Our story began with Rajab, a young boy who faced numerous health challenges due to unclean drinking water and poor nutrition. Despite initial treatment, months of medication and a nutritious diet, we had still had to send him for heart surgery.
Rajab’s heart condition involved a vessel malfunction, leading to blood accumulation and a substantial clot. Thankfully, the surgery was successful in removing the blockage and repairing the vessel.
Before the surgery, Rajab was shy and serious, facing challenges in school and play due to his appearance. Post-surgery, he is filled with joy, no longer shy, actively participating in school, and enjoying playtime with others. Your support not only mended his physical health but also brought newfound happiness and confidence to his life.
Obtaining clean water is challenging in the area; even existing wells are often contaminated or distant. Providing proper nutrition is also complex, as locals may lack awareness of affordable, healthy alternatives to their traditional diet.
In Uganda, only 32% of the population have access to a basic water supply, with only 19% of Ugandans having access to basic sanitation.
Across Africa, approximately 319 million people lack access to clean and reliable drinking water sources. The proportion of the population with access to safe drinking water is lowest in sub-Saharan Africa, where 29% of the population lacks access.
Globally, 2.2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water.
In Uganda, over 29% of children aged 6-59 months suffer from malnutrition.
In nine districts, around 56,600 children are affected by acute malnutrition and in need medical treatment like Rajab.
Approximately 46,300 children condition is considered moderate, and over 10,200 children classed as severe.
Globally, malnutrition is responsible for 45% of deaths among children under five years of age.
These are shocking statistics which would be unthinkable in more developed nations.
Thankfully, we have the technology, resources and the knowledge to make these unnecessary deaths a thing of the past.
Through supporting our work, you contribute to the implementation of sustainably sourced food and water, as well as the development of environmentally friendly streams of income for the wonderful people of Bugiri, Uganda.
These are early days for the Little Bridge Foundation, but we hold big ambitions to create a replicable blueprint of a self supporting, functional and healthy community that co-exists with nature instead of exhausting. A model that we hope to spread across the world.
