Sakwera's Journey: From Despair to Hope in Northern Uganda
Michael Ryer • November 28, 2023
In the sprawling expanse of Northern Uganda's Pawik Settlement Region, a story of remarkable courage and resilience unfolds. It's the story of Sakwera, a 12-year-old girl from South Sudan, whose journey to a new life is a poignant testament to the human spirit's capacity for hope and renewal.

Sakwera's odyssey began in her war-torn homeland, a place where childhood innocence is often the first casualty. Seeking refuge and a chance for a better life, she embarked on a perilous journey to Uganda. But the road to safety was marred by unspeakable violence. In a harrowing ordeal, Sakwera fell victim to brutal men who left her alone and vulnerable in the wilderness, and with a child.
In the sprawling expanse of Northern Uganda's Pawik Settlement Region, a story of remarkable courage and resilience unfolds. It's a story that showcases the indomitable human spirit, one that leaves us in awe of the capacity for hope and renewal. This extraordinary narrative belongs to Sakwera, a 12-year-old girl hailing from war-torn South Sudan. Her journey to a new life in the settlement is nothing short of a testament to the unwavering determination and unyielding resilience that reside within her.
Sakwera's odyssey began in her war-torn homeland, a place where childhood innocence is often the first casualty. Seeking refuge and a chance for a better life, she embarked on a perilous journey to Uganda. But the road to safety was marred by unspeakable violence. In a harrowing ordeal, Sakwera fell victim to brutal men who left her alone and vulnerable in the wilderness, and with a child.
Arriving in Pawik, Sakwera faced the daunting reality of being a young, single mother in a foreign land. Stripped of resources, support, and skills, she grappled with the overwhelming challenges of her new life. The weight of her circumstances threatened to extinguish the faint glimmer of hope that had guided her thus far.
Amidst the chaos, she found herself grappling with the harsh reality of war at a tender age. Yet, even in the face of such adversity, a flicker of hope burned fiercely within her. Driven by an unwavering desire for a better life, Sakwera embarked on a treacherous journey, leaving behind the only world she had ever known. The path ahead was fraught with danger, uncertainty, and unimaginable hardships. But Sakwera, armed with an iron will and an unshakeable determination, pressed on.
As she crossed into the Pawik Settlement Region, Sakwera's story took a poignant turn. The vastness of the settlement mirrored the magnitude of her dreams, and she found solace in the embrace of her newfound community. Strangers became allies, united by their shared experiences and dreams for a brighter future.
In the midst of adversity, Sakwera discovered her own strength. She defied the odds, overcoming each obstacle with a resilience that seemed boundless. Education became her beacon of hope, a gateway to a world of possibilities. With unwavering dedication, she immersed herself in the pursuit of knowledge, determined to carve a different path for herself and those around her.
Sakwera's story is one that speaks of the triumph of the human spirit, reminding us of the power we all possess to overcome the greatest of challenges. Her journey from war-torn South Sudan to the Pawik Settlement Region stands as a testament to the unyielding capacity of hope and renewal that resides within each of us. As we delve into her narrative, we are reminded of the countless untold stories of resilience and courage that exist in the world, waiting to be discovered and shared.
Yet, in this abyss of despair, a ray of light emerged. Sakwera found refuge in the Agape Baptist Church in Palabek, an Amigos Internacionales Missionpoint. This modest church became her sanctuary, a place where shattered lives found solace and strength. It was here that Sakwera's life began to transform. She embraced the teachings of Christ, finding in her faith a source of unyielding strength and comfort.
The church offered more than spiritual healing. Recognizing her plight, it provided Sakwera with an opportunity to join a life skills sewing class. This initiative was more than vocational training; it was a lifeline. For Sakwera, learning to sew meant learning to rebuild her life. Each stitch was a step towards healing, a symbol of her resilience and determination to forge a new path for herself and her child.
Sewing became Sakwera's canvas, on which she painted her dreams and aspirations. The sewing machine's hum was a melody of hope, a constant reminder that her past would not define her future. With every garment she crafted, Sakwera stitched together a new chapter of her life, one filled with possibility and promise.
Today, Sakwera stands as a beacon of hope, not only to her child but to the entire community in Pawik. Her journey from the depths of despair to a place of empowerment and self-sufficiency is a powerful narrative of survival and transformation.
Sakwera's story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, the human spirit can thrive. It teaches us that with faith, support, and the will to persevere, new beginnings are always within reach.
