12 May 2013: Mother Of Mine
Watoto Student Dorothy writes a poem for her mother. “For the great care, support, directing me to the right path and a shoulder to lean on, I am grateful.” Read more…
11 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Lilliane
Raised by a single mom, Lilliane Gatekate a stay-home mother in Kampala, Uganda has come to really appreciate the value of a mother. Together with her husband and daughter, they sponsor a Watoto mom in Watoto's Laminadera Village. Read more…
10 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Ruth
Ruth's husband evicted her from their family home, claiming that she was not profitable to him because she had given birth to only 3 boys out of the 8 children they had together. He wanted to find another woman who could give him more sons. Ruth and her children were abandoned without care or hope. Today, she serves as a Watoto mom and has everything she needs to live a healthy and fulfilled life. Read More...
9 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Annet
Pregnant and with two other children to look after, a depressed and helpless Annet was abandoned by her husband, and left with the responsibility of single-handedly raising their children. But that is not where her story ends. Today is a loving mom to precious children at Watoto. Read More...
8 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Eroni
Her deep love for the Lord and children inspired Eroni, one of Watoto's longest serving mothers to dedicate her life to raising and nurturing the children placed in her care. Sponsor a mom like Mama Eroni this Mother's Day and help raise a future leader. Read more…
8 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Edith
Weary of her husband's continuous promiscuity and fearing she may contract HIV/AIDs, Mama Edith walked out of her marriage - heartbroken, desperate and without any refuge. Today, she has found a safe haven. She is mom to beautiful Watoto children and lives a healthy and whole life. She has found hope again. Read More...
7 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Sylvia
Sylvia's husband practised witchcraft. After she gave her life to Christ, he threw her out on the streets without a care or hope. Today she is a loving mom to 8 children in a Watoto home and has all she needs to live a healthy, whole life. Read More...
7 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Mercy
Abandoned and left with the responsibility of raising their four children, the demise of her marriage and family inspired Mercy to reach out to children found in the same situation. Today she is a Watoto mom, caring for the most vulnerable children in Africa, including her own. Read More...
6 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Margaret
After surviving the LRA insurgency in northern Uganda, Margaret lost her husband to the HIV/AIDS and was left with the responsibility of raising their two children on her own. Today, she is a Watoto mom raising children, who will change their nation. She is healthy, fulfilled and loves her life. Read more…
6 May 2013: Mother's day 2013 - Sophia
Sophia Nakalanzi is HIV+. She lives in Kampala, Uganda. After enduring 17 years of marriage, her husband abandoned her and their children. She had nothing to call her own and was evicted from their family home. Despite her status and the hardships she endured, she knew as a mother, that she had to rise above her situation for her children. Read More...
23 April 2013: Mother's day 2013
One of the key influencers in a child’s life is a strong nurturing mother, who helps in the development of virtuous morals, character, intellect and creativity of a child. At Watoto, our moms take care of formerly abandoned and vulnerable children and help shape and nurture them to be the leaders of tomorrow. Read More...
18 April 2013: Raised By Community - Fred's Story
Burdened by the circumstances of his early childhood, Fred didn’t have a dream. His father passed away when he was only five. At six, his only brother Kenneth also died. In 1992, a year later, Fred’s mother died. With all his closest family gone as a result of HIV/AIDs, Fred was left in the care of his grandmother, a peasant farmer. Read More...
17 April 2013: Raised By Community - Eva's Story
“My father died in a tragic accident in 1991. My mother struggled just to provide food for us every day,” says Eva Kisakye, the second born in a family of four. Eva’s mother later learned about Watoto. She applied to be a housemother and was accepted and Eva joined her mom in the Watoto homes. Her mom still serves at Watoto’s Bbira Village today. Read More...
16 April 2013: Raised By Community - Jackie's Story
Jackie and her sister Carol joined Watoto in 2004. Her mother was a housemother in one of the Watoto villages. Their father had walked out on them, leaving her mom (Proscovia Nakimera) to struggle to raise her two children. She tried everything she could to put food on the table for her kids. But life was tough and the prospect of them going to school was a distant dream. Read More...
15 April 2013: Raised By Community - Livingstone's Story
Livingstone is a social worker with Watoto Child Care Ministries. "I studied Social Work because I want to help people and it also helps me fulfil my dream of giving back to Watoto. I was once rescued and now it’s my honour to help identify those who are disenfranchised so they can be rescued too.” Read More...
14 April 2013: Raised By Community - Kennedy's Story
“I used to think of becoming a singer in a church because my mom was a singer in church. But in those days, my thoughts were consumed with trying to find money to survive.” Says Kennedy. However in 1997 when he joined Watoto, his life changed forever. Read More...
13 April 2013: Raised By Community - Noelina's Story
Noelina joined Watoto in 1994. Her father passed away due to AIDs and her mother was left to take care of five children. “Life became increasingly hard when my father died. I used to see the way other kids lived and I looked to my mother to provide the same type of life for us. But she couldn’t.” Read More...
12 April 2013: Raised By Community - Ben's Story
Ben’s parents both died as a result of AIDs when he was a child. He was left in the care of his grandmother, who was very poor. “I remember we used to dig all day. Sometimes we’d have food to eat at the end of the day. But many nights, we didn’t. Read More...
10 April 2013: Keep A Girl In School
Living Hope, the arm of Watoto that restores dignity to vulnerable women, has launched a program called 'Keep A Girl In School' that aims to reduce the primary school drop-out and increase primary school exam completion among adolescent girls through the provision of sanitary towels and hygiene supplies, and character and life skills development. Read More...
9 April 2013: Facebook Impostor
Please note that there is an impostor on Facebook, posing as Gary Skinner. He has tried a few avenues to solicit money from different individuals. Read More...
5 April 2013: Raised By Community
Every child is born with the capacity to excel and reach their full potential in life. All they need is love, nurture and some basic necessities. In Africa, most children don’t have access to the very basics such as shelter or food. As a result, most of them don’t even dream of a future. Read More...
6 March 2013: Watoto Students Excel in National Exams
Watoto students excel in the recently released Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (U.A.C.E) results. Read more…
15 February 2013: Choir 58's John Bush Miraculouly Meets Sponsors
As a couple of them spoke our ears perked up (again) as we listened to a little boy’s story. My husband and I looked at each other and thought; ‘Hold on! That sounds familiar’. Then he said his name. Oh my goodness! John! Our hearts skipped a beat! No way! Surely not! It couldn’t be! Read More...
5 February 2013: Keep Her In School
Last year we found out that 50% of girls in northern Uganda drop out of school because they cannot afford sanitary towels. We launched the Living Hope 'Keep A Girl In School' initiative to provide these necessary items through schools in Gulu. Read More...
9 January 2013: Choir 57 Leaves For The USA
After close to 5 months of training, choir 59 has left for a six-month tour of the south central coastline and midwest of the USA. Read More...
23 November 2012: Watoto3600 2013
Do you passionately desire to find your purpose in life? To be the person God created you to be? Then Watoto 3600 is for you. Open to both local and international students, Watoto 3600 is an in-class instruction combined with hands-on experience to give the student a balanced understanding of ministry. Read More...
21 November 2012: World Aids Day 2012
1 Dec 2012 is a day that unites people all around the world, from every walk of life, for one cause – To take a stand against the scourge of HIV/AIDS. Watoto joins the world as it commemorates International World Aids Day (WAD). This year’s theme is ‘Getting to Zero - Zero new HIV infections. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS related deaths’. Read More...
19 November 2012: Rescuing More babies
Baby Richard joined the Baby Watoto family after his mother and twin sibling died in childbirth. Richard has been a very sickly boy over the last year suffering from chronic lung issues, but has greatly improved. Read More...
13 November 2012: Beautiful Africa On iTunes
We are thrilled to announce that Watoto's Beautiful Africa: A New Generation, the album music is now on iTunes. You can now buy your favourite Beautiful Africa song in just a click of the mouse. Read More...
12 November 2012: Watoto Christmas Cards
This year, make a real difference while you spread the Christmas cheer. Buy a Christmas card uniquely crafted by a Watoto child, and create awareness about the Watoto cause at the same time. Read More...
7 November 2012: Choir 57: Tasting Chinese Food
Travelling is an exciting experience for the Watoto children who go on tour. Most look forward to seeing and experiencing a variety of activities they would ordinarily not encounter. One of these, is getting a taste of different types of food from other countries. Read More...
