Global Youth Partnership for Africa

Girls Kick It teams play in Gulu Tournament

2007-03-27T04:15:00.000-04:00

Two teams from Girls Kick It! played in last week's girls' football tournament in Gulu. The two-day tournament, organized by Canadian students from the Concordia University Volunteer Abroad Program, included twelve teams from secondary schools and community organizations. GKI brought 18 players from Gulu Town and 18 players from Paicho IDP camp.

The Gulu team played first on Saturday morning, facing strong opposition from the Red Cross community team, which included several former GKI members. The Paicho team played next, putting up a great defense against another community team. The game was intense, and despite the countless shots blocked by the goal-keeper, Paicho was defeated.

On Sunday morning the two GKI teams faced one another in a friendly match. Both teams played well, with Paicho going on to the semi-finals, where they ultimately lost to the Red Cross. The girls returned home excited about the prospect of another tournament and ready to train hard in preparation to meet their future opponents.

GYPA Announces Summer 2007 African Immersions: Uganda & Cameroon!

2007-02-22T07:10:00.000-05:00

This summer GYPA will send 40 American students to Africa to meet with their counterparts in Uganda and Cameroon. These Immersion trips will give American students the unique opportunity to explore the role of youth in development, peace-building, and health promotion first-hand. Our goal is to expand international youth networks, encourage greater understanding about Africa, and inspire an ongoing dialogue and partnership between young American and African leaders. Participants will engage in discussions regarding conflict resolution, economic development, post-conflict rehabilitation, HIV/AIDS, and gender issues, among others. Students with backgrounds or interests in any of the above fields are encouraged to apply!

Interested students may apply to just one or all three of the programs. Applications, accepted on a rolling basis, are due no later than Tuesday, April 3, 2007. Please feel free to contact the Program Coordinators listed below with any further questions. Thanks!

Cameroon Immersion: Youth, Development, and the MDGs (June 10 — 26, 2007)

Cameroon has largely existed under the radar of the international community since achieving independence because it remains one of the most peaceful and prosperous countries in West Africa. However, Cameroon also demonstrates many of the same challenges as its neighbors; every day its population faces complex issues such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, poor infrastructure, and corruption. In September 2000, world leaders came together to establish a global commitment to achieving responsible, sustainable change. The UN’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) set standards regarding education, health, and the environment, among others, that Cameroon is working to achieve. This Immersion will explore how Cameroonian youth are at the forefront of development efforts, and are utilizing creative, pragmatic, and innovative tools to achieve the MDGs and improve their country.

Fifteen American students will be selected to participate in the Cameroon Immersion. They will meet with their counterparts to explore the political, economic, and social successes as well as challenges facing Cameroon. Participants will meet with leaders in government, civil society, and the international NGOs who are experts in West African development. Additionally, participants will engage in community service projects alongside Cameroon's Youths and Students Forum for Peace (CAMYOSFOP), a group dedicated to educating youth and the general public about human rights and conflict resolution. Students will also have the incredibly unique opportunity to interact with delegates to the first African Youth Forum for Peace, a conference in Yaoundé that will mobilize youth leaders from across the continent as peace-builders.

Program Description (DOC)
Application (DOC)

Contact Carrie Stefansky (carrie@gypafrica.org) for more information.

Uganda Immersion: Youth, Development, and Peace-Building (July 2 — 18, 2007)

Uganda faces dramatic challenges, including poverty, political marginalization, and HIV/AIDS; however, it is also at a crossroads. This fall, peace talks brought about a cessation of hostilities in the 20-year civil war in northern Uganda. Now is a critical time to examine the many questions that remain regarding reconstruction and rehabilitation and, particularly, the role youth can play in solving them. What factors brought about a transformation in the conflict? What role do Ugandans see for the international community in the post-conflict environment? How can Uganda help to provide stability of the Great Lakes region? What steps need to be taken to protect and provide for vulnerable populations, such as refugees, internally displaced persons, and orphans?

The Immersion will provide a first-hand look at Uganda through dialogue, cultural exchange, and direct service. Students will gain a unique perspective on issues such as economic development, democracy-building, and transitional justice. The program will include opportunities to meet directly with community-based organizations, international non-governmental organizations, and other young leaders in Kampala and northern Uganda.

Program Description (DOC)
Application (DOC)

Contact Carrie Stefansky (carrie@gypafrica.org) for more information.

