The March Photo:
STOP CHILD LABOUR
In this image, you can see a boy collecting stones after crashing them in a jerrycan. Jerry cans are sold for around 0.30 cent and on average the kids working in the stone quarry earn about 1 euro a day. Even children as young as 3 years already sit there with their parents. Many of the sponsored children at 22STARS were working in this stone quarry in Acholi Quarter, Kampala
Sponsored child: KINYERA IVAN
Kinyera Ivan was born in October 2005. He has 1 brother and 2 sisters. He is a very smart and bright guy. His father’s name is Michael and his mother is called Jennifer. When he was a baby his mother was crashing stones in the stone quarry and he was sitting on her back. Then a piece of a stone flew in his eye causing an infection, and since then he cannot see any more with one eye. Ivan also had to work in the stone quarry for many years when he was a little boy until he joined 22STARS. Ivan also got an artificial lense and he is not bullied any more, thanks to our Eye Health Program founded by Ruediger Walzer from Walzer Optik. Ivan wants to become a doctor when he grows up so he can help people to get better eyes. His favorite subject is English, he likes playing football , open minded, his favorite color is red and he likes meat and rice. He is part of 22STARS since 2017 and sponsored by Johannes Voelkner.
A few more photographs from that day, shot by Serena Martineau
Background of Acholi Quarter in Kampala
Acholi quarter in Kampala is a poverty-stricken community mainly inhabited by Acholi people who fled war-torn areas in Northern Uganda. The community, including various tribes, relies on stone quarrying for employment. Despite economic challenges, the community showcases resilience and unity, reflecting Uganda's cultural diversity. Initiatives like 22STARS empower individuals in the community through education, medical support, and entrepreneurship training, fostering self-reliance and creating lasting positive change.
In the midst of economic hardships, the sound of stone quarrying reverberates through the community, a constant reminder of their determination to make ends meet. Each strike of the hammer symbolizes their unwavering spirit and unwavering resolve to overcome adversity.
Within the dusty streets and humble homes of Acholi quarter, stories of survival and hope intertwine. Children play joyfully amidst the chaos, embodying a sense of resilience that is ingrained in the fabric of this vibrant community. As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the makeshift dwellings, a sense of unity and solidarity fills the air.
The Acholi quarter may be marked by poverty, but it is also a place of rich culture, strength, and unwavering perseverance. In the face of adversity, the community continues to stand tall, a testament to the human spirit's ability to thrive even in the most challenging circumstances.
This initiative is not only about giving handouts, but about fostering a sense of self-reliance and empowerment among the youths, adults, and parents in the community. With the right support and guidance, these individuals are able to turn their passions into sustainable businesses, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the community
"No one has ever become poor by giving."
Each month, we will publish a blog post exploring the story behind the featured Charity Calendar photograph, offering insightful commentary and additional images. Check here which months we already posted.