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Bold Strong Courageous 2024 Annual Stories

Annual Stories

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." 2

Watoto

Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

of Your Impact................................................. 4 Message from Our Leaders................... 5 Watoto Church............................................. 6 Baby Watoto............................................... 10 Watoto Villages........................................ 22 Father's Heart............................................ 38 Education.................................................... 42 Medical......................................................... 54 Sports Academy....................................... 58 Worship Academy.................................. 68 Friends Around the World................ 78 The Watoto Children’s Choir.............. 80 Watoto Neighbourhood...................... 90 Keep A Girl In School.......................... 106 Where We Are......................................... 116 Watoto Canada & Financials............ 118

Annual Stories

Baby Watoto

Last year, we rescued 63 babies. That means 63 little lives were saved and given everything they needed to survive, from lifesaving medical care to nutritious food, clean diapers, clothes, and a lot of love. And each one now has a hope-filled future.

Because of your generosity, 3,117 children are being raised in loving families across our three villages— Bbira, Laminadera, and Suubi. Here, they receive food, clothing, medical care, and an education as we teach them their value in Christ.

Watoto Villages

Watoto Together we embraced 990 Neighbourhood women with the love of Jesus,

empowering them with spiritual discipleship, adult literacy classes, vocational skills, business training, and job opportunities.

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atoto is a church that celebrates Christ and cares for community. In fact, we cannot help but celebrate all that Jesus has done for us over the past forty years. Among the many things he has done is bringing friends like you from around the world to partner with us as we continue to see lives transformed by the love of Jesus.

As we care for those hurting in our communities, we must be courageous and take bold steps, knowing that if we do what we can, God will do what we can’t.

Through the following pages, we pray you’ll be encouraged and your faith strengthened as you read this collection of stories of transformation Every day at and miracles. Watoto we see We b e l i eve miracles. It’s in these stories the faces of each are a beautiful of the babies reminder that we’ve rescued, nothing is and the children impossible who once for our God. from our had no hope, Thank you for but today are being such an living on one important part of of our Watoto villages, excited Watoto and for the tremendous about the future they have in difference you are making. Jesus. We also see the miracles in Watoto Neighbourhood, Blessings, where women who could not provide for their families are now working to give their children a better life than they ever knew, and break the yoke Julius & Vernita Rwotlonyo Team Leaders, Watoto of generational poverty.

Annual Stories

Church

Watoto

Annual Stories

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atoto is a faith-filled church that celebrates the goodness of God, and answers Christ’s call to care for the hurting in our communities.

tight-knit connections allow us to care for the hurting around us and build authentic community, just as Jesus did during His time here on earth.

Each week, we come together at our 17 campuses across Uganda and South Sudan as we worship Jesus and hear encouraging messages rooted in God’s truth.

Our small groups have also played a pivotal role in the success of our Watoto Neighbourhood initiative. In fact, many of the vulnerable women we are currently We also meet in smaller groups empowering joined as a result throughout the week. It’s in these of attending one of the small small groups that we create groups in their own community. deep personal relationships and carry the burdens of one So, as we celebrate Christ another as we become invested and care for community, we in the lives of those in our will continue to see incredible communities. Whether visiting moves of God when we gather the sick, celebrating a birthday, together. or helping a child in need, these Annual Stories

Watoto

Babies rescued

Last year, we rescued 63 tiny miracles. Each one is being given a new chance at life as they grow up knowing that their Heavenly Father loves them dearly.

Thanks to our sponsors and partners, we’ve rescued 1,678 of Uganda's most vulnerable babies since we first began. Each precious life is a testament of God’s incredible faithfulness.

Babies loved & cared for in 2024

We've rescued

babies since we first began

Throughout 2024, we cared for 173 babies at Baby Watoto, providing them with the essential nutrition, medical care, love, and protection needed to help them thrive.

Annual Stories

aby Watoto is proof that xnothing is impossible with God. Each baby we rescue is a miracle, and we do everything we can to ensure they have the best chance at life.

care, but they also needed to feel loved. From the moment they arrived, Nanny Sarah embraced these two, making sure they felt warm, loved, and safe in her arms.