Uganda Immersion: Youth, Development, and Health (August 2 — 18, 2007)

Uganda was one of the first countries in the world to come face-to-face with the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic; it was also one of the first to respond successfully to control its spread. As a result, Uganda has been heralded as a model across Sub-Saharan Africa. The Uganda Immersion will focus on the following questions: What role did the Government’s strategy play in combating HIV/AIDS? How has the international community assisted in Uganda’s fight against other dramatic health challenges such as malaria and tuberculosis? What effect does the 20-year civil war in North Uganda have on the various health problems facing the country? What tools do grassroots and civil-society organizations utilize to improve access to health care and treatment? How are women and children affected differently by health crises? What can you do to help?

The Immersion will also examine many other interrelated issues facing Uganda, such as post-conflict development, poverty alleviation, and democracy-building. Participants will have a unique first-hand experience in Uganda by interacting with a wide variety of people on the ground. The program will include direct service with community-based organizations, international non-governmental organizations, and young leaders from Kampala and northern Uganda.

Program Description (DOC)
Application (DOC)

Contact Katie Spencer (katie@gypafrica.org) for more information.

For information about past trips, please visit our Student Global Ambassadors page.

Helping Hands Medical Fellowship Featured in Jerusalem Post

2006-12-05T21:10:00.000-05:00

Last month the Jerusalem Post featured GYPA's new Helping Hands Medical Fellowship delegation:

For the second straight year, Israeli doctors and health care professionals will be heading to Namuwongo, Uganda on the Helping Hands Medical Fellowship to volunteer their time for a community in need.

The first delegation will be leaving December 3 and returning February 5 in an effort to build the Ugandans' capacity to sustain a higher level of health.

Read the whole article or contact Sharon Wolf, GYPA's Israel liaison, at sharon@gypafrica.org for more information.

GYPA LAUNCHES Buy This Bus!

2006-11-01T16:06:00.000-05:00

Buy This Bus Campaign!
GYPA’s Soccer Programs Need Your Support to Buy this Bus!

In their tournament debut at the Homeless World Cup in Cape Town South Africa, Gomo Tong FC representing Uganda, finished 21st out of 48 teams. Among others, Gomo Tong defeated Germany, France, Switzerland, Denmark, and Ghana. Upon returning to Uganda Gomo Tong FC received invitations to participate in soccer matches, trainings, clinics and educational programs.

Unfortunately, the team is unable to accept the invitations because we do not have transportation.

As a result, GYPA USA launched “Buy This Bus” an effort to raise $20,000 to purchase two official team mini-buses for Gomo Tong FC and Girls Kick It!, GYPA’s soccer initiative targeting girls in Northern Uganda (www.girlskickit.org).

Where is the money allocated?

Each bus will be maintained by the coaching staff and team members. The mini-buses will enable the team to participate in country-wide activities, but also, during “off-days” the mini-buses travel throughout the streets of Kampala and Gulu as a special hire taxi-service. All daily taxi fares will be reinvested in the maintenance of the mini-buses, and Gomo Tong FC and Girls Kick It (www.girlskickit.org)! Programs. With the total amount raised, GYPA seeks to acquire driving permits for players and offer opportunities for vocational training in auto mechanics.

Breakdown of costs:
$16,000 for two mini-buses;
$4,000 for driving permits/insurance and vocational training

We can’t do this without you!
We need your help to support Gomo Tong Football Club and Girls Kick It!

A secure online donation can be made at GYPA's website: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr

BBC RADIO FEATURES GYPA

2006-10-08T19:20:00.000-04:00

October 9, 2006

In this African Perspective, Andrea Rose, travels to Cape Town, South Africa for a rather unusual event.

With the 2010 World Cup in sight, 500 excluded and socially marginalised football players from 48 nations have recently been competing for the Homeless World Cup.

The hope is that through this street soccer tournament, perceptions of what it means to be homeless might be shifted.

21 year old Sara Angwech who lives in a displaced person’s camp in Gulu, Uganda, is one of the players from the 13 African countries who made the journey to South Africa to compete.

But can football really change people’s lives?

Also, hear Nobel peace laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu's views on whether this is the right way to help Africa’s homeless people.

To listen to the radio feed visit: www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/programmes/african_perspective.shtml

Upcoming student trips to Uganda and Sierra Leone!

