By Mike Rwothomio 

Compassion International Uganda, in partnership with local churches, joyfully marked 20 years of transforming lives through its Christ-centered, church-driven, child-focused program in the cluster areas of Pakwach, Nebbi, and Zombo.

Since launching in 2006, this strategic partnership has supported 3,931 registered children and youth in their journey to be released from poverty in Jesus' name. Of these, 2,541 remain active participants in the program, while 1,390 have successfully graduated, equipped to thrive as responsible Christian adults.

The milestone celebration took place at the Nebbi Church of Uganda Diocese's Women Vocational Training Center grounds in Goli, Jupangira Sub-County.

Hundreds of current participants, program graduates (alumni), caregivers, and community members gathered to share testimonies of God's faithfulness and the remarkable impact of holistic child development.

The program operates through nine church-based Child Development Centers (CDCs): Koch-Awinga, Amor, Warr-Aluka, Pajur-Alala, Adusi, Otal, Miracle Center Paidha, Adhingi, and Panyango. These centers deliver individualized, long-term care addressing children's spiritual, physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional needs.

Tom Angutoko, Partnership Facilitator for the Nebbi, Zombo, and Pakwach cluster, expressed profound gratitude.

 “From the time the partnership began in 2006, 3,931 participants have been supported. As we celebrate, we thank God for the impact of this project. Many children who entered malnourished or with critical health conditions are now energetic and healthy.” Angutoko said.

He highlighted key interventions, including six major Complementary Interventions such as a life-saving heart surgery for one child at Mulago Hospital costing UGX 25 million.

Angutoko said Spiritually, around 900 exited participants accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and remain active in church worship.The program has also equipped youth with employable skills through vocational training and income-generating activities.

Active participants showcased handmade merchandise at the event, with many items purchased, providing encouragement and economic empowerment.

Education outcomes include 36 bachelor's degrees, 36 diplomas, and 228 certificates earned by participants across various disciplines. The partnership has produced professionals such as doctors, teachers, engineers, and health workers, breaking cycles of poverty.

Complementary Interventions extended beyond individual children to families and communities, including construction of 21 shelters for vulnerable households previously in dilapidated structures, support for around 1,000 caregivers through income-generating activities such as goat donations that have multiplied, valued at over UGX 120 million, and solar equipment for six village-based churches valued at UGX 30 million.

Mr. Emmanuel Ahimbisibwe, National Director of Compassion International Uganda, noted that the organization, active in Uganda since 1980, now partners with over 400 local churches across 123 of Uganda's 146 districts, serving more than 158,000 children through interdenominational collaboration.

He commended the Ugandan government for creating a stable environment that enables sustained program implementation.

The Rt. Rev. Pons Ozelle Awinju, Bishop of the Nebbi Church of Uganda Diocese, praised Compassion International and cluster leaders for their effective guidance and unwavering commitment to vulnerable families and children.

Meanwhile LCV Chairperson of Nebbi, Emmanuel Orombi, lauded the organization for touching the lives of many youths. He called for the establishment of the life-changing project in Jupangira Sub-county as well, adding that the program has complemented government efforts in poverty alleviation.

Beneficiaries share powerful stories

Ana Ayiorwoth, Acting Chairperson of the Alumni Association, earned a bachelor's degree in social work with Compassion's support since age 7 in 2006. She commended the organization for empowering vulnerable children to overcome poverty cycles.

Jane Ayiorwoth from Miracle Center Paidha emotionally thanked the program for enrolling her children in school, constructing a new home, and lifting her family from a dilapidated structure to a hopeful new life.

Rwothomio Robert, who lost his father at age 4 in 2002, credited Compassion's intervention for enabling him to become a health worker with Zombo District Local Government.

Compassion International is a global Christian child development organization dedicated to releasing children from poverty in Jesus' name. Through partnerships with local churches, it provides holistic care, including nutrition, medical support, education, spiritual nurture, clean water, child protection, and life skills training, to help children grow into thriving followers of Jesus who can transform their families, communities, and nations.

Compassion international National Director Emmanuel Ahimbisibwe

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa, your number one grassroot information hub