Coordinator’s Annual Report (April 2021-March 2022)
I found it very strange putting this report together, ranging as the period did from the final months of the Covid-caused lockdown to the first few and tentative months of the reopening of the Ugandan schools, with our colleagues working to pick up the pieces and rebuilding both the children’s lives and fully functioning education establishments.
Of course this affected the way that we had to approach what we were doing.
First of all, the work situation in Kampala (or rather the massive diminution of employment possibilities) meant that village people could no longer rely on their families in the city to help support them. This situation was a major reason for the exacerbation of children being abandoned in the villages by parents who could no longer afford to keep them. We helped a little on two occasions by providing food for those most in need.
An additional problem sadly came to light during this period, which was that the amount of female abuse and and teenage pregnancy grew dangerously. We did our best to support our colleagues with a survey of need and a weekend course with trainers on the subject of Sexual Reproductive Health & Rights. This was followed up with an introductory course in the newly completed skills centre and regular weekend training at Bulumbu.
As you know, I was concerned about keeping the level of sponsorship going during periods when the children were not attending school. It is gratifying to be able to report that not only did the sponsors stick with the girls and boys during lockdown, but another eleven of them came on board during the 12 month period.
Despite a chronic lack of lessons, PLE, UCE and UACE exams took place at the end of 2021. Seven sponsored pupils took their PLE and all but one were successful. Vocational training was arranged for the girl who failed. Three additional students are being supported in further education whilst a 4th gained a scholarship to study for a degree in Taiwan.
Normal schooling was resumed in January 2022 even though initially take-up was slow to get moving. Children and parents had become too used to staying home.
Remedial work on buildings (for government inspection) was necessary before the reopening, including at the Children’s Home. We helped with this, as well as by providing emergency funding for additional desks, and purchasing beds, bedding and food for the Children’s Home.
Before the end of the financial year, a start had been made on the construction of the perimeter wall at Bulumbu - another government requirement.
I must not finish without saying a big thank you to Danny and Rogan for their fundraising efforts in running the Hatters Half Marathon.
Keith
October 2022
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