FCA launches PATH Project to equip youth with digital skills in Uganda and Kenya
FCA Uganda Country Director, Mr. Wycliffe Nsheka, officially inaugurating the PATH project with his signature.
Finn Church Aid launched the PATH project, a three-year pilot initiative aimed at equipping refugee and host community youth with digital skills in Uganda and Kenya. Funded by the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), the project focuses on fostering innovative livelihoods and economic empowerment in the creative industries sector.
The PATH project is aimed at strengthening the self-reliance of refugee and host community youth by equipping them with competitive, in-demand skills and facilitating safe access to decent jobs and sustainable income opportunities in the digital and creative industries. It will also provide safe and inclusive access to complementary pathways and labour market opportunities for refugee and host community youth from Kenya and Uganda in third countries.
Mr. Wycliffe Nsheka, the Country Director of FCA Uganda, appreciated PRM’s unwavering support in empowering refugees and host communities, noting that PRM contributes 50% of Uganda’s refugee response efforts. He also expressed gratitude to UNHCR for its instrumental role in advancing FCA’s mission to uplift communities and provide critical assistance to those in need.
PRM Refugee Program Officer, Ms. Ann Boayue, adding her signature during the launch.
Speaking on the transformative potential of the project, Mr. Nsheka stated: “We are focusing on skills development and economic opportunities, paving the way for a brighter future for thousands of young people.” He further emphasized that FCA’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs are strategically aligned with skills that have strong potential for self-employment, ensuring a focus on demand-driven courses to meet market needs.
Ms. Ann Boayue, PRM Refugee Program Officer, echoed the significance of the project, expressing pride in supporting the initiative. “This project aligns with our commitment to providing durable solutions for refugees. It will enhance self-reliance and contribute to regional stability and economic growth,” she said.
The Deputy Country Representative for UNHCR representation in Uganda, Mr. Jason Hepps, commended the PATH project, describing it as “a vital step in providing innovative solutions that empower refugee and host community youth.” He also acknowledged the critical role of the Ugandan government in creating a favourable environment for such initiatives to thrive.
Deputy Country Representative for UNHCR in Uganda, Mr. Jason Hepps, signing the board to mark the launch of the PATH project.
FCA serves as UNHCR’s implementing partner for education in Southwest Uganda and the Complementary Pathways project in Kampala and refugee settlements across the country.
The PATH project will be implemented in Kampala and Rwamwanja refugee settlement in Kamwenge district, Uganda, as well as Kakuma refugee camp and Kalobeyei integrated settlements in Kenya.
The launch event brought together representatives from the Government of Uganda, PRM, UNHCR, humanitarian and development agencies, and key stakeholders from the private sector.
Over its three-year duration, the PATH project targets a total of 15,063 direct beneficiaries and 26,364 indirect beneficiaries. In Kenya, the project will directly benefit 4,968 youth, 80% of whom are refugees, with 50% being women. In Uganda, 10,095 youth will be direct beneficiaries, including 70% refugees, with 50% being women.
Ropani found hope and education amid crisis through university scholarship
Ropani was a refugee from South Sudan when she arrived in Uganda. Now she’s studying for a bacherlor’s degree in accounting and finance.
Ropani Diana Peace was forced to flee her home country of South Sudan. It interrupted her education, but thanks to a scholarship initiative she was able to resume. Now at 20, she’s graduating from university and hopes to be able to create a stable life for her and her three-year-old son.
WHEN THE 2016 crisis swept through South Sudan, tearing families apart, Ropani’s family sought refuge in Uganda. They settled in the challenging landscape of Bidibidi settlement.
Her connection with Uganda was not new, she often used to take the night bus from Yei in South Sudan to Uganda, drawn by the belief that Uganda offered the best education. Her search for knowledge was a family legacy, fueled by her mother’s determination to provide the best opportunities for her eldest daughter.
When conflict broke out in South Sudan, Ropani found herself in Uganda once more, but this time not as a student traveling for education but as a refugee seeking safety. Bidibidi refugee settlement became her new home, a place where survival took precedence over dreams.
“In the confusion of moving to a new place,” Ropani says, “I had to rebuild my life and take care of my two sisters and newborn son.” But then, she explains, “I heard about a scholarship from the National Association of Partners.”
“At first, I wasn’t sure about applying because I had just become a mom,” Ropani admits. “But I decided to give it a try.”
Ropani received a university scholarship facilitated by Finn Church Aid and UNHCR and generously funded by the National Association of Partners (NAPS).
Ropani visiting the FCA Acess Center office in Muyenga
“I got the scholarship, and it helped me with almost all of my expenses – tuition, a place to stay, a laptop, internet, and even some extra money for living”, she adds.
Having gotten a second chance, Ropani embarked on her academic journey at Uganda Christian University – Mukono, taking a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance
“The routine of sharing my end-of-semester results with UNHCR and FCA representatives became a ritual of gratitude and celebration,” she recalls. “Their praise and encouragement served as a constant reminder that my resilience in education were not in vain.” she adds.
As Ropani prepares to graduate, she carries with her the dreams of a stable life for her three-year-old son. Her motivation transcends personal achievements; it extends to the hope that education can break the chains of pain and shape a brighter future.
“The laptops, tuition, money, and other support from the National Association of Partners have not only helped me but have also shown others like me that there’s hope for a better life, even when we’re far from home.”
Uganda’s First Lady praises Finn Church Aid for quality education support
Mrs. Janet Museveni, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, has expressed gratitude to Finn Church Aid Uganda for their support and promotion of quality education in the country.
ON OCTOBER 8, 2024, Mrs. Museveni hosted a high-level delegation from Finland at State House, Entebbe.
She highlighted Finn Church Aid’s (FCA) significant work, particularly in refugee-hosting districts, providing technical assistance to the Education Policy Review Commission, developing infrastructure, and supporting continuous teacher development.
The visit to Uganda was to celebrate FCA’s 10th anniversary of operations in the country.
