This project is not just about bricks and mortar - it is about a community giving their children a chance that they never had. The parents of Giriki know that the heart of community is its school.

Caught in the crossfire

For half a century, the people of Giriki had their lives devastated by violent conflict.  Pokot and Karamojong rebels stole the cattle they depended on, burnt their homes, schools and crops, and drove 30,000 people like Chebet Irene to flee for their lives.

Rebuilding a ruined land

2004/6 The Ugandan government starts a programme of forceful disarmament.

2007 For the first time, people feel safe enough to return to their former homes. But infrastructure has been devastated. Teacher Alfred Kityo told us:

“I was born in Giriki. I wanted to go back and help my home community. Nothing was left here. No healthcare, no schools.” Alfred Kityo, teacher.

2008-2009 Supporters in the UK help build a new health centre. Our Christmas appeal focuses on the forgotten emergency in eastern Uganda, including the desperate situation facing families in Giriki. We raise the money to build a health centre in the community. David is one of the first children treated. Irene, his mother, says, “From all the mothers here, I thank you so much for the health centre. We now know our children are protected”.

Christmas 2010 There is still a long journey for the people in Giriki. Returningfamilies are faced with a number challenges, our main concern being for their children. Despite the efforts of Alfred and concerned parents who have built a makeshift school, children don’t have access to the quality education that is vital to their future. The nearest government school is 36 km away (over eight hours walk away). This means that  approximately 500 children are missing out on the education.

Schools for the future

We've been working with the community and the government at a local and national level on plans for a primary school in Giriki. Now we face the challenge of securing the funds needed to complete the build.