Miss Uganda 2024 Natasha Nyonyozi lifts one of the vulnerable children at Happy Times Children Care initiatives in Katikamu, Luweero District on November 3, 2024. PHOTO | DAN WANDERA
Over 100 vulnerable children at Happy Times Children Care Home in Luweero experienced a day of joy, singing, and storytelling with Miss Uganda 2024, Natasha Nyonyozi, on Sunday.
Nyonyozi, accompanied by Mr Uganda 2024, Michael Shaun Alinda, and other inspirational individuals, visited the home, which shelters 190 children relying on community and external well-wishers.
“Meeting these children, sharing their stories, and offering hope strengthens the bond between them and their caretakers,” Nyonyozi said. “These children have big dreams that need nurturing. As Ugandans, we have an equal responsibility to support vulnerable groups, especially children.”
Nyonyozi emphasized the children’s need for basics like education, healthcare, and food. “They need to believe in themselves for a brighter future.”
Mr. Uganda 2024, Michael Shaun Alinda, appealed for support from well-wishers. “While sharing joy and love with these children, we must remember their needs. It’s our responsibility as able-bodied and loving Ugandans to care for the less fortunate.”
Ms Uganda 2024, Natasha Nyonyozi (C) prays with the vulnerable children at Happy Times Childcare home housing over 190 children in Luweero District on November 3, 2024
Happy Times Children Care Home Director, Joyce Namigadde, revealed that many children are abandoned by their parents, with some as young as two days old. “We receive children abandoned on streets, caught in domestic violence cases, or left at hospitals.”
In October 2024, the home welcomed four children abandoned at Luweero Hospital by their mothers. The Uganda Police Annual Crime Report 2023 ranked Luweero District third in child desertion cases, with 77 reported incidents.
“We must come together to support these vulnerable children,” Nyonyozi urged.