By Eric Yiga
Sanyu Babies Home, Uganda’s oldest facility dedicated to caring for abandoned, orphaned, and abused infants and toddlers, is facing severe congestion as it shelters 22 boys without guardians—prompting an urgent appeal for compassionate Ugandans to consider adoption.
A social worker at the home revealed that the number of boys abandoned each month now exceeds that of girls. However, most prospective parents who visit the facility tend to prefer adopting girls, leaving many boys without families.
“The facility is small and already overcrowded,” he said, noting that hesitation to adopt boys often stems from fears about added responsibilities, societal expectations, and concerns from extended family members.
These remarks were made during a visit by pupils and teachers from Savannah Schools in Makindye Division, Kampala. The visit formed part of the school’s activities to mark World Health Day, with a focus on teaching students compassion, generosity, and support for vulnerable members of society.
During their visit, the group donated essential supplies, including milk, diapers, sugar, clothes, flour, and other daily necessities, helping to ease the burden on the overstretched home.
The social worker further noted that although the facility’s official capacity is about 50 children, it is currently caring for 53. Many of the children come from different parts of Kampala, with some days recording as many as 10 new arrivals. Most of the children are aged between a few days and four years.
Godfrey Bwabye Kigongo, head teacher of Savannah Schools, said the visit was intentionally organised to instill strong moral values in the pupils.
“We wanted to teach our students the importance of sharing, helping, giving, and being there for others,” he said.
Kigongo also expressed concern over the rising cases of child abandonment, attributing the trend largely to broken marriages and family breakdowns. He urged couples to resolve their differences amicably rather than abandoning their children.
“These innocent souls should not pay the price for our failures as adults,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the pupils, Myra Gift Kalule thanked the caregivers at the home and encouraged the public to offer more support. She also advised fellow students to make responsible life choices to avoid future challenges that could lead to such situations.
Established in 1929 and widely known as the “Home of Joy,” Sanyu Babies Home typically accommodates up to 50 children. The facility works to reunite children with relatives where possible and facilitates adoption and fostering. However, the growing imbalance in adoption preferences—where boys tend to stay longer—has become a significant challenge.
The home continues to rely on donations and community support to provide food, medical care, clothing, and a nurturing environment for the children.
Well-wishers interested in adoption, fostering, or making donations are encouraged to contact Sanyu Babies Home directly.
