Compassion International is an evangelical Christian nongovernmental organization dedicated to Child Advocacy. Through a holistic approach, Compassion International addresses the spiritual, economic, social and physical aspects of poverty among the children in need.

 

Our goal is to release them from poverty and give them opportunity to attain their full potential and become mature and fulfilled Christian adults. We do this in partnership with evangelical churches in the country.

 

In accordance with the mission statement, Compassion International Uganda exists primarily as an advocate for children. Our key role goes beyond catering directly for children because we are aware that we can only assist so many. On this International Day of the African Child, 16 th of June 2008, we join with other key stakeholders in decrying the state of the African Child.

 

The media is full of stories about children being defiled, beaten, burnt, thrown into latrines, sacrificed to the gods and trafficked for cheap labour. As Christians and as a child development organisation, we strongly speak out against these evil acts to the child and state that these practices of child abuse should stop.

 

As a child development organisation, Compassion International is concerned with the plight of the Ugandan child and seeks to do everything within our power to protect him/her. Research has shown that child abuse is a serious impediment to child development and we therefore do not tolerate any abuse of children by anyone that we work with.

 

Child trafficking is one of the most severe violations of human rights in the world today, involving over a million children worldwide. It refers to the illegal transport of human beings, in particular women and children, for the purpose of selling them or exploiting their labour. This robs us of a better future generation. We also, where possible, support anyone who in good faith takes steps to protect children from situations or relationships that appear to place children at risk.

 

Compassion International Uganda employs three key efforts in protecting the children we assist. First of all, we endeavour to select staff carefully through interviews and careful checking of reference and background. Secondly, we train the staff and others responsible for caring for children on how to recognise abuse, how to respond to it and how to avoid situations that may increase the probability of its occurrence.

 

Thirdly we also have a strong emphasis on documentation. This is in the form of written policy on child protection, and pledges to which all staff commit themselves. We uphold the United Nations Convention, African Union Charter and Government legal instruments against all forms of child abuse. We also have in place internal policies governing the staff, visitors, sponsors and donors on the dignity and self worth of the child.

 

We are aware that we cannot do this alone, and so we network with other NGOs that are concerned about the welfare of children, as well as LC officials and the Police in ensuring that the children we serve can lead an abuse-free life and grow to become fulfilled and responsible Christian adults.

 

The church partners operate 232 Compassion assisted projects in the districts of Apac, Bugiri, Bushenyi, Busia, Hoima, Iganga, Jinja, Kabale, Kampala, Kapchorwa,Bukwo, Kasese, Kayunga, Kisoro, Lira, Luwero, Masaka, Masindi, Mbale,Manafwa,Bududa, Mbarara,Kiruhura,Isingiro,Ibanda, Mpigi, Mukono, Nebbi, Ntungamo, Pallisa, Rakai, Rukungiri, Sironko Tororo, Arua, Soroti, Kumi and Wakiso. As of May 2008, Compassion International Uganda has registered over 58,125 children in the projects.

 

The church partners identify the children in need, hire staff to run the projects and fully manage the projects through the project committees. Our national net growth rate for the next 10 years is estimated to be at 6.5% per annum. There are over 80 staff members at the country office and over 944 project staff who work tirelessly to meet the needs of the children under our care.

 

Children are a heritage from God ( Psalm 127:3 ); they therefore are a means through which we continue life on earth. We as a country must protect and build the children we have today to avoid having to repair the adults of tomorrow. For further information please contact:

 

The Country Director

Compassion International Uganda

Phidam House, Plot 2158, Block 243

PortBell Road, Luzira, Kampala

Tel: 0392 757599/600

Fax: 041 220672

Email: ugmail@ug.ci.org