Finding Hope at 63: How “Jjajja” Rebecca Rediscovered Purpose and Community Through Action in Africa

At 63-years-old, Rebecca Nakabiito Jjuuko is among the oldest participants at the Center. Having joined this year, her passion and eagerness to learn quickly made her a vibrant and respected figure. Because of her age, she even earned the beloved title of “Jjajja” (grandmother) from the women, children, and participants at The Center. Rebecca deeply appreciates the community’s respect, stating, “The respect I get from Action in Africa is unconditional because every Friday in the Women to Women Program, they cater for me and prepare tea for me like their mother.”

Rebecca is a dedicated participant in our Women to Women Program, which meets every Friday for healing through acceptance, learning, and deep sharing. She rarely misses a session with our Social Development Officer, Robinah Nandutu.

Rebecca revealed the profound impact the program has had on her life. She joined The Center in deep sorrow and heartbreak after her son suffered from mental illness. Her commitment to his care forced her to leave her job as a typist and clerk with the Kyotera Sub-County. However, her neighbor’s introduction to Action in Africa proved life-changing.

“My hope was restored through constant counseling and guidance from Robinah, and my stress disappeared. I can testify that Action in Africa is a home for restoration and emotional support.”

Rebecca is also a committed participant in our Tuesday Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Program. Drawing on her previous experience as a typist and clerk, she noted that while her past work relied on typewriters before the evolution of modern computers, she still possesses fundamental technological knowledge. Her goal for joining our ICT sessions is to re-establish her stationery business and immediately apply the computer skills she is gaining.

Rebecca Nakabiito Jjuuko brushes up on her technology skills under the guidance of Serina Katusiime, AIA’s ICT Training and Support Coordinator.

The Women to Women Program has not only provided emotional support to Rebecca but also valuable mentorship from various facilitators. She noted that sessions on financial and business management were instrumental, prompting her to relaunch the side business she once ran while working for the government. The facilitators also equipped her with life skills, including money management, child-rearing, mental health awareness, conflict resolution, and community building.

“When I came to the Center, I thought I was the only one struggling in this world until I heard others,” she said. “That is the day I knew the impact of Action in Africa in the community. Thank you for creating a space for women to share. We appreciate the program for women you put in place, together with the person you gave us who understands everyone regardless of our family background.”

In her closing remarks, Rebecca warmly applauded the breakfast served during the Friday Women to Women Program, highlighting the sense of security it provides, “I don’t take tea every Friday because I know by 9 a.m. I have to be at The Center for the program, and I know tea with bread or another meal will be ready, so I go well assured.”

She also praised the support for the younger generation, adding, “I commend the porridge served to our kids because my grandson, as soon as he leaves school, runs for the After School Program. That’s where he receives a free meal.”

Rebecca concluded by warmly thanking the organization, “Thank you, Action in Africa. We can never stop thanking you.”