6 November 2012: Beautiful Africa DVD Recording
The live DVD recording of Beautiful Africa: A new generation arrangements at Watoto Church in Kampala Uganda are in high gear as we prepare for the big event on 15 November 2012. Read More...
22 October 2012: What I Like Most About School
Going to school is a privilege for every Watoto child. Join us as we discover some of their favourite activities at school. “I love reading the charts hung up in my classroom. They are colourful and help me remember what my teachers have taught me.” Says Sandra. Read More...
18 October 2012: When I Grow Up...
Every child has a dream and our children at Watoto are no exception. Get to hear from some of the children whose dreams you are helping come true. Read More...
11 October 2012: International Day Of The Girl Child
Watoto joins the world in marking the ‘International Day of the Girl Child’ as attention is drawn on ending child marriages. It is estimated that 25,000 girls get married every day. Read More...
10 October 2012: New Family Members At Baby Watoto
The Baby Watoto family is always growing; at the moment we are having new arrivals come in almost every day. Meet some of our newest: Read More...
8 October 2012: Best Friends
Meet some of the little 'best friends' we have at Watoto. They love everyday activities together, growing and learning as they enjoy life in the Watoto villages. Read More...
5 October 2012: Celebrating 50
The Watoto Children's Choir was honoured to be featured on the cover of the August to October issue of Air Uganda's 'Asante' Magazine. The hopeful and happy faces of the Watoto children are a symbol of the hope Uganda has in the young generation as it prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence. Read More...
4 October 2012: Choir 57 In USA
Brenda Namakula is only 9 — but the things the young Ugandan has seen and suffered through belie her years. Read More...
26 September 2012: Holy Soldier
Winifred Mujaasi is a recent Living Hope graduate and is referred to by her friends as “Mujaasi wa Yesu" (Christ’s soldier) because she is a born-again Christian. Read More...
25 September 2012: See How They Grow
Here at Baby Watoto, we love to see lives transformed. Nothing thrills us more than a baby who is found in the most dire of circumstances, growing up healthy enough to transition to one of our children's villages. Normally, we say goodbye to our little ones when they’re between the ages of one and two. Read More...
25 September 2012: You Can Help
We have been blessed with tremendous growth in all three of our Baby Watoto facilities in the past few months, bringing the total number of babies in our care to almost 250. Read More...
25 September 2012: Water = Life
Anyone who has children will know that they require a lot of water. Water to drink, wash and sterilise bottles, and make formula. Water to wash faces and hands, bathe and do laundry. Water to clean the floors, wash dishes, and flush toilets. Water to swim in and grow soft grass for playtime. Read More...
14 September 2012: Me - Jessica Nanziri
Me?
Brave front,
Breaking heart,
Bleeding spirit,
Weeping soul Read More...
12 September 2012: Watoto Go To University
32 Watoto students, who graduated from High School at the end of last year, have joined various universities throughout the country after their vacation. The students are excited about this new stage in their lives. Read More...
3 September 2012: Lucy Laker - Escape Into Hope
"She trembled gently. Nobody here cared for her. They just wanted to use her for labour and for sex. Joseph Kony paced along the line of girls and without shame or guilt analysed their every feature. Behind him another line had formed...." Excerpt from Chapter 5: Lucy Laker - Escape Into Hope, Return To Dignity. Read More...
28 August 2012: Waterfall Camp 2012
The Annual Waterfall Camp for Senior 5 and Senior 6 students took place over 3 days (Mon 20-Wed 22) at Nabinonya beach, Kampala, Uganda. This year’s theme was ‘Transformation’ based on the lifecycle of a butterfly. Read More...
23 August 2012: Fun On The Road
As ambassadors of vulnerable children and women in Africa, there is no doubt that the Watoto Children's Choirs work hard. But the experience of touring the world also broadens their horizons, and allows them to enjoy experiences they would never ordinarily be exposed to. Read More...
16 August 2012: Watoto Camp 2012
The Watoto Camp is on and the children are learning a lot and having lots of fun. This year’s theme is “Remaining In Christ” which is based on John 15. The camp is slated to end on 19 August. Read More...
6 August 2012: Kids Fashion Show In Support Of Watoto
A vibrant Kid’s Fashion Show was held on 4 August at Hotel International. All the proceeds from this spectacular event, which will be held annually from this year, went to Watoto Child Care Ministries in support of the care of orphaned children. Read More...
3 August 2012: Watoto Land At Lubbe
Following claims in the media about the alleged fraudulent acquisition of Watoto land in Lubbe, Watoto wishes to make the following clarifications: Read More...
3 August 2012: Living Hope Graduation
The 7th Living Hope Kampala graduation took place today, 3 Aug 2012. The graduation was the first of its kind with two semesters combined. Read More...
30 July 2012: Watoto Concert
Watoto’s Hope Junior School II at Suubi Children’s Village, held it’s first ever concert on Friday 20 July 2012. The concert, dubbed Joseph and the Technicolour Dream Coat, was a 15-song production with a theme to ‘build community’. Read More...
27 July 2012: Meet Esther Nakimera
Sunshine and flowers is what comes to mind when Esther’s name is mentioned. A twelve year old jolly fellow that loves to dance and sing. Esther lives in house 29 at Bbira children’s village. Currently in primary three, she enjoys school and tries her best to excel. Read More...
24 July 2012: Watoto Choir 52 Returns From The UK
Our amazing ambassadors, the Watoto Children’s Choir 52 just returned from a six month tour of the United Kingdom. The choir visited Scotland, Wales and England, showcasing their new production, Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. One of the incredible highlights of the tour was performing for the Queen at Windsor Castle during her Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Read More...
16 July 2012: Watoto Students Graduate
On Friday 13 July, 7 Watoto students graduated from various universities in Uganda. This group was among the very first Senior 4 candidates to sit for their national examinations at Watoto's Hope High School in 2008. Read More...
15 July 2012: Rebuilding A Nation
Canadian National Post photojournalist, Tyler Anderson, recently visited Watoto's projects in Kampala and Gulu. In a stunning photo essay covered as a lead story in Saturday's (14 July 2012) newspaper, Tyler speaks on the immediacy of life in northern Uganda and the desire of her people to move on with their lives in the aftermath of the senseless war by Joseph Kony and his LRA. Read More...
6 July 2012: Choir 55 Returns From Asia
Watoto Children’s Choir 55 is back from Asia. The choir, which left in February 2012, returned home amid jubilation and ululation. This was Watoto’s second full Asian tour. The choir performed in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan and Japan. Read More...
21 June 2012: 10 Year Old Annabel To Shave Head For Watoto
Annabel, 10, has already raised $500 for Watoto Childcare Ministries. The money will go to building a classroom for a school that takes in ex-child soldiers in the country's north. Read More...
5 June 2012: Watoto Boy Meets Sponsor
5 years ago, The Watoto Children’s Choir was travelling around Beaubier, SK in Canada and Donna Coker chose to sponsor Watoto Child, Michael Okello. Donna had the rare opportunity of meeting Michael in person while he was travelling with Choir 53 in Canada. Read More...
20 May 2012: Extraordinary Story Of The Ugandan War Orphan Who Hugged The Queen
The war-torn upbringing of Lydia Amito, who sang for the Queen at Windsor Castle and broke royal protocol to give her a hug, can be revealed. Read More...
13 May 2012: Watoto Child's Innocent Hug Brings Smile To The Queen's Face
The UK's Sunday Telegraph writes about how an innocent hug from Watoto's 10-year old Lydia Amito, brought a smile to the Queen's face during a private reception. Read More...
11 May 2012: Mothers' Day 2012: A Day In The Life Of Momma Jane
A typical day for Jane starts at 5:30am with personal devotions. She is a mother of 9 in Watoto's Suubi Children's Village. "At 6:00am, I wake the children up for school. We pray together and complete our routine morning chores. A little after 7:00am, I prepare breakfast as they wash up for school. Then it's off to school for all, except my youngest daughter, Lucy. She usually sleeps till about 8:00am. Read More...
10 May 2012: Mothers' Day 2012: Super Momma Jane Nakiberu!
Jane was inspired to join Watoto during a Watoto Children’s Choir performance at church. One of the children shared her story similar to Jane’s past experience. “I realised that there was something I could do to impact a life and I thought that being a mother would be the best thing for me to do. This I would do by giving love to these children that I did not get at my younger age,” she says. Read More...
