Japan Injects Shs768m into Uganda’s Grassroots Development, Funding 3 Key Projects

The Government of Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to Uganda’s grassroots development by extending over 768 million Uganda shillings (equivalent to US$ 217,664) to three community-based projects.

The grant contracts for these initiatives were signed on October 23, 2024, at the Embassy of Japan in Uganda, led by Ambassador H.E. Sasayama Takuya. This funding is part of the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), a program administered by Japan’s embassy to support community-led development projects throughout Uganda.

According to a statement, the three projects receiving this financial boost are focused on improving healthcare, agricultural practices, and education in underserved regions.

1. St. Francis Acumet Health Centre III (Kapelebyong District): This private-not-for-profit facility, established in 1989, is a vital healthcare provider for the community but has lacked a maternity ward. According to Mr Norbert Ogire who signed on behalf of St Francis, the grant is timely.

With the grant, the health centre will construct a fully equipped maternity ward, complete with a postnatal room, delivery room, antenatal consultation room, and other essential facilities to ensure a safe, hygienic, and comprehensive environment for maternal care.

2. Village Synergy (Agricultural Development in Kapelebyong District): This local NGO focuses on providing agricultural training to farmers in the region.

Mr Ambrose Okite, represented the organization.

The funding will support the construction of a maize storage shed, maize mill, and the installation of a generator to ensure better quality control and reduce post-harvest losses, contributing to improved livelihoods for local farmers.

3. Insieme Si Puo (Educational Support in Nakiloro, Karamoja Region): Founded in 2019, this NGO has worked to improve educational conditions in one of Uganda’s most disadvantaged regions.

The grant will fund the construction of a two-classroom block, along with a staff room and bookstore, and provide 90 three-seater desks for Nakiloro Community School. These improvements are expected to enhance learning conditions and ensure all children have proper seating and an adequate learning environment.

Ms Stefania Ceruso, the country representative of ISP signed on behalf of the organisation.

In his address during the signing ceremony, Ambassador Sasayama commended the selected projects for their significant impact on the respective communities.

“We have received more than 400 applications annually. Through the selection process, we evaluate two crucial points. One is the needs and urgency of the project. Another is the management capacity of the organization, including maintenance of the facility after the project is completed.”

Amb. Sasayama Takuya encouraged the recipients to maintain the facilities well

He further emphasized the importance of the project’s impact on the communities. “The impact of the project on the community is an important factor in the selection process. I would like to congratulate all the organizations on your successful achievements in the selection process for the grant.”

Ambassador Sasayama encouraged the recipients to maintain the facilities well: “Our team will visit and check the facilities and equipment conditions two years after handover. If you are taking good care of the facility, you might be able to get another opportunity to apply for GGP.”

In closing, he wished the organizations success in their projects. “I would like to sincerely wish you a successful implementation of your projects. I look forward to the completion of these memorable projects and hope that they will be valuable facilities for their respective communities.”

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives of the recipient organizations, including Mr. Ogire Norbert from St. Francis Acumet Health Centre III, Mr. Daniele Giaffredo of Insieme Si Puo, and Mr. Ambrose Okite of Village Synergy.