GROW Project Turns Job Seeker Farida Tusubira Into Employer

Through affordable financing, technical training and business support services, the project is enabling women to expand small businesses and enter sectors that were traditionally dominated by men.

One of the beneficiaries is Farida Tusubira, a determined entrepreneur from Kaliro Town Council, whose bicycle spare parts enterprise has grown into one of the most successful businesses in her community. She was previously a job seeker, but now she is a full fledged investor offering job opportunities to other members of the community.

Re-investing profits

Tusubira started her venture with only Shs100,000, running a modest shop selling bicycle spare parts. Through determination, discipline and smart reinvestment of profits, she gradually expanded the business and diversified into selling welding gas, cooking gas and ox ploughs.

Over the years, her enterprise has grown significantly and is now valued at about Shs80 million.

The turning point in her business journey came in May 2025 when she accessed a Shs30 million loan under the GROW Project through Centenary Bank. The loan carried an interest rate of about 10 percent and was structured to be repaid within one year through monthly instalments of Shs2.62 million.

Tusubira used the funds to increase her inventory, purchase additional gas cylinders and ox ploughs, and expand her shop. She also launched a mechanical training programme aimed at equipping young people in her area with practical skills.

She first learned about the GROW loan during a church meeting where Daniel Sanya, a loan officer from Centenary Bank, was sensitising women about financial opportunities available through the project.

Dream come true

Initially hesitant because she already had another loan facility, Tusubira said she was relieved to learn that she could transition to the GROW loan as she approached the completion of her previous loan.

Describing the loan as “a dream come true,” Tusubira praised the affordable interest rate and the relatively smooth approval process.

Since accessing the financing, she has expanded her workforce from two to four employees, including trained mechanics who assist customers and help train young apprentices.

Her business success has also enabled her to purchase land and complete the construction of her family home — a milestone she describes as a symbol of financial independence.

Tusubira’s story highlights the impact of the GROW Project in empowering women to build sustainable enterprises, create employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth in their communities.