OUR STORY
Rise Uganda began in 2020, founded by Derrick Kiirya in Uganda and Sally Davidson in the UK. What started as a small effort to support just two families in Mayuge District—near Derrick’s home in Jinja—has grown into something far beyond what we imagined.
​
Today, Rise Uganda is a vibrant, faith-filled, Christ-centred community of more than 150 women, all eager to grow in their relationship with Jesus. Every Saturday, these amazing women gather for worship, Bible study, and prayer—finding hope, encouragement, and a place where they truly belong.
​
Through regular giving and sponsorship, we’re helping these women learn valuable skills, start their own micro-businesses, and build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT & MICRO-ENTERPRISES
A central part of our mission is helping women gain financial independence. Together, we’re building small but meaningful income-generating projects, including:
​
Sewing and tailoring training leading to income generating enterprises *
Making reusable sanitary pads for girls so that they can go to school *
Small-scale animal projects, thus far we have purchased 16 goats and 2 pigs *
​​
In addition to community projects, we’ve also supported Derrick as he develops his own sustainable income sources. He now farms an acre of land—growing maize, cassava, and sugar cane—and has opened a small pork restaurant, Yu-Pork. Strengthening Derrick’s livelihood ensures he can continue serving the ministry with stability and confidence.​​
COMMUNITY & SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT
Every week, the women of Rise Uganda meet for Bible study, fellowship, and prayer. The teaching is prepared and recorded in the UK and shared with the group in Uganda by our wonderful coordinator, Derrick Kiirya, who has faithfully led the ministry since day one.
​
This consistent spiritual support has created a strong, loving community—something many of these women had never experienced before. They now have a safe place to learn, grow, share their struggles, and experience the love of Jesus together.
HUMANITARIAN & MEDICAL SUPPORT
Alongside spiritual and economic empowerment, we are committed to stepping in during times of crisis. With the help of our supporters, we have been able to:
​
Fund three life-saving surgeries *
Provide blood transfusions for children with sickle cell disease *
Purchase a wheelchair for a child with severe mobility challenges, enabling them to attend school *
Build a new pit latrine for improved hygiene and dignity *
Supply regular food and essentials to families in urgent need *
ORPHAN CARE
Rise Uganda lovingly supports a small family-style orphanage, where 10 children are cared for in a safe, stable, and nurturing home environment. Rather than living in an institution, these children are welcomed into the family home of our trusted coordinator, Derrick Kiirya, who—together with his wider support network—provides day-to-day care, structure, and oversight. This model reflects the long-standing Ugandan tradition of caring for vulnerable children within the heart of the community.
​
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are able to:
​
* Cover school fees so every child receives a quality education
* Provide food, clothing, and essential daily care
* Ensure each child grows up in a loving, secure environment where they are valued, supported, and encouraged
​​
These children are the heartbeat of our ministry, and we are honoured to walk alongside them as they grow, learn, and dream for their future.