Issac's Family

Issac is a former NVI student, sponsored by Geoff and Julie, who has gone on to further education thanks to the opportunity given to him by UgandAid. His parents are both HIV positive and are struggling, however, they still take care of the others less fortunate than them in the village. They are an example of strength and generosity to Issac and the rest of the family.

A small group of us were invited to visit Issac’s family and home. The village is in

Masese, a slum area 30min drive from Jinja; the roads are dirt tracks with large holes and no signposts, which made it a dramatic journey.

We received an ecstatic welcome. Issac’s mother and neighbour ran out with okukuba endulu (similar to red Indian hollo). Their home is a brick build house among mud hut out houses. It is small, with one living area, a kitchen and one bedroom for a family of 8. We all sat within the living room, with a group of intrigued children looking through the door listening quietly.

As traditional in Uganda, we brought presents of soap, sugar, salt, and pineapple. We were not expecting anything in return as we were just so grateful of the invitation and welcome we received. However, for a family that has nearly nothing, they brought us a large bunch of bananas, bottles of water and of soda! We were all so humbled by this.

Again, it is traditional for everyone to introduce themselves. When it was Issac’s time to speak, he told us about his and his families difficulties in the past, and how much Geoff and Julie’s sponsorship had helped them. It was a very emotional story. We also heard from Issac’s, mother, father and brothers, who had equally emotional stories of how thankful they are for Issac’s education which will help the whole family. It was clear how much love Geoff, Julie and Issac’s family have for each other -  Geoff and Julies’ wedding photo was hung on their wall. A few of the team also received presents which brought us to tears. They made us feel like part of their family and the community, repeating that we are welcome to come back and see them.

After group photos of everyone where taken, it was time to leave; with many handshakes, hugs, and okukuba endulu! The bumpy journey back was even more adventurous – we got the van stuck and some of the local community ran over to push us out. We got home still overwhelmed and blessed by the day.