10 May 2012: Watoto Represents Uganda At The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
Watoto performed at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant last night (9th May 2012). The children were honoured and excited to be part of the celebrations at this historical event at Windsor Castle, in honour of Queen Elizabeth's 60 years of reign (June 2012). Read More...
8 May 2012: Behind The Scenes At The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Pageant At Windsor Castle
England is wet and cold this Spring but the excitement at Windsor, UK is electric. Performers from all around the world have come to celebrate with the Queen on her 60th Jubilee at Castle grounds this week. On this momentous occasion, Africa's torch is held high by the Watoto Children's Choir from Uganda, Zulu dancers from South Africa, Masai warriors and The Nairobi Chamber Choir from Kenya. Read More...
23 April 2012: Return To Dignity Book Is Available
Return to Dignity is a collection of stories of faith, courage, hope and transformation from the women at Watoto's Living Hope. Author, Marilyn Skinner describes the journeys of eight women who overcame adversity and emerged triumphant, despite the many difficulties they encountered. Read More...
20 April 2012: The Inspirational Wish Of A Young World Changer
Gloria (9 years old) started 'Gloria’s Wish' on her 8th birthday when she requested donations rather than birthday gifts so that she could support a Watoto child who was the same age as herself. As a result, Gloria was able to sponsor Abia for 12 months. Gloria is always looking for creative ways to raise awareness and funds to continue the sponsorship support and she hopes one day to visit Uganda and spend time with Abia in person. Read More...
20 April 2012: Baby Watoto Gulu Nanny
After spending a few minutes with her, you can’t help but want to know more about her. Her loving spirit and contagious smile could melt any heart. Beatrice Lakot, is a nanny at Baby Watoto Gulu, where Watoto is rescuing orphaned and abandoned babies in northern Uganda. She currently has five healthy tots under her care, all who are about six months and absolutely adore her. Read More...
16 April 2012: Re-writing The Story Of Northern Uganda
Laminadera village was one of the most devastated and feared areas of Gulu, northern Uganda. Many people believed it to be cursed, even going as far as to say that no one could ever accomplish anything good on that land as a result. Read More...
13 April 2012: Return To Dignity - Coming Soon
Experience their journey through vivid narration and beautiful imagery in Return to Dignity, the soon to be released book by Watoto Co-founder and Living Hope Founder, Marilyn Skinner. It chronicles the life-giving stories of transformation of women once scarred by war, disease, poverty... Now living a life of hope, dignity and purpose. Read More...
10 April 2012: People & Culture: Peanut Butter From Northern Uganda
Peanut Butter, known as 'Odii' in Uganda, is a delicious sandwich filler, made completely from natural ingredients. It is derived from a mixture of roasted groundnuts (peanuts) and simsim (sesame) seeds. It is commonly used as a sandwich filler, but also in various local Ugandan dishes. Read More...
5 April 2012: Watoto Choir To Perform At The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Pageant
The Watoto Children’s Choir is honoured to represent Uganda at the historical Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant at Windsor Castle from 10th – 13th May 2012. Read More...
4 April 2012: Watoto Children's Choir 55 Is Now In Singapore
A fortnight ago, Watoto Children’s Choir 55 was in Indonesia as the first African group ever to visit the country. They spent a week in Bali with the Rock Church and the second week in Surabaya with Bethany, ministering to approximately 60,000 people in 13 Concerts of Hope. Read More...
3 April 2012: People & Culture: Music And Dance In Northern Uganda
Northern Ugandan music is a display of fast paced, lively and energetic melodies that depict a celebration of the holistic nature of life in this region. The music is definitive of concepts such as unity, pride in oneself and the community, as well as dignity. Read More...
29 March 2012: Watoto Graduate Running Tailoring Business in Gulu, northern Uganda
Janet Auma was abducted by LRA rebels when she was 7 years old and lived in captivity for one year. She was abducted with her brother and a cousin who later died during the war. Read More...
28 March 2012: Watoto Children's Choir 50 Back Home After US Tour
The choir toured the West Coast of America and thousands of people came into contact with their life-impacting message of hope. “People welcomed us as missionaries, sharing the love of Christ in a society that is lost and without hope,” says Jesse Ntaborwa, Assistant Team Leader. Read More...
27 March 2012: Rebuilding Northern Uganda Through Sustainable Change
Uganda’s fertile land and climate provides an excellent environment to develop self-sustainability through agricultural and livestock farming. On the journey to continued peace and restoration in northern Uganda, Watoto is practical on the ground with sustainable projects like the development of a technical and agricultural college. Read More...
23 March 2012: Annual Sports Day In Gulu
Yesterday Watoto students at Laminadera Children's Village in Gulu, northern Uganda participated in their Annual Sports Day. Most of these children were born in the bush to teenagers, who had been abducted by Joseph Kony's rebel soldiers. Today, they are being cared for, educated and learning to put the wounds of the past behind them. Read More...
9 March 2012: Prossy: Vulnerable No More
At the height of a senseless civil war in northern Uganda, Prossy (26), was abducted by the notorious Lords Resistance Army (LRA) – led by Kony – at the age of 10. At the rebel base, she was forcefully given to a war commander to become his wife and she bore him two children. Read More...
8 March 2012: A Hand Up, Not Out
Lucy Akot was 12 years old when the infamous Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) rebels abducted her in 1992. In the rebel camp, she was forced to live with a man who was over 30 years older. “He had HIV, but they forced me to marry him, and with this man I had two children. The first child survived, but the second one died,” she says. Read More...
7 March 2012: Women's Day 2012: Ruth - Empowered And Flourishing
Ruth Nassali, 40 years old, is a community leader and an inspiration to many women in her community. With three sons aged 17, 19 and 20 and a grandson, she resides in Ndejje, a suburb of Kampala, Uganda. Ruth runs a flourishing poultry business that comprises two chicken houses and supplies the nearby retailers with eggs daily. Read More...
6 March 2012: Women's Day 2012: Hidaya's Living Hope Testimony
Hidaya, a former Muslim lady started working in the Living Hope Production Centre in Kampala in 2010. She is a widow, HIV+, with four children – one of them HIV+ too. Hidaya was one of the first students in the Living Hope Business Training Class and was encouraged to restart her fruit-selling venture. Armed with a small fridge, she began with a new zeal for life. But within days of first trying, she was evicted from the verandah on which she lived. Read More...
5 March 2012: Watoto Choir Is Sweeping Asia Off Its Feet
Carrying a message of hope and inspiration, Watoto Children’s Choir 55 has completed the first half of its tour of Hong Kong. Their vibrant live performances have been received by eager audiences. With support from co-organising partners, we are grateful to have more than 300 new child sponsors and other donations. Read More...
29 February 2012: Watoto Students Excel In A'Level
Watoto students have been named among the best performing candidates countrywide in the recently released Advanced Level results for 2011. The Uganda Advanced Certificate in Education (UACE) is a national exam that allows students entry into university and other tertiary institutions. Read More...
28 February 2012: Comment On Watoto Choirs Blog Post
“Beautiful Africa is such a great show. I have seen more than 10 choirs, and this is the best production with the strongest gospel message I have seen & heard...” Says Mike after watching the Beautiful Africa Concert. Read More...
24 February 2012: Beautiful Africa Music Video Is Now Available
In very exciting news, we are delighted to unveil the Beautiful Africa music video. Oozing with gorgeous colours, enchanting smiles and exhilarating rhythms, the music video embodies the life and joy at Watoto. Read More...
17 February 2012: Victoria Chung, Our Hero from Hong Kong
Volunteer work is a big part of Watoto Ministries. This week, we introduce you to a dynamic, young woman who has made a difference at Watoto in Uganda. Victoria Chung is from Hong Kong. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Finance and worked as an internal auditor, assisting the chief accountant in the finance department. Read More...
15 February 2012: Watoto Friend Chris Tomlin Wins A Grammy Award
Congratulations to our dear friend Chris Tomlin on winning a Grammy last weekend, in the category of 'Best Contemporary Christian Music Album' for his phenomenal song, “And If Our God is For Us” . Chris Tomlin is a good friend and partner of Watoto, who has been fundamental in creating a platform for the Watoto Children’s Choirs. Read More...
