Jinja: In a heartwarming display of compassion, the Soul of My Footprint organization, a dedicated non-profit group based in the United States of America, reached out to the vulnerable residents of Kateyamba, a well-known community in Jinja City. On a recent Saturday, the organization, led by a group predominantly of African American origin, arrived in Uganda to provide much-needed food relief to those struggling to make ends meet in the picturesque city of Jinja.
The community of Kateyamba, nestled in Jinja City, is home to numerous vulnerable individuals who face daily hardships. Recognizing the dire need for assistance, the Soul of My Footprint organization, welcomed by Benard Mbayo, the Speaker of Jinja City Council, made its way to the heart of Mpumudde in the city’s Southern division to offer a helping hand. Their generous donation included essential food items such as sugar, maize flour, bread, rice, and beans, among other necessities.
This visit to Uganda has become an annual tradition for the organization, dedicated to reaching out to the most marginalized and destitute Ugandans. The team’s visit to Kateyamba is especially significant, as it is a designated area where many residents struggle to make a living.
The Soul of My Footprint organization extends its commitment beyond just food relief. Operating a community hospital in Kalugu, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, they prioritize the health and well-being of the vulnerable population, considering them as fellow Africans in need. In addition to the food items, the organization also donated essential hygiene supplies such as soaps, as well as tools like rakes and hand hoes to help maintain the cleanliness of the residents’ compounds within Kateyamba.
Benard Mbayo, the Speaker of Jinja City Council, shared a personal connection with the Soul of My Footprint organization, having first met its members in the United States of America’s state of Georgia in 2019. This connection has fostered a strong partnership, with the organization committing to spend a week in Uganda every September. During these visits, they not only observe the challenges faced by various underprivileged groups but also provide much-needed relief, particularly in the form of food assistance.
Looking ahead, Mbayo revealed the organization’s ambitious plans for their next visit. They intend to install solar-powered systems in the homes of vulnerable individuals who cannot afford electricity bills. This initiative will not only improve their quality of life but also contribute to a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution.
Furthermore, the organization plans to renovate houses in Kateyamba by replacing asbestos roofing with standard iron sheets. This endeavor seeks to enhance the overall living conditions of the residents, providing them with safer and more comfortable shelter.