Transforming Culture in Karamoja

Photo by Lillie Redpath

“Behold, I will do a new thing,
Now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness
And rivers in the desert.” - Isaiah 43:19

About 16 years ago, Phoebe had a vision during her prayer time in which Jesus came to her and said, “Take the gospel to Karamoja.” Karamoja, located in the northernmost part of Uganda, was known for its violence and extreme poverty. People in Uganda had a negative perception of the region due to the dangerous stories they had heard. The Karamojong people, who raised cattle, were often involved in violent conflicts over their herds. 

Peter had a mentor who went to Karamoja to share the gospel, but he was tragically killed there. So, when Phoebe told Peter that she felt called to go, he hesitated, fearing for her safety. But Phoebe went, and the Lord divinely protected her. She found favor with the people, and they’ve been going ever since. An area once known for violence and danger is now welcoming to Divine Care Ministries.

Karamoja’s landscape is beautiful and rich in resources, but due to a poverty mindset and lack of education, the people were struggling to thrive. They are hungry for the gospel of Christ, a message that brought them hope for the future. Now, the people want their children to be educated and to advance in the world. As one village hears about Jesus, it spreads to the next—the harvest is plentiful!

Education was once undervalued, but now it is becoming more of a priority. We have 6 Early Childhood Centers with over 1,100 children enrolled. We also have 337 students in primary, secondary and tertiary schools. One of the most inspiring developments is that one of our alumni is now working as a teacher in Karamoja. Most teachers in the region come from Kampala or other larger cities, so having a Karamojong teacher is a powerful symbol of hope. Kizito, a former student, chose to stay in Karamoja rather than move to the city to teach. He now works as an economics teacher, showing his people that success is possible in their own region.

Our heart is to educate, empower, equip and engage — and by God’s grace, we are seeing this vision come to life in Karamoja.

Do you want to be a part of spreading the gospel in Karamoja? Donate an audio Bible that helps 5 or more people be able to have access to the scriptures in their language. Click the button below to share the good news today!