We have not been idle during the summer break. News is being read, the budgets for 2026 are being worked on, and the November 2025 newsletter still needs time. First things first:
In Ethiopia, we are planning to increase the number of scholarships for girls! From 155, we might reach 175 in 2026? We will calculate and decide on a budget sometime in late October or early November. At the same time, we are designing an additional project (alongside the mothers' project) for girls who have had traumatic experiences, perhaps a group of 25? They should have positive group experiences and be well cared for and counselled so that they can cope with their lives.
We received both good and bad news from Kinawataka/Kampala/Uganda. EBOLA, Sudan virus and MPox have been identified as viral diseases in Uganda by the WHO. Two people have died in our project in 2025. Vaccination is hardly affordable for people; the vaccine against MPox costs around US$140. Hopeless.
At the same time, our partner in Kinawataka was selected by the International Red Cross as a partner for the integration of refugees. Refugees are to be trained in ‘urban gardening’, ‘mushroom cultivation’ and the production of ‘soldier flies’ as a protein-rich feed. The soldier fly is a ‘wonder of nature’ and was recently awarded the Sustainability Prize in Germany. These flies are even capable of producing valuable protein from previously unused, locally available organic waste. Certificates are awarded after successful completion of the training. We are currently learning more about this!
Uganda is home to almost 1.7 million refugees, most of whom are from South Sudan (over 882,000) and Congo (around 600,000). The situation is tense, as reception facilities are overcrowded and there is a shortage of water, food and medical aid. Over 80% of the refugees are women and children.
A mammoth task. Our role: we provide support, often advising via WhatsApp, and look for meaningful niches that are not covered by the overall project. Budget negotiations will begin in October. Once again, we have succeeded in helping a partner to stand on its own two feet. Our role is more to provide unbureaucratic help where other forms of assistance do not exist.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)