Boy Child Uplifting Program at Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Center: A Kampala Area 1 BCUP Journey

A September to Remember

In the heart of Kampala Area 1, a collective force fueled by the passion of Rotary Clubs – Rotary Kampala Metropolitan, Rotary Kiwenda, Rotary EClub Ntinda, and Rotary Kampala Impala – rallied together under the supportive guidance of AG Kate Barasa. Their mission: to infuse hope into the lives of the young souls residing at the Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Center throughout the transformative month of September. This initiative, known as the ‘Boy Child Uplifting Program at Kampiringisa Rehabilitation Center,’ was designed to reshape the futures of children who had found themselves on the wrong side of the law. Our approach was simple, one club per month took on a different learning outcome, delivered uniquely only as the leading club could.

A Unified Beginning

The team completed sight surveys, did a needs assessment and got to work planning the initiative. This checklists, tasklists and balance sheets aligned- we got to work.

United by a shared vision, the teams entered the Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Center, in Mpigi District, one team at a time for 4-weeks. Dating back to 1952, the center, initially established as a Boys’ Approved School, has evolved into a National Rehabilitation Centre, including a wing for girl delinquents. The dedicated staff, led by Ms. Theopista Mutooro, the Principal, and supported by social workers and caregivers, welcomed the Rotary teams with open arms.

Emphasizing the need for privacy and protection for the children due to their age and circumstances, the teams were reminded not to single out individuals for special attention and to refrain from taking identifiable photos. With these instructions in mind, the teams set out on their mission, fueled by optimism and hope.

September 2, 2023 – A New Dawn

Rotary Kampala Metropolitan, carrying the torch of inspiration, spearheaded the initiative. The September sun cast its warm rays over Kampiringisa Rehabilitation Center as more than 219 children, aged 11-17, eagerly awaited a fresh start. Rtn Eva Naamala infused the room with infectious energy, initiating the program with dancing and ice-breaking activities.

The day unfolded with valuable sessions led by Rotary members. Rtn Annabell Nampamba bridged the Rotary world with the participants, while Rtn John Lubowa delved into the intricacies of business ownership, urging the children to dream beyond their past. The commitment of PN Ivan Kakooza to mentor promising youths and provide ‘entandikwa’ added a personal touch. Rtn Victor Walusimbi’s insights on savings and wealth-building resonated deeply, and PP Ronnie Mulindwa shared a heartfelt story emphasizing the importance of self-worth and positive relationships.
PE Marion Nakato and Rtn Jusinta Nassiwa ensured the seamless flow of activities, emphasizing the importance of time management and the comfort of the young learners. President Erina closed it off by officiating the Kampala Area1 BCUP activity and declaring it officially launched.

September 9, 2023 – Being better, doing better

Rotary Kiwenda stepped into the spotlight, armed with insights from the previous session. Their focus was on community participation, civic-mindedness, gender equality, and self-improvement. The team, led by President Irene, engaged the youth with interactive games and activities, emphasizing perseverance, wise choices, teamwork, and breaking gender stereotypes.

The session allowed one-on-one interactions, revealing the touching stories of these children longing for guidance and support. The call to spare time from busy schedules to listen and guide resonated deeply, reinforcing the importance of mentorship.

September 16, 2023 – Building Hope for Re-Integration

Rotary EClub Ntinda took the reins on September 16, focusing on personal hygiene, financial literacy, and building hope for community reintegration. President Solomon led a team of five, accompanied by a life skills trainer and a financial literacy consultant.

The day began with an energetic aerobics session led by an enthusiastic inmate. The team then delved into practical lessons on personal hygiene, with inmates actively participating. Anna addressed financial literacy, emphasizing the challenges of life after Kampiringisa and the need for support. The emotional session highlighted the inmates’ struggles, underlining the importance of encouragement and holistic support.

September 21, 2023 – Effective Communication

Rotary Kampala Impala, with a team of eight, took the stage on the 21st, focusing on teaching effective communication. Through communication games, the team illustrated the importance of clear messaging and attentive listening. President Faridah led the team in creating an interactive and engaging session that encouraged the children to express themselves.

September 30, 2023 – A Grand Finale

Anticipation built as the grand event on September 30 approached. The culmination of weeks of dedication and hard work by all Area 1 clubs was imminent. All four clubs, along with AG Kate, gathered for the final session, reinforcing the mindset change sessions with tangible support for Kampiringisa.

The day began with energizing aerobics, setting a positive tone for the activities ahead. Inmates became both teachers and learners, showcasing the mastery of the knowledge imparted to them by staging a four-part skit , split into four teams named after the four Rotary Clubs- each with a president. They showed us what to do to start small businesses, how to bather, brush our teeth and groom, how to lay our beds , and how to speak to large audiences.
The brass band entertained us with both familiar and novel tunes and a dance break let us witness some exciting dance moves from the youth.

Certificates of attendance were awarded, bringing smiles and a sense of hope to the faces of the young souls. The Principal, Madam Theopista Mutooro, expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the tremendous need for ongoing assistance at the rehabilitation center.

As we wound down the afternoon, we officially handed over our donations of;
Food items including grains, oil, sugar etc
Stationary items including various exercise books, Mathematical sets, rules etc
Several yards of textiles and fabric for uniforms
Seedlings and saplings of fruit trees to add to the nutritional deficits

As the day concluded, the realization dawned that Kampiringisa required continuous support, not just in basic necessities but also in education, psycho-social aid, and mindset change. The collaborative effort of Kampala Area 1 clubs had not only brought hope to these young lives but also sparked a beacon of change for a brighter future.
By day 30, there were 237 inmates at the facility with hope for near release of 5 within the weekend.

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