Communities rally to provide relief to Kiteezi victims

A wide array of contributors, including individuals, private organizations, non-profits, and religious groups, have offered their support.

William Mulondo, an MC, is among those who have stepped up to aid the victims of a recent disaster. Tragically, he lost his sister in the event, and the funds raised by his colleagues have been used to purchase essential items for the camp where the affected people are currently residing.

"I couldn’t bring myself to use that money; it felt like celebrating her death. This is the best way to remember her," Mulondo shared.

Mulondo’s sister passed away after traveling from Kyankwanzi, where she worked, to visit a close friend.

"We were close, and I was at work when I got the news of her death," he recalled.

Each day, vehicles arrive at the camp established for the victims, delivering necessary supplies until they can return to their homes.

A wide array of contributors, including individuals, private organizations, non-profits, and religious groups, have offered their support.

Donated items such as clothes and shoes are placed in the camp's yard for people to choose from.

Food items like maize flour, rice, and cooking oil have also been provided in abundance. Some donors have expressed that helping those in need is a moral obligation, especially since anyone could easily find themselves in a similar situation.

"There is no telling when this situation will end, so aiding is paramount," said Annet Kiseka from Sheraton.

Lumu Ivan from Masooli, a village a few kilometers from Kiteezi, echoed this sentiment: "There’s no telling what will happen, and these people never asked to be in this situation, so we have to help."

All donations are first registered and then stored in the main tent for safekeeping. Market vendors have also stepped up, regularly contributing, with some even bringing meat to prepare meals for the victims.

Survivors and those who lost everything but are now sheltered in the camp have expressed profound gratitude to Ugandans for the love and support shown.

"I can’t complain," says Nanyonga Prossie. "We have been loved by Ugandans. I can only say, thank you."

Another beneficiary, Mutaawe Fred, shared similar sentiments: "The abundance we have received from the people of Uganda is overwhelming. Yes, we are not home, which hurts, but they have ensured a somewhat comfortable life for us."

According to the Red Cross, which has spearheaded the collection of donations, the number of people in the camp has now surpassed three hundred.

The Red Cross spokesperson, Irene Nakasi, elaborated, "Yes, we continue to receive aid from many people, and more is still needed as the number of people coming to the camp is expected to rise."

Despite these efforts, challenges remain, particularly with young children who have been affected, some of whom are receiving treatment in hospitals.

"We have registered a number of pneumonia cases, and some of the children are hospitalized," Nakasi reported.

The support provided to these children, who may not fully understand the situation, brings them joy and helps to ease their distress.

The willingness of Ugandans to assist their fellow citizens reaffirms the truth that a friend in need is indeed a true friend.