Working with the local authorities, we step in when a baby needs us most, often at a critical moment in their young lives. And from the moment they arrive at Baby Watoto, our nannies, social workers, and medical team work together to meet each little one’s unique needs. From proper nutrition to urgent medical care, our team gives them the special care they need to not only survive, but to thrive. In addition to lifesaving care, we understand it’s crucial that a baby feels the love of a mother figure, because part of a child’s development is forming healthy bonds during their early years. So, we are grateful to all our nannies who provide this for our precious little ones. We see the impact it has in the lives of babies like Briella and her sister Britar. When they first came to us, they needed urgent medical 12

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Thank you for your generosity that is helping us ensure babies like Briella and Britar, who had a rocky start in life, are now fed, cared for and are growing up surrounded by the love of Jesus.

Baby Watoto is proof that nothing is impossible with God. Each baby we rescue is a miracle, and we do everything we can to ensure they have the best chance at life.

Twin sisters, Briella and Britar, playing outside with Nanny Sarah.

At Baby Watoto we see babies come to us in truly desperate conditions. And we’re grateful we’re able to rescue little ones like Fiona Faith (pictured above) and Peter (pictured below)—right when they need us most. Born premature, Fiona Faith had to fight to survive from her very first breath; and when we found Peter, his safety was at risk. But thanks to your support, these precious little ones are alive and flourishing today. 14

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Miriam, one of our supervisors at Baby Watoto, checks in on Peter as he sleeps.

Nutritious meals are vital to a child’s growth. So, from bottles to yummy food, we make sure little ones like Sulaiman (top left) and Baby Gladys (bottom) receive the nourishment they need to grow up healthy.

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From smiles to playtime, we celebrate each milestone in our little ones’ development. Here, Baby Patience (top) is working on her sweet grin with Nanny Flora, while Aviel and Michaela (bottom) have fun splashing in the baby pool under the watchful eyes of our nannies.

Annual Stories

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Baby Blessing is happy and safe in the arms of her nanny, Olympia.

Nanny Janipher is showering our little ones with love.

esus spent his life bringing xhealing and hope to those who had none, and he calls us to do the same. In Matthew 25, Jesus shared how people expressed love through tangible acts of kindness to those in need, by visiting people in the

and spent sleepless nights holding sick babies, letting them know they are not alone. Her heart of compassion extends to the children in our care that require extra support—children like Hakim. Although he faces an uphill

hospital, giving them clothes, or inviting them in. Jesus said when people cared for the least in our society, they were caring for him. Watoto is committed to loving how Jesus loves and we’re grateful for nannies like Janipher who are living this out daily.

battle, he has a divine purpose in life. As Nanny Janipher sees it, he is a miracle from God and caring for him is her way of caring like Christ.

Thank you for your support that allows Janipher and the entire Baby Watoto team to ensure every child in our care is able Over the years, Nanny Janipher to grow up surrounded by the has changed countless diapers, love of Jesus. We truly can’t prepared thousands of bottles, thank you enough. Annual Stories

Children & Toddlers

Last year we welcomed 74 children and toddlers into their new family at Watoto. Each child received their own home, their own bed, and a loving mother who will cherish them as they grow.

Every day, across our three villages, Suubi, Bbira, and Laminadera, 3,117 children are growing up in families full of the love of Jesus.

Children being raised in a family with love

More than

Children rescued since we began

Watoto

Since we first began, we’ve provided a home, an education, a family, and a bright future to over 6,000 children. Thanks to you, each one is growing up knowing they are dearly loved.

Villages Annual Stories

calm afternoon, the sound of laughter is heard coming from a house with open windows allowing a cool breeze to glide across the table where Emmanuella, Israel, and Mishel play one of

their favorite games. This is their home in Suubi village—a place of safety, where they feel accepted and loved.

do homework and learn what it means to be a child of God. It’s here they grow up discovering their purpose in life. In our villages, we also have classrooms where our children

study, a medical clinic to help them stay healthy, and a church where they develop a relationship with Jesus. In short, we provide everything a child Homes like this are the needs to grow up and become cornerstone of our three Watoto a Godly transformational leader. villages. It’s where our children can truly experience the love We are grateful for your support of a family. With our mothers that makes all this possible. who are raising eight orphaned Because of you, each child gets or vulnerable children, inside to grow up knowing how truly these walls they enjoy meals loved they are. From the bottom together, sleep in a warm bed, of our hearts, thank you. 24

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A Watoto village is a safe place where a child can truly experience the love of a family. Our villages have churches, medical clinics, classrooms, playgrounds, and homes. In each home you’ll find a Watoto mother who is raising eight children. Together, they’re a family filled with love.

Annual Stories

Mama Phiona has a full life cooking, cleaning, and raising eight energetic children in Suubi village. Although her days are busy, she is confident that with Christ as the foundation, her family will flourish. When she first visited Watoto Church years ago, she never imagined what the future would hold. As a single mother, with little means to raise her two small kids, it was a dream come true when she received the opportunity to become a Watoto mother.

