TORORO — At 78 years, Yedida Apendi should be enjoying the comfort and security of her later years. Instead, she spends her nights battling cold weather, insect bites and the fear that the fragile structure she calls home could collapse at any moment.
The elderly widow, who lives alone in Boke A Cell, Osukuru Town Council in Tororo District, occupies a deteriorating makeshift house that offers little protection from the elements.
Part of the structure has already given way, leaving sections of the wall exposed and covered only with plant leaves. The small shelter serves as both a bedroom and kitchen, forcing her to cook and sleep in the same cramped space.
“This is the same house I use for sleeping and cooking,” Yedida said. “I don't sleep at night. It is too cold and insects keep feasting on me throughout the night.”
Her life has been marked by a series of personal tragedies. She lost her husband in the 1980s and later buried three of her four children. The only surviving son she had disappeared nearly a decade ago and has never returned home.
“Three of my children passed away, leaving me with only one son who later disappeared from home,” she recalled.
Touched by her plight, local leaders working through the office of the Community Development Officer mobilised residents to improve her living conditions.
“We found her in a desperate situation, helpless and with nowhere to turn,” said area leader Sarah Apadet.
Community members responded by raising nearly Shs2 million to construct a permanent house for the widow. The funds enabled the purchase of cement and bricks, while volunteers and builders contributed labour to the project.
“We bought cement and bricks, got builders, and that is how we reached this stage,” said community leader Michael Wandera.
Construction progressed steadily and gave Yedida renewed hope of finally moving into a secure home. However, the project stalled after the available funds were exhausted, leaving the structure incomplete at roofing level.
According to Community Development Officer Vicente Ogute, an additional Shs10 million is needed to complete the house and provide Yedida with the basic necessities she lacks.
“She lacks basic necessities. She needs proper shelter, bedding and clothing. We must save her life,” Ogute said.
The community has now launched an appeal to well-wishers, charitable organisations and development partners to contribute towards completing the house.
For Yedida, the unfinished building represents more than just walls and a roof. It is a symbol of dignity, security and the possibility of spending her remaining years in a place she can truly call home.
Residents say that helping complete the project would not only transform the life of an elderly widow who has endured decades of hardship and loss but also demonstrate the power of community compassion and solidarity.
