A Journey of Choices and Second Chances

Jacob Otenya, a young man from Parabongo in Amuru District, was born to Irene Acii and Akena Bosco. Like many young people, his life changed when his family situation became unstable.

In 2023, Jacob’s parents separated, leaving him and his siblings in the care of their father, who struggled with alcoholism. At the time, Jacob was studying in Gulu City. Without the care and guidance he needed at home, he chose not to return during school holidays. Influenced by friends and hoping to earn some income, he remained in the city.

But life in the city was far from easy. Without employable skills or a stable place to stay, Jacob eventually joined life on the streets. He survived through casual work such as building and bricklaying, often sleeping on verandas or staying temporarily with friends. During this period, he was also exposed to alcohol and smoking.

“When I heard that my son was missing, I personally went to Gulu City and searched for him on the streets for a week,” his mother recalls. “But all our efforts were in vain. I blamed myself for leaving him without proper guidance.”

As life on the streets became harder, and fearful of returning home, Jacob reached out to his paternal aunt in Patiko. She welcomed him and gave him a place to stay. However, with little to keep him occupied, he spent most of his time around the trading centre and continued using substances.

In 2024, we met Jacob during a community dialogue in Patiko, where he expressed interest in joining our agriculture training programme. Through several home visits and conversations with his aunt, he was eventually enrolled into the programme. During this process, Jacob also agreed to begin reconnecting with his parents.

While at the farm, Jacob stood out as a committed and attentive learner. He actively participated in training activities and chose to specialise in poultry keeping.

After completing the training, Jacob reunited with his family in Parabongo and received a start-up package consisting of chicks and vaccines to help him begin rebuilding his life.

Since then, he has remained focused on growing his livelihood. After selling his chickens, he reinvested the income into livestock and now owns two goats, a heifer, and piglets. His dream is to establish a successful animal farm that can provide a steady source of income for himself and his future family.

Jacob’s story is a reminder of how easily difficult circumstances can push young people into vulnerable situations, but also how guidance, opportunity, and support can help them rebuild their lives.

Through continued mentorship, skills training, and family support, we continue to create pathways for young people like Jacob to make better choices and build meaningful futures.