Watoto

Excited for a fresh start, Mama Phiona felt blessed that in addition to her two young children, she was able to welcome six kids who needed her into their little family. Through every accomplishment, milestone, and even the hardlearned lessons in life, she is there to hug and nurture each of them as she points them towards Jesus. Thanks to your generosity, mothers like Phiona are thriving as they raise the future leaders of tomorrow.

Annual Stories

Jeffrey

Jedidiah

Israel & Jedidiah Watoto brings together vulnerable children and places them in families where they are wrapped in the love of Jesus. Your support helps give each child their own bed and a place where they feel safe. 28

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Shelly

Mishel & Shelly

Mishel Annual Stories

Israel came to Watoto just before his third birthday. Now at six years old, he dreams of becoming a doctor one day.

Emmanuella was rescued by Watoto when she was just a month old. Today, she is growing up with a family that adores her.

At Watoto, enjoying meals together as a family is a priority. Each mother pours her heart into making sure her children receive yummy dishes baked with love and affection. This is essential because before coming to Watoto, many of our kids often went to bed hungry. Thankfully, here that’s no longer the case.

filled with school, friendships, chores, and activities, each of our Watoto families take time to come together and give thanks for all that God has given them. It’s during these meals that they share the highs and lows of their days and encourage one another as they bond over a healthy, homemade meal.

But mealtime is about more than delicious food (although that’s important). It’s also about breaking bread with the people who care about them most. Despite busy lives

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors like you across the globe, today our children go to bed with full bellies and even fuller hearts.

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(Clockwise) Mama Rehemah, Miriam Joy, Josephine & Shamuza, and Martin enjoy gathering together for dinner.

Friends at Bbira—Elijah, Shadrach, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ethan —laughing together before class.

Annual Stories

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: if either of them falls down, one can help the other up…" Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)

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The best is yet to come for Tabitha, who is grateful for her education and dreams of becoming a computer scientist.

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atoto is blessed with many great father figures who display the values of Christ to our children. From teachers to pastors to coaches and more, each of them is making a difference. This also includes men from Watoto Church in a program called “Father’s Heart” where father figures like Eric form Christcentered relationships with an entire Watoto family.

“My prayer every day is that impact his consistent presence they will experience God’s love is having on this family as he through me,” shared Eric. continues to point them to Jesus. We’re grateful for men Through simple acts like helping like Eric who are helping us with homework or offering a raise Africa’s future leaders. listening ear, Eric can see the Annual Stories

Eric (center) reading the Bible with Emmanuel (left), Katrina (top left), Hannah (next to Eric) and Hellen (right).

Annual Stories

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od has trusted us with raising courageous leaders that will each impact the world in their own special way. This means that we are committed to educating our students, both inside and outside the classroom, helping them discover the unique gifts that God has placed in them. Whether they dream of becoming a doctor, lawyer, pilot, pastor, or anything else, we aim to help them succeed as they work towards the plans God has for their lives.

University Students

CLICK HERE for a message from a few of our university students

Graduated University

While we are excited for our students who are studying at university or a vocational school, we also celebrate with those who Graduated graduated lastxVocational Training year. What an accomplishment!

We are grateful for YOU, all our sponsors and partners, for helping our kids become the leaders God created them to be.

It’s a big job providing an education for 2,594 students across our Watoto schools, so we’re thankful for teachers like Pauline who go above and beyond to help our children learn and dream. And while Pauline is now teaching the next generation, it wasn’t long

desk in class as a child while her teacher stood at the blackboard and helped her learn. It was that moment that inspired her to become a teacher. Recently, Pauline shared, “I have a strong drive to give back to Watoto through education, to inspire the next generation of leaders.”

ago that she was sitting in the In 2023, Pauline graduated from classroom as a student in one university and is now sowing of our schools. into the legacy of Watoto as a teacher. Pauline was just eight years old when her mum became We’re proud that she is lighting a Watoto mother, and God the way for her younger changed their lives dramatically. Watoto brothers and sisters. Coming to Suubi village, she And we’re grateful to each was excited to move into her of you who are ensuring our new home and be able to go to children have the bright futures school. She recalls sitting at a they deserve. 44

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We provided an education to

students at our Watoto schools

"Train up a child in the way he should go [teaching him to seek God’s wisdom and will for his abilities and talents], Even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6 (AMP) Annual Stories

Phiona (left) and Daphine (right) take a study break together as they both dream of becoming lawyers one day.

