By Our Reporter
SOROTI CITY
Over 40 street children in Soroti City joyfully celebrated Christmas on Tuesday, 23rd December, 2025 thanks to the generosity of the Teso Children’s Development Foundation (TECDEFO), which hosted the festive event in style.
The excited children spent a joyful day at Sun City Amusement Park where they received new clothes and enjoyed swimming and a festive lunch.
Denis Okwera, director of TECDEFO, emphasized that street children often face neglect, despite the fact that the spirit of Christmas—symbolized by the birth of Jesus Christ—invites everyone to celebrate.
He noted that this annual event serves a dual purpose; it not only spreads joy, but also helps identify children in need of rehabilitation before they can return to their families.
In a recent success story, TECDEFO facilitated the resettlement and reunion of 22 street children with their families in various villages across Teso, Karamoja, Lango, and Bugisu after they completed a year-long rehabilitation program. During this time, the children received counseling, guidance, and vocational training, enabling many to return to school and advance through their education.
The street children have the freedom to choose the technical course that interests them.
Many children shared their joy about celebrating Christmas together.
Simon Saleh Alimu, who faced family hardships that led him to the streets, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the celebration and his desire to go home.
Similarly, Raymond Okwii from Wera Sub County in Amuria District highlighted his determination to acquire technical skills to provide for himself before returning home.
Stephen Olupot, who comes from Asuret sub-county in Soroti District humorously noted the rarity of bathing on the streets, mentioning he had the chance to bathe—an opportunity he cherished.
“Olupot expressed his joy in being able to bathe , even though he typically only bathes about five times a year.”
Isaac Okello, who ended up on the streets due to his parents’ separation, thanked God for allowing them to celebrate the birth of Jesus, believing that this love could guide them back home.
Lastly, Joel Akeru from Acowa sub-county in Amuria voiced his aspiration to become a mechanic, stating that continuous family disputes had pushed him onto the streets, but he is eager to learn and earn a living repairing motorcycles.
Since its inception in 2018, TECDEFO has rehabilitated a remarkable 250 street children, restoring hope and opening doors to brighter futures.
Established in 2009, TECDEFO is a faith-based, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children who have endured abuse, neglect, or abandonment in the Northern, Eastern, and Karamoja regions of Uganda.
