Our trimestral reports are written by Susan Laker for our Kampala programs and by Aidah Wafula for our Jinja programs. In addition to our Child-Sponsorship Program we run additional programs throughout the year benefitting all children and their community. This report shows the programs that have been running the trimester January-March 2026. We also invite you to check out our Instagram stories to find out more about the activities that we carried out during this time.
1. EDUCATION
Kampala
The first quarter of 2026 was characterized by important educational milestones, preparation for the new academic year, and continued support to ensure that sponsored children remained enrolled and actively engaged in their studies.
The year began with a New Year celebration on 1st January 2026, bringing together children, families, and staff in a spirit of hope and gratitude. Shortly thereafter, meetings were held with parents and guardians to discuss preparations for the 2026 school year, emphasizing the importance of early planning and ensuring that children would have the necessary requirements to return to school successfully.
In February, considerable efforts were made to prepare all sponsored children for the start of the new academic term. Scholastic materials, mattrasses and school requirements were distributed, and school fees were paid for all sponsored children.
In addition to formal education, two young beneficiaries were enrolled in an optician training program, which commenced on 23rd March 2026. This vocational opportunity will equip them with practical skills and enhance their future employment prospects.
Throughout the quarter, the organization remained committed to providing educational support and creating pathways for both academic and vocational success.
Jinja
The first quarter of 2026 was marked by significant educational achievements and preparations for the new academic year. On 31 January 2026, the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) released the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) results for the 2025 academic year. We are delighted to report that all sponsored candidates passed successfully. The highest-performing learner achieved 7 aggregates, earning a Division One, while the lowest result was a Division Three. As a result, every sponsored child who sat for PLE qualified for secondary education.
In February, schools officially reopened for the first term of the 2026 academic year. School fees payments were successfully completed for sponsored children, covering tuition, uniforms, examination registration fees, mock examinations, and remedial study programs. We remain deeply grateful to the Foundation, donors, and sponsors whose timely support enabled learners to begin the school year without interruption.
During the same month, UNEB released the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) results for Senior Four candidates. We are pleased to report that all sponsored candidates passed and qualified for the next stage of their educational journey.
Throughout the quarter, continuous engagement was maintained with the parents and guardians of children whose academic performance had been particularly poor. Detailed reviews were conducted to better understand the factors contributing to their results and to determine the most appropriate educational path forward. Following these discussions, some learners were advised to repeat their respective classes, while others were approved to continue after additional clarification regarding their academic histories and circumstances.
In March, staff members attended visitation days and class visits at schools including Abba Father Junior School and Jinja Progressive Secondary School. These visits revealed encouraging improvements in students’ mid-term examination results compared to the previous end-of-year promotional examinations. The progress demonstrated the positive impact of the remedial classes, ongoing support, and close monitoring provided to the learners.
Beyond formal schooling, the Computer Literacy and Music Programs continued to operate at the Jinja Centre throughout the quarter, providing valuable learning opportunities for children during school holidays and after-school periods.
2. NUTRITION PROGRAM
Kampala
The Nutrition Program continued to provide vital support to children throughout the quarter through regular Sunday feeding activities.
In January, approximately 265 children participated in the feeding program, receiving nutritious meals every Sunday. Meals included rice with groundnut sauce and silver fish, as well as beans, posho, and cabbage. Children also participated in games, dancing, and recreational activities before gathering for meals at the project office. The introduction of the solar cooking stove continued to improve food preparation efficiency and reduced the workload for women involved in meal preparation.
In February, the nutrition program supported approximately 110 day-scholar children through four consecutive Sundays of hot meals. Similar nutritious menus were provided, and educational discussions were conducted before meals to reinforce the value of education, personal development, and participation in project activities.
The program continued successfully throughout March, with approximately 100 children attending each Sunday. In addition to providing meals, staff incorporated educational activities using a projector to improve English language skills, including reading, spelling, and speaking. Homework support was also provided, particularly for children whose parents face literacy challenges, ensuring that learners received additional academic assistance outside of school.
Throughout the quarter, the nutrition program continued to provide not only food security but also opportunities for learning, socialization, and personal development.
Jinja
The Saturday Nutrition Program continued successfully throughout the quarter. Every Saturday, children gathered at the centre to receive hot, nutritious meals in a safe and supportive environment. This program remains an important component of the Foundation’s efforts to promote child welfare, improve nutrition, and provide opportunities for social interaction and community building among the children.
4. HEALTH PROGRAM
Kampala
The overall health of the children remained relatively stable during the reporting period, although several individual cases required intervention and support.
In January, no significant illnesses were reported among the sponsored children.
In February, a serious child protection and health concern arose involving Alaro Gladys, who was experiencing a high fever and persistent abdominal pain. Following medical examinations and counseling, it was discovered that she had been sexually abused and had developed an infection. Immediate medical care, counseling, and psychosocial support were provided. She continues to receive treatment and follow-up care to support her recovery and wellbeing.
In March, two children experienced serious eye-related health complications while attending boarding school. Both children were sent home to receive medical attention, and several examinations were conducted. At the time of reporting, the organization was awaiting final medical results to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
The organization remains committed to ensuring access to healthcare, counseling, child protection services, and emotional support whenever needed.
Jinja
Overall, the health status of the sponsored children remained stable during the quarter, with no widespread illnesses reported.
In January, we received concerning news regarding Mwesigwa David, whose family home was destroyed by heavy rains. The disaster left David, his mother, and his siblings homeless and facing significant emotional, social, and psychological challenges.
In February, Byaruhanga Joseph was diagnosed with severe peptic ulcer disease. Medical intervention was promptly sought, and he continues to receive treatment and monitoring. Aside from this case, only minor flu-related illnesses were reported and managed by parents and guardians.
In March, Richman was urgently admitted to a medical facility after developing severe malaria. Immediate intervention was required, and we are pleased to report that he responded well to treatment and has since made a full recovery.
The Foundation continues to monitor the wellbeing of all sponsored children and provide support where necessary to ensure their physical, emotional, and social welfare.
4. VARIA PROGRAMS
Kampala
Several meaningful community and social activities took place during the quarter.
In January, Susan Laker, the Local Project Manager, was elected as Local Women Councilor III for Banda Parish. This achievement was made possible in part through the encouragement and support of sponsored youth over the age of 18 and many parents associated with the project. Her election reflects the trust and confidence the community has placed in her leadership and commitment to service.
The quarter also included several sponsor visitation opportunities. In January, sponsor Lucy Muelles visited Kampala together with her friend Isabel Wiegand. During her visit, she spent time with her sponsored child and also visited the child’s mother, who has been recovering from a broken leg.
In February, sponsor Steffi visited Kampala on two separate occasions to celebrate the birthdays of her sponsored children. These visits created memorable experiences for the children and strengthened the personal connections between sponsors and beneficiaries.
On 8th March 2026, the organization celebrated International Women’s Day by empowering girls and women to recognize their value, exercise their rights, pursue education, and actively participate in decision-making processes. Discussions also focused on preventing violence and encouraging girls to speak confidently about issues affecting their lives.
Later in March, a special visitation day was organized for boarding students at Hope Land School. During this event, students enjoyed a variety of meals and spent quality time with visitors and staff, creating a strong sense of belonging and encouragement.
The organization also conducted a parents’ meeting during the quarter. Discussions focused on preventing early pregnancies, guiding children away from risky behaviors, and strengthening parenting skills through counseling and practical guidance.
Jinja
In February, participants in the Young Leadership Program organized and conducted a community outreach activity targeting elderly community members. During this initiative, they offered companionship, social support, and practical assistance through the distribution of essential items.