The delegation was led by the Most Rev. Dr. Tapio Luoma, Archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. It included H.E. Pirkko Tapiola, Finnish Ambassador to Uganda and Kenya; H.E. Margaret Otteskov, Uganda’s Ambassador to the Nordic states; Tomi Järvinen, Global Executive Director for FCA; and Wycliffe Nsheka, Country Director for FCA Uganda and Ethiopia country programmes, among others.
During the meeting, Mrs. Museveni praised the quality and excellence of all FCA-built schools. She emphasised the importance of such attention to detail for skills development, noting that it encourages the prioritisation of quality in all endeavours.
She acknowledged the global admiration for Finland’s education system, citing it as the reason for the Education Service Review Commission’s benchmark visit to Finland.
Mrs. Museveni requested Finnish support for vocational education in Uganda, particularly in training instructors for Technical and Vocational Institutes.
“We would like to see how we can cooperate and work together in some areas of our education, like skills development, if there is any opportunity at all. I wonder whether Finland could help us in this area, either by taking our trainers to Finland to be trained and, when they return, they train others,” she suggested.
The First Lady also highlighted the Ministry of Education and Sports’ embrace of digital information management systems, expressing interest in improving techniques for registering all school children in the country.
Mrs Museveni, Uganda’s Minister of Education and Sport, praised FCA’s work in Uganda.
“We are trying to get all the school children in the country registered, and we have been attempting many times, but our exercises don’t seem to work permanently. We keep doing what they call a head count from time to time,” she explained. “In order for the Government to send the accurate Capitation Grant, you have to know the actual number of children in a particular school. Therefore, getting information regarding the children would help us clear that problem once and for all,” she said.
Mrs. Museveni expressed interest in emulating Sweden’s efficient citizen registration system, where all information about an individual is accessible with a single click. She asked Uganda’s Ambassador to the Nordic States to investigate the possibility of adopting a similar system.
Regarding Uganda’s open-door refugee policy, Mrs. Museveni explained that many Ugandans, including her family, were once refugees themselves. This experience helps them understand the forces that drive people from their homeland.
“We basically offer what we can, knowing that nobody just wants to run away from their country. So, because we have that background, it helps us to remember where we have come from and what we can do for others when they stand where we once stood,” she added.
The Most Rev. Dr. Tapio Luoma commended the First Lady and President Museveni for Uganda’s progressive refugee policies.
The Most Rev. Dr. Tapio Luoma during the meeting with Uganda’s First Lady.
“One thing that Finland and many other countries could learn from Uganda is the way the country welcomes refugees and how it handles the problem of internally displaced people,” he remarked.
Tomi Järvinen, FCA’s Global Executive Director, reaffirmed their commitment to working with African countries. He reported on their efforts to promote digital means of connecting students with businesses and the business community. “We recognise that the future demands not just one profession, but multiple skills that allow quick adaptation to different types of work,” he said.
Wycliffe Nsheka, FCA Country Director for Uganda and Ethiopia, announced that Finn Church Aid had recently revised its global strategy, with the right to quality education remaining a top priority.
Wycliffe Nsheka (holding microphone) is FCA Country Director for Uganda and Ethiopia.
He reported that FCA works with refugees and has also partnered with UNICEF under the Quality Enhancement Initiative in underperforming districts.
Text: Kadlah Nabakembo Photos: courtesy of the office of the First Lady
Main photo: Mrs. Janet Museveni, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports presents FCA’s Executive Director, Tomi Järvinen, with a commemorative book.
Finn Church Aid Uganda celebrates 10 years of lasting impact
On 8th October 2024, Finn Church Aid (FCA) marked a significant milestone, celebrating 10 years of physical presence in Uganda with a grand event held at Mestil Hotel, Kampala.
FOUNDED IN 1947 by the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, FCA has been a pivotal force in humanitarian response for over 75 years. Although FCA has been active in Uganda since 1979 through implementing partners, it officially established its office in the country in 2014.
The anniversary celebration was graced by several distinguished guests, including Uganda’s Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, Eng. Hon. Hillary Onek, who served as the chief guest.
Uganda’s Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, Eng. Hon. Hillary Onek was the chief guest at the anniversary celebrations.
In his speech, he appreciated the tremendous work FCA is doing in Uganda, highlighting how providing appropriate education is indirectly fostering peace in their countries.
“The skills that refugees are gaining through FCA’s programmes are being used as means of livelihoods. Thank you FCA, for your tremendous contribution to peace and humanity for those affected,” he remarked.
Other notable attendees included H.E. Margaret M. Otteskov, the Ugandan Ambassador to the Nordic States, H.E. Tapiola Pirkka, the Ambassador of Finland to Kenya and Uganda, Dr. Tomi Järvinen, the Executive Director of FCA, The Most Rev. Dr. Tapio Luoma, Archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, and various donors, partners, and country directors.
In his address, FCA Uganda’s Country Director, Wycliffe Nsheka, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the donors and partners who have supported the organisation in achieving positive change. He highlighted FCA’s impactful work in education, livelihoods, and peace, noting that the organisation supports an average of 187,027 learners per term as of 2024.
FCA Uganda Country Director Wycliffe Nsheka giving his remarks at the country office’s 10-year anniversary event.
“FCA has been paying salaries to over 2,000 teachers every month since 2018 in partnership with UNHCR and has provided vocational training to 37,806 youths. Additionally, FCA has constructed 820 classrooms and 225 teacher accommodation blocks to support quality education,” he told the audience.
Dr. Tomi Järvinen emphasised that FCA remains committed to its humanitarian mission in Uganda, aiming to continue their important work and support the most vulnerable populations.
At the event, FCA launched the “We Don’t Give Up” campaign in Uganda. This campaign emphasises the organisation’s commitment to helping vulnerable communities thrive despite challenges.
FCA’s operations in Uganda focus on quality education, sustainable livelihoods, and peacebuilding, particularly in response to the massive influx of refugees from South Sudan, Sudan and DR Congo. The organisation works closely with Uganda’s Office of the Prime Minister and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) to support both refugees and host communities across various settlements in the country.
