How Robert’s Journey with Ashinaga Is Inspiring His Work with Single Mothers

In the heart of Rakai, a district in southwestern Uganda deeply affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the Samanya orphanage has long served as a sanctuary for children impacted by this crisis. Among the many lives touched by Samanya is Robert, a Graduate of the Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI) and a brilliant young man who rose from adversity to become the director of the very orphanage that raised him.

Robert lost both of his parents and his aunt to HIV/AIDS when he was just one and a half years old. With only one surviving relative, he was taken in by Mr. Senkima, the founder of the Samanya orphanage and a neighbor to Robert’s family. Having seen firsthand the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on his community and his own family, Mr. Senkima dedicated himself to providing a safe haven for orphaned children like Robert. “Robert was so young when his family passed away, and because he grew up at Samanya, he always believed I was his real father and my wife was his real mother. He became part of our family, like one of our own.”

As Robert grew up, his brilliance and strong work ethic became apparent to everyone around him. This brilliance set the stage for his rise to leadership within the orphanage. However, Robert’s academic journey was not without its challenges. Initially, he attended classes under a tree near Mr. Senkima’s house, where he and other orphans received basic education and counseling about HIV. Later on, his exceptional performance earned him a spot at a school in another town. Unfortunately, this experience was marred by discrimination and abuse, prompting the police to intervene and return Robert to Samanya. Despite the setbacks, Robert’s determination and the support of his Samanya family propelled him forward. His academic excellence earned him a half bursary at an outstanding high school, with Mr. Senkima paying for the remainder of his fees.

As Robert entered his final year of high school, a new opportunity presented itself in the form of the AAI. The program was introduced to him by Mr. Matovu, a former Ashinaga Uganda Scholar and current mayor of Nansana. Robert’s acceptance to the program was a moment of pride for the Samanya community. The AAI provided him with the opportunity to pursue higher education in Japan, where he continued to excel academically. “My experience with Ashinaga was like receiving unconditional love,” Robert reflects. “I felt that Ashinaga gave me the best education and opportunities to be part of a community of young leaders. This changed my mindset and motivated me to always want to share opportunities with others.” Despite the distance, he remained in constant communication with Mr. Senkima, sharing updates and news regularly through WhatsApp. “The money he gets from his part-time job mostly goes into Samanya and our work,” Mr. Senkima reveals.

Recognizing Robert’s leadership potential, Mr. Senkima has made the decision to appoint him as the director of Samanya. “I believe that Robert can lead others and make a tremendous impact. I do not doubt that he will take this place to the next level with his education, good heart, and determined spirit.” Samanya currently faces numerous challenges. The orphanage struggles with a lack of funds and resources, and the living conditions of the students need improvement. The dormitories, which house 100 orphans, are filled with broken beds and worn-out mattresses. “We are also struggling with a need for food for the ever-increasing number of orphans who seek our support. We also need desks and tables and essential things for the classroom,” Mr. Senkima shares.

Under Robert’s leadership, Samanya is experiencing significant growth and development, despite the challenges of him directing the orphanage remotely while pursuing his PhD in Japan. His commitment to serving his community is evident in his decision to take on the responsibility of leading from afar, refusing to wait until he completes his studies and returns to Uganda. “He has a new vision for the orphanage that he has already started to put into place,” Mr. Senkima explains. “For example, he came up with the idea to create separate bathrooms for the teachers and students.” He is also working on expanding the orphanage to support more orphans, using the money he earns from his part-time jobs in Japan to construct four new classrooms. With Robert’s leadership and the support of the government, which has granted Mr. Senkima a large piece of land in recognition of his work for the community, Samanya is poised for a brighter tomorrow. “I want to give that land to Robert to use and expand the Samanya project and help students from other villages around us.” he declares. The ripple effect of Samanya’s support is also evident, as many former students who grew up at the orphanage are now working adults who give back in whatever way they can, whether by donating food or hosting orphans during holidays.

Robert’s journey continues to inspire the children at Samanya, showing them that it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. “Knowing that someone from their village who grew up in similar circumstances can make his dreams come true gives everyone else the confidence that they can do the same,” shares Mr. Senkima. Through his leadership, Robert is not only providing a safe haven for orphans but also inspiring them to pursue their dreams.