In March I had the privilege of being invited by World Vision to see their work in Pajule, Uganda. Pajule is a rural area in Northern Uganda a collection of small villages. Excited to see the community transformation work done by World Vision in some of the most impoverished communities around the world, I took the opportunity to visit, and meet the beautiful communities, and the incredible World Vision staff on the ground.
Preparing for my journey involved more than just packing bags. Before leaving the UK, I gained insights into the challenges faced by the community through training sessions provided by World Vision, particularly in the aftermath of a recent civil war.
We travelled to Pajule for two days, including taking a small MAF flight from Kampala to Pajule. Stepping off the plane in Pajule, I was immediately struck by the stark contrast between the urban bustle of Kampala and the simplicity of village life in Pajule. As we travelled the dusty red roads, past the small communities of mud huts and animals, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. Arriving in Pajule, I was welcomed with open arms and radiant smiles—a testament to the warmth and hospitality of the community.
We had three days with the community in Pajule. From my journal, here are my thoughts on the trip:
Sunday: Church
The church welcomed us joyfully, but we also saw much need in the community. Before the service, we met with the church leaders under a circle of mango trees, and we were received with such warmth.
The church service was vibrant and full of energy. I was particularly moved by a story we heard. The church gave some notices during their service about someone in need; we witnessed the church rally around a lady whose house had burnt down, and her family was homeless as a result. Men volunteered to help rebuild the house that week (even though it was harvest season and everyone was busy), and families offered items out of the little they had to support the family in rebuilding their lives. The sense of community was humbling.
Monday: Household Cluster
We visited a beautiful household cluster that welcomed us with joy and dancing. We met an 8-year-old boy who was disabled. Through the support of World Vision, he was given a wheelchair and could now go to school and get an education.
We also met a family whose life had changed so much since World Vision started supporting their community. They saw the value of World Vision and gifted a portion of their land to their community for a children's learning centre and meeting space. They were so grateful that their children had hope through education.
World Vision has improved sanitisation, increased rates of child vaccinations, improved child protection in the community and reduced incidents of gender-based violence.
The community now collectively farms and sells the surplus to pay their children's school fees, ensuring all children can be educated. There are still many needs, and poverty is striking, but the community has hope.
Monday: Religious Leaders
We also met with a group of religious leaders whom World Vision is working with to combat gender-based violence, sexual assaults and promote child protection. It was wonderful to see different denominations and religions working together to improve their communities, and protect children.
Tuesday - Choosing Party
In each community, World Vision hosts choosing parties. Rather than the sponsor choosing a child, the child chooses who they would like to be sponsored by. At the choosing party, the children pick which person, couple, or family they want to be sponsored by from the photos displayed.
I had the privilege of attending one! It is intentional and empowering for the community. Children are encouraged to use their voices and make decisions about their future.
The event also partnered with medical professionals to do welfare checks, offer deworming medication, check for malaria, etc. At the choosing party, over 12 children tested positive for malaria but could access the medication they needed to be safe.
The highlight of the trip for me was being present as our family was chosen by a beautiful 8-year-old girl named Hilder. She loves math, dreams of being a doctor, and loved watching videos of my little boy Judah! She has 2 older brothers, an inquisitive younger sister I met, and her wonderful mother, Grace, who was so grateful for World Vision.
I am excited for Hilder and Judah to get to know each other as they grow up. He now has a friend in Uganda to whom he can write. In both Judah and Hilder, I can see the limitless potential of a generation empowered to dream beyond their circumstances.
Reflections
As I look back on my short time in Pajule, it is not the poverty or hardship that stands out most vividly in my memory, but rather the moments of profound connection and solidarity. Whether sharing laughter and dancing with newfound friends or seeing beautiful acts of kindness and compassion, I was reminded of the Kingdom of God and how we can see the glimmers of hope that God brings, even in the hardest of circumstances.
I love how community- and child-focused World Vision is. Ultimately, World Vision aims to empower the community to instigate change and to leave around 15 years later, with the community continuing its own transformation.
As a family, we will continue sponsoring Hilder until she finishes school or until World Vision leaves Pajule—it costs us £26 a month. If you've felt stirred to sponsor through World Vision, please email me at libby.arnold@suttonvineyard.org. If several people are interested, we could consider Sutton Vineyard partnering with a specific community in Pajule. I can send you more information directly if there are just a few people interested. It’s important to me, and the communities, that any decision to sponsor is a thought through commitment.
Not everyone has the opportunity or ability to directly go, serve and support in some of the hardest to reach communities, but this is an opportunity to support an organisation who is there, doing invaluable work. For more information about Chosen, please visit the World Vision website: https://www.worldvision.org.uk/sponsor-a-child/chosen/
Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”