By Daniel Otieno, Kakamega
The Ubuntu Foundation, a movement dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable people in the society has once again shown its commitment to community well-being with an early Christmas initiative for the elderly and widows in Kakamega.
The “Touch to Humanity” programme, organized by the Kakamega Chapter of Ubuntu Vision, distributed early Christmas gifts in the form of foodstuffs like cooking oil, wheat flour, maize flour, milk and sugar among others.
The foundation’s mission is to spread love, humanity, and compassion to the less fortunate in the society. During the distribution, the foundation’s director, Violet Auma, who spoke at Lurambi Chief’s camp emphasized on the importance of unity and mutual care in society.
Ms Auma, who also works as a media personality at TV47, urged the community to embrace the African philosophy of “Ubuntu,” which signifies our shared humanity and the responsibility to help one another. She described Ubuntu Vision as a movement formed by Africans for Africans, aimed at transforming lives through a collective effort.
Auma took a moment to honor a co-founder of Ubuntu Vision who had passed away from cancer earlier in the year. She recalled that his birthday, November 27, was chosen as the date to honor his legacy of spreading kindness and making a difference in the lives of the vulnerable.
The elderly and the widows pose for a photo after receiving the foodsftuffs – Photo/Faith Anene/County Splash
Faith Taria, an Ubuntu official, addressed the discrimination faced by Africans both within their own communities and abroad. She urged Africans to look beyond divisions and support each other with love. “We walk this journey together,” Taria said. “In times of joy or struggle, we must remain united and put a smile on each other’s face. It’s time to stop following others and embrace our own.”
Local leaders also shared stories of challenges faced by vulnerable groups. Philip Chunge, the area chief, recounted a recent case where an orphan was severely injured by their guardian, and the community’s reluctance to confront such abuse. “The society often tries to sweep these issues under the rug,” Chunge remarked. “But we must not turn a blind eye to violence or injustice.”
The Sheywe chief highlighted ongoing issues such as gender-based violence and the stigma the men face when seeking help. “Many men, especially those who are abused, are too ashamed to report it,” the chief said.