2006-10-02T15:13:00.000-04:00

In January 2007, GYPA will be sending 25 American to join 25 Ugandan students in Kampala and Gulu, Uganda for the Global Kimeeza II: The Role of Youth in Post-Conflict Northern Uganda. At the same time, 20 Americans and 50 Sierra Leoneans will come together in Freetown, Sierra Leone for GYPA's first Youth Summit in the country: The Role of Youth in Post-Conflict Sierra Leone.

Both immersion trips will give participants an opportunity to explore first-hand the post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation processes at work in these countries. The purpose of both summits is to engage and promote youth from the United States and Africa as leaders in the efforts to rebuild these two war-torn countries. Participants will participate in discussions regarding conflict resolution, economic development, rehabilitation and reintegration, HIV/AIDS, transitional justice, and gender issues, among others. Students with backgrounds or interests in any of the above fields are encouraged to apply!

Interested students may to apply to either one or both of the programs. Applications are due no later than November 1st, and applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis. Please refer to www.gypafrica.org to obtain the official program descriptions and to fill out an application, or contact the Program Coordinators listed below. Thanks!

Global Kimeeza II: The Role of Youth in Post-Conflict Reconstruction (January 2nd-17th)

This fall, peace talks brought about a cessation of hostilities in the 20-year civil war in Northern Uganda; now is a critical time to examine the political situation and engage in the practice of reconstruction and reconciliation. The goal of the Kimeeza is to provide a platform for Americans and Ugandans to explore the important role that youth play in post-conflict reconstruction by sharing ideas, approaches, and strategies.

The Second Global Kimeeza will focus on three important domains that are necessary to rebuilding a thriving northern Uganda:
1. Youth as Peacebuilders;
2. Justice and Forgiveness; and
3. Poverty Relief and Economic Development.

This historic initiative will help establish a stronger relationship between the youth of the United States and Uganda. Ultimately, it is our goal to build bridges of greater understanding and inspire an ongoing dialogue between today’s young American and Ugandan leaders – tomorrow’s global decision makers.

Please contact Katie Spencer for more information or an application (katie@gypafrica.org).

Youth Summit: The Role of Youth in Post-Conflict Sierra Leone (January 2nd-16th)

The Summit to Sierra Leone will give American students the unique opportunity to explore first-hand the post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation processes at work in a country whose decade-long civil war ended only five years ago. The purpose of the Summit is to engage and promote youth from Sierra Leone and the United States as leaders in the efforts to rebuild this war-torn country. Participants will attend meetings in Freetown with Sierra Leonean students focusing on the role of youth in conflict resolution and post-conflict development.

The Summit will focus on the following major themes:
1. Conflict Analysis, Management, and Resolution
2. Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Rehabilitation
3. Poverty Alleviation and Economic Development

We will also have in-depth discussions on topics such as democracy building, US-West African relations, and HIV/AIDS. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to travel to areas in the north and east to obtain a more in-depth perspective on how the country was affected by the conflict.

Please contact Carrie Stefansky for more information or an application (carrie@gypafrica.org).

New News from Africa - Interview

2006-10-07T12:56:00.000-04:00

The following interview with Charlayne Hunter Gault appeared on AllAfrica.com
October 6, 2006. "New News from Africa - Looking Beyond Death, Disease, Disaster and Despair."

allAfrica.com%20%20%27New%20News%27%20from%20Africa%20-%20Looking%20Beyond%20Death%2C...pdf

Gomo Tong Loses to Germany and Ireland

2006-09-28T14:29:00.000-04:00

It was a difficult afternoon for Gomo Tong FC who fell to Germany 6-3. Goals were scored by Ojok Hannington, Mambo and Opio.

"Gomo Tong FC pose for a photo with Team Germany"

In a heart-breaker, Ireland defeated Gomo Tong FC in a penalty shoot-out after the game was tied 2-2. Scoring for Gomo Tong was Ojok Hannington.

Lamex Lambert stopped 3 straight penalty shot attempts for Gomo Tong FC, but Gomo Tong was unable to knock in a penalty shot to take the victory. After three players from each side failed to score on penatly shots, Ireland's 4th attempt was netted. Gomo Tong had one final attempt, but the keeper stopped the attempt.

Gomo Tong FC is still in the running for 3rd place and looks forward to making up with a few wins tomorrow on it's quest for the 3rd place trophy.

