https://www.intsam.org/one-month-in-k...

Published June, 2023:
My work at International Samaritan began just over a month ago. Uganda, one of the poorest countries in the world, presents a challenging backdrop for our mission. The average daily income barely reaches one dollar, and the lack of formal education and employment opportunities compound the difficulties for most Ugandans.

During my first month, I conducted home visits in Kiteezi, the community surrounding the largest dumpsite in Kampala (Uganda’s capital city). As I entered one home after another, a common thread emerged—the standard of living was abysmal, and these small dwellings were packed with four to six family members living in a single room. But one woman’s story touched my heart.

As I approached Betty in the parking lot, I could see the weariness and struggle etched on her face. She appeared in her mid-30s, with tired eyes. I introduced myself as a representative of International Samaritan and asked to hear her story. Even though I was with one of the community leaders, Betty hesitated, seemingly unsure of my intentions. However, as I explained that I genuinely wanted to understand her situation and find ways to help, she opened up. She began to share her heartbreaking story, giving me a glimpse into her life.

At 16, Betty was married off because her mother couldn’t afford her school fees. The man she married was HIV positive, and he later died after they had three children. It wasn’t easy without a source of income since her husband was the sole breadwinner. As if that was not enough, her community discriminated against and stigmatized her because of her HIV status. This forced Betty to move from Bukedea to Kampala to seek work.

Betty walked 160 miles from her home to Kampala in pursuit of her dream. Being a single mother and coming from a low-income family didn’t stop her determination to transform her life and that of her three children.

Betty organizes her bed in an open space by a church near the Kiteezi dump site.

Betty has lived in the local church’s parking lot for three years. It was not by choice but out of desperation. She recounted the challenges they faced daily. The lack of proper shelter meant enduring harsh weather conditions, often without protection from rain or sunshine. Their conditions are incredibly cramped, as they only have a small area to call their own amidst the disorganized surroundings, but Betty remains determined to her give children a chance at a better life.

I am here because of Betty—and so many others like her working in Uganda’s garbage dump sites trapped in a cycle of poverty, lacking access to education, job opportunities, and even basic necessities. These traps do not need to be permanent. We will break them together in the days ahead!