Annual Stories

Teacher Zelda (left) encourages her class of preschoolers as they sit in a circle and practice counting.

Annual Stories

Teacher Zelda (left) is incredibly proud of five-year-old Blessing (right) and celebrates with a high five.

Annual Stories

Blessing is a bright girl who likes learning math and wants to be a pilot when she grows up.

Wilfred loves preschool. When asked what he enjoys most in class, with a big smile Wilfred said he loves reading story books.

key part of caring for our families and building stronger communities is ensuring that all our children and mothers receive the medical care needed to keep them healthy. Thanks to our generous partners, each of our three Watoto villages has a medical clinic that provides expert healthcare for our children, babies, and mothers. And our dedicated medical team goes above and beyond to provide preventative care, treat health issues, and educate our families on proper nutrition and hygiene practices. Additionally, through incredible partnerships with international

Watoto

teams, we are able to extend our reach into rural communities to help meet their most pressing medical needs as well. Dr. Baker Akaturinda (on pg. 57), who is part of the medical team at Watoto, said he wanted to be a doctor most of his life. As a child growing up in a remote village, he dreamed of becoming a doctor because there were very few health centers, so people who needed medical help had to walk long distances to access healthcare. Today, he is walking in his God-given purpose as he serves families at Watoto as well as those in the nearby communities.

People reached via medical outreaches

Thanks to our international partners, over 1,400 children and mothers received dental care, and nearly 400 received eye care. We also extended our reach into the community, treating over 5,400 vulnerable people with urgent medical needs.

6,22

Part of how we keep our children healthy is providing preventative care, including immunizations for hepatitis, measles, and polio.

Last year, there were

clinic visits to our medical team across our villages

Immunizations provided

With your help, we were able to provide medical care to all our mothers and children. And we celebrate that we saw a 26% reduction in malaria cases, and a 22% reduction in referrals to outside hospitals.

Annual Stories

Adrian gets a check-up, ensuring he is able to stay healthy and grow up strong.

We are grateful for Dr. Akaturinda who works hard to help keep kids like Adrian healthy, so they can live a long, happy life.

Watoto

t Watoto, we do our best to xprovide our children with Students a well-rounded education, in Sports Academy nurturing the growth of their natural skills and abilities, no matter where their talents lie. This year, 623 students participated in a variety of sports through our Sports Academy, equipping them with life skills that will help them soar on the field, in the classroom, and wherever God leads them in life.

No matter the sport, our coaches mentor the kids, helping them build confidence, learn the fundamentals of teamwork, create lifelong friendships, and most importantly, develop a Christ-centered character. Win or lose, they walk off the field understanding the power of hard work and perseverance. We couldn’t be prouder of our gifted athletes who have traveled throughout Uganda serving as ambassadors for both Watoto and the body of Christ. And it is incredibly rewarding to have eight of our graduates as part of the team that is now mentoring their younger Watoto brothers and sisters.

of our coaches are also Watoto alumni

Thanks to our partners across the globe who have supported and cheered for our athletes on and off the field. You are helping us raise Uganda's future leaders.

Annual Stories

oach Tony has never x forgotten how pastors and coaches saw his potential when he was growing up and guided him towards success on the court.

Tony’s story is just one example of how your generosity is helping break cycles of poverty and build legacies of hope. Thank you for loving Watoto.

As a child raised by Watoto, Tony developed an interest in sports at a young age, and the spiritual discipleship and athletic training he received helped him emerge as a dynamic student athlete. He was selected to be a team captain, which Tony says equipped him to become the leader he is today. Now, Tony is a coach at the Watoto Sports Academy and is pouring into the lives of the next generation of Watoto's student athletes.

As a child raised by Watoto, Coach Tony remembers having, “loving people around me that led me closer to God.” 60

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Rising athletes Emmanuel (left) and Fortunatus (right) receive instruction from Coach Tony.

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Aaron finds his way to the hoop during a scrimmage on our new basketball court at Suubi village.

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rom fragile newborn to standout athlete, Aisha’s transformation at Watoto has proven that God has always had her future in His hands. After her mother died during childbirth, Aisha was welcomed into Watoto with open arms. The delicate newborn’s health was touch and go at first, so Aisha received urgent medical care and our Watoto team prayed over her daily. Thanks to our dedicated doctors and nurses, and the healing power of Jesus, Aisha’s condition improved dramatically. As a child living in our Bbira village, Aisha received a quality education and got the opportunity to travel with the Watoto Children’s Choir. But upon returning from tour, her passion for football became her focus. When the children in her village would gather for a game, Aisha was often one of only a few girls holding her own against the boys. She was initially scared to play on an organized football team, but Aisha eventually joined the Watoto Sports Academy, and her talent blossomed.

