In the wake of internal conflict and HIV/AIDS, many Ugandan villages are struggling to help the growing number of orphans in their communities. They have turned to indigenous community based organizations (CBOs) to establish simple systems for identifying orphans and ensuring their needs are met. But often these organizations lack access to resources – information, training and funding – which they need to improve their ability to provide effective and efficient services.

At Bambi Uganda Orphans, we believe it is vital to support CBOs and their capacity to develop their communities. Strong community organizations enable local people to assume responsibility for and control over their future. They also promote change in a way that is sustainable and culturally appropriate.

We are currently supporting several such organizations, including Bega Kwa Bega, Uganda Society for Disabled Children, EMESCO Development Foundation, Mpigi Farmers’ Association, Semuto Youth and Voluntary Organization and St. Marks School for Deaf Children.

Our assistance to CBOs involves funding field activities, co-designing development projects and providing staff enrichment workshops. These include training in computer technology, project design and management, project evaluation and financial management. Because we are committed to sustainable development, we also prepare all staff, community and youth leaders to become trainers and peer educators, who share their knowledge, skills and experiences with other members of the community. This is a dramatically powerful strategy for achieving self-sufficiency.