Bex Okotel, a co-founder and Director of Child of Hope in Uganda, shares an honest update from the heart, reflecting on the highs, challenges and everyday miracles happening across our schools and community.
I know I'm in an incredibly privileged position – not many people get to see God at work first-hand, day after day. Although much of my role as a director involves sitting at a desk, crunching numbers, and meeting with managers to discuss progress and challenges, I also get to move around the schools and the community. And when I do, I'm reminded that I'm part of something truly extraordinary: a team giving young children the chance of an education – a route to discovering who they are and the possibilities ahead of them – and helping parents emerge from the grip of extreme poverty to provide for their families' basic needs.
There are many hills and valleys in this work. This year, we've seen some remarkable highs. Our health team has helped numerous young people regain full health despite the challenges of living in a slum environment – Joel, who was suffering from acute pneumonia and would have died without our help; Jonathan, who had an obstructed bowel and needed urgent surgery; and Andrew, who was born with sickle cell disease and has been told multiple times by doctors that he was close to death, yet here he is, still living and sitting his exams.
I'm also incredibly proud of our IGA team, who have worked with 60 new mums this year to help them start businesses – and 80% of those businesses are still running successfully. Another personal highlight for me has been seeing performing arts launched as an O-Level subject at our secondary school, and watching the children's amazement as they try blowing trumpets and trombones, put on costumes, and sing and dance for their friends!
Of course, the valleys are very real, too. Namatala continues to struggle with gang activity and crime, and our children are constantly at risk of being recruited into these groups, which target them with drugs and alcohol before pulling them into a life of crime. Our welfare team uses every tool at their disposal, but the battle is tough. And then there is the ever-present challenge of finances – we're a growing organisation, which means growing needs, at a time when charitable giving is in decline.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for being part of this remarkable team. When you give to Child of Hope, you make a huge difference in the lives of over a thousand children and their families. You are part of God's work here. You may not see it first-hand, but you are no less a member of the team.
Thank you – from all of us here in Uganda.
Bex is currently in the UK for a flying visit!
If you would like to meet her, you are invited to a special drop-in event on Saturday 22nd November 2025, from 1pm to 3pm at Canford Magna Centre, Canford Magna Parish Church, Canford Magna BH21 3AF. You are welcome to bring any friends and family who may be interested. There will be tea/coffee and cake! If you can come, please let us know by emailing enquiries@childofhopeuganda.org or contact us here. Many thanks!