Now Aisha is the captain of her team. Having received years of expert coaching and spiritual mentorship from her Watoto family, Aisha is honored to be a leader who encourages her teammates both on and off the field. For Aisha, being captain has taught her patience, confidence, a strong work ethic, and she has learned to trust others regardless of their abilities. A far cry from the tiny baby who was first rescued by Watoto years ago, Aisha says that the scripture that inspires her most is Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Aisha adds “I know God has known me since the day I was born. He knew where I would be, and He still has a lot in store for me.” Aisha is a beautiful example of how your faithful support is transforming lives with the love of Jesus. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

Showing off her skills, Molly makes a spectacular save during practice in Bbira village.

Annual Stories

Watoto

his past year, nearly 1,000 students across our three Watoto villages tapped into Students their creative gifting while in Worship Academy studying music, dance, media and fine arts at our Worship Academy. Here, students were taught to use their God-given talents to exalt the name of Jesus.

Partners came for Worship Camp

Our Worship Academy was also honored to host a Worship Camp, where 34 international volunteers from around the globe led worship and ignited a new level of creativity for our students.

Perhaps the most memorable outcome of this faith-filled event was when songs written by students, global partners, and friends over the past few years were compiled together to create a Watoto and Friends album called "Dream Again". This powerful collaboration, which reflects themes of hope, healing, and restoration, allowed students to lead songs and boldly declare the greatness of God, ministering not just locally, but globally. CLICK HERE to listen to Watoto and Friends album "Dream Again"

Annual Stories

ttending the Worship xAcademy at Watoto cultivated a talent that 13-yearold Emmanuel never knew he possessed. He had been welcomed into Watoto just a few years earlier and placed in a loving family—a big difference from the challenges that he faced earlier in life. As a young boy, after his parents died Emmanuel's grandmother did everything she could to care for him. Despite her best efforts, she was unable to p rov i d e the basics he needed. Food wasn't ever a guarantee, and there were often nights he went to bed hungry. She also couldn’t afford to send him to school, so receiving an education seemed out of reach. Thankfully, Watoto was able to step in and help.

greatest gifts I got in my life because when I joined as a young boy of 10, I had a chance to meet a family with a lovely mum who took good care of me. I lacked nothing.” And as he was growing up, joining the Worship Academy became instrumental in shaping his future as a musician and worship leader. For Emmanuel, it was the discipleship and musical training he received that i m p a c te d a l l corners of his life, ultimately helping him emerge as a skilled guitarist. Now an adult, he serves as a musician at Watoto Church and is also a teacher himself at the Worship Academy.

Thanks to the support of donors around the globe, the futures of children like Emmanuel, are changing. What used to be cries of despair are now bold With a glimmer in his eyes, praises of gratitude for the God Emmanuel shared, “Growing who loves them deeply. up in Watoto was one of the 70

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“Being a teacher in the Worship Academy blesses my heart because I get to teach my younger brothers, which is really fun.” -Emmanuel Annual Stories

Rebecca

Watoto

Patrick

Annual Stories

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Annual Stories

During practice, Malachi (left) smiles as his teacher Emmanuel (right) helps a classmate on guitar.

Annual Stories

from

Watoto

the

atoto is more than our programs or locations throughout Uganda and South Sudan. It’s a family of generous supporters from around the world who believe that together we can transform the lives of Africa’s most vulnerable. And we are especially grateful when our extended family visits us in person. In 2024, we had 290 people and 21 teams from across the globe come and volunteer their time and talents with us.

The experience left a lasting impression on Sean, “This has been one of the most impactful actions of my life. The children and families are examples of hospitality, love, and friends. I’ve grown my own faith while

Guests & Volunteers plus Global Teams

Baby Watoto Volunteers Sean Garcia (on pg. 78), a musician from the USA, is one of the amazing supporters who came and volunteered, teaching guitar to kids at the Worship Academy. Music has always been a way for Sean to express his love for Jesus, and he was excited to share that gift with children at Watoto.

helping children grow their own through worship.” Sean adds, “God is working in Watoto daily. This place is a glimpse of Heaven.” From caring for our babies to mentoring our children to working alongside our medical team, we are deeply thankful for all the volunteers who made the trip and shared their Godgiven abilities with us. We invite you to join us in Uganda to see all that God is doing in person. See you soon!

