Shifting away from traditional top-down approaches to development, Christine Sirisdawaa, a young entrepreneur from Uganda’s Adjumani district, is inspiring individuals to take ownership of their growth.
In her address to the women’s group in Kiwafu East, Entebbe, Sirisdawaa challenged women to stop waiting for pitiful aid and start working within their means for a more realistic development agenda.
Sirisdawaa had partnered with to Ethical African Organization to train wemon in making and monetizing craft accessories.
After the training, Sirisdawaa challenged women to now apply skills acquired and make artistic jewelries which she says have ready market.
According to Sirisdawaa, development should be personalized if communities are to develop. “Development can be more realistic, meaningful and relevant when individuals look at them selves as pillars for their own growth,”
While hinting on over dependency on government aid, Sirisdawaa observed that, “People should only look up to the government for regulations that provide a good working environment, not for handouts.”
“I believe that individuals have the power to propel beyond their limits without relying heavily on government aid.” She added.
Since childhood, Sirisdawaa’s journey has been a bumpy ride filled with lows and self-elevation.
Growing up in a humble background, she discovered her passion for business at a tender age.
Through thorough market research and determination, Sirisdawaa built a successful business, eventually opening two stores under the Pal Africa business enterprise in Juba and Uganda.
With skills garnered over the years, Sirisdawaa now wants to transform communities by equiping women with entrepreneurial skills.
East.
“I am a self-made businesswoman, and I have acquired entrepreneurial skills that I want to impart to young women and girls,” Sirisdawaa said.
Her approach echoes the sentiments of Tom Palmer and Matt Warner in their book “Development with Dignity,” which challenges traditional foreign aid models.
Authors argue that, “Top-down approaches fail because they impose external solutions, disregarding local contexts and capacities,”
Sirisdawaa is convinced, self-reliance is the key to unlocking true potential in communities worldwide. “I believe that individuals should take ownership of their development, making decisions that align with their needs and priorities. This is the only way we can achieve true economic sustainability.”
As the world searches for innovative solutions to aging development challenges, Sirisdawaa’s story offers a clear path to a more realistic approach to development, empowering individuals to own and push the the development agenda forward.
By empowering individuals to drive their own growth, Sirisdawaa is certain this will unlock the true potential that has been lying dormant in communities around the world.
Sirisdawaa embraced by one of the trainees in appreciation to her efforts to engage with the women of Kawafu East.
Gallery (Part) of Sirisdawaa’s own hand made craft work ready for sale.