7 February 2012: Watoto Children's Choir Coming To Asia
Watoto Children’s Choir 55, led by Brian Katongole and Julie Namutebi will spend the next five months performing 'Concerts of Hope' in five Asian countries. The choir leaves Uganda on Monday, 13 February for Hong Kong before travelling to Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan and finally Japan. Read More...
18 January 2012: Visit Africa This Year
Uganda has recently received major international accolades from National Geographic and Lonely Planet, which named us the world’s best tourism destination in 2012. Visit Watoto, enables you to have both the Watoto and African experience. Read More...
13 January 2012: Ugandan MPs For Us Prayer Breakfast
Four Ugandan MPs are getting ready for an eye-opening experience at the US National Prayer Breakfast where the Watoto Children’s Choir last performed in 2009. Read More...
11 January 2012: Jan'12 Watoto Children's Choirs Global Tours
On a journey to spread the message of hope and love through Beautiful Africa: A New Generation, three Watoto children’s choirs have started a 6-month tour of Canada, UK and USA. Read More...
5 January 2012: Watoto Choir At Passion 2012
Watoto Children’s Choir was privileged to join renown worship leader and musician Chris Tomlin at Passion 2012 on Wednesday 4th January 2012 at Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Read More...
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22 December 2011: US Hip Hop Artist T-Bone Records With Watoto Children's Choir
On Tuesday 20/12/2011, Watoto Children's Choir were excited to be given the opportunity to spend some time in studio with US gospel artist T-Bone and his crew in Califonia. Read More...
7 December 2011: US Gospel Artist, Michelle Bonilla Is In Uganda
When asked about her experience in Uganda, she said that she loved the people and that the culture was refreshing compared to the busy city life she is used to. She talked about visiting the Watoto's Children's Villages and commented, "Watoto Child Care Ministries has one of the most amazing foster care systems in the world." Read More...
5 December 2011: Choir #50 Perform At Anaheim Mall
On Saturday 26/11/11, the Watoto Children's Choir presented a vibrant concert at the Anaheim Mall in California, USA. The colourful and expressive 'Concert in the Mall' which was the first of the kind for Choir 50, left all the shoppers clapping, dancing and inspired by the story of Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. Read More...
15 November 2011: Watoto Choir Honoured At The Olive Gospel Music Awards
Watoto Children's Choir was privileged to be credited as the Best Choir after being nominated in two categories at the first Olive Gospel Music Awards, which took place at the Kampala Serena Hotel in Kampala, Uganda on 11/11/11. Read More...
4 November 2011: Watoto Choir At The Norwegian Parliament
On 27 October 2011, Watoto Children's Choir #51 finished their tour in Norway climaxed by a 20-minute concert in the nation’s law making body; the Norwegian parliament, leaving the members of parliament with teary eyes. Read More...
26 October 2011: Thank You MAG Youth For THe Gift Of Music
On their recent trip to Watoto in Uganda, worship pastors Brad and Rebekah from the US blessed the children at Watoto with two beautiful acoustic guitars. And they are excited to continue the supply. Read More...
24 October 2011: 7 Billion Actions: Every Child Is Valuable
Watoto joins the United Nations Population Fund UNFPA and the 7 Billion Actions campaign to mark this milestone in history. The campaign hopes to build awareness around the opportunities and challenges of a world of seven billion people; and tell the story of the people behind the number. Read More...
19 October 2011: Beautiful Africa In California, US
The journey to share with the world vibrant, original African music; dance routines; life-transforming stories through Watoto’s new choir programme Beautiful Africa: A New Generation is going strong and being loved by audiences who have seen it. We are receiving overwhelming feedback about lives being impacted by the tour and are grateful to everyone who has contributed and participated in any way. Read More...
17 October 2011: World Egg Day Celebrations At Watoto
There was so much egg-citement at the Watoto Bbira Children’s Village with children and their teachers immersed in various activities in celebration of the World Egg Day Conference on 14 October 2011. Read More...
14 October 2011: Celebrating Watoto Artist, Mac Elvis
Watoto delights in celebrating the achievements of the children, who have been rescued from desperate situations and grown into productive citizens in their community. Last weekend, we celebrated one of our former young adults, 24-year-old Elvis Mutalya, as he launched his debut music album in Kampala, Uganda. Read More...
12 October 2011: Beautiful Africa Impacting Lives
From the very first concert in the USA on 10 September 2011, 12-year Olivia Sherry from St Marks Lutheran Church by the Narrows (Tacoma, WA) writes to us about how Watoto’s Beautiful Africa: A New Generation, has impacted members of her congregation. Read More...
10 October 2011: I Dream Of Changing The World
eremiah Mutyaba, one of the children at Watoto’s Bbira Children’s Village dreams that he will one day be part of the United Nations. Dressed like a UN delegate in Nigerian traditional attire, Jeremiah passionately explained why he would like to be a part of the United Nations. Read More...
7 October 2011: Watoto At The Paediatrics Conference
Watoto participated in the 5th National AIDS Paediatrics Conference in Kampala, Uganda recently, organised by the Ministry of Health together with other organisations that work with children and HIV. Read More...
5 October 2011: Watoto On The Good Life
Watoto Children's Choir travels around the world and advocates for the 47.5 million orphaned children in Africa. Read More...
3 October 2011: Beautiful Africa – It’s One Month Since The Watoto Choir Landed The US!
Friday 30th September’s live performance at Woodinville, WA rounded up their first month in the USA. Words can’t describe what God is doing through Watoto’s Beautiful Africa: A New Generation production. Read More...
30 September 2011: Canadian Sisters Run For Living Hope
Saturday, 25th September was a big day for Tina Francis, 38 women, and one very supportive man from Relate Church in Surrey, BC, Canada. It was the day they would step outside their comfort zone and run a half marathon to raise funds for Watoto’s Living Hope programme that aims to restore hope and dignity to vulnerable women in Africa. Read More...
28 September 2011: Baby Watoto Graduates Grace Wedding
We are always thrilled to share incredible success stories of the children at Watoto. Today, we pay homage to two 4-year-olds, Simon and Junior from Watoto's Bbira Children’s Village. Read More...
26 September 2011: Change A Child's Strory
Abby Primeaux-Settelmeyer on facebook says: "We had the privilege of watching the Watoto Children's Choir perform in Poulsbo, WA on Sunday night. We proudly chose to sponsor a little boy in Watoto! Our daughter is beyond thrilled to pray for him everyday and to write him letters. Read More...
23 September 2011: Lakewood, WA Get Ready for Beautiful Africa
This weekend, Watoto's Beautiful Africa: A New Generation comes to Lakewood, WA (US).
The all-new Watoto Children's Choir programme is fused with original African music, colourful dance routines and life-transforming stories in celebration of the new generation of leaders emerging out of Watoto. Read More...
22 September 2011: Beautiful Africa - It's Your Turn
Alex Arriaza from Wenatchee, WA shared some of the incredible moments he experienced with the Watoto Children's Choir currently in Bremerton, WA on the Beautiful Africa: A New Generation tour. Check out his photos with the children. Read More...
16 September 2011: Beautiful Africa's Weekend Treat For Spokane, WA (USA)
Good morning friends in Spokane, Washington (USA). After a fantastic week in Wenatchee, Moscow and Elk, Watoto's Beautiful Africa: A New Generation is ready to rock your weekend. Read More...
15 September 2011: Beautiful Africa In The News
This week's TOTO Magazine, Uganda's largest weekly children's magazine is awash with an exciting story and images of the Watoto Children's Choir. Read More...
12 September 2011: Beautiful Africa: Keeping Hope Alive
As the world marked 10 years after the tragic 9/11 events, Watoto Children's Choir 50 shared a fitting message of hope and transformation at St. Marks Lutheran Church in Tacoma and Normandy Christian Church in Seattle, WA over the weekend. Read More...
9 September 2011: Come With Me To Beautiful Africa
Come with me to Beautiful Africa where tales of transformation, hope and celebration brighten up even the darkest day. Beautiful Africa: A New Generation is the brand new musical production by the Watoto Children's Choir. Read More...
5 September 2011: Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. USA, Here We Come...
It was a dynamic and colourful evening as Watoto Children's Choir 50 presented an all new production, entitled Beautiful Africa: A New Generation, at Watoto Church on 1 September. A new month, new choir and an amazing story of Hope. Read More...
