Beyond immediate relief, the foundation is also focused on sustainable development. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
The Mushemba Foundation, based in Kagera Region, continues to serve as a beacon of hope for the vulnerable, offering critical assistance to those in need across various walks of life.
This year’s outreach program, officially launched on December 7, 2024, was spearheaded by the foundation’s founder, Deacon Josephat Mushemba.
"Helping those in need is not solely the responsibility of the wealthy. It’s a duty for all of us," Deacon Mushemba remarked during the launch event. "We shouldn’t wait to have plenty before we touch lives. Love and compassion are the most valuable gifts we can offer to those who are struggling."
The foundation has set an ambitious goal to assist 170 households, each comprising three to six members, by distributing food supplies, blankets, and school materials.
During the initial stages of the program, Deacon Mushemba personally visited children living in precarious conditions, patients suffering from chronic illnesses, and individuals with disabilities.
“It moves my heart to see how even a small gesture can transform someone’s life. This is our calling as human beings,” he said.
The annual initiative is expected to run until December 20, 2024, aiming to uplift as many people as possible during the festive season. As the holiday season approaches, Deacon Mushemba emphasizes the significance of kindness and reflection.
“Christmas is the perfect time to show genuine love. There’s no greater blessing than being part of someone else’s joy,” he added.
The Mushemba Foundation, established in 2007 in honor of the late Bishop Dr. Samson Mushemba, was founded to extend hope to orphans, widows, the elderly, and the wider community.
Reflecting on the legacy of his father, Deacon Mushemba said, “The late Bishop Samson Mushemba believed this mission was critical. Continuing this work is a great honor.”
Over the years, the foundation has touched the lives of thousands across Kagera, guided by a vision of compassion and unwavering commitment to humanity.
The initiative has garnered praise from various quarters, including former Kagera Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila, who commended the foundation’s impartial and impactful approach to supporting the underprivileged.
"In a society often clouded by political bias, the Mushemba Foundation stands out as a model of selfless community service," said the regional boss. "Their work reminds us that genuine compassion transcends politics. I encourage other organizations to emulate this spirit of unity and kindness."
During a recent visit, a group of volunteers partnered with the foundation to distribute aid and engage directly with beneficiaries. The experience left many profoundly moved by the resilience and gratitude of the recipients.
"The people we met have so little, yet their spirit and faith are incredibly rich," one volunteer reflected. "It’s humbling to realize how much we take for granted while others live with so little."
One particularly poignant moment occurred when a blind man, overwhelmed by the gift of food and essential supplies, tearfully asked, "Who am I, that God remembers me?" His words captured the essence of the foundation’s mission—to restore dignity and hope to the forgotten.
Beyond immediate relief, the foundation is also focused on sustainable development. A case in point is its ongoing construction of a girls’ dormitory at Trinity School, a project set to expand access to education when completed.
Currently operating as a day school, the facility will soon accommodate students from remote areas, enabling them to pursue their studies without the burden of daily travel.
Deacon Mushemba acknowledged the challenges of sustaining such initiatives but remains optimistic about the community’s willingness to support them. "Sustainability comes from shared responsibility. When we work together—through donations, volunteering, or advocacy—we create lasting change," he said.
The Mushemba Foundation’s efforts have not gone unnoticed by the people of Kagera. The foundation's unwavering commitment to inclusivity has earned widespread respect despite a climate where charitable acts are often questioned for political motives. Reaching out to individuals regardless of their backgrounds has shown that humanity and generosity are not bound by politics or privilege.
Looking ahead, the foundation aims to deepen its impact by introducing skill-building programs for youths and income-generating projects for women.
These initiatives are designed to reduce dependency and empower communities to build a better future for themselves. "Our goal is not just to give but to inspire self-reliance," Deacon Mushemba explained.
As the festive season continues, the Mushemba Foundation serves as a powerful reminder of the profound difference kindness can make. With unwavering support from donors and the local community, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of unity and compassion. "We have much to learn from the generosity of spirit shown by those with so little," a visiting volunteer remarked.
Through its work, the Mushemba Foundation is lighting the path for a more inclusive and hopeful future, proving that even in the face of challenges, the spirit of giving can shine brightly.