Gomo Tong FC Afternoon at the Beach

2006-10-01T06:38:00.000-04:00

Gomo Tong FC took a well-deserved break from the HWC action to visit the beach. This was the first time that the team had ever seen the ocean or a beach. It was an awesome experience that we'll never forget!

"Mambo shows off his skills at Campe Bay"

"Auma's Million Dollar Smile"

"A Moment of Solitude as Lamex Stands on the Shores of the Atlantic"

"Opio, Sara and Auma Enjoy the South African Sun"

Gomo Tong Strikes Back Versus Ghana

2006-09-27T07:59:00.000-04:00

It was a fast and furious game between East and West Africa this afternoon, and Gomo Tong defeated the Black Stars of Ghana 6-2. After Ghana scored first, Ojok Hannington continued his flurry of goal scoring by firing back with 2 goals to put Gomo Tong up 2-1 at half-time.

The second half was all Mambo, the talented young player scored 4 goals in under 7 minutes in the second half.

Spirts and morale were very high and Gomo Tong now looks forward to its match-up at 4pm versus Finland.

"Uganda and Ghana pose for a pre-game photo"

"Joseph Kaliisa relaxes after a cool victory over Ghana"

Gomo Tong FC Finishes Strong at 21st

2006-10-01T06:12:00.000-04:00

Gomo Tong FC won it's final match at the Cape Town Homeless World Cup 4-0 over Germany. The team played it's absolute best match of the tournament, and ended with a record of 7 wins and 6 loses. Incredible for the HWC newcomers.

As a result of the victory, Gomo Tong FC finished in the top of of the 48 teams, with a ranking of 21st.

The winners of the 2006 HWC was Russia, who defeated Kazakhystan 1-0.

It was an incredible journey for the team from Uganda. We hope to participate in the 2007 HWC in Copenhagen. Stay tuned for photos from the 2006 HWC.

Gomo Tong FC Goes 1-1 Today

2006-09-29T12:49:00.000-04:00

Today, Gomo Tong FC lost to Finald, 3-2 -- goals were scored by Ojok Hannington and Dennis Opio.

In the evening, Gomo Tong FC defeated Chile, 4-2. Gomo Tong now stands with record of 6 wins and 6 loses.

The highlight of today, however, was the appearance of Archbishop Desmod Tutu who spoke to the capacity crowd. Gomo Tong FC team member, Auma Zainabu, was selected from the Ugandan team to greet Mr. Tutu, and also handed him a Gomo Tong FC t-shirt.

Gomo Tong 5-1 Over France

2006-09-28T06:50:00.000-04:00

Gomo Tong continued their win streak to 3 games, and lifted their record 5-3 after defeating the French. Goals were scored by Simon Mwaka, and Ojok Hannington. Auma Zainabu, one of the excellent female members of Gomo Tong played tenacious defense during the second half. Her in your face defense resulted in the ejection of one of France's players mid-way through the second half. France was then forced to play with only 2 players.

Next up for Gomo Tong is Germany at 2pm. And Ireland this evening at 6pm.

Jeremy

Gomo Tong Delivered An "L" versus England

2006-09-26T15:51:00.000-04:00

England defeated Gomo Tong FC this evening 7-2. In a game that was intense and unfortunately poorly officiated, Gomo Tong FC is now in the running for the 3rd Place Trophy. Goals were scored by Gomo Tong FC by Ojok Hannington, and Mambo Bosco, the youngest member of Gomo Tong.

From Cape Town.
Jeremy

Gomo Tong Defeats Finland in Penalty Shoot-Out

2006-09-27T12:06:00.000-04:00

In a challenging match versus Finland late this afternoon Gomo Tong won a thriller in extended play, 1-0 in the penalty shoot out. After regulation the score was tied 2-2. The game also marked a ground-breaking event when Coach Ssemakula started Sarah Angwech one of 3 female members with Gomo Tong in Cape Town.

A heroic display of goal-keeping was admired by the crowd, when Lamex Lambert blocked 3 consecutive Finland penalty attempts. For Gomo Tong, Mambo netted the lone penalty shot that brought the Ugandan bench to its feet as is stormed the field to celebrate the victory.

Next up for Gomo Tong tomorrow are three of Europe's most talented HWC football clubs: France, Germany and Ireland. Should be another exciting day at the Homeless World Cup.

