What started as a small network of people united by their roots in Buyanja has grown into a powerful force for driving meaningful change in rural Rukungiri. Buyanja Myroots (BMR), an association of individuals originally from the greater Buyanja area, is quickly emerging as a model for how communities can come together, give back, and transform their home regions.
The latest milestone in their journey came on August 7, 2025 as BMR handed over computers and printers to 24 schools in Buyanja Sub-county and Buyanja Town Council.
Valued at UGX 35 million, the donation targeted 21 government-aided and 3 community-supported schools and is part of the association’s larger mission to improve education outcomes through increased access to information and communication technology (ICT).
Speaking at the official handover ceremony held at Buyanja Town Council headquarters, Dr. Adrian Beinebyaabo Bwankwindi, BMR’s Chief Mobilizer and Head of the “Give Back” Pillar, highlighted the group’s commitment to holistic development.
’’Since we started in 2017, our goal has been to give back to the communities that raised us,” BMR’s chief mobilizer and head of the give back pillar stated. “We have supported local health centers, provided scholarships, and today, we are strengthening ICT in schools.”
With over 3,000 members and 13 development pillars guiding its work, Buyanja Myroots is not just giving, it is building a framework for self-sustained, community-led progress. The pillars cover key sectors including education, health, investment, agribusiness, and infrastructure, each led by passionate members volunteering their expertise and resources.
However, the initiative has not been without challenges. Dr. Bwankwindi emphasized a major obstacle: electricity.
“Many of the schools receiving these computers are not connected to the power grid,” he said. “We need coordinated efforts with government to make these tools fully usable.”
That point was echoed by Senior Education Officer Anxious Ganshanga, who confirmed that the 21 government-aided schools in the area remain without electricity.
He appealed to local authorities to prioritize power access, while encouraging head teachers to embrace ICT and use the new equipment to benefit learners.
Allan Mutemba Asinguza, Chairperson of BMR, emphasized that the donation is part of a long-term vision.
“We do not just want to give donations; we want to empower people. That means making sure communities have the tools, skills, and support to make the most of what they receive,” he said.
He also advised schools to hire security guards to protect the equipment from theft or damage.
Rukungiri Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Agaba Hillary, officiated the ceremony and praised the group’s multifaceted work.
“Buyanja Myroots is a shining example of community-led development. If every group gave back like this, we would see real transformation in rural Uganda,” he said.
Many head teachers warmly thanked the donors for their support.
“This donation will not only equip our pupils with ICT skills but also ease our daily administrative work,” Darius Twebaze of Kasheshe Primary School said.
His views were echoed by Andrew Musimenta of Rwamuhima Primary School and Kallen Keneza of Katungu Primary School, who called the gesture “a big step forward for education in Buyanja.”
As Uganda looks for lasting, local solutions to development problems, the story of Buyanja Myroots reminds us that real change often begins with people who never forget their roots.
