On the 8th September 2016 we flew to Uganda accompanied by our committee members and a sponsor. On arrival in Entebbe we were met by our driver Robert and drove two and a half hours to our base near Mukono, about 80 kilometres from Kampala.
Our welcome in Gilgal was overwhelming, full of songs, dance and many speeches. The 530 children and 27 teachers set their hope in the practical help our society can give them. School children who eat regularly and can go to school have few problems. For them and the teachers you as donors are their family and parents – and parents care for their offspring.
It was our 13th visit - and our most difficult time. At our first school meeting the school committee explained that they had no more money for food. We had of course heard of the drought in East Africa and the resulting lack of basic foodstuffs and water. There had been no rainy season and we lost two thirds of the harvest on our farmland. Many people in the area were reduced to eating only once a day. Our group quickly emptied their pockets in order to buy basics for the rest of September.
We were grateful that Matthew and Massimo had come with us. The school computer was infected with many viruses and trojans. Matthew spent hours „cleaning“ the computer and then installed virus protection. Massimo dealt with a dangerous cable fire and put the electrical system in order. The trouble was caused by the bad quality of the Chinese cables which had been used. Is Africa China’s and Europe’s dumping ground?
Gilgal Primary School – from society to foundation.
We have decided to set up a foundation according to Ugandan law in order to guarantee the future of the school. Gilgal Primary School must continue to educate orphans and the poorest children. Schooling is obligatory in Uganda but the parents have to pay school fees. Orphans and the poorest have no money – no money, no school.
Maintenance and renovation
The school must be painted inside and out, also for hygienic reasons. Every year there are repairs and replacements to be made. The cess pits have to be emptied and/or newly dug. E,coli bacteria die out after two years, so that the contents of the pit can be mixed with humus and be used as fertiliser in addition to the coffee husks we buy.
Gilgal Primary is a Christian school. We hope and believe that the school children in Gilgal will positively influence the society they live in and be part of the future of Uganda.
530 children, 26 teachers and 15 staff members are working towards this goal. 40 school leavers are now in secondary or high school. Only education can stabilize a country and create new work situations for many people.
We thank you for your continual help and are full of hope what the future will bring.
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