Kibo International is a faith-based outreach group that started in the 90’s with a few college kids wanting to make a lasting difference. Many of us have ourselves gone on a mission trip and left wanting to do more for the community that we were in. This group of students from Harding University did just that. It started on a hike up mount Kilimanjaro with some friends they had made since living there, and the plans for this new company were laid. The idea is to inspire and equip Ugandans with reaching their full potential and giving them the resources to get there.
This non-profit company works with thousands of people in Ugandan Villages and aims to make these villages thrive and be healthy in all aspects of their lives. The Kibo approach to poverty and injustice is a holistic way of attack. The mentors help these communities realize the assets they have in their own backyards, solve the multilayered problems, create sustainable long-term results, and emphasizes the whole community. The Kibo group does not help these people in order to “make them christian” but is knowingly based on Christian values. The hope is that these villages will see God through their work and love and eventually come to know Him. There are all types of programs that the villages go through all to make them flourish through local solutions.
There’s often a disconnect between short-term missions and continuing aid in missions. It’s terrific that a few young people recognized this disconnect and acted automatically. Utilizing ways inside the culture and community is always the best way to combat and soothe physical, economic, and spiritual needs.
Asset creation is the fastest way to wealth and I hop they can make a difference!
The most vital aspect of change is it being sustainable. Many social enterprises forget about this aspect. It’s amazing that the Kibo Group has figured out a way to be sustainable and get ideas from locals. Nice post!!