Success Story: Mr. Omoolo Simon Story

A Teacher’s Journey to Hope and Financial Stability

Location: Odiding Village, Okungur Sub County, Kapelebyong District
Interview Date: 8th January 2024
Beneficiary Age: 52 years
Occupation: Primary School Teacher
Family: Married with 8 children (4 girls and 4 boys) and 2 additional dependants

From Struggle to Stability

Before joining the Income Generating Loan (IGL) group, life for Omoolo Simon was filled with financial struggles. Despite working as a primary school teacher, his salary could not cover the daily needs of his large family.

Several of his children dropped out of school because he could not afford school fees. One daughter married early after completing only primary school, while two sons left school altogether. Even basic necessities like food and clothing were hard to provide, forcing his children to do casual labour during school holidays.

“I had been in and out of loans from different banking and money-lending institutions, trying to manage the needs of my family. Life was really too hard.”

A New Beginning with VAD

Change began when Voluntary Action for Development (VAD) drilled a borehole at Simon’s school, bringing safe, clean water closer to the community. Alongside this, VAD supported the formation of two Water User Committees—one for the school and one for the community.

These committees evolved into Income Generating Loan groups, supported with UGX 8,000,000 for income projects and water source maintenance.

Simon took a UGX 200,000 loan to start a small vegetable business, selling cabbages, tomatoes, carrots, and onions purchased from weekly markets. He supplies to traders in Odiding Trading Centre, Orumai, and Kapelebyong Town Council—all while continuing his teaching job.

Life-Changing Results

The transformation in Simon’s life has been remarkable:

• Education Restored: He was able to enrol his two sons who had dropped out into vocational courses—motor mechanics and metal works fabrication. He also brought his married daughter back to complete a tailoring course at a VAD-supported vocational centre.

• Improved Living Standards: His family now enjoys three meals a day.

• Health Improvements: Better nutrition has led to visible weight gain and improved health for himself and his family.

• Increased Income: From having some days with no money at all, Simon now earns at least UGX 4,000 dailyafter sales.

“I have a lot of hope now that my children will complete their studies. Even if I’m transferred from this school, I will not leave this savings group until the Lord takes me to His final resting place.”

Beyond Financial Gains

Through the IGL group, Simon has learned the importance of consistent saving. He now prepares his savings even before collection day, a habit that has brought him peace of mind.

Hopes for the Future

Simon dreams of the savings and loaning group growing into a recognized SACCO or cooperative so that many more community members can benefit as he has.

“I am one of the luckiest men on the planet. My hope has been restored.”