Members of Soroptimist International enjoyed a truly inspiring and informative speaker evening when we welcomed representatives from Give Me Hope Africa Wales.
Give Me Hope Africa Wales is a UK based charity supporting community development in Gibumbuni – a village high in the mountains of Eastern Uganda.
The highlight of the evening was hearing from our own member, Catherine Saffari, who recently travelled to Uganda with the charity. Catherine shared her personal experiences of the visit, providing a moving and insightful account of the projects she witnessed and the lives being transformed through the charity’s work.
Through photographs and first-hand stories, Catherine described the warm welcome she received and the remarkable impact that Give Me Hope Africa Wales is making in local communities. Members were fascinated to learn about the wide range of programmes the charity has developed to support vulnerable families and create sustainable opportunities.
These initiatives include a feeding programme for children providing a nutrient rich porridge and soya meal every day, a highly successful Goat Project which has grown to more than 200 goats, village savings and loans schemes, to help foster a sustainable future for the community, and farming projects that help communities become more self-sufficient. The charity also provides dignity packs, supports youth ministry activities, and delivers healthcare initiatives, including the employment of two local nurses, deworming programmes each term, and treatment for conditions such as jiggers and ringworm.
Education remains a key priority. The charity purchased land in 2018 and completed built a new school/ community centre by 2023/24, and a further 2 classrooms build in 2025 for older children. They have over 142 children from the age of 3 years old and up, with 5 teachers. The facility also offers vocational training courses, including tailoring, organic fertiliser and first aid enabling local people to develop valuable skills and generate income for their families.
Access to clean water is another significant challenge in the area. The lack of clean water has increased diseases such as; dysentery and cholera. To address this, Give Me Hope Africa Wales has provided two large rainwater harvesting tanks fitted with crystal filtration systems, helping to ensure that communities have access to safe, clean water.
Representatives from the charity spoke passionately about their ongoing work and future plans, demonstrating how practical support, education, healthcare, and community development can bring lasting change. Their presentations highlighted the power of partnership, generosity, and commitment in helping communities build a brighter future.
The evening provided an excellent opportunity for members to learn more about the charity’s achievements and to reflect on the importance of international cooperation and service—values that closely align with Soroptimist International’s mission of improving the lives of women and girls worldwide.
We were also delighted to have a wonderful display of items, Bags, jewellry, bowls and gift cards from Uganda that were for sale and help raise funds for the charity.
We extend our sincere thanks to Catherine and the team from Give Me Hope Africa Wales for sharing their experiences and inspiring us with their dedication and compassion. It was a memorable evening that left us with empty pockets but a deeper understanding of both the challenges faced by communities in Uganda and the extraordinary difference that hope, determination, and practical support can make.
If you would like to find out more information please have a look at Give Me Hope Africa Wales