30 August 2011: Beautiful Africa Live Concert In Kampala
Watoto is thrilled to unveil a dynamic new children's choir presentation entitled Beautiful Africa: A New Generation this Thursday, 1 September at Watoto Church Central, starting at 5.30pm. Read More...
26 August 2011: Beautiful Africa Stirs Up Ugandan Journalists
Counting down 10 days to their departure for the US on 4 September, Watoto Children’s Choir yesterday rubbed shoulders with newsmakers and media personalities during an exciting media tour of Vision Group in Kampala - one of East Africa’s largest media hubs. Read More...
24 August 2011: Living Hope Graduation
Their voices were filled with the new-found passion and confidence they had gained. And the audience was moved as not a dry eye was left in the auditorium at Watoto’s Living Hope Graduation in Gulu. Read More...
22 August 2011: Baby Watoto Sponsors In SA
We are excited about launching Baby Watoto in Cape Town, South Africa. The team on the ground is working hard to see our first home for orphaned and destitute babies in Southern Africa become operational in January 2012. Read More...
19 August 2011: Beautiful Africa: Ready For Visa Interviews
Preparations are in high gear as the new Watoto Children’s Choir tour prepares for its debut in the US this September. And the children are so excited. Read More
15 August 2011: Joyce Meyer Ministries (JMM) Medical Outreach In Northern Uganda
Recently, Watoto was privileged to host the Joyce Meyer Ministries (JMM) Medical Team in a special outreach to Otwal village, Oyam district in northern Uganda where Watoto is in operation. Read More...
9 August 2011: Beautiful Africa: A New Generation - Become An Ambassador Today!
Become a Watoto Ambassador and help us spread the word about the brand new, upcoming children’s choir tour, Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. Read More...
8 August 2011: Watoto Choir 48 Returns
Watoto Children's Choir #48 has returned from a maiden tour of South Africa.Read More...
29 July 2011: Beautiful Africa: A New Generation
Watoto is excited to present a brand new choir tour entitled Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. The dynamic, vibrant production is indicative of the new generation of leaders emerging out of the programme. Read More...
29 July 2011: Watoto Junior School Students Excel At The Spelling Competition
The first season of the Bumble Word Spelling Bee (BWSB), courtesy of Bumble Word Bee Uganda Limited, was launched at Kitante Primary School on 21 July 2011. Read More...
28 July 2011: Hong Kong’s Chinese University Visits Watoto
"I am looking at a long term partnership with Watoto so that both Watoto and our university can benefit,” said Professor Sung. Professor Sung visited the Watoto projects in Kampala and Gulu, Uganda and was impressed with the various projects including Living Hope, Baby Watoto, as well as the medical and education services. Read More...
20 July 2011: Welcome Home Watoto Choirs
Cake, local food and a lot of cheering punctuated the welcome home party for 3 Watoto Children’s Choirs that left Uganda in January for a 6-month tour of Canada, Europe and USA. Read More...
19 July 2011: Watoto Participates In Cake Festival
Students from Watoto’s high schools at Bbira and Suubi Children’s Villages were part of an impeccable presentation at the first ever Cake Festival in Uganda on Saturday 16 July at the Emin Pasha Hotel in Kampala. Read More...
13 July 2011: Watoto Children's Choir #46 Returns Fron Canada
Watoto Children's Choir #46 has returned to Uganda after a six-month tour of Canada. The choir of 21 children and 10 adults landed at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday 12th July at exactly 07H45 with a bountiful harvest of testimonies to mark a successful tour. Read Mora...
8 July 2011: Medical Clinic At Watoto's Suubi Officially Opened
Watoto officially opened the medical clinic at Suubi Children’s Village amid cheering and merry-making from children, mothers, Watoto staff, representatives from the local government and Watoto partners. Read more...
4 July 2011: Introducing Beautiful Africa: A New Generation
Watoto is excited to present a brand new choir tour entitled Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. The dynamic, vibrant new production is indicative of the new generation of leaders coming out of Watoto currently. Watoto Children’s Choirs are ambassadors for the cry of the African child, many who have suffered some of the worst atrocities known to man. But whose lives have been restored by the love of Jesus. Read more...
29 June 2011: Female Dignitaries Marvel At Watoto's Functional Model
Watoto children and mothers were excited to receive a delegation of Kampala's high profile dignitaries and business women who visited Baby Watoto Kampala and Suubi Children's Village on Monday 27th June 2011. Read More...
16 June 2011: Day Of The African Child 2011
Watoto is excited to join the rest of Africa to commemorate the Day of the African on 16th June 2011. Read More...
15 June 2011: Watoto Children Excel At The Children’s Bible Yare 2011
Peter Segawa, a primary 6 pupil from Watoto's Bbira Children’s Village emerged the overall winner, outwitting more than 40 others at the annual Watoto Church Children’s Bible Yare. Read More...
7 June 2011: Watoto Choir: Sharing With Homeless Youth
Watoto Children’s Choir has inspired many people across Canada to support vulnerable children in Africa. The choir spreads a poignant message of hope while performing in churches, visiting hospitals and schools. Read More...
1 June 2011: A Day In The Life Of A Baby Watoto Nanny
In our 'A Day in the Life' series, we are excited to introduce Ms. Night Okalebo, a warm and charming nanny at Baby Watoto, Kampala. Read More...
30 May 2011: Big Brother, Big Sister
A dolly elephant with a fairly pink trunk sits on the table at momma Suzan Bagaya’s house in Watoto's Suubi Children’s Village. The interior walls are covered with pictures of her and her sponsors, and those of her children with their sponsors. A pink butterfly shaped pillow sits directly below the picturesque wall. Read More...
27 May 2011: Sweeping Durban Off Its Feet
With almost two weeks to go, the Watoto Children’s Choir is sweeping the province of Durban in South Africa off its feet with life impacting stories topped with lively performances of song and dance. Read More...
23 May 2011: New Arrivals at Baby Watoto
Between January and April 2011, we were thrilled to welcome 59 babies into the Watoto family through our Baby Watoto programme. By the end of April, 144 babies were being cared for at our three facilities in Kampala, Suubi and Gulu. Read More...
7 May 2011: Happy Mothers' Day From Everyone At Watoto
In celebration of Mothers' Day this weekend, the children at Watoto are super excited to share their gratitude with all the women who have impacted their lives. A special Mothers' Day video and photos all displaying the children's love and appreciation to the women in their lives are now available. Read More...
4 May 2011: Watoto Children And Mothers Share Their Joys
In the lead up to Mother's Day, Watoto children and moms express their gratitude and joy for their lives. Read More...
3 May 2011: Watoto Welcomes 77 To The Family
After a month's orientation at Watoto's Buloba village, 70 beautiful children with their 7 news mothers sang at the top of their voices and excitedly talked about how they were going to be welcomed into their new homes. Read More...
2 May 2011: Mothers' Day At Watoto 2011
As the world prepares to celebrate the international Mothers' Day this weekend, we talked to some children in Watoto about what they thought of the occasion and how they are planning to celebrate it. Read More...
2 May 2011: Watoto Kids Visit Children In Hospital
As part of Kidz 'n Ova, an annual praise and worship festival organised by Watoto Children's Church, 62 children from Watoto's Suubi Children's Village on 28 April 2011 visited Mpigi Health Centre III in a bid to spread love to their community. Read More...
1 May 2011: Watoto Church Cape Town Launched
A jubilant crowd flocked to 30 Main Road, Sea Point for the groundbreaking opening of Watoto Church Cape Town this morning (1 May 2011). Read More...
29 April 2011: Sporadic Riots In Kampala
KAMPALA, UGANDA, 14H00 - There have been sporadic riots in Uganda over the past few weeks. Security agencies are working to contain the situation. Read More...
26 April 2011: Watoto Choir Impacts Lives In South Africa
As we count down to the big launch party for Watoto Church Cape Town on 1 May 2011 - only 4 days to go, Watoto Children's Choir is already impacting lives in South Africa. Here's a heart-warning testimony from a Watoto partner. Read More...
14 April 2011: Watoto's Restore Tour Performs For Ugandan Political Leaders
Just before re-settling back home at the children’s villages after a six-month global tour, Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More presented the life-transforming stage production to an exclusive audience of Uganda’s most influential leaders. Read More...