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Our team will then branch out to rural areas surrounding the city, where healthcare access is limited. We've chosen this time frame to avoid the rainy season and make travel easier for both our volunteers and the local communities we'll serve. The exact locations within Bujumbura and the surrounding regions will be finalized closer to the event date. We're working closely with local authorities to identify the areas of greatest need. Services Offered At the Medical Camp Burundi, we're bringing a wide range of essential healthcare services to underserved communities. Our team of volunteer doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals will provide general check-ups, vaccinations, and basic treatments for common illnesses. We'll also offer specialized services like dental care, eye exams, and women's health screenings. Mental health support will be a key component of our camp, with counselors available to provide much-needed psychological care. 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By working with local community leaders and health officials, we're ensuring that our services reach those who need them most. Our goal is to make a lasting impact on these communities' health and well-being. How You Can Support Medical Outreach Your support can make a world of difference in the lives of those we serve. Here's how you can get involved and contribute to our Medical Camp Burundi. Volunteer Opportunities We're looking for passionate individuals to join our team and make a real impact at the Medical Camp Burundi . If you're a healthcare professional, your skills are invaluable. We need doctors, nurses, dentists, optometrists, and mental health professionals. Your expertise will directly improve the health of hundreds of people. Non-medical volunteers are just as crucial. We need help with logistics, translation, health education, and community outreach. Your support will ensure the smooth running of the camp and help us connect with the local communities. Volunteering isn't just about giving - it's also about personal growth. You'll gain unique experiences, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you've made a real difference in people's lives. Donations and Supplies Needed Can't join us in person? You can still play a vital role in our Medical Camp Burundi through donations and supplies. Financial contributions are always welcome. Your money will go towards purchasing medical equipment, medications, and supplies. It will also help cover logistical costs like transportation and accommodation for our volunteer team. We also need donations of medical supplies. Things like bandages, syringes, gloves, and basic medications are always in high demand. Even small contributions can make a big difference. Non-medical items are needed too. We're looking for donations of hygiene products, reading glasses, and educational materials. These items can significantly improve quality of life for many in the communities we serve. Every donation, big or small, brings us closer to our goal of providing essential healthcare to those who need it most. Your support can literally save lives. The Impact of Compassionate Care The power of compassionate care goes beyond immediate medical treatment. Let's explore the lasting impact our Medical Camp Burundi can have on individuals and communities. Stories from Past Camps Our previous medical camps have left lasting impressions on both the communities we've served and our volunteers. These stories showcase the real impact of our work. Take Maria, a young mother from a rural village. She'd been struggling with an undiagnosed condition for years. At our camp, she finally received proper care and medication. Now, she's healthy and able to care for her family. Then there's John, a volunteer nurse from the US. He was deeply moved by the gratitude of the people he helped. The experience changed his perspective on healthcare and inspired him to continue volunteering. We also met Amina, a local teenager who attended our health education workshop. She's now spreading the knowledge she gained to her peers, becoming a health advocate in her community. These stories remind us why we do what we do. They show that with compassionate care, we can change lives one person at a time. Long-term Benefits for Communities The impact of our Medical Camp Burundi extends far beyond the days we're there. We're creating long-lasting positive changes in the communities we serve. By providing immediate healthcare, we're preventing minor issues from becoming major health crises. This reduces the burden on local healthcare systems and improves overall community health. Our health education workshops empower people with knowledge about preventive care. This leads to healthier lifestyle choices and better management of chronic conditions in the long run. We also work to build capacity within local healthcare systems. By partnering with local health workers and sharing knowledge, we help strengthen the community's ability to address health issues independently. Lastly, our camps often spark interest in healthcare careers among local youth. This can lead to more healthcare professionals serving their own communities in the future, creating a sustainable cycle of improved health care. Through these efforts, we're not just providing temporary relief, but contributing to lasting change in Burundi's healthcare landscape.
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Our team will then branch out to rural areas surrounding the city, where healthcare access is limited. We've chosen this time frame to avoid the rainy season and make travel easier for both our volunteers and the local communities we'll serve. The exact locations within Bujumbura and the surrounding regions will be finalized closer to the event date. We're working closely with local authorities to identify the areas of greatest need. Services Offered At the Medical Camp Burundi, we're bringing a wide range of essential healthcare services to underserved communities. Our team of volunteer doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals will provide general check-ups, vaccinations, and basic treatments for common illnesses. We'll also offer specialized services like dental care, eye exams, and women's health screenings. Mental health support will be a key component of our camp, with counselors available to provide much-needed psychological care. Additionally, we'll be running health education workshops to empower communities with knowledge about preventive care and healthy living practices. Lastly, we'll distribute essential medications and medical supplies to those who need them most, ensuring that the impact of our camp extends beyond the duration of our stay. Targeted Communities Our Medical Camp Burundi aims to reach the most vulnerable and underserved populations in and around Bujumbura. We're focusing on rural communities where access to healthcare is severely limited. These areas often lack basic medical facilities and struggle with issues like malnutrition, waterborne diseases, and preventable illnesses. We're also targeting urban slums in Bujumbura, where overcrowding and poor sanitation lead to numerous health challenges. Special