North Rukiga, Uganda

1,317 children in North Rukiga ADP are supported by Irish sponsors since 2003.

There was somewhat of a building boom in North Rukiga over the past number of years. The work kicked off with the building of 18 classrooms in 5 schools, 10 latrine blocks and 12 water tanks. The construction of these classrooms had an instant effect on primary school enrolment and attendance as classes are not missed due to weather issues. In fact, such is the impact that North Rukiga primary school enrolment stands at 97%!

Alice Kakwavu, Headmistress of Kihangi Girls Primary School told us that since the construction of 2 new classrooms and an administration block in her school, performance has increased. “No school has beaten Kihanga Girls Primary School in Primary Leaving Examinations!” she proudly told us.

Also constructed was a health centre staff house accommodating three desperately needed health workers and 2 community water springs. Mr Arsen Nzabakurukize, the District Health Educator pointed out the positive effects our health programme is having on the community: “World Vision has increased awareness of HIV and AIDS to 80% over the past few years. And training for health workers has been greatly strengthened.”

Finally, a community hall accommodating 500 people was opened. The hall will be used by the community for meetings, training events and community celebrations.

We really appreciate the help our sponsors have given us in completing these projects as well as the strong partnership with the local government and health office in completing allthese vitally needed buildings.

So much happened in 2011 - for example... 

• Primary school enrolment rates now stand at 97%.
• 51% of the population have been HIV tested compared to only 18% in 2005.
• 876 boys and 916 girls improved their reading and writing skills through actively corresponding with their sponsors in Ireland.
• Over 2,900 community members were involved in workshops which aimed to educate people on issues surrounding child well-being.

2012 Challenge

During 2012, we will be working closely with farmers providing training on improved farming practices as well as pest and disease control. As part of this work we will also conduct a market survey helping farmers to respond to the demand of the market and achieve a higher return for their produce.

Find out more about life in Uganda and why going to school, even if there are no school fees, is still difficult for some children.