Food for the Hungry/UK
Registered Charity 328273
Food for the Hungry/UK
Registered Charity 328273
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Makhai village is 232 kms East of Kampala in Mbale district, and lies 12 kms South of Mbale town. Generally the land consists of undulating plains, gently falling southwards where swamplands and bodies of water are found in the neighbouring sub-county. Being a mountainous area, landslides are common, which kill or displace people unexpectedly. The vegetation is basically savanna with short grasses being predominant. There are many mature fruit and shade trees, and forestry is a common pursuit. The upper zone is a concentration of semi-permanent houses, with the lower zone being mainly cultivated.
The population is 526, being 245 children, 181 women and 100 men (2002 figures). The main language spoken is Lumasaba, but Swahili, Luganda and English are also spoken.
The soil is fertile, though subject to erosion, and agriculture is the main economic activity in the area. Farmers use ox ploughs to cultivate the land. Common farm crops include millet, maize, beans, sweet potatoes, sorghum, bananas, cassava and groundnuts (peanuts). Cash crops of coffee and cotton are also grown. Planting takes place during the first rains in April to June. During July to October (second rains) there is harvesting of early crops and planting of beans, potatoes and other crops. November to March is the dry season. Traditionally, the cultivation work is mainly undertaken by the women and children, together with the household chores.
The school was founded in 1938 by the Anglican Church, but it has struggled academically, financially and physically. Up to 2002, there were few classrooms or facilities. Some classes are held under trees. About 465 students are accommodated. Teachers have no accommodation or other facilities, and have to walk a long distance from their homes. Many parents or guardians keep their children from school during the rainy season to work in cultivation or household chores. Many also find it difficult to pay school fees; often with the additional burden of caring for children of relatives, orphaned by AIDS and other sicknesses. Adult literacy is low.
There is no health centre in the village. Traditional birth attendants give some helth education and encourage parents to take their children for immunisation. Significant cases are referred to the main hospital at Mbale.
Makhai Church of Uganda (Anglican), Revival Christian Centre (Pentecostal) and Lusisi Presbyterian Church, Bulolero.
The majority of the population are nominal Christians. There is a great need for Biblical teaching and for Christians to live lives that will positively impact the community.
Makhai is among the poorest villages in Mbale district.
The community is receptive, cooperative, settled and hardworking. The community and its leaders have displayed a desire and commitment to improve their conditions.