A journey of compassion, resilience, and hope — from a small idea to a growing movement.
A journey of compassion, resilience, and hope — from a small idea to a growing movement
Uganda- Helping Hands was born from the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lived experiences of its founder, Bukama Hakim.
In the rural communities of Bundibugyo District, the pandemic brought unprecedented challenges. Schools closed for long periods, families lost their incomes, and hunger became widespread. Children never returned to school. Young girls were married off early. Teenage pregnancies increased. Some children were abandoned or forced onto the streets.
In 2022, the first step was taken. A small gardening project was started, planting food crops and sharing the harvest with vulnerable families in the village. It wasn't much, but it reminded people that someone cared. This simple act of compassion planted the seed for what would become Uganda- Helping Hands.
Bukama Hakim starts a small gardening project in Katumba Village, sharing harvests with vulnerable families. The idea of organized community support begins to take root. The first informal community gatherings identify the urgent needs of orphaned children and girls who dropped out of school.
Recognizing the lack of opportunities for young girls who had dropped out of school, a tailoring skills project is launched. With support from friends abroad through a GoFundMe campaign, five sewing machines are acquired. The program begins training groups of five girls every three months, giving them skills to earn a living and regain confidence.
Uganda- Helping Hands is formally established as a Community Based Organization (CBO). Fifteen founding members come together to formalize the organization's vision and mission. The constitutional meeting takes place, setting the legal foundation for the organization's work.
The constitution of Uganda- Helping Hands is officially adopted and comes into force. The organization's governing structure is established, with Bukama Hakim as Chairperson, Masika Darlyn as Secretary, and Muhindo Brian Kahigwa as Treasurer. Registration with Bundibugyo District authorities is completed.
The organization begins caring for orphaned and abandoned children. Today, ten orphaned children live under direct care, while others are supported in foster families. The need for a safe, permanent home becomes urgent as the current shelter is old, overcrowded, and structurally unsafe. Planning begins for a new orphan home.
Through donor support, Masika Ritah, one of the vulnerable children, is successfully enrolled in school. The Education Support Program formalizes efforts to provide scholastic materials, school supplies, and tuition support to vulnerable children. The program continues to identify children in need of educational assistance.
Uganda- Helping Hands establishes a community savings and credit initiative (SACCO) serving 20 members including farmers and small business owners. The program provides small loans to help members invest in farming and small enterprises, promoting economic self-reliance within the community.
Construction begins on a new orphan home to provide safe, stable housing for children in care. The organization continues to expand its women's empowerment programs, water and sanitation projects, and humanitarian assistance. Partnerships with local and international organizations grow, strengthening the impact of all programs.
Gardening project started to support vulnerable families in Katumba Village
Five sewing machines acquired, first girls trained in vocational skills
Uganda- Helping Hands registered as CBO with 15 founding members
10 orphaned children under direct care; new orphan home construction begins
First child enrolled through donor support; formal education program launched
Community savings and credit program serving 20 local members
Bukama Hakim's personal story of hardship, resilience, and hope is the foundation upon which Uganda- Helping Hands is built. Having experienced displacement, struggle, and the challenges of growing up with limited resources, he understands the needs of vulnerable children and families on a deeply personal level.
Today, as Chairperson of Uganda- Helping Hands, Bukama continues to lead with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. His vision for a permanent orphan home, expanded education programs, and sustainable community development drives the organization forward.
On 17 December 2023, the founding members of Uganda- Helping Hands adopted the organization's constitution. This document established the legal and operational framework that guides all activities. The constitution came into force on 18 January 2024 after approval by the founding members.
Key constitutional principles include:
As we continue our journey, we remain committed to building a permanent orphan home, expanding education support, strengthening women's empowerment, and creating sustainable opportunities for vulnerable communities across Uganda.
Every step forward is made possible by compassionate supporters like you.