The Kajugangoma community in the Diocese of Kinkiizi, Kanungu District, has initiated the construction of a new Main Hall and Computer Laboratory at the UG0730 Kajugangoma Child and Youth Development Centre, a project under Compassion International.

In a service dedicated to generating local contributions held today at Kajugangoma Church of Uganda, UGX 5 million, 80 bags of cement, and one truckload of sand were collected. The construction is currently at the foundation stage.

The service was led by the Parish Priest, Rev. Alfred Nsenga, while Rev. Richard Turyatemba Mabega of Rushaka Church of Uganda was the preacher.

Rev. Mabega emphasized the importance of instilling discipline in children supported by Compassion International and encouraged parents to involve their children in productive activities to supplement the support provided by the organization.

Borrowing lessons from Rushaka Child Development Centre (CDC), a similar project established in 2014 where he serves as overseer, Rev. Mabega shared strategies that the Rushaka community has employed to transform their CDC into a model project.

He highlighted the importance of strong community ownership, consistent parental involvement, and prioritization of children's spiritual and academic development.

He however, pointed out key challenges they continue to face, including indiscipline among some beneficiaries, uncooperative parents, alcoholism in certain households, and misuse of funds by some beneficiaries.

He urged the Kajugangoma community to learn from these experiences and commit to collective responsibility, transparency, and moral integrity to ensure the success of their own project.

Rev. Alfred Nsenga commended Compassion International for job creation and its transformative role in enhancing educational standards in the area.

He noted that over 520 children are currently receiving support, including access to education and basic necessities. He urged parents to collaborate with the Church to ensure that children are well-fed at school and uphold moral standards.

The chief guest, Eng. Sam Arinaitwe Kajojo, chairperson of Kanungu District, represented by Mr. Phinehas Arinaitwe, pledged government support for Compassion International projects. He lauded the organization's contributions to the socio-economic transformation of the communities it serves.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Compassion leadership team and staff, led by Onesimus Kiconco, for their comprehensive support.

According to their report, recorded in a song, initiatives include educational assistance, establishment of a banana plantation to provide food for children, introduction of a brick-laying machine, implementation of a biometric attendance system for pupils and staff, provision of basic needs, and coaching on self-sustainability, among other interventions.