We invited distinguished guests - representatives of the church, government, parliament, partner organisations, European ADRA partners and more than 1,000 refugees. Local music played, Pathfinders marched, church choirs sang and everyone was there as one family.

 

In his message, Pastor Daniel M. Matte, President of the Adventist Church in Uganda, who is also Chairman of the ADRA Board of Directors, encouraged the refugees and reminded them of the biblical principle: „If a stranger comes to your country, do not oppress him. Let the stranger who sojourns with you be to you as a native. Love him as yourself...“(Lev. 19:33-34). „This provision was decreed by the Lord God more than 4,000 years ago, when there was no ADRA, UNHCR, WFP, or Red Cross.“ stated Pastor Matte.

 

 

The Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Nakadama Rukia Isanga, thanked all the organisations that are assisting the refugees. She stated that Uganda hosts more than 1.5 million refugees, which is the highest of all African countries. Michael Kruger, Director of ADRA International, praised the way Uganda cares for refugees. It provides them with land on which they can build their homes and grow crops for their livelihoods, attend school and find employment just like any other resident. He also praised ADRA's cooperation with other humanitarian organisations and partners for the benefit of the refugees.

 

And to make it not just about words, Nakadama Rukia Isanga and Michael Kruger cut the ribbon and jointly opened the new hospital, which is located right in our humanitarian complex, in the middle of the Kyaka II refugee settlement.

 

And the surprise? „During the luncheon ceremony, the Deputy Prime Minister of Nakadama, Rukia Isanga, invited me to her table to thank us and at the same time handed me a proposal of her aid project, for which she is looking for partners. She is developing a training centre for young people in the poorest area of Uganda, where she comes from. There, they expand their practical skills, such as the basics of agriculture and various crafts, so that they can stand on their own feet and earn a living.” says Stanislav Bieliek, Director of ADRA Slovakia. „Could you as ADRA also help our centre?“ asked the Deputy Prime Minister.

 

„I was really surprised that even people with such high status are personally involved in their work and care for the most vulnerable. Well, this is what Africa is all about.” Stano Bielik concludes.