Some of the guests at the FCA Uganda 10-year anniversary celebration
FCA’s work is supported by UNHCR, UNICEF, the United States Bureau for Populations, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), Education Cannot Wait, the European Union, European Union Humanitarian Aid (ECHO) and Appeal for Emergency Response through Act Alliance.
Four refugee students head from Uganda to Belgium thanks to EU-funded and transnational programme, supported by FCA
The Belgium EUPW Scholarship Programme is a collaborative effort between UNHCR Uganda, the Ugandan Government, the Government of Belgium, Finn Church Aid – Uganda, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), and Caritas Belgium.
This innovative initiative offers refugee students the opportunity to pursue master’s degrees at leading Belgian universities, with comprehensive support covering tuition, living expenses, accommodation, travel, language assistance, and orientation services.
Four exceptional refugee youth
In August 2024, four exceptional refugee youth were selected to pursue their studies in Belgium. They all fled the Democratic Republic of Congo at various times for Uganda due to the ongoing conflict and instability in the country.
Ruhamanga Mwami, 35, fled to Uganda in 2018. Starting a new life in a foreign land was tough, but he persevered. In the capital city, Kampala, he found work with an internet company, earning just enough to survive.
Determined to make a difference, Ruhamanga applied for the Belgium EUPW Scholars Program. He’s now pursuing a master’s in economics and social policies with the aim to return to DRC. His goal is to address social inequality through education.
The four scholars being received in Belgium. L-R Morisho Kovokovo, Eliya Cigiriza, François Kalenga and Ruhamanga Mwami.
Eliya Cigieiza, 29, also fled DRC two years earlier in 2016. In his home country he studied geology, as well as being a student leader, but left behind his studies, family, and country, to seek refuge in Uganda. In Kampala, a church hosted him, and his enthusiasm inspired the senior pastor to start a youth engagement programme, leading to the creation of “Women and Children at Risk,” an organisation helping vulnerable individuals.
Eliya applied for the competitive Belgium EUPW Scholars Programme and was selected. He is now pursuing a master’s in economics, determined to drive economic growth and empower African youth. “When we believe in the beauty of our dreams, we unleash the power to make them a reality,” he told FCA Uganda shortly before his departure to Belgium.
Morisho Kovokovo, 30, is a passionate anthropology enthusiast driven to make a positive impact. However, his home country’s insecurity and instability forced him to flee in 2023. Despite completing his degree in anthropology and securing a decent job, Morisho’s safety was at risk.
He made the difficult decision to leave behind his family, friends, and career to find refuge in Uganda. In Uganda, Morisho took a simple job at a research centre to survive. When he heard about the Belgium EUPW Scholars Program, Morisho applied and was selected. He’s now eager to pursue his master’s in Belgium, furthering his growth and dedication to making a difference in others’ lives. Morisho says, “My purpose is to serve others.”
Francois Kalenga, 23, is set to pursue Economics at the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) University. His ambitions are set high: he aims to become a pioneering entrepreneur and minister of economics, driving innovative solutions for his community. “Courage is the catalyst for success,” Francois asserts. “Securing this opportunity is the key to unlocking my dreams, and I’m ready to seize it with both hands.”
EU scholarship is pilot in three countries
The EUPW (EU-Passworld) scholarship is a pilot project funded by the EU’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund and taking place in Belgium, Ireland and Italy. The aspiration is that the pathways implemented under EUPW will grow into self-sustaining national programmes after 2024, and to contribute to establishing similar initiatives in other countries.
Finn Church Aid played a key role in identifying and referring qualified candidates based on the program’s criteria. UNHCR provided strategic support through advocacy, verification, and vetting processes. FCA together with UNHCR Belgium and UNHCR Uganda facilitated the pre-departure formalities.
The Government of Belgium, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), and Caritas Belgium generously funded the program, covering tuition, living expenses, accommodation, travel, language assistance, and orientation services. These key stakeholders collectively enabled the scholars to enroll in top Belgian universities for their master’s degrees.
Text: Kadlah Nabakembo Photos: Sozzi Daniel /UNHCR
Over 13,000 textbooks given out to schools in Uganda refugee settlements
FCA Uganda distributed over 13,000 textbooks to refugee schools, addressing an urgent gap in the availability of education materials.
OVER 1 MILLION refugees in Uganda are under the age of 18 with over 600,000 being school age, according to UNHCR statistics. However, access to essential learning resources, such as textbooks, remains a significant challenge in many refugee settlements.
As part of FCA’s Lasting Education Achievements Responding to Needs (LEARN) project, FCA Uganda’s office distributed over 13,000 textbooks to secondary schools in several refugee settlements.
A survey conducted by the Uganda Refugee Response Monitoring Group in January 2024 revealed that 70 per cent of schools in these settlements lack textbooks, underscoring the urgent need for books.
Mr. Ronald Karamuzi, Area Manager FCA Kyaka II Refugee Settlement (centre), distributes books to learners at Bukere Secondary School in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement.
Jistey Mapenzi, a senior student from Bukere Secondary School in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, says, “without enough science text books in school, it’s hard to study and do research.”
The textbooks were distributed to schools in the following refugee settlements: Kyaka II Refugee Settlement – Kyegegwa District; Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement – Kamwenge District; Nakivale Refugee Settlement – Isingiro District, Kyangwali Refugee Settlement – Kikuube District, Palorinya Refugee Settlement – Obongi District; Pagirinya, Nyumanzi, Olua, Ayilo I and Maaji II Refugee Settlements in Adjumani District.
Education as a protection tool
Mr. Wycliffe Nsheka, Country Director of FCA Uganda, emphasised the importance of the initiative. In a refugee setting, FCA considers education as a protection tool and is committed to ensuring every child has a chance to access education as a fundamental right.
Finn Church Aid Country Director Mr. Wycliffe Nsheka (right) hands textbooks to Mr. Valence Tukacungurwa (left), Headteacher of Bukere Secondary School in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, at FCA offices in Kampala.
