Titus Okello is a member of the Amigos Uganda team, as Community Extension Coordinator, he oversees our work in community development, ably assisted by Maureen Josephine.
Titus, who is from the Acholi tribe and grew up in Gulu, has been working with Amigos for 13 years and is passionate about training and sharing his skills and knowledge with those experiencing disadvantage and rural poverty.
He shared with us that when he visits Amigos community farming groups (there are currently 30 running in five districts), he hopes to see people change from “having no hope for the future to having hope for the future.”
Titus told us about Kitino Tima Community, a place that has experienced significant trauma as a result of the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency. Many lives were lost during that time, and for those who survived, deep scars were left. An area reliant on farming, hopelessness and challenge has overwhelmed the community for years.
“Amigos’ intervention marked a turning point for the Kitino Tima community”, Titus tells us.
While at first the residents found it hard to believe that change was possible, through comprehensive training programmes in growth mindset, farming techniques, conflict resolution and business skills, the community began to experience gradual improvements.
Today, the Kitino Tima community looks very different. Households have sufficient food and peace and harmony prevail. Many residents have even started small businesses. One of the most impactful interventions was the installation of a borehole, which alleviated numerous hardships, including waterborne diseases, domestic violence, and educational disruption for the children.
Tonny, leader of the farming group there, reflects that,
“Now, we have saving schemes, many have opened small businesses, and every home eats at least three meals a day. Children are going to school, and there is total peace and no domestic violence in many homes.”
Thank you to Titus and Maureen for their inspiring work – bringing renewed hope and skills to communities like Kitino Tima.