Akello Florence: A Story of Strength, Sacrifice, and Hope

From Sarah Namunana and Serenity

When Akello Florence lost her mother at just 15 years old, her world changed overnight. As the eldest of five siblings, she suddenly became responsible for her family—without the means to provide even the basics like food, school fees, or medical care. She had to drop out of school and take on odd jobs and farming work to keep her younger siblings alive and cared for.

But Florence was determined not to give up. She began attending meetings of the Iganga Women’s Poultry Group, where she learned the basics of poultry farming. The poultry group, which actively supports women’s empowerment in the community, received support from the El Cantare Foundation (ECF). There, she took a small first step—with just 10 chickens.

That small start has grown into a livelihood. Today, Florence raises 100 chickens. The poultry business provides daily income through egg and chicken sales, helping her cover basic needs such as food, soap, and clothing. Most importantly, she can now contribute to her siblings’ education, topping up the scholarship support from ECF with her earnings.

Florence is especially proud that she can now pay the family’s bills herself. “I am independent,” she says with quiet strength. “This is my job.”

Among the children she cares for is Suzan, her younger sister, who attends school thanks to the ECF scholarship. Florence beams with gratitude as she talks about Suzan’s progress. One of her brothers, unable to continue school, has joined a vocational training program and now works as a mechanic. Another sibling is currently in Senior Two. Their youngest sibling, who is disabled, remains at home but under Florence’s care.

Her dream? “I want my siblings to study up to university or technical school and be able to get jobs after their studies,” she says. Her vision is not only of survival but of long-term transformation.

To other young women facing hardship, Florence offers this wisdom:

“Always draw lessons from difficult situations, and use them to empower yourself for a better future.”

Akello Florence’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, community support, and small beginnings that grow into lasting change.

She is not only caring for her siblings—she is building a future for them.