“Finn Church Aid’s effort directly addresses the critical shortage of educational materials, providing much-needed support to bridge the resource gap. This distribution is a crucial step towards improving secondary educational access and quality for both refugees and host communities. By supplying schools with these essential resources, we are not only enhancing their educational experience but also contributing to their long-term wellbeing and future opportunities,” he said.
Mr. Valence Tukacungurwa, the Headteacher of Bukere Secondary School, a beneficiary of the initiative, was very grateful to FCA and PRM for the support.
“This invaluable contribution will have a profound impact on our students and the wider community. They will not only enhance the learning experience of our students but also help to bridge the educational gap that many of them faced. The availability of these high-quality educational resources will be instrumental in improving the academic performance of our students. They will now have access to the necessary tools to deepen their understanding of the curriculum, which will boost their confidence and enthusiasm for learning.”
He noted that the initiative’s impact will extend beyond the classroom walls benefiting the community with improved educational outcomes. “When students are better equipped, they will contribute to the social and economic development of the region,” he added.
Students excited for new resources
Jistey Mapenzi was extremely pleased at the new books telling FCA Uganda staff, “with more science textbooks, we hope to perform better in science subjects. Some of these books even have self-study materials that will help me with my personal study and research. We are very grateful to the donors behind FCA for this support.”
Patience Kabarokole, a Senior Three student in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, added, “as a student under the new lower secondary curriculum, these textbooks are essential for helping me gain a better understanding of my subjects. Having these new textbooks is so important for us, they make it easier to understand our lessons and give us hope for a brighter future. This support encourages us to keep working hard in our studies.”
FCA Palorinya field office staff display copies of the new textbooks, ready for distribution to schools in Palorinya refugee settlement
The LEARN project is funded by the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) and has been operational for the past five years, focusing on several key areas. These include ensuring inclusive access to quality education so that both refugee and host community children in the targeted settlements receive a high standard of education and experience improved learning outcomes; creating and maintaining safe and inclusive learning environments for all students; enhancing the quality of education by improving how it is delivered to provide the best possible experience; and prioritizing the protection and wellbeing of learners to support their overall development and success.
With continued funding from PRM, the project has benefited over 166,000 individuals, including 19,612 secondary learners, 145,215 primary learners, and 734 Accelerated Education Program (AEP) learners in primary schools. It also supports 1,492 primary teachers, 50 AEP primary teachers, and 589 secondary teachers. This extensive support system addresses educational needs and improves learning conditions across the targeted settlements.
Text: Linda Kabuzire Images: Renah Atuhaire and Evelyn Nabasa / FCA
Uganda to Canada – refugees bring care experience to new continents
Baderha Pascal Mujombo and Jean Berikiimas Manirakiza, both refugees with experience in medicine and care, have embarked on a new chapter of their lives in Canada with help from FCA and its partners. Both came to the country as refugees, due to conflict and insecurity in their countries of origin.
Through the Complementary Pathways programme, Finn Church Aid (FCA), UNHCR, and Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB) supported the pair in securing job placements with the opportunity to relocate with their families as Permanent Residents in Canada.
Complementary Pathways are ways that a refugee can pursue work or study opportunities, reunite with family and apply for other visas just like any migrant, while being supported through their whole journey.
Through the labour mobility pathway, the programme identifies skilled refugees in Uganda, provides comprehensive support through Career Guidance and Counselling, and connects them with durable employment in third countries. Pascal and Jean, together with their families, have departed from Uganda and are now in Canada, where a new life awaits.
Pascal Mujombo: from Kyaka II to Canada
Pascal, a 40-year-old nurse, was forced to flee his home in the South Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2017. The conflict that erupted near his home left him with no choice but to seek refuge in Uganda.
He has been living in Kyaka II refugee settlement with his wife and five children, the youngest just 2.5 years old.
Life in the settlement was far from easy, and despite his qualifications, Pascal faced significant barriers to practicing his profession.
Pascal is a trained nurse from DRC. Photo: Antti Yrjönen/FCA
“I got my medical training in DRC and worked there as a nurse for five years before fleeing to Uganda,” Pascal explains. “But here in Uganda, being a refugee means that even as a professional nurse, I can’t have a normal job. I haven’t been able to work as a nurse here, so I’ve been volunteering and providing nutritional counselling within the community.”
Pascal enrolled in the Complementary Pathways program, a rigorous process that took more than 1.5 years to complete. Throughout this time, he remained determined, knowing that the opportunity to move to Canada could change his life and that of his family.
“Getting the opportunity to go to Canada through the Complementary Pathways program will change my life,” he says. “My children will get the chance to attend good schools, and we’ll finally have enough to eat once I start earning a real salary.”
A long process was worth the wait
The process was not without its challenges. Pascal faced countless interviews and a long wait, but he never gave up. “It’s been a long process to get this far, and it’s challenged my patience,” he admits. “But it was worth the wait. I have a job waiting across the ocean, and I’ll be paid for that. My family and I will finally be safe.”
Pascal’s wife, is equally excited about the future. “I’m thrilled to be going to Canada,” she shares. “It’s a dream come true for our family. We know it will be different and far from what we know, but we believe everything will go well.”
Pascal and family in Uganda before departure at the offices of the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Photo: Linda Kabuzire/FCA
In Canada, Pascal will work as an assisting nurse in an elderly care home, a job that aligns with his passion for patient care. “Being an assisting nurse includes tasks like taking care of patients’ personal hygiene, helping them get dressed, taking them out for fresh air, and ensuring they eat well and take their medication,” he explains. “I’m proud to be a professional, and the most important part of my job is making my patients feel taken care of.”
While Pascal looks forward to his new role, he is also planning for the future. “I hope to complement my studies in Canada at some point and eventually obtain my nurse’s permit,” he says. “I’m also hoping to make enough money to support my brothers who will continue living as refugees here in Uganda. Maybe one day, I’ll be able to help other refugees too.”
