Dear friends
The latest outbreak of the Ebola virus in Uganda is once again posing major challenges for the country. Through our extensive support for schools and pupils, as well as communities directly affected by the situation, Kids of Africa is standing by and helping in the face of a crisis that has struck us virtually overnight. A brief report.
The Ebola virus, which is spreading rapidly from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Uganda, has prompted the World Health Organisation to declare a public health emergency of international concern.
The crisis has already claimed over a hundred lives, with several hundred suspected cases. At the same time, it is exacerbating the already precarious economic situation of many families, as well as the situation in schools and for pupils.
The consequences are far-reaching: school closures, restricted access to education and an additional strain on already fragile social structures.
The extent to which the crisis is affecting everyday life is illustrated by the example of Grace, a teacher at a local primary school. She talks of empty classrooms and the concern felt by many parents that they will no longer be able to send their children to school.
Or Samuel, a talented boy who was neglected by his family but who, thanks to his hard work, is now seen as a role model by many of his classmates. Through Kids of Africa, he received support, an education and accommodation. This was essential help, without which he would not be able to stand on his own two feet today. But his school has now closed, and his living situation is precarious.
In this situation, organisations such as Kids of Africa play a particularly important role in Uganda. We are not only committed to the welfare of the children in our care, but have also been supporting local schools and families for many years, where these children learn, live and are empowered to help themselves. In this way, Kids of Africa has an impact far beyond the circle of orphans: teachers and fellow pupils also benefit from improved conditions and practical support.
Kids of Africaâs work helps to stabilise communities and promote education in times of crisis. The current crises in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo make it particularly clear that investing in children and education not only improves the lives of individuals, but also lays the foundations for sustainable, self-reliant development and empowers people to help themselves â on both a small and a large scale.
Whoever saves a child saves a world. That is why your support for Kids of Africa is much more than just emergency aid: it is an indispensable investment in a better future.
I thank you on behalf of the many children, families and schools affected, and will keep you updated.
With best regards from East Africa
Yours, Burkhard Varnholt
