Dear friends
I hope you are doing well. I am in transit to Uganda, but I would like to pass on to you in advance a touching letter that has just reached me. Its author, Betty Kirabo, is an extraordinary woman. She recently came of age and writes poetry and short stories. She is involved in charitable work, fights for young women, for equal opportunities and rarely minces her words. And: she compares her life to a miracle. But it’s best to read her letter for yourself. It is not only addressed to me, but also to you and to the whole, big Kids of Africa family.
From Betty Kirabo, March 2024
My dear Kids of Africa family, dear Dr Burkhard
Eighteen years ago, I became a child of the Kids of Africa family. I don’t remember the day. But I vividly remember the following 18 years. I loved every moment. Today I am of age and want to stand on my own two feet soon. That’s why I’m taking this opportunity to write a few lines about my life in Kids of Africa. In one sentence: it was a blessing. The most important thing was always love. Just as my mum loves me, I will always love her.
And my siblings. I love them dearly. I spent my favourite moments with them. And then, of course, there was always Mum Dorte and Director Tage. Throughout the years, they were always role models for each of us children. Just like Dr Burkhard. Although he was far away, he was always close by. Always found time and an ear for us. If there was a problem, he came from Switzerland. Sometimes with friends who helped us somehow. Yes, we are all one big family. And my years in Kids of Africa were actually like a miracle. Heaven cannot give us a more beautiful gift than what Kids of Africa is for all of us.
I am now looking forward to a new chapter full of confidence. With my knowledge and values, I want to stand on my own two feet soon.
But before that, my message to you, my dearly beloved sisters and brothers of Kids of Africa. I will always be your loving sister. The memories of our many joys and little secrets will always make my heart happy. And I want us to always be a family. Let us keep hope high and faith firm in our hearts. Let’s stay in touch, conquer the world and make it a better place. We can do that.
I love you all.
Betty Kirabo