The journey ahead is filled with hope, but it also comes with a deep sense of responsibility. “Giving up was not an option for me,” Pascal says. “My advice to anyone dreaming of the same opportunity? You need to have patience. You’re competing for these jobs with others, and being a refugee doesn’t make you any less qualified or capable. Believe in yourself.”
Jean Manirakiza: from Nakivale to a new beginning
Jean Berikiimas Manirakiza’s journey began in Congo, where he was born, but conflict forced his family to flee to Burundi when he was just five years old. It was in Burundi that Jean grew up and completed his education, eventually earning a degree in general medicine.
“I studied at the School of Clinical Officers, Nursing, and Midwifery, and later earned my degree in general medicine,” Jean recalls. “After finishing my studies, I returned to Congo, but the war broke out again, and I had to flee to Uganda.”
Arriving in Uganda alone after losing his family in the conflict, Jean found refuge in Nakivale refugee settlement. In 2013, he began to rebuild his life when he married and started a family. He and his wife now have two children, a son and a daughter, who have grown up in the settlement.
Maniraiza Jean Berchmans with his wife Janet Mukanyirange Manirakiza and baby Kenneth at their home in Nakivale. Photo: Hugh Rutherford/FCA
Despite his qualifications and experience, Jean faced significant obstacles in finding employment.
“Even with my qualifications, I couldn’t get a job because I wasn’t able to obtain a work permit due to my studies being completed outside of Uganda,” he explains. “But I remained committed to my passion for medicine and volunteered with humanitarian agencies in Nakivale.”
Jean’s life took a turn for the better when he attended a career guidance session organised by FCA. There, he learned about the opportunities available through the Complementary Pathways program and applied to move to Canada. With the support of FCA, UNHCR, and TBB, Jean was selected for an employment opportunity in Canada as a Personal Support Worker.
“I’m very excited to be going to Canada to work,” Jean says with enthusiasm. “I’m happy to go to a place where I can work and live with my family for my whole life. It’s a blessing that I haven’t been separated from them.”
Not just a move to safety
Jean is optimistic about his future in Canada, where he plans to further his education and ensure his children have access to quality schooling. “My plans for the future include adding more to my education and ensuring my children attend good schools,” he shares. “This move is not just about finding safety; it’s about securing a future for my family.”
The cold climate of Canada, which might intimidate others, doesn’t worry Jean. “I was born in a cold place, so I believe I’ll be able to adjust,” he says.
“I’m not sad to leave Nakivale because I’ve spent a lot of time here. While I will miss it, I’m going to a better place.”
Jean’s family shares his excitement. “My wife couldn’t believe the news until we got all the travel documents and confirmed we were leaving,” Jean says. “I hope to meet nice people in Canada,” Jean adds. “This is a new beginning for us, and I’m ready to embrace it.”
Jean Manirakiza and his family before departure. Photo: Linda Kabuzire/FCA
FCA and partners work together to link refugees to jobs abroad
The successful relocation of Pascal and Jean to Canada is a results of collaborative efforts bewteen Finn Church Aid, UNHCR, and Talent Beyond Boundaries. These organisations work together to identify skilled refugees in Uganda and link them to employment opportunities in third countries. The employment pathways provided by these organisations offer extensive support to refugees, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their new lives in the third country
The support includes candidate outreach and information dissemination for current opportunities, identification for job opportunities on the TBB Talent Catalogue, and Career Guidance and Counselling to enable refugees achieve their professional goals. FCA also plays a crucial role in the pre-departure processing, including the acquisition of Conventional Travel Documents (CTDs), which many refugees often lack, visa processing, and pre-departure cultural orientation.
This comprehensive support system ensures that refugees like Pascal and Jean are not only able to secure employment but are also equipped to integrate successfully into their new communities.
Refugee couple work their way from Congo to New Zealand through FCA and UNHCR complementary pathways programme
Erick and Diane and their two children in Uganda before they left for New Zealand.
Erick and Diane fled DRC for Uganda when faced with ethnic persecution. Starting with selling street food, the couple worked tirelessly for nearly ten years in different jobs before applying for a UNHCR programme with FCA help that saw them move to New Zealand.
‘Leaving Congo was not a choice, it was a necessity’
Erick Mokuma Mombole is a Congolese national born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Conflict stemming from tribal and religious divisions forced him to seek refuge and rebuild his life with his wife Diane.
The move was significant because Erick, who is from an ethnic minority from the west, married Diane, from the east while living there. The M23 rebel movement‘s rise created tensions and suspicion towards Erick, an “outsider” in the region. Their inter-ethnic marriage and Erick’s presence in the east were likely seen as a threat, leading to mistreatment and forcing them to flee.
Diane has a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Pharmacy and Erick has a degree in Information Technology. One Sunday afternoon, Erick came home asked Diane to get her academic documents as he also put together his. And just like that, under a grey sky, they took their last walk through their village, leaving everything behind. “Leaving Congo was not a choice, it was a necessity,” Erick says.
Their escape led them to Kisoro, Uganda, where they boarded an old truck, its cargo hold filled with cattle. Erick and Diane traversed bumpy roads, wondering how, when and if they would make it across the border. “It was the longest journey of my life,” Erick recalls, highlighting the physical and emotional pain.
Arrival in Uganda
At the Kampala police station, Erick and Diane found themselves waiting for an entire day and night. Directed to the office of the prime minister, they registered as refugees pending approval and were soon guided to the Jesuit Refugee Services in Nsambya. As they arrived, the staff quickly noticed that Diane was pregnant and arranged for her to receive care at the city hospital in the Kisenyi neighbourhood.
Their next task was to find a place to stay. Despite the challenges, a kind-hearted gentleman from the police helped them secure a one-room accommodation in the Bakuli neighbourhood in Kampala, at a cost of 70,000 Uganda shillings (approximately 18 US dollars).
