On 7th May 2025, MIFUMI hosted a high-level donor delegation at its Kalangala office, with activities held at Mugoye Sub County. The visit was part of the Icelandic-funded Heroes Program and aimed to showcase progress made by Survivor-Support Groups (SSGs), particularly in youth skills training initiatives. This engagement provided an opportunity to highlight how additional funding from the Island Embassy has enhanced program implementation.
The donors observed live demonstrations from beneficiaries who are undergoing skills training in bakery and craft shoe making. The SSGs proudly exhibited the full baking process, culminating in beautifully presented half cakes, doughnuts, and bagiyas, alongside various locally crafted shoe designs. The donors were visibly impressed, describing the products as “beautiful” and “well-crafted.”
“The teamwork shown by the SSGs and MIFUMI staff was truly commendable,” said one of the visiting delegates. “It reflects strong ownership and commitment to the success of the program.”
The visit was facilitated by the Heroes Cluster Team in collaboration with Amref and Cordaid. A total of 30 youth participated, with strong female representation and inclusive engagement. The event also adhered to MIFUMI’s commitment to disability inclusion, guided by the Washington Group Questions on Disability.
Highlights & Outcomes:
Showcased Skills: SSGs demonstrated practical skills in baking and shoe craftsmanship.
Team Spirit: The synergy among beneficiaries and facilitators underscored the value of collaboration in achieving program goals.
Donor Appreciation: The donors praised the initiative, encouraging further development and support.
Key Lessons: Early planning and teamwork were identified as crucial factors for success.
Challenges: Late arrival of the delegation limited interaction time, but did not diminish the overall impact.
Way Forward:
Following the visit, MIFUMI plans to:
Continue with advanced sessions in bakery and shoemaking.
Ensure timely procurement of materials to support refresher training aligned with current market trends and design standards.
Strengthen coordination for improved time management in future events.
The donor visit not only validated the progress of the Heroes Program but also strengthened the bond between MIFUMI, its partners, and the communities it serves. The program continues to serve as a model for community-based empowerment, skill-building, and sustainable development.
MIFUMI remains grateful to the Island Embassy, Icelandic Project donors, and all partners for their continued support. The organization looks forward to expanding its impact and deepening community transformation through integrated, locally led development.