13 April 2011: A Day At The Living Hope Centre In Gulu
Robert Ochen, one of our writers took a trip north to Gulu where Watoto is actively involved in transforming the lives of former abductees, HIV+ mothers and other vulnerable women through the Living Hope programme. He shares his experience with us. Read More...
6 April 2011: Watoto Children Connect With Their Sponsors
The children on Watoto Children’s Choir#49 were honoured to take time off their tour schedule, training for their upcoming tour of Australasia, to write letters of appreciation to their sponsors. Read More...
1 April 2011: Retore Tour Back Home From A Life Changing Global Tour
A successful6-months of dedication and life changing performances by Watoto’sRestore Tour: Child Soldier No More culminates in a grand finale presentation at homebase,WatotoChurch Uganda on Friday, 1 April 2011. Read More...
28 March 2011: Restore Tour: Grand Finale
With over six months on the road, curtains have come down on Watoto’s life-impacting Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More. The first leg of the global tour kicked off in September 2010 taking the message of forgiveness and reconciliation to the US and Canada before crossing over to Europe in December 2010. The team returned to Uganda for a Christmas break and came face to face with Ugandan audiences in 9 live events from January 6th to 9th 2011. Read More...
21 March 2011: Restore Tour: A Fitting Farewell And Welcome
On their last leg of the global tour, Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More encounters pleasant surprises marked by a fitting farewell and welcome for the team in Western Australia and New Zealand. Read More...
21 March 2011: Restore Tour: From Perth, Western Australia
As Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More nears conclusion of its global tour of forgiveness and restoration, here's an experience from Australia, coming to you from Inonge Muyamwa, one of the teams’ hosts at Kelmscott Church in Perth. Read More...
18 March 2011: Restore Tour: A Joy Beyond Expression
Joy is defined by the Merriam–Webster Dictionary as being “the emotion evoked by well-being, success, a state of happiness or bliss, a source or cause of delight”. And 'Joy' is the word that seems to come up more often when people see the Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More team and watch the live events. Read More...
16 March 2011: Choir Returns From A Tour Of The US
Watoto Uganda yesterday (Mon 15 March) welcomed back home Watoto Children’s Choir from its six-month tour of the USA with a special lunch at the head office in Kampala, Uganda. The lunch room was filled with the ear-to-ear smiles of the children, mothers and the adult members of the team, all overjoyed to see their loved ones. The choir left in September 2010 and arrived back in Uganda on Sunday March 13th 2011 Read More...
16 March 2011: Feeding A Watoto Village
It’s a sweltering hot Saturday morning at Watoto's Suubi Children’s Village, but that doesn't seem to be the concern of any of the residents in the village. There’s a wave of excitement on the children’s beaming faces as they, together with their mothers go about their morning chores. The anticipation in the air is so evident. It’s Saturday - the day when fresh food is delivered and distributed to the residents of the village. Read More...
15 March 2011: Restore Tour: The Uttermost Ends Of The Earth
Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More is now in its final three weeks its amazing global tour. What an amazing journey it has been so far! Read More...
15 March 2011: Choir #49 In A Stunning Photo Shoot
The African sun rose through a silky velvet cloud at one end of the sky. A cool breeze blew in the atmosphere, swaying the golden brown grass from side to side as it brushed up against the faces of 22 children and nine adults on Watoto Children’s Choir 49. Read More...
11 March 2011: Praying For You Japan
Dear Watoto Friend, In light of the devastating earthquake and tsunami affecting Japan, Watoto Ministries would like to send you our deepest condolences. Read More...
11 March 2011: Restore Tour In New Zealand
After two months of intense travelling in Australia, Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More has headed down to the Kiwi land -New Zealand for the final three weeks of its global tour. Read More...
10 March 2011: Watoto Students Visit Gayaza High School
On 3rd March 2011, 30 Watoto Hope Senior School students visited Gayaza High School outside Kampala, one of oldest and best performing schools in Uganda. Read More...
3 March 2011: Recollections of Jon Lee, Audio Engineer with Watoto's Restore Tour
Jon Lee has been travelling with Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More as the team’s audio engineer. Like everyone else, the production has significantly impacted his life. Today, he shares with us his recollection of the production and the privilege of being part of the team. Read more...
2 March 2011: Watoto360 Sports Gala at Suubi Children's Village
Watoto’s Suubi Children's Village was taken by storm to a Saturday morning of fun and games as Watoto360° students, both former and current, dedicated 27 February 2011 to a day with the Watoto children at their home. Read more...
1 March 2011: Restore Tour Testimonies
As Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More continues to traverse Southern Australia, we want to share some of the incredible testimonies from people who have had an unforgettable encounter with the life-transforming stage production. Read more...
23 February 2011: Praying For You ChristChurch, NZ
In light of the devastating Christchurch earthquake that has affected New Zealand over the last 24 hours, Watoto Ministries would like to send you our deepest condolences. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all the families and friends of the victims in Christchurch who are Read more...
22 February 2011: Secured Premises At Watoto Church
KAMPALA, UGANDA, 13H10 - We have become aware of a suspicious package next to the Watoto Church building on Kampala Road, where the Watoto Child Care offices are located. The Police bomb squad secured the package in question and carried out a thorough investigation of the premises and surrounds.
 All staff and volunteers have resumed their normal duties within the building.

 Read more...
21 February 2011: Restore Tour: Making A Difference
Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More is in the last leg of their global tour, taking a message of healing and reconciliation to audiences around the world. And in Australia, individuals and families are finding a place of restoration. Read More...
17 February 2011: National Elections In Uganda
Dear Watoto Friend, In light of the National Elections taking place in Uganda this weekend, this is to inform you that the Watoto Office in Uganda will be closed as follows: Read More...
16 February 2011: Restore Tour Wraps Up Tour In North East Australia
Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More last week completed its tour of Australia's northeastern state of Queensland. In spite of the floods that ravaged the region, the churches and all the people were very supportive of the team and responsive to the message of love and forgiveness. Read More...
14 February 2011: Restore Tour: Children's Voices Ring Louder
There are two words that should never be mentioned together. These are “Child” and “Soldier”. And if they have to be, then two words definitely must follow - “No More”. These are the opening remarks of Joe Ogwal, the Team Leader of Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More. Read More...
14 February 2011: A Day In The Life Of Momma Esther
After spending a few minutes in her living room, you can’t help but wish you lived in her home. Momma Esther Nalubowa, 54, has a contagious smile and liveliness that just melts any heart. Little wonder that her children can’t wait to get back home at the end of a long day at school. She has been a Watoto mom since 2008 and lives in House No.79 at Bbira Children’s Village. Her passion for life and what she does says so much about how grateful she is to God for what and where she is right now. Read More...
8 February 2011: Restore Tour: Unimaginable Loss, Unrelenting Hope
It was a warm morning that gradually turned into a thorough downpour as Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More team pulled into the parking lot at Hope Church, Kawana Waters, Queensland on Sunday 6 February 2011. And as they prepared their gear for the morning service, team member Joanna Muwonge shares her experience of the tour so far. Read More...
8 February 2011: Watoto Students Return To School
It is a new year and the start of a new school term at Watoto schools in Bbira, Suubi and Lamindera (Gulu) Children’s Villages. The students are super excited about what the new year has in store for them academically and purpose to make it the best year by pursuing excellence in whatever they do. Read More...
8 February 2011: Watoto Students Achieve Stellar Results In PLE 2010
Watoto experienced a stellar performance in the 2010 national Primary Leaving Examinations, released in January. The performance is a significant improvement from the previous year.
Celebrating its top two students with 8 aggregates each, Bbira Childrens' Village and the school administration rejoiced with Julius Natuhwera and Lamech Ssemanda. Read More...
2 February 2011: Restore Tour: The Plight Of 'Women In Conflict' Presented
Since September 2010, Watoto has been taking the story of war-afflicted northern Uganda around the world in a live-performance dubbed Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More. Although the script is centred on the chronicles of the former child soldier, the realities of the treatment of women in society; before, during and after the conflict; is also poignantly presented. Read More...
31 January 2011: Restore Tour: The Sound Of Rejoicing
The first live event of Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More was presented in Queensland in a brand new gymnasium at Grooves Christian College, Kingston. Read More...
28 January 2011: Seven Watoto Students Graduate
So much joy and gladness radiated off the faces of every one present at the conference hall of Emrald Hotel, Kampala this week as we celebrated the graduation of seven Watoto young adults from university - two males and five females. Read More...
