Kamukama Foundation Story

In 2011, a Texas couple walking through Bwindi met Kamukama Jr., a young boy searching for his father. The boy could not attend school because his father had abandoned his family leaving his mother unable to afford tuition. In Uganda, a country without a quality public education system, students who cannot pay cannot attend school.

The couple arranged for the young boy’s school fees to be paid, and after returning home, were struck by a question: How many more children were there like Kamukama Jr. who did not have access to quality education? In that moment, the idea for the Kamukama Foundation was born.

In 2023, Kamukama graduated from the Taibah International School, where he was awarded the Sportsmanship medal for his contribution to the soccer team. He is pursuing a degree in Social Work and Social Administration at the Nyamitanga College of Business Studies.

Robert Bwiire is a dedicated social worker with a strong background and expertise in social and emotional well-being. He supports the Foundation’s sponsorship and community initiatives, including student management and skill development programming. His mentorship plays a key role in coordinating initiatives that support students, parents, and the community. Robert is passionate about fostering emotional resilience and personal growth and is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of children.

Born and raised in Buhoma, Joshua Manzi is the visionary leader of the Kamukama Foundation’s Project Harvest. In 2016, he earned a Diploma in Applicable Agriculture & Animal Sciences from Kefar Agro Training Centre, Israel, after receiving a prestigious scholarship from the Government of Uganda. Joshua brings a wealth of expertise in agronomy, farm engineering, agro-extension, fisheries, dairy, and livestock management. He has demonstrated exceptional training skills, guiding local farmers in transitioning from traditional to modernized agricultural practices. We are proud to have Joshua at the forefront of our agricultural initiatives, driving innovation and sustainable farming solutions for a brighter future.

Vincent Omedo is a highly respected authority in the education sector with an impressive 28-year career in distinguished roles at some of Uganda’s best schools. Vincent brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the foundation with his extensive experience and commitment to academic excellence. Beyond his administrative and teaching roles, Mr. Omedo is an accomplished author, having collaborated with Macmillan Publishers to develop a widely used series of primary course books in Mathematics, Science, and Agriculture.

Phoebe is a motivated and adaptable professional with a strong work ethic and the ability to deliver results on time. Phoebe has a solid background in business development, management accounting, operational finance and has successfully overseen portfolio growth. Phoebe Orishaba has a Diploma and Certificate in Business Studies from Uganda College of Commerce and with experience as a Bank Agent & Accountant, she will be a great asset in Project Prosper and assisting Joshua Manzi with Project Harvest.

Dianah is a passionate and dedicated professional with extensive experience in child advocacy, community development, and caregiver support. With a strong background in child protection and well-being, Dianah has played a key role in planning and coordinating essential training, educational initiatives, and awareness programs focused on child protection, food security, nutrition, and positive parenting. A strong advocate for vulnerable communities, Dianah is committed to fostering safe & supportive environments for children ensuring their physical & cognitive development.

Phionah Ayebare is a dedicated and compassionate nursing professional with years of experience in maternal and child health. She has worked at Bwindi Community Hospital, specializing in pediatric care, malnutrition management, and chronic disease treatment. With a Diploma in Nursing from Uganda Nursing School Bwindi, Phionah is committed to delivering high-quality healthcare and improving patient outcomes. She is also skilled in immunization, healthcare leadership, and research, making her a valuable asset to the Kamukama Foundation.

Shaela McCarley has been an important part of Kamukama Foundation since joining the team as Operations Manager in 2015. Shaela has been instrumental in supporting the Foundations’s growth as it expands to reach more students. She manages outreach efforts and is a critical part of our work to connect donors and sponsors with school communities in Uganda

Elizabeth Howden has served as Communications Director for the Kamukama Foundation since 2016. In this role, Elizabeth supports the development of sponsor outreach materials and marketing collateral. She also serves as an Advisor to the Board on digital messaging and crisis communications.

Board of Directors

Carol Burdette

Milo Burdette

Ann Carter

Cynthia Collins

Bob Kay

Susan Kay

Linda Knoll

Jeanne Little

Lew Little

Sharon Purcell