Stories
July 31, 2025 • 2 min read
Martin Ojok, a 32-year-old member of the Watwero Youth Group in Northern Uganda, has built a sustainable livelihood through poultry and mushroom farming. After an initial financial setback, he persisted and now has a profitable business, generating a steady income. Inspired by his mother, Martin expanded into oyster mushroom cultivation, supplying a major buyer in Kampala. His work is now empowering others through peer training and community engagement.
The Markets for Youth program, implemented by GOAL Uganda in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, aims to support young people to develop income-generating ventures through training, mentorship, and access to markets. In Kitgum District, Northern Uganda, the program collaborates with local partners such as MUCOBADI and the Agro Tourism Association to reach youth like Martin Ojok, equipping them with knowledge and tools to escape poverty through entrepreneurship.
Start Small, Aim High
Martin began his journey with limited capital but dreamed big and acted boldly. In 2023, he joined the Watwero Youth Group, a group that saves money and does business, formed by seven young people to fight poverty. Moved by how well the group did with the poultry farm, Martin saved UGX 1,500,000 (USD 395) to start his chicken farm. Though he lost some birds and got back only UGX 550,000 (USD 145), he didn’t give up.
“From my time with the group, I felt sure about the poultry farm because I saw the money they made. That’s why I kept going,” Martin said. Now, he has about 300 birds and gets a profit of UGX 1,000,000 (USD 263) each month, with the group helping him find buyers.
Diversifying with Mushrooms
Encouraged by his mother, Martin began growing oyster mushrooms. Even with doubts from people about farming mushrooms in Kitgum’s hot weather, he showed it could work with the right methods. The process was not easy, but he now makes UGX 1,800,000 (USD 474) every three months, about UGX 600,000 (USD 158) each month and has loyal customers who regularly buy his produce. Martin packs and sends the mushrooms at night to keep them fresh, showing his care for quality and standards.
Sharing Knowledge
Martin’s success has become a resource for others. He regularly hosts young people on his farm, offering hands-on training in poultry and mushroom farming.
“People come to my farm to learn, and I share with them so we all can make money,” he said. His work lets him pay for his kid’s school and help two nephews. His family’s diet has also improved, as they regularly consume the mushrooms, which have high nutritional value.
