Stories
September 3, 2025 • 3 min read
James Lomago, once a feared gang leader in Uganda, transformed his life through GOAL Uganda’s Markets for Youth Programme. With training in farming and group dynamics, he formed a successful youth farmers group, inspiring his community and former gang members. James’s story highlights the power of belief, support, and the transformative impact of the programme.
James Lomago, a 29-year-old from Nachele village in Moroto District, Uganda, was once the feared leader of a notorious gang. His life took a dramatic turn when he led his gang to vandalize the Apostle of Jesus School. Emmanuel Angella, a teacher at the school, called James in to speak with him after the event. Expecting confrontation, James was surprised when Emmanuel spoke to him with care and respect, introducing him to Gudie Leisure Farm, a skilling partner of GOAL Uganda’s Markets for Youth Programme. Out of respect for the teacher, who showed James’ lenience and support, James decided to join the programme.
Discovering Purpose
In 2023, James joined the Musas PELA Group and underwent training at Gudie Leisure Farm. He learned about vegetable farming, poultry keeping, and group dynamics. This training was more than just acquiring skills; it was a journey of self-discovery. James realised his potential and decided to change his life completely. He formed the Lolem Tuke Youth Farmers Group with 16 members, including 10 women and 6 men. They secured idle community land for farming, which was a significant step for James, who had once built a life taking from the community.
Overcoming Challenges
The group’s initial farming efforts faced challenges due to prolonged drought, resulting in a poor harvest. However, this setback did not deter James. With support from the Markets for Youth programme, he innovatively secured access to a school well for irrigation, using the group’s savings to purchase necessary materials. This irrigation scheme allowed the group to farm year-round. They divided the community land into small plots, practising stagger planting of cowpea leaves. This technique ensured continuous harvests, with each member earning UGX 30,000 (approx. €7.32) weekly from their plots.
Expanding Horizons
James’s success in farming extended beyond vegetables. He started a poultry business, which provided additional income. With his earnings, he purchased two acres of land, planning to expand his farming ventures. James’s transformation from a gang leader to a successful farmer and community leader inspired many, including his former gang members. He invited them to group meetings, showing them the positive changes in his life and encouraging them to follow suit.
Reflecting on Change
Reflecting on his past, James believes he would have faced a grim fate if he continued his criminal lifestyle. He recalls the constant fear of being hunted down and the suffering his family endured due to his actions. James emphasises that his transformation was not due to punishment but because someone believed in him and showed him his potential. He now discourages mob justice and advocates for positive ways of reprimanding.
Today, James is a role model in his community, demonstrating the power of change and the impact of the Markets for Youth Programme. He comfortably provides for his family and continues to inspire others. James’s story is a testament to the transformative power of training, support, and self-belief. It highlights how the Markets for Youth Programme helps youth discover their purpose and achieve fulfilment, going beyond mere economic growth.