28 January 2011: Restore Tour Off To Queensland
This weekend, Watoto’s Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More hits Queensland with the first performance at Southport Church on 30th January 2011. As a wrap up from New South Wales,
Australia, ecstatic audiences share their unforgettable memories of the production. Read More...
28 January 2011: Watoto Children Enjoy Festive Cheer
As part of spreading the Christmas cheer here at Watoto every year, sponsors of Watoto children send christmas gifts to the children, wishing them a merry Christmas and a blessed new year. Read More...
25 January 2011: Restore Tour: Taking Australian Cities By Storm
“Jesus heals broken lives... love transforms, forgiveness opens the flood gates of healing… these children have chosen a path of healing and have been transformed…" These were the words of Pastor Gary Skinner that thundered through the main sanctuary at Fig Tree Anglican Church, Wollongong after Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More presented a life-impacting production, where hundreds of people could not help, but be blown away by the children.
Read More...
18 January 2011: Watoto Young Adults To Graduate
A total of five Watoto young adults are set to graduate from Makerere University (Uganda’s leading tertiary education institute) this week. , Watoto villages are bustling with activity as both students and mothers put final touches on preparations for the big day, come Friday 21st January 2011. Read More...
18 January 2011: Restore Tour: Extravagant Opening In Australia
Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More is on the second leg of it's global tour. Kicking off in Canada, US and UK in the three months leading up to Christmas 2010, the tour opened in the new year on its second leg in Australia and New Zealand. The team were welcomed to Australia by Calvary Chapel as they settled into the cool Sydney weather. Read More...
17 January 2011: Watoto Children's Choir Tour Of Canada
After six months of dedicated rehearsals, Watoto Children's Choir 46 were on 12 January 2011 en route for their tour in Canada. The choir left Uganda for a six month tour, with Vancouver, BC as the first on the list of the regions to be visited. Under the charge of Team Leader, Steven Banyikiza Wamala, the team’s sole aim is to share a message of hope through life-changing performances by the children as ambassadors of the many orphaned and vulnerable children in Africa. Read More...
11 January 2011: Connexion Camp 2011 Round Up
The Connexion Camp 2011 came to a close on 7th January and with it, wonderful testimonies of lives impacted and empowered. The 5-day event was jam-packed with fun and entertainment, but the main objective was to empower and inspire teenagers through a teaching from the life of Joseph in the Bible, delivered by former Youth Pastor, Humphrey Asiimwe. This was not an ordinary camp and it certainly did not yield an average response. Read More...
10 January 2011: Restore Tour: Wrapping Up The Ugandan Experience
By far, Uganda has been one of the most exciting places for Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More. With 9 live events at Watoto church last week, the team came face to face with audiences from their homeland. For many Ugandans, this was the opportunity to experience the depth of the tragedy of their own people in the North, who had experienced a senseless civil war for more than 20 years. Read More...
7 January 2011: Restore Tour: A Stirring Debut At Watoto Church
After many days of waiting, the doors at Watoto Church, Kampala (Uganda) opened to the public for the opening live event of Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More. For many Ugandans, this was the opportunity to experience the depth of the tragedy of their own people in the North, who had experienced a senseless civil war for more than 20 years. Read More...
6 January 2011: Restore Tour: From Ashes To Beauty
After three months on the road, Watoto's Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More has in vast ways impacted the lives of the children on the team. And as we wait for the opening live event tonight, here are some beautiful testimonies from the children. Read More...
5 January 2011: Restore Tour: Final Touches To The Opening Show
There are just over 24 hours away to Watoto's Restore Tour debut in Uganda. The nuts and bolts add the final touches to the elaborate stage set-up to tell the story of northern Uganda and her courageous people through music + song + dance. The live event will be presented in Kampala Uganda at Watoto Church Central from Thursday 6th to Sunday 9th January 2011. Read More...
20 December 2010: Restore Tour in Uganda
Watoto, an holistic care programme, initiated to serve the needs of Uganda and its people, is thrilled to present ‘Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More’, starting on 6th January 2011. This scintillating stage production focuses on the chronicles of the child soldier and the greater community of Northern Uganda who have endured some of the worst atrocities known to man. Read More...
10 December 2010: Watoto Hope Senior School Graduation
The third Watoto Hope Senior School graduation was held at Suubi Children’s Village on Friday 3rd December 2010. 53 students, five of whom were privately-sponsored, graduated at a colourful ceremony where each received a certificate of merit upon completing high school. Read More...
7 December 2010: Restore Tour Team Back Home
Entebbe International Airport (Uganda) arrivals’ lobby was filled with so much joy and jubilation on Friday (3 Dec '10) night as mothers of children and Watoto staff received the Restore Tour team that had been on tour for the last three months. Read More...
7 December 2010: Gary Skinner Receives A Heroes Award
Watoto Founder and Ministry Team Leader, Gary Skinner has been recognised by Ugandan youth for his selfless service to vulnerable children and providing exemplary leadership. Read More...
2 December 2010: Restore Tour: Winter Wonderland
The Restore Tour Team encountered a fantastical winter wonderland last week as a seemingly heaven sent snow storm filled the city and its surrounds with a powdery white dusting. Thrilling the children no end and answering their prayers for the wintry weather hallmark - snow ball fights ensued alongside snow ball competitions. Read More...
2 December 2010: Restore Tour: Whirlwind Week In The UK
Hillsong London's Dominion Theatre was packed to the rafters on Sunday 14th November as the Restore Tour took to the stage in both the morning services. Attending the afternoon service, Pastor Christine Caine was on fire (as usual) preaching up a storm on the importance of a God who is bigger, stronger and greater than any other. Ending the service, with an oldie but a goodie, Pastor Christine led the congregation in “My God is so big, so strong and so mighty there's nothing my God cannot do!" Read More...
26 November 2010: A Day In The Life Of Ivan
Ivan is a gem. One of those rare people in life who is well rounded, talented, smart and humble. His attitude to life is 'easy-breezy' and his love for God is so evident. Read More...
25 November 2010: Our Prayers Are With You NZ
In light of the recent Pike River mining tragedy that has affected New Zealand, Watoto Ministries would like to send you our heartfelt sympathies. Read More...
24 November 2010: Little Miracles
Watoto’s youngest students in Nursery, Kindergarten, Prep A and B classes last Friday (19th November) celebrated the end of the school year with a Graduation and Christmas Party. Coordinated by Teacher Evelyn Namboozo, the standard multipurpose hall was transformed into a wonderland of Christmas trees, ribbons, twinkling lights, balloons, streamers, gifts and sparkling tinsel. Read More...
22 November 2010: A New Dawn For Living Hope Women
Each day is new dawn for the ladies at Living Hope in Uganda. This week, we share two life-impacting stories of three women whose lives and families have been restored as a result of discipleship. Read More...
18 November 2010: Heart Prints
There was once a famous author called Franz Peter Schubert who said, "Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same." Never have these words rung truer for two of our Watoto volunteers Rachel Carmichael and Sonya Harper. Read More...
17 November 2010: Watoto's Weekend Wind Up Of Sport
It was a whirlwind few days of sporting activities across both Watoto Bbira and Suubi Villages over the weekend (13 & 14 November). Kicking off with the rugby, basketball and finally cricket we bring you the latest direct from the field. Read More...
16 November 2010: Former Child Soldiers Share Story With UK Minister
Former child soldiers from Uganda have met with Minister for International Development, Stephen O’Brien, during their visit to the UK. The children, who are supported by the relief charity, Watoto, thanked the MP for the UK’s continued involvement and interest in redeveloping Uganda. Read More...
15 November 2010: One For The Lads
If the only thing in Watoto’s mission (“Rescue a child, Raise a leader, Rebuild a nation”) that stands out to you is the word ‘build’ –this is the story for you. Read More...
15 November 2010: Watoto Ministries To Launch In South Africa
2011 is set to be a ground breaking year for Watoto as we expand our operations out of our home country, Uganda and into Cape Town, South Africa. Replicating the model in Cape Town will mean the accelerated rescue of vulnerable women and children like we’ve never seen before on the continent. Read More...
12 November 2010: Restore Tour: Binding Up The Broken Hearted
There is a verse in the Bible that can be found in Isaiah 61:1. It says “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners”. Read More...
