The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, in collaboration with a Chinese delegation led by the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Zhang Lizhong, has donated various essential items to the Tooro Babies Home in Fort Portal City.
Speaking at the event, Tourism Minister Hon. Tom Butime commended the delegation’s gesture, emphasizing the significance of community outreach. “The ambassador and a team of top tour operators from China came to witness firsthand what happens in our communities and to give back to vulnerable children,” he said.
Butime remarked, “The children look healthy, and that fosters a community responsive to the needs of society.” He underscored the importance of incorporating corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives into travel itineraries, stressing that abandoned children remain integral members of the community who deserve care and support.
Chinese Ambassador H.E. Zhang Lizhong highlighted the role of businesses in giving back to the communities in which they operate. “Communities face challenges, and that is why we worked with the Ministry of Tourism to support them. Many Chinese companies operating in Uganda make profits here, and we encourage them to always give back to the communities,” he noted.
Dai Bin, the President of China Tourism Academy, and head of the visiting delegation, shared a personal reflection, saying, “I grew up in the countryside, and seeing the children at the babies’ home gives me hope for the future.”
Fr. Joseph Musana, Chairman of the Board at Tooro Babies Home, outlined the pressing needs of the facility. “We require daily supplies such as food, formula for babies under six months, clothes, toiletries, and medicine. Additionally, there are monthly utility bills, including electricity, water, salaries for workers, and equipment purchases. We rely on donations and charities from individuals, groups, and NGOs both locally and abroad,” he said.
He expressed gratitude for the donation, noting, “This generous contribution will cover a week’s supply and significantly reduce our burden.”
The event culminated in a creative highlight, a hand-painted depiction of the Babies Home by Lin Yagun, the ambassador’s wife, who joined community painters in an abstract art session.
The Chinese delegation’s visit is part of the Uganda-China partnership aimed at fostering development and strengthening bilateral relations. Their itinerary included the China-Uganda Tourism and Exhibition Symposium, a gastronomical event, and a visit to Western Uganda’s attractions, including Queen Elizabeth National Park.
About Tooro Babies Home
Established on September 19, 1970, by the Diocese of Rwenzori (Church of Uganda) and the Catholic Diocese of Fort Portal, the Toro Babies Home currently cares for 51 children—25 boys and 26 girls, including 11 under six months. The home’s mission is to provide care and shelter to abandoned children, ensuring their well-being and fostering hope for their future.