It wasn’t luxurious, but they were grateful just to have a roof over their heads. The room proved to be a mixed blessing—too cold at night and unbearably hot during the day. Jesuit Refugee Services met their immediate needs. They received support for a month, along with basic necessities and a sum of 100,000 shillings (approximately 26 US dollars) for their upkeep for three months.
Settling into life in Bakuli, Erick and Diane found relief in the kindness of their neighbors. Despite their own challenges, the neighbors allowed Erick and Diane to wash their clothes at theirs for a small fee. With determination, they managed to save up some money and invested in a small waffle machine to make pancakes. They sold their waffles to the people who had helped them: the Jesuit Refugee Services; the Uganda Police in Old Kampala; and the Office of the Prime Minister, because those were the only places known to them.
The couple welcome a baby
In May 2014, Erick and Diane welcomed their son, Tylor. Despite the good news, challenges continued. Erick found himself working tirelessly to sustain their family making and selling pancakes and waffles to make ends meet. “These were hard times,” Erick recalls, “but something inside me kept me going. I knew and believed that in the end, it would be well.” In that small room, Erick and Diane felt safe. They didn’t have much, just a few things, but they held onto each other and stayed strong. Even when things were hard, their love kept them going, like a light in the dark. “Diane almost gave up, but I had a driving force pushing me to continue working,” Erick recalled.
During Erick’s days of selling waffles, a customer noticed his determination and inquired about his education. When Erick mentioned his bachelor’s degree in computer and management, the customer introduced him to a company in downtown Kampala, who were willing to give him a chance based on his computer knowledge. With no desk to call his own, Erick found himself working outside the shop, running errands and helping out wherever he could. At the end of each day, they would compensate him with 20,000 shillings (approximately 5 dollars). After four months of hard work, Erick and Diane decided to invest their savings in an HP laptop. With this new tool, Erick committed himself into learning graphics, web design, and editing for his colleagues, all without any cost.
“It was tough at first, but I knew I had to keep pushing forward,” Erick recalls, reflecting on those early days.
A chance for Diane
Through dedication and practice, Erick quickly mastered his skills and began attracting his own clients. Soon enough, he joined forces with three others to open a shop, sharing the rental costs. They split the monthly fee of 350,000 shillings (approximately 92 dollars) amongst them. The new entrepreneurial endeavour also reaped benefits for Erick’s wife.
“While at work, I made numerous connections, one of which led to a significant opportunity for Diane,” Erick recounts, a sense of pride evident in his voice.
A friend of Erick was seeking a multilingual translator for Techno Brain, a global digital consultancy. With Diane’s proficiency in English, French, and Swahili, Erick made the connection, securing her a daily pay totaling 500,000 shillings per month (approximately 132 US dollars).
Diane worked hard at her company, Techno Brain, which ultimately led to a chance to move to New Zealand, via a UNHCR programme.
“With Diane’s skills, I knew she would excel in this role,” Erick reflects, recalling his confidence in his wife’s abilities.
With Diane and Erick both employed, they decided to move to a one-bedroom house in Namungoona, paying a monthly rent of 150,000 (approximately 40 dollars) shillings. Despite the challenges, Diane persevered, even when faced with ridicule from her coworkers for her English skills. Although she was fluent in English, her strong accent sounded different and was mocked. Erick stood by her side, encouraging her to keep learning and improving, and his support helped her to stay motivated and confident. Diane kept learning and in a few years had seven different language under her belt.
“It wasn’t easy, but we knew we had to keep moving forward,” Erick shares, his voice filled with determination.
UNHCR programme
A special moment arrived when Techno Brain introduced a refugee helpline in partnership with UNHCR. The organization offered Diane a contract for a new role that required fluency in English, Kinyarwanda, French, and Lingaala. As chance would have it, Diane was the only candidate at Techno Brain who possessed this unique combination of language skills, making her ideal for the position.
As Erick and Diane established their new life in Namungoona, a quiet suburb far from the city’s hustle and bustle, they found comfort in the warmth of their humble home. Though distance separated them from their loved ones, they persevered, with only Diane’s sister nearby to share in their joys and sorrows. “We longed to share our happiness with our families, but they were far away,” Erick said wistfully. “Our families were divided by cultural and religious differences, which only served to widen the gap between us,” Erick reflected with sadness.
Their son, Tylor, began attending school in Namungoona, marking a new chapter in their lives and in 2018, they managed to secure a two-bedroom apartment, a significant step up from their previous accommodation.
Financial challenges met with kindness
Erick’s business endeavors had starting bringing in substantial profits. With money in his pocket, his dream of buying a car was fulfil. “It was not safe for us on boda boda (motorcycle taxis commonly found in East Africa),” Erick recounted. “The costs and risks were too high due to reckless drivers and many other issues.” But just four weeks into buying the car, COVID-19 pandemic abruptly halted their plans for further investment. A car purchase, once seen as a symbol of success, became a burden as lockdown restrictions rendered it immobile.
While the entire world was on a lockdown, the couple experienced financial challenges, their landlord at home displayed compassion by reducing their rent, alleviating some of their financial strain. “Oh God bless her,” Erick expressed gratitude. “She reduced the cost of my rent from 500,000 to 200,000 monthly so that I could afford it.”
After enduring several miscarriages, Erick’s wife, Diane, finally welcomed another baby into their family, bringing them joy as a family of four. The journey to get there was long and difficult, with each miscarriage requiring costly visits to specialists to identify the underlying causes, further straining their finances. The struggle to conceive again was equally challenging, with numerous doctor’s visits and expensive treatments. Recalling the compassion of their landlord during those difficult times, Erick reflected on the financial strain caused by the loss of pregnancies, which had even led to the loss of his business.
Forced to start afresh, he returned to his roots, where supportive friends welcomed him back with open arms. Despite the hardships, the arrival of their new baby brought them immense joy and a sense of redemption, making their journey worthwhile.
The struggles persisted as Erick was forced to sell his beloved car at a significant loss. He used the proceeds to pay off debts and cover essential expenses, helping them stay afloat during a difficult period. In 2018, they discovered the Complementary Pathways Labour Mobility programme, which offered a glimmer of hope. They independently applied for the programme, facilitated by FCA, which provided invaluable training and support, including CV writing skills, to enhance their employability and potentially secure a brighter future.
