The Impact Tracer Study for GOAL Uganda’s Markets for Youth (M4Y) programme assessed the depth, sustainability, and inclusiveness of programme impacts as the initiative approached closure. The study examined how market systems–oriented interventions supported rural youth—particularly young women, refugees, and persons with disabilities—to access dignified and fulfilling work. Using a mixed-methods tracer approach grounded in Market Systems Development (MSD) principles and OECD-DAC evaluation criteria, the study analysed individual livelihood outcomes, enterprise performance, inclusion results, and system-level changes across the programme’s financial inclusion, skilling, market access, and collective action components. The findings generated actionable learning on sustainability, scalability, and lessons for future youth employment programming in Uganda.

MarketShare Associates (MSA) through and Tafakari Impact (TI) led the development of the tracer study methodology grounded in MSD and DCED standards and provided technical oversight across all phases of the study. The team conducted a comprehensive document review, designed quantitative and qualitative data collection tools, and guided sampling strategies to ensure robust representation of youth, women, refugees, and persons with disabilities. TI oversaw data collection, ensured rigorous data quality assurance processes, and led mixed-methods data analysis and sensemaking. The team facilitated learning workshops with programme stakeholders and translated evidence into actionable insights and recommendations to inform GOAL Uganda and the Mastercard Foundation’s future youth employment and market systems programming. MSA also led the dissemination of the findings that informed the implementation of the follow-on project AYSTER.