Former local launches aid project

AFTER surviving terrorist bombings in the Ugandan city of Kampala, a former Mullumbimby man has resolved to do what he can to help suffering villagers.

Help's at hand: Children from the small villageof Buyambi in Uganda are being helped by former Mullumbimby man, Vincent Kenny, who set up the Buyambi Love Aid Project.

AFTER surviving a series of terrorist bombings in the Ugandan city of Kampala, which killed more than 70 people, a former Mullumbimby man has resolved to do what he can to help suffering villagers.

Vincent Kenny has since launched an aid project in the African nation, called the Buyambi Love Aid Project.

He set it up after visiting the small village of Buyambi and through it he aims to raise money for health and education projects in the village.

Mr Kenny said he had been moved by the villagers and their plight.

“My undertaking here is entirely voluntary and free of the set-up and administration costs of big organisations,” he said.

“It has become clear to me that without access to good health and education, people remain disempowered and ultimately fear and frustration ensue.

“Although Ugandans are not responsible for the recent atrocities here, bombs are made, wars are fought and the families and lives of so many thousands are needlessly torn apart.

“Out of such a tragic past, and with a cautious eye on the present, Ugandans struggle for a new future.

“The opportunities and choices afforded through good health and education is the single most critical element in avoiding the repeat of such tragedy.”

Surviving the terrorist bombings was a big wake-up call for Mr Kenny.

He was only safe because instead of catching a bus as he had planned into Kabalagala, where two of the bombs caused major destruction, he changed his mind and ate at home.

Through the Buyambi Love Aid Project, Mr Kenny hopes to fund more classrooms, toilet blocks and water tanks for the school.

Originally published as Former local launches aid project