As part of their participation in SteadFin’s MCDP2 program, The Eagles came together with a simple but powerful idea: to transform one family’s life.
The group was challenged to develop a community-centered project under the Concern for Community (C4C) initiative. Rather than take on a broad campaign, they decided to start small – by empowering just one vulnerable family. What began as a classroom exercise quickly grew into something much deeper.
Each member of the Eagles group was asked to identify a family in need within their community. After reviewing all nominations, the group chose the family of Mr. and Mrs. Mukibi Nicholas from Busukuma. Their situation was dire; the children were at risk of dropping out of school, and the family was still reeling emotionally and financially after losing their youngest child. Despite their hardships, the Mukibis had not lost their spirit. They had an idea, if they could get a small boost, they could start a charcoal business and begin to rebuild their lives.
The Eagles group embraced this vision. With just UGX 960,000, contributed equally among members, they funded the construction of a small store that would sell charcoal, alongside perishables like tomatoes, onions, and even jackfruit. The funds were disbursed in phases: first to build the shop, then to buy stock, and finally to support future needs. Alongside the money came mentorship – budgeting support, pricing guidance, and customer care tips. One group member, Robert Muhire, who lived nearby, took on the role of mentor and monitor, offering ongoing guidance to help the family stay on track.
Of course, the journey wasn’t without challenges. The Mukibis needed to learn basic business skills. They also faced stiff competition from nearby vendors. But through the support of the Eagles and a willingness to learn, the family pushed forward. A friend already in the charcoal business stepped in to offer advice on pricing and operations. Customers from the neighborhood began stopping by. In fact, some even commented that the jackfruit from the Mukibi’s shop was the best in Busukuma.
Beyond just income, the project brought something much greater – hope.
“Thanks for the surprise financial and business support that will help us build from where we had stopped when we lost our youngest child,” said Mrs. Mukibi. “I had no idea how I was going to start again. Thank you!”
“All I can say is thank you, thank you,” added Mr. Mukibi. “May God bless you abundantly!”
For the Eagles group, this project transformed their perspective. What began as a requirement became a calling. They saw firsthand how collective effort can bring real, lasting change to a single household, and by extension, an entire community. The children now have a more stable future. The family has a dignified means of earning a living. And a community in Busukuma has a new shop and a story to tell.
The experience also brought important lessons: that financial support must go hand-in-hand with mentorship, and that business diversification helps reduce risk and build resilience. By combining charcoal sales with perishables, the Mukibis created multiple income streams, and the potential to grow further.
Looking ahead, the Eagles recommend SteadFin continue supporting such grassroots efforts. The group also sees value in expanding the C4C program to train and support other vulnerable groups – widows, single mothers, unemployed youth; equipping them with the skills, confidence, and networks they need to build better futures.