Move to New Zealand
In June 2023, Erick received a call from UNHCR, revealing an exciting opportunity to relocate to New Zealand. Upon sharing the news with his wife, they both celebrated their luck in being selected for the same programme.
The family’s journey saw further upgrades when they were selected for a labor mobility program in New Zealand. This opportunity marked a new chapter, promising a fresh start with government support, furnished accommodation, and educational opportunities. It was a dream come true, especially after enduring numerous hardships, including financial struggles and personal losses.
FCA Uganda had the fortunate opportunity to meet a hopeful and enthusiastic Erick, along with his son Tylor, just a few days before they were set to leave for New Zealand. Erick was filled with hope and eagerly anticipated starting anew with his family in New Zealand, where they have since settled and found satisfaction.
“Our journey from Congo to Uganda and now to New Zealand could never be better. A private sponsor from the Anglican Church, along with the UNHCR and Finn Church Aid, all played a crucial role in our journey.”
Finn Church Aid played a critical initial role by identifying qualified candidates and referring them based on New Zealand’s criteria.
UNHCR took on a collaborative and strategic role by advocating for these candidates, conducting verification and carrying out the vetting processes, it also analyzed the family composition to ensure they met the necessary criteria. They collaborated with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to manage pre-departure formalities and support the candidates.
The private sponsors contributed by providing opportunities that will allow candidates make professional contributions to the host country and engage in meaningful work which help expand the tax base. Together, these three main players significantly contributed to enabling Erick and Diane, refugees with potential to secure employment and transform their futures.
Erick, Diane and the family enjoying a city tour as part of their onboarding and orientation to their new life in New Zealand
FCA and EU Humanitarian Aid launch new project in Uganda
A new European Union Humanitarian Aid funded programme in Uganda, called “Towards Greater Effectiveness and Timely Humanitarian Education Response (TOGETHER)” will support over fifty thousand schoolchildren in Uganda to rejoin and stay in school.
Kampala, 20/06/2024 — Finn Church Aid (FCA) in partnership with Cheshire Services (CSU), Hopelink Action Foundation (HAF) Uganda, Promoters of Agriculture and Market Linkages (PALM Corps), and Forum for Education NGOs (FENU) are thrilled to announce the launch of the TOGETHER (Towards Greater Effectiveness and Timely Humanitarian Education Response) project, funded by European Union Humanitarian Aid.
This project aims to directly support 50,861 children, in primary, secondary, and Accelerated Education for a period of 24 months. The overall objective is to provide access to quality and inclusive formal and non-formal education for South Sudanese and Sudanese refugees, asylum seekers, and host community children in Palorinya, Rhino Camp, Palabek, Kiryandongo, and Imvepi refugee settlements in Uganda.
The project will focus on increasing enrolment, retention, and transition of conflict-affected girls and boys, strengthen child protection and safeguarding mechanisms, improve response and referral systems, and promote child participation through girl child empowerment.
Local leadership in Uganda
FCA Uganda Country Director, Wycliffe Nsheka explained, “the project will be implemented by the TOGETHER Consortium led by Finn Church Aid (FCA). It promotes strong local leadership with Cheshire Services (CSU) leading inclusion activities, Hopelink Action Foundation (HAF) Uganda leading psychosocial support, Promotes of Agriculture and Market Linkages (PALM Corps) leading resilience activities and Forum for Education NGOs (FENU)for policy advocacy efforts.”
He added “the project will respond to the regional challenge of increased school dropouts and child protection risks resulting from lack of livelihoods. It will focus on new arrivals, ensuring they have access to proper levels of education in safe and protective environments. I would like to appreciate the EU’s continued commitment towards supporting Education in situations of crisis.”
Bruno Rotival, Head of the EU’s Humanitarian Aid office in Kampala, emphasised that “children’s right to quality education does not stop in times of humanitarian emergencies. Our Education in Emergencies policy helps children in fragile contexts stay in school or continue their interrupted education, building resilience and developing their skills for the future. For 2024, the EU has set aside €157 million to support learning for children and youth caught in humanitarian emergencies, supporting also host communities.”
The project aligns with the Uganda Education Response Plan for Refugees and Host Communities policy framework, addressing both supply and demand side barriers to education, ensuring access to quality education for all children.
About EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid
The European Union and its Member States are the world’s leading donor of humanitarian aid. Relief assistance is an expression of European solidarity with people in need all around the world. It aims to save lives, prevent and alleviate human suffering, and safeguard the integrity and human dignity of populations affected by natural disasters and man-made crises.
Through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations department, the European Union helps millions of victims of conflict and disasters every year. With headquarters in Brussels and a global network of field offices, the EU provides assistance to the most vulnerable people on the basis of humanitarian needs.
Let’s talk about menstruation – A simple way to eradicate period-related absences in a Ugandan school
Three out of four girls in Uganda miss school because they are menstruating. At Bukere secondary school, the problem has been solved by raising awareness about menstruation among both girls and boys.
Text: Elisa Rimaila Photos: Antti Yrjönen
THE EXCITEMENT of over a hundred teenagers combined with the glow of an equatorial afternoon have stirred up the air in the classroom so thick you could almost bottle it. The youngsters sit cramped in their desks, squealingas teacher Jolly Kyogabirwe begins a lesson on reproductive health and sexual rights at Bukere secondary school in central Uganda.
Now let’s talk about menstruation! The rumble slowly calms down..
“Menstruation is not an illness that should make you stay home and out of school,” says Kyogabirwe.
In the front row, a few girls look at each other. In the back, the boys lean forward with interest, letting the teacher continue.
“If your period starts during the school day, the school has disposable sanitary towels for emergencies. We will help you so that you can stay in school despite your period,” teacher Kyogabirwe addresses the girls.
