Life on the streets is harsh, especially for children like ten-year-old Emmanuel Kodet, who spent much of his early years alone and vulnerable in Iganga.
Without a permanent home, parental care, or access to education, Emmanuel watched other children walk to school every morning, longing for a chance to learn but trapped by his circumstances.
At nine years old, Emmanuel’s life took a dramatic turn when directors Micha Koch and Teven Kibumba of Okoa Hero’s Child Ministries found him during a night outreach.
Moved by his plight, they immediately took him under their care and enrolled him in school. Though older than most in Primary 1, Emmanuel began his education at Young Hero’s Primary School in Bulamagi, Iganga District, and is now excelling in Primary 2.
Born on the outskirts of Iganga to parents who migrated from Karamoja, Emmanuel’s family survived on casual labor but could not provide food or education.
Eventually, they abandoned him, forcing Emmanuel to fend for himself on the streets.
Inspired by Emmanuel’s story, Okoa Hero’s Child Ministries established a center dedicated to helping street children find safety, education, and a path to becoming responsible, respectful members of society—far from the dangers of crime and hopelessness.
Currently, the organization cares for 21 former street children. Thanks to a generous donation of land, they live in a large tent and all attend Young Hero’s School, inspired by Emmanuel’s transformation.
“When the other children saw the changes in Emmanuel, they wanted to follow his example,” says Teven Kibumba.
“We registered them for school and provided the materials they needed.”
Close cooperation with local district and municipal authorities has been key to the success of this initiative.
Together, they work to remove children from the streets, provide safe shelter, and whenever possible, reunite them with their families.
Mr Isaac Mutaka, head of Young Hero’s Nursery and Primary School, is pleased with the children’s progress but notes initial challenges.
“Many struggled to adjust to school routines and were afraid to carry books, still haunted by their identity as street kids. But over time, they have been accepted and are now performing well.”
Despite this progress, Okoa Hero’s Child Ministries continues to face significant challenges. Providing adequate food, medical care, clothing, and covering school fees remains a constant concern.
“One of our greatest difficulties is tracing the families of these children,” explains Kibumba. “We need transportation and fuel to send social workers into the field to carry out this work.”
