Perceived Determinants of Economic Success among Rural-based Youth in Wakiso District, Uganda: A Case Study of Namayumba Sub-County

Abstract

A study was conducted in 2017 in the sub-county (Namayumba) of Wakiso District in central Uganda to assess the determinants of economic success amongst the rural youth who were perceived by community members to be economically successful. The study adopted a descriptive study design using quantifiable data to statistically analyze a population sample. Data was collected using a questionnaire that was administered to 114 youth from the estimated 160 economically successful youth who lived in the sub-county. The response rate was 100%. Female respondents accounted for 57% and males 43%. Respondents aged 25-30 years accounted for 47.4%, 18-24 years (28.9%), and 31-35 years (23.7%). 85.1% were body-abled and 14.9% had a disability. Underpinned by the theory of sustainable rural livelihood approach, the findings categorically revealed the major perceived determinants of the economic success of the rural youth. Major human capital determinants: attaining secondary education (36.8%), ability to read, write and count (21.4%), and self-determination (18.9%). Major financial determinants: making personal savings (50%), membership in groups (32.7%), keeping money at home (45.6%), and re-investing the savings in business (23.2%). Major physical capital determinant: access to transport facilities (20.6%). Major social capital determinant: working in groups (43.9%). Major natural capital determinant: access to land (32.8%). Other determinants: having control over own money/income (98.2%) and being in good relationships with most family members and people at the workplace (100%). The study recommends that development actors and policymakers to adopt the major determinants of rural-youth economic prosperity.