29th March 2023
In the lead-up to Ramadan 2023, Act Africa Now embarked on a journey of solidarity within the heart of the Kawempe slum, localy named the “Lost City” by its resilient inhabitants. Amidst the challenges of informal housing, communal toilets, and pervasive environmental degradation, Act Africa Now worked with local leaders to educate community members about environmental issues, clean drainage, plant trees and distribute food parcels.
The Lost City, despite its hardships, exuded an undeniable sense of community spirit. We witnessed an unprecedented turnout of over 40 enthusiastic individuals—marking a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to fostering community engagement.
At the forefront of our agenda lies the empowerment of local leaders to galvanize their communities towards collective action. With unwavering dedication, we shared crucial insights on environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of preserving our surroundings and combating climate change. The resounding success of this event stands as a testament to the indomitable leadership and unwavering resolve permeating the Lost City.
Act Africa Now and community members crafted poignant signs, echoing the collective plea to safeguard our environment. From “Save our Uganda” to “Tukuune Obutonde” (Let us protect the environment). These messages were aimed at moving community members towards sustainable practices particularly to rethink the disposal of plastic waste—a critical step in mitigating the recurrent flooding plaguing the area.
The transformative journey commenced with a concerted cleanup effort. Armed with rakes and spades, volunteers removed waste and debris amidst the swampy terrain. Clad in gloves and gumboots, and despite the challenges, our collective efforts yielded over 20 bags of refuse collected and handed over to the Kampala City Centre Authority for responsible disposal.
Equipped with watering cans, wheelbarrows, and gardening tools, community members embarked on a journey of nurturing and growth by planting a diverse array of trees. Even the youngest participants radiated curiosity and enthusiasm, embodying the hope for a greener, more sustainable future.
As the day drew to a close, local leaders and Act Africa Now members bestowed additional blessings upon the community—packages of rice, beans and oil, extending the spirit of Ramadan to those who had participated in the tree-planting and cleanup endeavors.
In the wake of this transformative activation, the Lost City of Kawempe stands as a beacon of resilience and unity—a testament to the enduring power of collective action in nurturing hope, fostering change, and building a brighter tomorrow for all.