IN REFUGEE SETTLEMENTS in particular, menstrual absenteeism is a real threat to education. Many girls are absent from school for several days each month.
Bukere secondary school is fighting absenteeism by organising menstrual hygiene lessons and distributing a bag of sanitary towels, soap and underwear to girls.
Teacher Kyogabirwe goes through the signs that the body gives before menstruation starts and reminds you to be aware of your menstrual cycle.
The boys in the back seat are keen to ask questions.
“Why are the pads different sizes – and that one so huge?”
“How long can you use one sanitary towel?”
Best Kemigisa, 20, a student in Bukere secondary school, shows other students the products she received as part of Finn Church Aid’s menstrual hygiene package.
Reusable pads save money
At the end of the lesson, girls and boys can talk freely.
“It’s interesting to know how things work. Some of us boys didn’t know anything before,” says Emmanuel Nsengimana, 20.
“It’s good to have a conversation together,” continues Best Kemigisa, 20.
The lesson makes Manzi Biraguma, 16, wonder whether it would be possible to make a business out of making reusable pads. The boy’s comment makes the girls laugh, but it’s actually not a bad idea, confirms Sonia Kyasiimire, an education specialist at the Finn Church Aid (FCA) office in Uganda.
“If we could get more funding, we could organise a workshop to learn how to make reusable pads for sale. The training could be combined with vocational studies, for example,” says Kyasiimire.
The life cycle of a single reusable pad is about a year, making them a better environmental alternative to disposable shelters. If girls made their own pads, they could also save money.
A five-piece package of reusable pads costs 25,000 Ugandan shillings (six euros), while disposable pads cost girls between 5.000 and 10,000 shillings (about 1.5-2.5 euros) per month.
In the refugee area, it is a significant amount. The cost of one package of disposable sanitary towels is equivalent to about half of the cash grant given to qualifying families by UNHCR each month.
“Many parents have not been educated about menstrual hygiene. It can be difficult for them to understand why girls should be provided with separate menstrual protection,” says Manzi Biraguma.
The girls nod. Lack of knowledge can lead to discrimination and exclusion from everyday activities such as socially important religious gatherings.
“There are communities here that may believe that girls are ‘unclean’ during menstruation or that they are somehow harmful,” says Patience Kabarokore, 17.
Manzi Biraguma and Emmanuel Nsengimana are happy boys have been granted an access to their school’s menstrual hygiene classes.
Emmanuel Nsengimana points out that girls themselves can avoid being stigmatised by taking the management of their menstrual hygiene into their own hands.
“Boys in particular may want to sit somewhere other than next to a girl who doesn’t have proper protection. They might be embarrassed. I’m serious, there are boys like that!”
The comment leads to a debate between girls and boys about whether menstruation is something to be ashamed of.
“Menses are part of normal life. The fact that you are menstruating just means that you are normal,” says Best Kemigisa.
“Sometimes it is difficult to participate in the joy and activities of others during menstruation. Especially if you’re not feeling well. Then I feel ashamed,” defends Fatumah Kenganzi, 17.
She says that as a Muslim she is not allowed to pray or fast during her periods.
“It’s quite understandable. Even a prayer mat can get dirty,” she reflects.
In Ugandan refugee settlements menstrual hygiene may be challenging to maintain due to lack of money. Menstrual hygiene isn’t a priority for families living on less than two dollars a day. This leads to girls staying home when they’re having their period.
Lack of sanitary towels robs girls their education
In Bukere, every young person knows someone who has missed school because of their period. And no wonder, because according to Uganda’s Ministry of Education 2020 data, three out of four school-age girls miss 2-3 school days a month due to menstruation. According to the same statistics, up to 65% of girls and women in Uganda feel unable to afford adequate menstrual protection.
“Girls would certainly like to use disposable pads, but they are not very accessible here,” says Sonia Kyasiimire, referring to the high price of sanitary towels.
Fatumah Kenganzi would like to use disposable pads if she had the money to buy them.
FCA’s menstrual hygiene work involves more than just handing out sanitary pads and teaching lessons. At Bukere secondary school, changing rooms and water points have been built next to the toilets to make girls’ daily lives easier. According to 2020 statistics, only 60% of girls and women reported that they had regular access to water for washing and safe, sheltered places for changing.
Fatumah Kenganzi is the only girl who would prefer to use disposable protection if she had the choice. But her life with reusable pads is made easier by the fact that she lives in a school dormitory.
“The school has water for washing and shelter. At the primary school I went to, if there was an accident, you had to go home in the middle of the day to wash.”
The situations where girls are most nervous are when their periods start unexpectedly in the middle of the school day. The school day can become embarrassing, especially because of boys’ behaviour.
“They mock it, calling it a ‘blood skirt’, and everyone hears about it,” says Patience Kabarokore.
Best Kemigisa, Fatumah Kenganzi and Patience Kabarokore have had their share of listening to boys mocking girls when they find out they have their period. Sometimes the menstruation begins in the middle of a school day leading the girls leave home and skipping classes.
The comment makes the boys look at each other.
“I think we do it out of ignorance. It boggles the mind to even think about where the blood comes. We boys are sensitive,” Biraguma defends himself.
“Girls can talk openly about these issues. Come and tell us if you need help. We will help,” Nsengimana continues.
The last sentence makes all three girls burst out laughing. Patience Kabakore, however, is grateful that the boys are now getting information through school.
“I think boys are genuinely interested in these things. Now they have the opportunity to participate and learn. Until a few years ago, they were expelled from class when we started talking about menstruation.”
How will boys use the information they learn about menstrual hygiene at school?
“If I had a wife and she needed help with washing the pads, of course I’d help,” says Biraguma, after a moment’s thought.
The girls don’t believe him.
“No way! You don’t even know what menstrual blood smells like,” challenges Fatumah Kenganzi.
“Yes. I’m at least going to offer to help my wife when I have one some day. My wife is my responsibility. Of course I would,” Biraguma promises.
Menstrual Hygiene Day is an annual awareness day on May 28 to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management at a global level.