Gomo Tong's record now stands at 4 wins and 3 loses, as it racks up points on-route to the 3rd place championship trophy.

GOMO TONG FACES OFF WITH KAZAHAKSTAN

2006-09-26T05:54:00.000-04:00

Gomo Tong FC opened the Pool Stage of the Homeless World Cup this morning versus Kazahkstan. The team suffered a 9-3 loss versus a well-fueled and skilled team. Gomo Tong now awaits the loser of the England v. Russia match which takes place later this afternoon.
Should Gomo Tong win this evening they would move into the next part of the Pool Stage.

Stay tuned for more updates.

Jeremy

Gomo Tong FC Handed Its First Loss

2006-09-25T15:45:00.000-04:00

Gomo Tong FC was handed it's first defeat this evening to Russia, 5-0. Under wet conditions and the dark evening sky Russia played a remarkably great game. However, once again goal-keeper, Lamex Lambert, blocked a aresenal of shots on goal. His aggresive play was the high-light of the action for Gomo Tong FC. Morale is still up and with a 2-1 record, Gomo Tong FC has already put Uganda on the map at the Homeless World Cup.

The great news is that Gomo Tong FC has qualified for the second round and will play tomorrow morning at 10am versus a team yet to be determined.

GOMO TONG FC DEFEATS SWIZERLAND

2006-09-25T12:34:00.000-04:00

Dateline Cape Town:
September 25, 2006

Though the morning started off slowly in the Cape with rain and cool breezes, GOMO TONG FC defeated Switzerland in the afternoon 5-3. A remarkable game was played by Gomo Tong FC keeper, Lamex Lambert whose performance kept Gomo Tong FC undefeated in tournament play.

This evening, Gomo Tong FC squares off versus Russia at 8:20pm which should be Gomo Tong's most difficult contest yet. The winner this evening will place 1st in Group L, but both teams (Russia and Gomo Tong) have already advanced to the next round of tournament play.

From Cape Town,
Jeremy

HOMELESS WORLD CUP PHOTOS

2006-09-24T18:51:00.000-04:00

The first selection of Gomo Tong FC in Cape Towh, September 24, 2006

"Gomo Tong FC poses for a photo before "The March" to the Grand Parade for the opening ceremonies and first day of match play"

"A Ball Can Change the World" -- GYPA Country Director, Joseph Kaliisa Enjoying a beautiful day in Cape Town

"Gomo Tong FC Greets the Homeless World Cup"

"A View from inside the Grand Parade Stadium in the Center of Cape Town"

Stay tuned for photos from Gomo Tong FC matches versus Estonia, Switzerland and Russia.

All photos are the property and copyrighted to Global Youth Partnership for Africa. Use of this photos is not permitted without express written consent.

GOMO TONG FC VICTORIOUS OVER ESTONIA

2006-09-24T13:54:00.000-04:00

From the start of the match Gomo Tong FC controlled the pace... coming out with a convincing "W" over Estonia 9-3. Coach Ssemakula's starting line-up included: Hannington Ojok, Dennis Opio, Joshua-Joseph Ochieng and Lamex Lambart at keeper.

By halftime, Gomo Tong FC was up 4-1 with the crowd energized under lights of the Grand Parade at Cape Town night. Late in the second half Auma Zainabu, one of the members of Girls Kick It! entered the game and exhibited a flurry of defensive excellence leading to a goal by Gomo Tong FCs youngest player (at 17 years) Mambo Bosco.

Tomorrow, Gomo Tong FC faces off against:
Switzerland at 1:20pm
Russia at 5:45pm

Point of interest....Switzerland, lost to Russia today after the game was ended due to "foul play" by both sides.

Morale is high and the team is ready for the face off with the remaining two teams in their bracket.

In other Homeless World Cup news, South Africa opened up the HWC with a victory over Chile, Namibia defeated Italy, the two-time defending champions, England, Ireland, Kenya, Ghana, and Portugal were some of the other teams who came up victorious.

Stay tuned for more news from Cape Town tomorrow.

Jeremy

GOMO TONG FC ARRIVES CAPE TOWN

2006-09-23T14:50:00.000-04:00

Late last evening Gomo Tong FC representing Uganda, arrived Cape Town International Airport. Though the endured nearly 6 hours of travel, 3 airports, and the first time flying for the entire group the arrived wide-eyed and happy to be in South Africa.

