Shs 500 million up for grabs in support: Meet the latest beneficiaries of MTN Uganda’s Changemakers initiative

Shs 500 million up for grabs in support: Meet the latest beneficiaries of MTN Uganda’s Changemakers initiative

By our Reporter

Last December, MTN Uganda unveiled 25 trailblazing beneficiaries of the second cohort of the MTN Changemakers initiative—a flagship program under the MTN Foundation.

With a basket fund of Shs 500 million, this transformative initiative is designed to empower Ugandan communities by supporting impactful projects in education, health, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment, perfectly aligning with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy.

Below, we spotlight some of the organisations and projects poised to transform lives and build sustainable futures across the nation with the support of MTN Changemakers.

EcoEmpower, Kampala Slum – Kampala

EcoEmpower is pioneering a sustainable solution to urban waste by converting discarded plastic bottles into polyester sewing threads—a valuable resource for the textile industry. This innovative project is set to benefit over 1,000 people, promoting environmental health and economic resilience in underserved communities.

Dorna Centre Home for Autism – Kampala

Dorna Centre Home for Autism provides specialised care and education for children and young adults with autism. With the support of MTN Changemakers, the Centre aims to expand its vocational training programs, equipping beneficiaries with practical skills in arts, crafts, agriculture, and digital literacy, thereby enhancing their independence.

40 Days over 40 Smiles Foundation (4040) – Kampala

Founded in 2012, this volunteer-based non-profit organisation is committed to improving educational outcomes for underprivileged children. The Foundation plans to install computers to boost digital literacy, thereby increasing enrollment, retention, and overall academic performance.

Teens and Tots Neuro Development Centre – Kampala

Established by dedicated parents in 2012, the Teens and Tots Neuro Development Centre delivers specialised education for children with autism. With new computer equipment funded by MTN Changemakers, the Centre will further enhance learning outcomes and support the development of children with special needs.

Villa Maria Hospital – Kalungu

Villa Maria Hospital, a historic health institution in Kalungu District, is expanding its community health outreach. The hospital plans to install a comprehensive rainwater harvesting system—including two tanks and connection gutters for three schools—to ensure a steady supply of clean water for both residents and patients.

Nakalanda Primary School – Mukono

To secure safe drinking water for over 5,000 learners and community members, Nakalanda Primary School will construct water-harvesting reservoirs. This initiative will transform daily life by ensuring reliable access to clean water for cooking and nourishment.

Namulanda Primary School – Kayunga

Namulanda Primary School intends to install rainwater-harvesting tanks to address the urgent need for accessible water in this rural region. The project will benefit more than 390 learners and the wider community by providing a sustainable and dependable water source.

Kalangala Home for Children with Special Needs – Kalangala

Serving the 84 islands of Kalangala District, this community-based organisation is focused on empowering children with special needs. By purchasing essential training tools, Kalangala Home for Children with Special Needs will enhance educational opportunities and improve the lives of 306 individuals across the district.

Uganda Prisons – Bushenyi

In a forward-thinking initiative, Uganda Prisons Bushenyi is set to modernize its carpentry and joinery workshop. The acquisition of new equipment will not only facilitate the repair and creation of quality furniture but also equip 80 prisoners with valuable skills to support their reintegration into society.

Tusafishe Project – Kyenjojo

The Tusafishe Project aims to provide safe drinking water to over 5,400 individuals in Butunduzi Sub-County through the installation of rainwater harvesting tanks. Complemented by a comprehensive WASH education program targeting 280 students and 120 community members, the initiative will drive sustainable behavioral change.

Rural Tech Hubs for Girls – Moyo

Dedicated to bridging the digital divide in rural Africa, this inspiring initiative will equip tech hubs with computers and modern digital tools. Benefiting 2,010 vulnerable girls, the project is a significant step toward empowering young women with essential skills for thriving in today’s digital world.

Itinga Charity Education Foundation – Lira

Committed to enhancing educational access for visually impaired learners, Itinga Charity Education Foundation is launching its “Inclusive Education Project.” By providing cutting-edge technology to 36 students—primarily young girls at St. Mary Goretti S.S.—the project will foster digital literacy and expand opportunities for disadvantaged learners.

Protected Springs – Lira

Designed to improve access to safe water and basic sanitation, this initiative will enable communities in Lira District to construct six protected spring wells. Expected to benefit over 12,000 individuals, the project not only addresses water scarcity but also enhances public health through community-led maintenance and management.

Amuca SDA Secondary School – Lira

Located in northern Uganda, Amuca SDA Secondary School is committed to enhancing its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices to create a safer and healthier learning environment. With support from MTN Changemakers, the school will complete a state-of-the-art latrine facility that will significantly elevate sanitation standards. This modern facility is strategically designed to meet the growing demand for hygiene infrastructure, benefiting over 2,050 individuals—including students, staff, and community members.

Piped Water Extension Project – Acwera Community, Nebbi

The Piped Water Extension project in Acwera Community seeks to provide a sustainable source of clean, safe water for 2,335 residents. By reducing reliance on contaminated water sources and mitigating waterborne diseases, this initiative, supported by MTN Changemakers, will extend the local water supply network. Long-term sustainability will be ensured through active village leadership, enhancing public health and community well-being.

Clean Cook Girls – Nabumali

The Briquette Making Project in Nabumali empowers women while promoting environmental sustainability. By converting organic waste—such as agricultural residues and kitchen scraps—into eco-friendly briquettes, the initiative offers an alternative energy source and creates a new revenue stream for retired female teachers. With support from MTN Changemakers, modern briquette-making equipment will be procured to enhance production efficiency and scalability, benefiting 40 women and fostering socio-economic empowerment.

Skill for Life – Iganga

The Skill for Life Project in Iganga District equips women and girls with practical skills in sewing, embroidery, and handicrafts, including basket weaving, jewelry making, reusable sanitary pads, clothing, and decorative items. Supported by MTN Changemakers, the project will procure sewing machines and essential tailoring consumables, enabling over 70 beneficiaries—primarily women and youth—to generate income and improve their livelihoods. This initiative is poised to boost local entrepreneurship and enhance community well-being.

School Garden Initiative – Budaka

The School Garden Initiative in Budaka District aims to integrate practical agricultural skills into the co-curricular activities of five selected schools. With the support of MTN Changemakers, essential garden inputs will be provided to facilitate the implementation of Uganda’s new lower secondary school curriculum. Benefiting over 3,100 learners, this initiative will equip students with technical skills and promote better nutrition through school gardening activities.

Other project beneficiaries include Bless a Child Foundation, clean water initiatives in Soroti, Namayingo, Kamwenge-Kibale, and Ssembabule, and the Greater Katswamba Friends Concern.