5 November 2010: Watoto Choir #43 Returns From Asia
Watoto Children’s Choir #43, the first ever Asia-only tour has returned after three and half months travelling in Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan. The choir was welcomed back home with a colourful luncheon at Watoto Church – the home of Watoto - where the children were presented with certificates of appreciation for the great work on the road. Read More...
5 November 2010: Restore Tour: Hockey, Bears And Maple Syrup
The Restore Tour has officially departed the United States of America for the land of hockey, bears and maple syrup. As to be expected, our equatorial Ugandan team has been coping well with the chilly Canadian winter and bringing the heat wherever they go. Read More...
3 November 2010: Restore Tour: Treated To A Trip To Disneyland
The Restore Tour Team received some much needed rest and relaxation recently when they visited Disneyland in Anaheim, Southern California. After an incredible two concerts at the Maranatha Chapel in San Diego and then at Oasis Church in Los Angeles – Oasis church then gave the Restore Team a well deserved Disneyland treat. If we had to understate the excitement, we’d say the kids were ecstatic! Read More...
29 October 2010: Restore Tour Update: One Heart At At Time
God never sleeps. He’s at work at all times and he’s not confined to church walls or a particular language. He is out there in the market place, seeking out his children, changing lives, one heart at a time. Read More...
29 October 2010: A Day In The Life Of Dennis And Kenneth
When one first comes into contact with Dennis and Kenneth it’s easy to feel like you just got caught up in a whirlwind. Their vivacious energy, unmistakable youth and zest for life is contagious. Speaking a thousand words per minute Dennis, 14 and Kenneth, 12 have been the very best of friends for over 4 years. Read More...
25 October 2010: Building Watoto One Piece At A Time
Here at Watoto, we are very grateful for the fact that God gave each and every single one of us different gifts and talents. After all, stewarding a home for more than 2,000 precious children it means it’s imperative that we all pitch in and do our bit to make Watoto run smoothly and effectively. Some individuals are graphic designers, others are mothers, teachers, nurses, administrators, waste management personnel, pastors, drivers - all work collectively to rescue, raise and rebuild this Nation. Read More...
22 October 2010: Follow the Sound
With only a few more days left in the USA, we can hardly believe our time here is almost up! Soon we’ll be jetting off to Canada and then the UK before coming home briefly at Christmas to be with our families. Over the weekend (October 16-17th) we were active in all the services at Guts Church in Tulsa Oklahoma. Performing the popular Bwola Dance during the first and second services. Read More
22 October 2010: University Students Award Gary Skinner
Watoto Founder and Ministry Team Leader, Reverend Gary M. Skinner has been recognised by Ugandan university students for his selfless service to vulnerable children and other individuals as well as providing strong and magnetic leadership to young people. Read More...
22 October 2010: Restore Tour in Tulsa
TULSA, Oklahoma -- Former child soldiers brought a powerful story to Tulsa. Survivors of the civil war that ravaged Uganda for more than two decades visited a local church Sunday.Many of the children have endured unimaginable hardships. But they are not running from their past. Instead, they are determined to share their story. Read More
21 October 2010: Outfitting A Village
Clothing over 2,000 children is no mean feat! It takes intense organisation and planning to be successful in this endeavour. Just imagine trying to find (or purchase) over 2,000 pairs of shoes requiring many different sizes and serving many purposes. Don’t even get us started on undergarments - of course you know that each child requires more than one pair. Read More...
18 October 2010: A Day In The Life Of Esther
Over the next three weeks, we will be bringing you a ‘Day In The Life’ column for three children across the Watoto children's villages. Each week will feature a different age bracket and each child will outline what an average day looks like for them. Up first is sweet little Esther in House 37 at Suubi. Read More...
13 October 2010: We Heart Texas!
It’s often been said that the ‘Local church is the hope of the world”. Lakewood United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas takes that mandate very seriously. So impacted and affected by the Saturday night Restore Tour (9 October 2010) production, Sunday’s (10 October 2010) service was impromptutously dedicated to an open platform of sharing testimonies of how people have survived loss and how both God and the church has been there the whole way through. Read More...
13 October 2010: Making Chapatis Ugandan Style
Ask any Ugandan what their favourite thing to eat is and you’ll usually hear the word Chapati at some point on their list! Chapatis are a delicious African flatbread that is prepared most weeks in many Ugandan homes. Cheap and relatively easy to make, the ingredients and process appear simple, but getting them to come out perfectly takes some practice! Read More...
12 October 2010: Own A Print, Tell The Story
Well-known humanitarian documentary photographer, Esther Havens has launched a collection of online prints - inspired by the Watoto story. Featuring images from her time spent with Watoto in Uganda, Esther takes the viewer on a photographic journey through ‘A Day in the Life of Watoto’ and Living Hope - a ministry out of Watoto with a focus on restoring dignity to vulnerable women. Read More...
11 October 2010: An Unforgettable Journey
Watoto Choir #42 has arrived back safe and sound after their whirlwind six-month tour of Australia and New Zealand came to a close this past week. Spending five months travelling around Australia and one month primarily in the South Island of New Zealand, the choir has brought back incredible memories and treasured moments to last them a lifetime. Read More...
11 October 2010: The Journey Thus Far...
It really is amazing how evident God’s presence and anointing is on the Restore Tour. We are continually blown away by the impact this heartfelt production has already had on thousands of people. It is clear that God is going before us everyday, in every city. Read More...
8 October 2010: Beating The Odds
We firmly believe that the children we are raising have all the potential in the world; they can be whatever they set their minds to. Our job is to give them a loving, stable family environment, a great education and encourage them to pursue their God given gifts and talents. Read More...
4 October 2010: The Transformation Generation
Heralded by Senior Pastor Ed Russo of Victorious Life Church in Florida as the ‘Transformation Generation’, the Restore Tour is gaining rapid momentum as they travel from city to city across America. Read More...
4 October 2010: New Beginnings With Reconstructive Surgeries
This week, five women have started a journey of reconstructive surgery at a local hospital near Entebbe town – 30 minutes south of Kampala, Uganda. The ladies, all from Gulu northern Uganda, bear the scars of a senseless civil war. These include severed lips, ears, head and eye injuries. Read More...
30 September 2010: Forever Home
Arriving at Watoto's Suubi and Bbira Children's Villages this afternoon, 28 children, originally from a government run centre, have finally found their 'forever home' at Watoto. Welcomed by their mothers and new brothers and sisters, their two week long orientation at Watoto’s Buloba Village came to an end today when their moms collected them and took them to their new home Read More...
30 September 2010: Dedication Service
Yesterday afternoon Senior 4 and Senior 6 Watoto students from both Bbira and Suubi High Schools were dedicated in an annual ceremony to celebrate their scholarly achievements thus far and commit their upcoming examinations in prayer.Launched with explosive praise and worship, the outdoor venue was a vibrant mix of over 100 students, teachers, mothers, pastors and peers. Read More...
29 September 2010: Florida Sets The Pace
The Restore Tour is well and truly on the road and we have been blown away by the grace of God that transforms lives as we travel from city to city... The message of forgiveness and restoration is bearing fruit wherever we go. Families are reconnecting, friendships have been reconciled, marriages restored and rebuilt - all the stories are incredible. Read More...
27 September 2010: Watoto Children's Choir Charms Rotary International Guests
Watoto Children’s Choir, on September 17th took part in the Rotary International Zone 20A celebrations at Speak Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, Uganda. Read More...
20 September 2010: Amazing Kick Off at Wave Church
The first Restore Tour: Child Soldier No More event kicked off at Wave Church in Virginia Beach, US on Friday, 17th September. The children were excited and delivered the heart-rendering tale of northern Uganda and her people with passion and zeal. Read More...
17 September 2010: Volunteer To Change A Life
Colleen and Henrik Hinkalla are two volunteers joining us for a month, they have already found themselves being very relevant to the Watoto cause and vision. Read More...
15 September 2010: Restore Tour Kicks Off
We are excited to announce that the Restore Tour team received their visas and left Uganda on Tuesday morning for a six-month worldwide tour. Read More...
15 September 2010: Fresh Start
From time to time, we are privileged enough to have the capacity and resource to welcome new children into the Watoto Family. Last week, such an occasion presented itself when 20 desperate children, between the ages of 3 and 8 years old, joined our Buloba village. Read More...
