The training was held and by the Platform for Vendors in Uganda (PLAVU), in partnership with REBUILD program Uganda and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) titled "Community Based Employment and Championing Efforts to Challenge Existing Societal Discriminations and Inequalities," aimed to address key issues affecting vendors in Uganda. Here's an overview of what the training likely covered:
- Empowerment through Community-Based Employment: The training likely focused on empowering vendors by emphasizing community-based approaches to employment. This might include strategies for self-employment, cooperative ventures, or accessing local job markets.
- Challenging Societal Discriminations: Addressing societal discriminations would involve educating vendors on their rights and strategies to challenge discriminatory practices they face in their daily work and interactions. This could include discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, disability, or economic status.
- Inequality Mitigation Efforts: The training would have explored practical steps and advocacy strategies to mitigate inequalities among vendors. This might include lobbying for fair market access, advocating for social protections, or promoting inclusive policies at local and national levels.
- Skills Development and Capacity Building: To enhance vendors' capabilities, the training likely included sessions on skills development relevant to their businesses or occupations. This could range from financial management and marketing skills to health and safety practices.
- Networking and Collective Action: Encouraging networking among vendors and fostering collective action would be crucial elements of the training. Building solidarity among vendors can strengthen their advocacy efforts and improve their bargaining power.
- Legal Awareness and Support: Providing knowledge about legal rights and mechanisms for legal support would empower vendors to navigate legal challenges and protect themselves from exploitation.
- Sustainability and Resilience: Promoting sustainable practices and resilience-building strategies would help vendors withstand economic shocks and adapt to changing market conditions.
Overall, PLAVU's training aimed to equip vendors with the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their socio-economic conditions, challenge inequalities, and foster inclusive community development. It underscores the importance of community engagement and empowerment in addressing systemic challenges faced by vendors in Uganda and for more information of what took place click on the you tube link to access the virtual dicussions.