The Judith Nahurira Foundation has played a pivotal role in transforming the lives of children affected by the devastating Kiteezi landslide. This tragic event claimed over 36 lives, including the family members of four children—Shamirah, Kawuthara, Bashirah, and Lewis. Thanks to the foundation’s unwavering support, these children now have access to quality education at Namuwaaya Education Centre, offering them a renewed sense of hope and a second chance at life.
Shamirah Sekamate: Rising Above Loss
Shamirah, a 10-year-old girl, lost her mother and two siblings in the landslide. Now under the care of her father, a struggling carpenter, Shamirah’s resilience shines through. The Judith Nahurira Foundation stepped in to enroll her at Namuwaaya Education Centre, providing not only financial support but also emotional care, helping her navigate the immense grief and challenges she faces.
Kawuthara Sekamate: Healing Through Education
Kawuthara, Shamirah’s 9-year-old sister, shares the burden of their family’s loss. Enrolled in the same school by the foundation, she is slowly finding healing and growth in a nurturing academic environment. The Judith Nahurira Foundation’s support has provided her with a safe space to begin rebuilding her life and sense of hope.
Bashirah Sekamate: Strength in the Face of Tragedy
At just 7 years old, Bashirah is the youngest of the Sekamate siblings. The loss of her mother and siblings has left a deep impact, but with the support of the Judith Nahurira Foundation, she now attends Namuwaaya Education Centre. There, she receives the emotional and educational support she needs to cope and grow during these critical developmental years.
Lewis Lutaaya: Pursuing Dreams Despite Devastation
Nineteen-year-old Lewis has faced immense hardships, having been abandoned by his father before birth and losing his mother in the landslide. With his home and livelihood destroyed, Lewis remains determined to succeed. Thanks to the foundation’s help, he is currently in Senior 5 at Namuwaaya Education Centre, working toward his goal of becoming a lawyer.
A Call to Action: Expanding the Reach of the Judith Nahurira Foundation
The children’s remarkable progress is a testament to their resilience and the foundation’s life-changing support. According to the school’s director, “These children have shown incredible improvement, both academically and emotionally. Despite their traumatic past, their ability to adapt and thrive in a structured learning environment has been truly inspiring. We are proud to be part of their journey towards a brighter future.”
However, the work of the Judith Nahurira Foundation is far from over. The need for support continues to grow, as there are many more children like Shamirah, Kawuthara, Bashirah, and Lewis who require help to rebuild their lives. The foundation is calling on the public and potential partners to join in expanding their efforts, ensuring that more vulnerable children affected by tragedies like the Kiteezi landslide can access the education and emotional support they need to heal and succeed.
How You Can Help
By partnering with the Judith Nahurira Foundation, you can play a role in transforming the lives of children affected by disaster and loss. Every contribution—whether financial, material, or in the form of time—can make a lasting difference. Together, we can ensure that these children, and others like them, have the opportunity to rise above their circumstances and achieve their dreams.
To support the foundation’s work, visit www.judith-foundation.org and learn how you can get involved. Your contribution can be the key to unlocking a brighter, more hopeful future for these young survivors.