21Aug2025

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Success Stories

Planting Seeds of Change: Celebrating the Launch of Mihama Development Initiatives

By Betty Kagoro, Co-Founder of Mihama Development Initiatives (MDI)

A Dream Takes Root in Fort Portal

With heartfelt gratitude and great excitement, I share the news of a new beginning: the official launch of Mihama Development Initiatives.

Born in the heart of Fort-Portal City, Mihama is not just another community-based organization, it is a movement rooted in lived experience, driven by the hopes of families, and grounded in the strength of our people.

Inspired by Our Community

This vision did not emerge overnight. It grew from countless moments of quiet observation and deep listening, from watching children walk long distances to school, from seeing young people eager to work but lacking the tools, and from the resilience of women building livelihoods in the face of daily challenges.

Each of these stories planted a seed. Today, Mihama stands as a home for those seeds to grow.

Why “Mihama”?

In our native language (Rutooro), Mihama means “roots.” The name reflects our philosophy: meaningful development must be grounded in the values, traditions, and leadership of the community itself. It must grow from within.

Our Mission and Core Focus

Mihama is committed to four priority areas where impact is both urgent and lasting:

  • Reducing school dropouts by equipping children and youth with practical life skills
  • Empowering women and youth entrepreneurs through financial literacy and business mentorship
  • Improving nutrition and health at the household level through sustainable practices
  • Building climate resilience by helping communities adapt to environmental changes

These programs are designed to be inclusive, participatory, and responsive, ensuring that no one is left behind.

A Collective Effort

Launching Mihama has been a community effort from day one. I am deeply thankful to our elders, youth leaders, women’s groups, local authorities, and early supporters who embraced this dream as their own. Your encouragement and belief have carried us here.

This organization belongs to all of us. It reflects our resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to progress.

Join the Journey

As we step into this new chapter, our doors and hearts remain open. We invite you to walk with us whether as a partner, donor, volunteer, or friend.

Let’s nurture these roots together. Let’s cultivate a thriving Fort-Portal, one community at a time. Remember, “Development is not what we do for the people, but what we do with them.”
– Mihama’s Guiding Belief

Be part of our story

  • Partner with us to scale impact in your community
  • Contact us to learn more or volunteer your time

Email: info@mihama.ngo

Website: www.mihama.ngo