Since our founding in 1996, we have been privileged to walk alongside our longest-standing and most dedicated partner - Friends of Uganda-Germany, led by the remarkable Mrs. Ilse Schummer. Their steadfast support over the years has not only empowered thousands of women but also transformed entire communities in Wakiso and beyond, laying the foundation for our continued impact.

In Wakiso district, Friends of Uganda-Germany supported the formation and growth of numerous women’s groups by providing revolving loans. These loans enabled women to engage in a wide range of income-generating activities, significantly improving their livelihoods and household well-being. As a result, many women have become economically empowered, assumed leadership roles in their communities, and gained greater awareness of their rights.

In addition to economic empowerment, Friends of Uganda-Germany has also contributed to education developmentby supporting schools with construction materials such as cement, iron sheets, desks, and water tanks — all aimed at enhancing the quality of education for children in underserved communities.

Ongoing Support in Kapelebyong District

Currently, with continued support from Friends of Uganda-Germany, VAD is implementing the Family Economic Support Project in Achegerekuma, Adukule, and Alungatuko villages in Kapelebyong Sub-county, Kapelebyong District. The project has:

• Trained 22 women’s Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) in business skills, recordkeeping, group management, and enterprise selection.

• Disbursed a total of UGX 19,200,000 to the 22 groups to boost their income-generating activities, benefiting 199 women members.

• Constructed Acegerekuma Primary School, now serving over 720 pupils, and supported by paying teachers’ salaries.

• Constructed Kaperebyong Market with 24 stalls to provide a reliable space for women to sell their produce and products.

• In 2022, a fully constructed and equipped Vocational Institute was established at Kapelebyong, accommodating different skilling sections in Tailoring, Carpentry & Joinery, BCP, and Hairdressing.

This impactful partnership, which began in 1996, continues to thrive and make a meaningful difference in the lives of women, children, and entire communities.