Blessings in Uganda
At the end of May I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Central Uganda with two friends and brothers from Seminary on a two week mission. While in country we were able to build relationships with the people of the Ntutti and surrounding tribes, work with and train local pastors and church elders, work with the students training at African Hospitality Institute (AHI), repair water wells, mud homes and schools, and enjoy the beauty and culture of the “Pearl of Africa”. It was encouraging to see the ministry which is ongoing in that region long after the three of us came home but it was equally encouraging to know that the partnership opportunity is long term. Quality pastoral training is a real need in this remote area of the country and the pastors there are eager for us to return.
Below you can read more about the region and the ministries which we partnered with during our time there. Words cannot express my gratitude and thanks for everyones support and encouragement for this mission. Please know that the people there are incredibly grateful for the gifts which we were able to share and send many thanks and prayers for their brothers and sisters in Christ back in the United States.
Ekitangaala Ranch: African Hospitality Institute
Nine million Ugandans live on less than $1 a day, and most of these belong to households depending on subsistence agriculture. Uganda is also plagued by health problems including high rates of malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malnutrition and infant and maternal mortality. African Hospitality Institute Vocational Training and Guesthouse is located 70 miles north of Kampala on Ekitangaala Ranch, a working dairy ranch owned and operated by Cornerstone Development Uganda. AHI was created in 2002 to provide vocational training to chronically poor and vulnerable youth; preparing them for employment in the growing tourism and hospitality industries in East Africa. Students are admitted without regard to race, gender, or religion. Tuition and salaries are sponsored by generous donations of individuals and organizations. While at AHI students experience unity and teamwork in a caring community, build hope for the future by learning valuable restaurant, hotel and domestic skills, develop practical communication and leadership skills, and receive assistance in securing future employment. AHI is a restorative community committed to following Jesus; bringing hope and opportunity through the sacred practice and vocational training of hospitality skills. AHI promotes the dignity of man, respect for individuals and the freedom to make life choices in a community of trust, grace and peace.
