Category Archives: Artisan & Business

When most people think of donuts, they imagine the familiar ring-shaped treat, simple, sweet, and predictable. But at Katojo Women’s Prison, something extraordinary is happening. Donuts are being reimagined not just as food, but as a canvas for creativity, empowerment, and transformation. As part of an ongoing Culinary Arts training program, women offenders at Katojo are being equipped with practical skills that go far beyond the kitchen. Sponsored by Penal Reform International and implemented by BARO – Bridge Africa Research Organisation, this initiative is more than a vocational exercise; it’s a journey of self-expression, confidence-building, and economic empowerment. In yesterday’s workshop, participants were challenged to think differently. Using the same […]

When warmer weather beckons us outdoors, it often brings along an unwelcome entourage of biting insects that quickly turn pleasure into discomfort. Mosquitoes, in particular, seem to thrive on gatecrashing every picnic, evening walk, and quiet garden moment. To keep them at bay, insect repellents have become essential companions—but not all repellents are created equal, and not all need to come from a shelf. At BARO, we believe that every person should be equipped not only with the knowledge to protect oneself but also with the skills to create that protection from scratch. Through our Personal Care Program, we teach participants how to formulate their own safe, effective, and beautifully […]

In a heartwarming display of rehabilitation and empowerment, a group of women offenders at Katojo Women’s Prison recently showcased their culinary skills, thanks to a training program sponsored by Penal Reform International and facilitated by BARO. What we witnessed was far more than a cooking class—it was a vibrant expression of growth, creativity, and possibility. These women, now equipped with professional techniques, proudly demonstrated their mastery in preparing crisps and chips—crafted to the quality served at renowned four and five star hotel and eatery establishments in Fort Portal Tourism City. The transformation was remarkable. Gone were the roadside-style portions; in their place were perfectly golden, evenly sliced creations with a […]

Accurate pricing is a cornerstone of any successful business strategy, yet it remains a common challenge for many women entrepreneurs—including those rebuilding their lives after systemic barriers, such as incarceration. Through initiatives like the Artisan transformative program at Katojo, supported by Penal Reform International and implemented by Bridge Africa Research Organisation (BARO), women are gaining essential entrepreneurial skills, and pricing is among the most critical areas of focus. However, many participants approach this topic with apprehension, largely due to a widespread myth that mathematics is inherently difficult and reserved for the formally educated. This perception often fuels anxiety, particularly when they realize that pricing involves a mathematical component. Recognizing this, […]

At Bridge Africa Research Organisation (BARO), we began our journey with a humble “Baking and Snack Making” course, serving as an accessible entry point into entrepreneurship for many of our learners. It was practical, hands-on, and effective – but something was missing. As we progressed, it became clear that the products our students were creating – mandazi, cookies, banana cake, and alot more – were the same ones offered by virtually every roadside vendor, small bakery, or school kiosk. There was passion, yes – but where was the distinction? So we pivoted. We reimagined our curriculum to help our students rise above the ordinary and infuse their creations with artistry, […]

At Bridge Africa Research Organization (BARO), our Culinary Arts program emphasizes the importance of traditional pasta-making techniques, including the art of crafting spaghetti by hand. Our students learn not only the fundamentals of manual pasta production but also how to innovate and create their own unique spaghetti designs, experimenting with a variety of spices and flavor combinations to take their creations to the next level. As showcased in the attached image, our students’ creativity and skill shine through in their handmade pasta creations. When it comes to spaghetti, many consumers rely on supermarket-bought options. However, making and serving fresh spaghetti offers numerous benefits that surpass the convenience of store-bought alternatives. […]

At BARO’s Artisanship Program, we believe in the transformative power of craft and creativity. Our Knitting Program, generously sponsored by Penal Reform International, has been instrumental in empowering women inmates at Katojo Prison, providing them with a valuable skill that can transform their lives. As the program nears its completion, we reflect on the impact it has had on these women and the potential it holds for their future. The Knitting Program teaches the fundamentals of knitting, from basic stitches to intricate patterns, enabling participants to craft beautiful garments, accessories, and home decor items. This skill not only fosters creativity but also provides a sense of accomplishment and pride. For […]

A recent visit to a group of artisan graduates from BARO’s training program revealed a remarkable display of innovation, resourcefulness, and dedication to their craft. As we strive to continuously improve our training programs, the feedback and insights gained from this visit have been invaluable. One of the standout observations from the visit was the graduates’ emphasis on uniformity of product, a key principle stressed during their training. Despite limited resources, they have found creative ways to achieve consistency in their products, using everyday objects such as Fanta bottles and plastic bottles to roll out dough and create holes in donuts. This resourcefulness is a testament to the graduates’ ability […]