attention will be given to children, pregnant women, and the elderly, who are often the most affected by lack of healthcare access. By working with local community leaders and health officials, we're ensuring that our services reach those who need them most. Our goal is to make a lasting impact on these communities' health and well-being. How You Can Support Medical Outreach Your support can make a world of difference in the lives of those we serve. Here's how you can get involved and contribute to our Medical Camp Burundi. Volunteer Opportunities We're looking for passionate individuals to join our team and make a real impact at the Medical Camp Burundi . If you're a healthcare professional, your skills are invaluable. We need doctors, nurses, dentists, optometrists, and mental health professionals. Your expertise will directly improve the health of hundreds of people. Non-medical volunteers are just as crucial. We need help with logistics, translation, health education, and community outreach. Your support will ensure the smooth running of the camp and help us connect with the local communities. Volunteering isn't just about giving - it's also about personal growth. You'll gain unique experiences, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you've made a real difference in people's lives. Donations and Supplies Needed Can't join us in person? You can still play a vital role in our Medical Camp Burundi through donations and supplies. Financial contributions are always welcome. Your money will go towards purchasing medical equipment, medications, and supplies. It will also help cover logistical costs like transportation and accommodation for our volunteer team. We also need donations of medical supplies. Things like bandages, syringes, gloves, and basic medications are always in high demand. Even small contributions can make a big difference. Non-medical items are needed too. We're looking for donations of hygiene products, reading glasses, and educational materials. These items can significantly improve quality of life for many in the communities we serve. Every donation, big or small, brings us closer to our goal of providing essential healthcare to those who need it most. Your support can literally save lives. The Impact of Compassionate Care The power of compassionate care goes beyond immediate medical treatment. Let's explore the lasting impact our Medical Camp Burundi can have on individuals and communities. Stories from Past Camps Our previous medical camps have left lasting impressions on both the communities we've served and our volunteers. These stories showcase the real impact of our work. Take Maria, a young mother from a rural village. She'd been struggling with an undiagnosed condition for years. At our camp, she finally received proper care and medication. Now, she's healthy and able to care for her family. Then there's John, a volunteer nurse from the US. He was deeply moved by the gratitude of the people he helped. The experience changed his perspective on healthcare and inspired him to continue volunteering. We also met Amina, a local teenager who attended our health education workshop. She's now spreading the knowledge she gained to her peers, becoming a health advocate in her community. These stories remind us why we do what we do. They show that with compassionate care, we can change lives one person at a time. Long-term Benefits for Communities The impact of our Medical Camp Burundi extends far beyond the days we're there. We're creating long-lasting positive changes in the communities we serve. By providing immediate healthcare, we're preventing minor issues from becoming major health crises. This reduces the burden on local healthcare systems and improves overall community health. Our health education workshops empower people with knowledge about preventive care. This leads to healthier lifestyle choices and better management of chronic conditions in the long run. We also work to build capacity within local healthcare systems. By partnering with local health workers and sharing knowledge, we help strengthen the community's ability to address health issues independently. Lastly, our camps often spark interest in healthcare careers among local youth. This can lead to more healthcare professionals serving their own communities in the future, creating a sustainable cycle of improved health care. Through these efforts, we're not just providing temporary relief, but contributing to lasting change in Burundi's healthcare landscape.
Blake Johnes had not seen his daughter in three years.
A Permanent Endowment to Serve Children, Families, and the Gospel—Forever In a world where needs never stop, we must build solutions that never run dry. That’s the heart behind the John LaNoue Sr. Forever Fund , a permanent endowment hosted by HighGround Advisors and stewarded by Amigos Internacionales . This fund protects its principal forever and uses investment income to fuel long-term impact through water, education, health, and Gospel-centered outreach. This is more than a donation. It’s a legacy. And it’s needed now more than ever.
One Surgery. One Child. A Lifetime Transformed 15% of Ugandan children will require surgical care before age 18. Only a fraction ever receive it . Rural children are hit hardest : over 80% of cases are in remote villages. Almost half of surgical needs remain unmet . Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) is common. These children suffer feeding challenges, risk of aspiration, chronic ear infections, and speech delay . Malnutrition is rampant : up to 68% of infants with CL/P in Uganda are undernourished; many remain ineligible for surgery due to frail health Untreated consequences : ongoing pain, family isolation, lifelong stigma, lost chances, and even school dropout . Yet the solution exists. Simple, safe surgery can restore wholeness. But time, resources, and access—especially in remote regions—are missing.
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In the hills of Buhweju District in southwestern Uganda, the world had grown dim for 39-year-old John Paul Taremwa. Blinded in one eye by disease, and slowly losing vision in the other due to a cataract, John Paul lived on the edge of complete darkness. Each day became more difficult—navigating uneven paths, depending on others, feeling the slow erosion of dignity that comes when something as basic and vital as sight begins to slip away. At Amigos Internacionales, we believe that no one should have to live that way. Ours mission has never been about numbers or events—it’s about people like John Paul. We exist to restore hope through healing, to meet both physical and spiritual needs in places the world often forgets.
In a remote village in southwestern Uganda, a woman named Joy once faced the devastating possibility of permanent blindness. Last year, driven by deteriorating vision and rising desperation, she traveled many kilometers on foot to reach a government hospital in hopes of receiving cataract surgery. But the cost— 3,000,000 Ugandan shillings (approximately $800 USD )—was impossibly high. She returned home defeated. “I decided to forget about my left eye,” Joy shared. “And I prayed my right eye wouldn’t die.”
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