ACT in Uganda
Overview
Uganda, the land of Lake Victoria, has long been known as the pearl of Africa. Situated in East Africa and lying on the equator, a large part of its southern border lies on the shores of Lake Victoria. Uganda was damaged by tribal wars in the 1970s and 80s and worst under the dictatorship of Idi Amin. Stability was established with the victory of President Museveni’s army in 1986. The wars in the north and east resulted in many displaced people, a majority of whom were children, orphaned or escaped from war zones. About the same time the country was devastated by the HIV/AIDS pandemic which led to many deaths and left the country in deep poverty. Since the turn of the century Uganda’s economy has been transformed to one of relative stability and prosperity.
How it began
ACT began work in Busoga region, eastern part of Uganda in 2005 in partnership with Christian Vision Ministries (missions arm of the Elim Church of Uganda), based in Jinja. The work extended across most districts in the region, with the growing numbers of orphan refugees fleeing the war in the north and seeking refuge in the more peaceful parts of the country.
The Widows Sustainable Whole Life Skills Project was launched in 2011. The aim is that the women support each other in business to generate income so they can support their families. A number of the widows are involved in bead making, weaving and farming. Recently they started a business that rents out facilities such as chairs and tables for events.
ACT Facts
By 2018, more than 600 children had benefitted from full ACT scholarships or welfare support. Many of the children have received tertiary education, received diplomas or graduated from university, including one who qualified as a medical doctor. Click here to read more.
ACT Projects in Uganda
- The Tabitha Project was launched in 2011 to empower widows to work together and support each other to generate income to support themselves and their families as part of the Sustainable Whole Life Skills Project.
