Five Years of Transformation in Uganda

Five years ago, ICM stepped into Uganda with a simple but bold belief: that the local church could be the most powerful force for change in the world’s poorest communities. On August 28, 2025, that belief was celebrated — not in a boardroom, but in Kiboga, surrounded by 500 people whose lives are living proof of it.

Yeremiah’s story captures what five years of Transform looks like in Uganda.

At 76, Yeremiah limps as he makes his way to Transform sessions. The 15-minute walk takes him double the time. He came as a refugee from Rwanda, and years of hardship had followed him into old age. When he was first invited to join the Transform program, he signed up hoping mainly for medical care. He had no idea what else was coming.

The 15-week program opened something unexpected in him. Yeremiah learned practical skills, received startup capital, and launched a small snack stall at the local market — selling half-cake and samosa. He saves a portion of his earnings with his savings group every week and dreams of starting a piggery someday. “Looking back at my life, I fall to my knees and thank God,” he says.

Even at this age, there is no stopping Yeremiah.

His story is one of hundreds that filled the room on August 28. The anniversary gathering brought together Transform alumni and current participants, Family Academy coaches and parents, Savings Group leaders, Livelihood Champions, and medical patients — alongside church directors, local government officials, and the Minister of Health of Uganda, who served as Guest of Honor. CEO David Sutherland and Director Alex Mitala both spoke, encouraging everyone on what five years of faithful partnership had built.