Our Story
UCare International and the Tuli Wamu Children's Center was founded in 2015 by two young men who were themselves raised as orphans. Their shared experience inspired a commitment to support children facing similar hardships, by providing a safe and supportive environment where they can grow and thrive.
Success
Since its founding, UCare has provided care and support to more than 120 vulnerable and abandoned children who were either living on the streets or whose families were unable to provide necessities such as food, shelter, and education. Through strong relationships with community members and local businesses, the organization has developed a trusted presence in the Luzira area of Kampala, where it is recognized in the community as, "the place that takes care of children." UCare continues to work toward expanding its capacity and becoming self-sustaining, so that no child is turned away.
Alex Mpagi
Chairman
The Fatherly Heart
Kenneth Kyambadde
Assist. Chairman
The Teacher's Concern
When Alex Mpagi, a devoted father and high school lecturer, witnessed the struggles of orphaned and vulnerable children, he could not remain a bystander. Imagining his own children in such a situation broke his heart and stirred a deep conviction within him. For Alex, founding UCare was not simply a decision—it was a calling born out of compassion and responsibility. With wisdom, integrity, and a father’s heart, Alex has guided UCare from its earliest days. Under his leadership, the organization has become far more than an orphanage—it has become a family, a place where every child is encouraged to learn, dream, and grow into their full potential.
Kenneth’s journey with UCare began in the classroom, where he first met the children as their preparatory school teacher. Day after day, he guided them through letters and numbers—but what moved him most were not the lessons, but the hearts behind the notebooks. He saw their struggles, their whispered hopes for belonging, and their deep longing to be loved. Teaching alone was not enough. Kenneth realized he could not remain only their teacher. He became their mentor, their advocate, their family. Today, Kenneth continues to walk beside them, ensuring that every child knows they are seen, heard, and cherished—and that education remains the heartbeat of UCare’s mission.
Darius Twinomujuni International Country Coordinator The Dream Bearer
Darius, our co-founder, grew up as an orphan and knows all too well what that is like to live without parents. Although he was nurtured by the care of Burden Paul Kids Home, many nights he lay awake, his heart heavy with questions no child should have to contemplate, while carrying the quiet ache of belonging. Yet in that same place, he also discovered something powerful—a safe refuge, a gentle hand, and a love that sparked hope where despair once lived. Those memories became his mission. Refusing to let pain define him, Darius turned it into purpose. With unshakable courage and faith, he brought UCare to life—not just as an orphanage, but as a family where children are seen, heard, and empowered to flourish. Today, he carries UCare’s message across borders, proclaiming to the world: “No child is defined by loss—they are defined by possibility.”
Kynama Wald Strategy Coordinator The Visionary
Kynama, a U.S. native and licensed teacher, has long carried a deep love for Africa—its history, its music, dance, art, nature and its vibrant spirit. Her journey has taken her across the continent, living in several African countries and immersing herself in its richness. Yet her heart has always been drawn to one calling above all: serving those in need. In 2017, Kynama joined UCare as a volunteer, and from that moment, she became an invaluable part of our family. With over thirty years of volunteer experience and service on several boards, she now provides strategic leadership in fundraising and marketing. Through her vision and dedication, Kynama has helped elevate UCare's mission, ensuring that children not only receive support, but ensuring the organization stays focused on doing what is best for the children, planning for the future, and ensuring integrity and accountability.
Betty Mpagi
Treasurer
Mother to the Girls
Betty, a mother and nurturer, felt an unshakable bond with the orphaned girls of UCare. In their eyes, she saw more than circumstance—she saw the silent battles they carried, the unspoken fears, the fragile hope hidden behind their vulnerability. She could not stand by as a mere observer. With courage and compassion, she stepped in as their protector, their advocate, their unwavering voice. Betty embodies both wisdom, talent and warmth. She is shrewd steward of resources, but even more importantly, she nurtures the girls with a love that instills not only confidence, but an enduring sense of dignity and hope for a better future.
Gorret Ameso Secretary The Voice Keeper
Gorret began her journey at the UCare preparatory school as a secretary, a recorder of minutes and messages. But the symphony of the children's lives—their unrestrained laughter, their quiet tears, their daily struggles—resonated deeply within her. She found she could no longer merely transcribe words; she had to become a keeper of their voices. Now, she weaves the children's own stories, dreams, and inherent rights into the very fabric of every plan and policy. To Gorret, a child is not a statistic, but a story waiting to be honored.
The Team
