Bank of Uganda Staff Donates UGX 11 Million to Build Shelter for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Children with cerebral palsy in Goma Division, Mukono Municipality, are set to benefit from a new shelter following a generous donation from a Bank of Uganda employee. The Rotary Club of Sonde, in partnership with St. Charles Lwanga Primary School in Bukerere, has launched the construction project to provide specialized care and support for these children.

The groundbreaking ceremony and donation event, held recently, saw the handover of essential items such as food, diapers, and other necessities to aid the children’s well-being. District Governor of Rotary District 9213, Geoffrey Kitakule, and Rotary Club of Sonde President Christine Alupo officiated the event. Kitakule emphasized the importance of community collaboration, stating, "We urge partners and individuals to join us in making a meaningful difference and transforming lives in our communities."

Alupo highlighted the critical needs of children with cerebral palsy, noting that the condition severely impacts their growth and development. She explained, "These children require specialized care, educational support, and medical attention. We’ve already built a classroom for them and are now focusing on a shelter to provide comfort and aid in their treatment." She also pointed out the challenges faced by parents, many of whom struggle to balance caregiving with other responsibilities.

The project received a significant boost from Dorothy Namarome Muinda, a Bank of Uganda employee, who donated UGX 11 million. Muinda shared her personal connection to the cause, saying, "I have relatives with cerebral palsy and have seen the immense challenges families face. When I learned about this initiative, I knew I had to support it." She expressed her gratitude to the Rotary Club of Sonde and pledged continued backing for the project.

Christine Kirungi, Director of the Umbrella Cerebral Palsy Association of Uganda, welcomed the initiative, noting that limited space had previously forced them to operate in shifts, leaving some children without care. "This new shelter ensures that no child will be left behind," she said. Parents also expressed their relief, citing the financial and emotional burdens of raising children with cerebral palsy and their hope that the shelter will provide a safe and supportive environment for their children.

The construction of the shelter is estimated to cost UGX 20 million, with the Rotary Club of Sonde leading the efforts to secure additional funding and resources.