivale Settlement, Isingiro district, through a session during the Digitalise Your Business (DYB) training. (Photo by Fred Turyakira).
_________________ Rose Mashimbo, an International Labour Organisation (ILO) trainer, guides young entrepreneurs on how to market their businesses during the Digitalise Your Business (DYB) training in Nakivale Settlement, Isingiro district. (Photo by Fred Turyakira).
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has equipped 30 young refugee and host-community entrepreneurs in Nakivale Settlement with digital business skills to help them thrive in the modern economy.
The three-day training, which concluded on November 9, 2026, introduced the Digitalise Your Business (DYB) module, an initiative under the ILO's global Start and Improve Your Business framework. It was held at Nakivale Settlement Base Camp in Isingiro district.
The localised programme focuses on establishing an online presence, trading through digital marketplaces and improving internal business operations using mobile technology.
"Through the very phones they hold, many participants have already opened accounts, displayed their products, and secured surprise sales right here during the training," Katenderi explained. "They can now reach larger markets without incurring crippling transport costs."
The training emphasised sustainability through individual action plans and peer mentorship. To maximise its impact, trainers conducted a needs assessment before the workshop.
"We customised content to bridge operational gaps, focusing heavily on WhatsApp catalogues," said Rose Mashimbo, a fellow DYB trainer. "Instructors also registered 26 participants on Isoko Uganda, a digital trade marketplace designed to empower youth and women in cross-border trade."
David Katenderi (left), an International Labour Organisation (ILO) trainer, demonstrates a digital marketing application to refugee entrepreneurs during the Digitalise Your Business (DYB) training in Nakivale Settlement, Isingiro district. (Photo by Fred Turyakira).
Moise Ndanzu Katsirika, a restaurant manager at Base Camp in Nakivale, said the training had completely changed his perspective on the potential reach of his business.
"I used to think my business could only reach locals in Base Camp," Katsirika shared. "Now I realise I can reach people far away in other settlement sub-zones like Rubondo. I also learned to take professional product photos by managing the background properly to boost my brand."
Kamikazi Bahali Rollande, who makes leather shoes and bags in New Congo, Base Camp 2, said she attended the training to overcome stiff local competition and challenges in sourcing raw materials.
"It's interesting because I can get more customers and connections, not only around Uganda but also outside the country," Rollande said. "Creating personal online accounts will enrich my business."
The training is part of a broader national scale-up spearheaded by the ILO and the Business Development Service Providers Network (BDSPN), which aims to equip 1,500 entrepreneurs with digital skills across Kampala, Isingiro, Arua, Madi-Okollo and Terego districts.