Hafusa and her family

It was great to meet Jonathan, fiancé to Lukia, older sister of Hafusa (our Watoto sponsor child). Having said that, it was sad to hear the story behind Hafusa and her family.

Their mother died suddenly (and tragically) many years ago, leaving Lukia to take on the role of mother to a family of six. Concurrently their Muslim father fell deeper and deeper into a drinking problem and a financial predicament. He has also become quite violent.

Further to this visit we were thrilled to be able to host Hafusa, Lucky (sister) and Eddy (brother) at the Jesus House for three days.

While I worked at Kyampisi on Monday and Tuesday, the kids enjoyed time together at the Jesus House. We enjoyed a family day on Wednesday - although we needed to wait until nearly 2pm for a vehicle - a private taxi hire.

As Hafusa was keen to spend time at the craft market we did this as soon as we arrived in downtown Kampala. Following lunch at Java's we took everyone 10 pin bowling and met up with Peter S and George.

At about 10pm we drove the kids to Lukia's home - in the heart of Kamwokya slum. As we drove into the slum the road became increasingly narrower and lower and the locals seemed agitated that we were driving on 'their turf'.

When we arrived we were met by Hafusa's father who was intoxicated and asking for money. He wanted to show us inside his humble home - which we agreed to do, but quickly returned to the car. When we got to the car there were children everywhere. I kept a close eye on Sonia and the kids and a tight hand on my wallet, phone and camera.

Hafusa's house was simple. We walked into a lounge room when we first came through the front door and there was a kitchen and bedroom off to the side. Although it was dirty, it did feel homely as there were posters on the painted wall, food on the table and a lounge suite to watch the analogue TV in the corner.

It was good to meet Lukia, who seemed very embarrassed by her father's state, and two of Hufusa's aunties - both of whom were friendly.

To be honest, it was very difficult to leave Hafusa with her intoxicated father. We were concerned that he might harm them while looking for money (as they had spent three days with Muzungus). The home and community was such a contrast to what we'd enjoyed for the previous few days (and very different from Bbira village where they usually live).

As we left, we prayed for the situation and left them all with the Lord.