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Tamale Fund: Empowering Dreams Through Education
Founded by Father Zaverio Banasula, the Tamale Initiative Fund provides educational opportunities and basic necessities to underprivileged children in Uganda, helping them fulfill their dreams just as others once helped Father Zaverio achieve his calling.
Our Founder's Journey
Father Zaverio Banasula was born in Mityana district of central Uganda, in the Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese, to one of fourteen siblings raised on a farmhouse of John and Sarah Ssewankambo. His early life was shaped by the time he spent with his grandfather, late Joseph Musoke, who instilled in him a deep faith and virtuous character.
As early as 2nd grade, young Zaverio found inspiration from Fr. John Vianney Muweesi, who visited his late grandfather, Andrew Lukwago, and the homebound and sick Christians who needed sacraments. Fr. Muweesi, a parish priest, traveled by bicycle and motorcycle to serve his community. This example of dedication planted the seeds of his own vocation.
However, his path to the priesthood faced significant obstacles, particularly after his father's death left him without financial support for his education. It was through the kindness and generosity of Fr Denis Kaggwa, Ms. Reinhilde Muller of Australia and Ms. Christine Kittumba of Uganda that Zaverio's dream of becoming a priest was ultimately realized, a testament to the power of community and the impact of individual acts of kindness.
From Personal Experience to Community Mission
Father Zaverio's own struggles and the generosity that transformed his life became the foundation for his mission. After becoming a priest, he witnessed firsthand how many children in his community faced similar obstacles to achieving their dreams.
Seeing children struggling for basic needs and education, he was reminded of his own journey and the people who had stepped forward to help him. This inspired him to create a way for others to experience the same life-changing support he had received.
The Tamale Initiative Fund was born from this vision—a structured program designed to address the educational and basic needs of vulnerable children, ensuring they have the opportunity to realize their potential just as Father Zaverio did.
Our Mission and Impact
Educational Support
We provide tuition assistance, school supplies, and educational materials to children who would otherwise be unable to attend school, opening doors to future opportunities and self-sufficiency.
Basic Necessities
Many children cannot focus on learning when their basic needs aren't met. We ensure children have access to nutritious meals, clean water, and essential healthcare services.
Mentorship
Beyond material support, we provide guidance and encouragement to help children develop character and resilience, following the example set by Father Zaverio's grandfather.
Leadership Team
Kalule John
As Chairperson, Kalule provides strategic direction for the Tamale Fund, leveraging his experience in community development and organizational leadership to advance our mission of supporting underprivileged children.
FR. Banasula Zaverio
Serving as Vice-Chairperson and Spiritual Director, Francis ensures our work remains grounded in our founding values and provides guidance on the ethical dimensions of our programs and operations.
Wokulira Joseph
As Secretary, Joseph manages our organizational records, handles communication with stakeholders, and ensures smooth administrative functioning of all our initiatives and outreach efforts.
Tamale Godfrey
Our Treasurer Godfrey oversees all financial aspects of the fund, ensuring transparent management of donations and efficient allocation of resources to maximize our impact on children's lives.
How Your Donation Makes a Difference
$25
School Supplies
Provides essential notebooks, textbooks, pencils and other learning materials for one child for an entire school term.
$300
Term Tuition
Covers school fees for one child for a full term, including uniform costs and participation in educational activities.
$1200
Annual Sponsorship
Supports a child's complete educational needs for a full year, including tuition, supplies, meals, and healthcare checks.
Success Stories
1
Nassonko Jacent Journey's
The Tamale Initiative provided tuition and support, enabling her to complete to complete a diploma in English education.
2
Kato's Story
Growing up in extreme poverty, Kato Joseph showed exceptional aptitude for mathematics but lacked resources. Our fund provided him with education support and mentoring. Today, he's studying nursing and mentoring younger students.
3
Nambi's Transformation
As the oldest of five siblings, Nambi took on family responsibilities after her mother fell ill. Our holistic support allowed her to continue school while we assisted with her mother's healthcare, resulting in improved conditions for the entire family.
These stories reflect how your donations create lasting change—not just for individual children, but for families and communities across Uganda.
Join Our Mission Today
The Tamale Initiative Fund continues Father Zaverio's vision of paying forward the generosity that changed his own life. By supporting our work, you become part of this powerful chain of compassion and opportunity.
Every child deserves the chance to pursue their dreams regardless of their financial circumstances. Your contribution, whether one-time or recurring, helps break the cycle of poverty through education and support.
Join us in building a brighter future for Uganda's children. Together, we can transform lives just as Father Zaverio's life was transformed by the kindness of others.