Upon arrival to their accommodations at Rafalgar High School the team learned that they drew Group L, with Russia, Switzerland, and Estonia. Tomorrow evening, September 24, Gomo Tong FC faces off against Estonia at 6pm. Stay tuned for blog posts tomorrow.

This morning all of 48 teams participating in the Homeless World Cup filled the stands at the Main Pitch Opening at the Grand Parade in Cape Town. The Grand Parade was the site of major anti-apartheid protests and Nelson Mandela's first speech after his release from prison. To read the text of Mandela's inauguration speech at the Grand Parade click here: http://www.anc.org.za/ancdocs/history/mandela/1994/inaugct.html

The wave of colors and flags adorned the bodies and stands of participating players from Finland, Cameroon, United States, Chile, Mexico -- and the chants in native languages sent a wave of positive energy though the crowd. Like the feel of the World Cup, the crowed danced, hollered, shook hands and bridged the regional, national and global divides through the idea the "A Ball Can Change the World." It was a beautiful spectacle at the historic site that stands for freedom, peace and brotherhood.

Gomo Tong FCs friend and generous donor, Kevin Carroll, provided an inspirational presentation on the main pitch follwed by giving every player a copy of his critically acclaimed book "Rules of the Red Rubber Ball."

In the afternoon, all coaches attended the Anti-Racism Conference organized by the international players union, FIFPro and Euseblo Ferreira Da Silva one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

Finally a beautiful day (did I mention the weather was a perfect 75 degrees) was capped off by an event hosted by the Mayor of Cape Town at the Cape Town Civic Center. And, again, was followed by more dancing -- the Ugandan team stole the dance floor -- dance, another universal language, was shared. The vibrant young Ugandan women (Sara, Auma and Carol) taught players from Hong Kong, Europe and the US how to shake your hips like only Ugandans do.

Good Night from Cape Town,
Jeremy

LIVE FROM CAPE TOWN - BEGINS 9/23

2006-09-21T08:07:00.000-04:00

Beginning September 23 and running through October 1 check the GYPA blog for updates on Gomo Tong's FC experiences at the Homeless World Cup.

GYPA YOUTH SUMMITS IN EAST AND WEST AFRICA

2006-09-19T07:14:00.000-04:00

In the coming weeks GYPA will announce and begin to recruit students for the January 2007 Youth Summits. Applications will be available via-our website.

Stay tuned!

GOMO TONG FC LEAVE FOR CAPE TOWN THURSDAY

2006-09-19T07:12:00.000-04:00

8 players, 2 coaches, 2 peace ambassadors and 2 GYPA staff will head to Cape Town for the Homeless World Cup on Thursday, September 21. Stay tuned to the GYPA website for information and blog entires throughout the tournament (September 22 - October 1).

For information about the Homeless World Cup visit: www.homelessworldcup.org

THINK AGAIN IMMERSION! KICKS OFF

2006-08-07T10:57:00.000-04:00

Sunday Evening, August 6, 2006

On Thursday night, 13 Student Global Ambassadors (SGA) arrived to Uganda as part of the “Think Again! Uganda Immersion.” The SGAs come from all across the United States, are interested in print/television journalism, photography, marketing and public relations. They will spend the next two weeks learning from Ugandans and developing stories that show the positive and hopeful stories that Uganda has to share.

After exploring capital city of Uganda, Kampala, on Friday, we got down to business on Saturday, visiting Bead for Life (www.beadforlife.org), an extraordinary microfinance project that employs poor HIV positive mothers who often have few other life opportunities. We also learned about BFL's new project with Habitat for Humanity, which aims working with women to finance and pay for their own small houses outside of the slums in which they currently live.

Saturday afternoon the group went to Daughters of Charity, an orphanage and school in Kampala started by a compassionate Catholic Nun named Sister Ruth. We spoke with young adults who are successful professionals, and we also spoke with students who live at the home. The difficulties that these children face (HIV/AIDS, the Rwandan genocide, the conflict in Northern Uganda, etc.) truly embody the struggles of the region as a whole. However, it also shows the capacity for compassion and hope that the Ugandan people can show to one another.

Sunday brought us to the Jinja, and the source of the River Nile, for a day of Class 5 water rafting. After much flipping and swimming, we are back to Makerere University in Kampala to relax for the afternoon. However, we are very excited to get the week started.