Annual Stories

In 2024, the Watoto Children’s Choir traveled across 13 countries sharing a message of hope.

Countries Toured As we worshiped together, and our children declared the good news of what Jesus has done in their lives, 9,458 people around the globe gave their lives to Christ. That is definitely something to celebrate!

Children traveled on Choir

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People gave their lives to Jesus as we worshiped together

Last year, thousands of people got to meet 80 of our future leaders as they shared, “No matter what you’re going through, Jesus is our hope and there are better days ahead.”

Annual Stories

"Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together." Psalm 34:3 (NIV)

Photo above: Precious Gold (sitting bottom left) and Joseph (bottom right) lead worship with Allen (center with mic).

t Watoto, God has xdone exceedingly and abundantly above all we could have asked or imagined. And it’s our privilege to tell the world about how Jesus’ unfailing love is transforming lives in Africa, as we invite others to experience His grace for themselves.

that she could tell everyone about how God has been faithful in her life. Precious Gold and her mother struggled until they were welcomed into Watoto. Here they were given food, clothing, medical care, spiritual discipleship and a safe place to call home.

Last year, the Watoto Children’s Choir traveled throughout 13 countries, sharing the good news of Jesus through song, dance, and powerful firsthand testimony. We celebrated as 9,458 people accepted Christ as their Savior while they worshiped with us.

The same goes for Joseph (on pg. 85), who was rescued by Watoto when he was just three years old. No longer an orphan, Joseph now lives in a home with lots of brothers and his Watoto mother who cares for him deeply. It has meant the world for Precious Gold, Joseph, and all our children who toured Precious Gold (on pg. 84) was on Choir last year to tell others thrilled for the opportunity to about the goodness of God. tour the USA with the choir, so Annual Stories

Precious Gold

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Joseph

Annual Stories

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Michael

Abandoned as a baby, Michael was brought to Watoto where he was wrapped in the love of Jesus. Michael is now an adult and proudly shared, “I’ve enjoyed every moment growing up in Watoto because here I was given the greatest gift—being surrounded by the love of Jesus and growing up knowing my identity in Christ. And I want to say a big thank you to my sponsors, and everyone who sponsors a child, for investing in me and all my Watoto brothers and sisters. Today, I am a worship leader on tour—and am proof that your sponsorship is making a difference.”

Annual Stories

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Allen

Abandoned as a little girl, Allen was welcomed into a loving family at Watoto when she was seven years old. Here, she received an education, food, medical care, and was taught about her Heavenly Father who loves her dearly. Almost two decades later, Allen has been blessed to serve as a leader on the Watoto Children’s Choir, mentoring the next generation as they share about the greatness of God.

Annual Stories

Watoto

We are overjoyed that 214 Neighbourhood mothers made the life-changing decision to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.

Vulnerable women were embraced and empowered

In 2024, 76 mothers started their very own small business, while 80 mothers received a “boost” to help keep their business going.

Salvations

Last year, we embraced 990 vulnerable women with the love of Jesus and empowered them with skills training so they can begin providing for their families.

Received support for their business

Annual Stories

xne of Africa’s greatest discipleship. Women in their xresources is her women, darkest hour are unlocking new empowered. levels of understanding through adult literacy. Single mums are being equipped to thrive on their own through vocational training and business classes. From learning tailoring to being able to open their own shop in the market, these women who were once lost, forgotten, and alone, with no way to care for their children, are learning to become leaders in their communities.

Yet, many bear the brunt of war, poverty, a n d d i s e a s e. Uneducated, unloved, and unwanted, they struggle to provide even the most basic necessities in life for their children. Through Watoto Neighbourhood, we are working to change this. Mothers are learning their value in Christ through spiritual 92

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Thanks to your generosity, we are embracing these ladies with the love of Jesus and helping end the cycle of poverty.

Annual Stories

Annet

Annet is learning tailoring while saving money for a sewing machine so she can start her own business. Today, her children are in school, and she shares her story to encourage other women who need to know there is hope for tomorrow.

Watoto

Annual Stories

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anyu stands with her two children; her young face hides the harsh reality she has endured at only 20 years old. After marrying and giving birth, her husband and his family became abusive. With nowhere to go, she lived on the streets with her children.

Neighbourhood, we helped her find a place to live and provided her with an “Embrace Package”, including a mattress and a few basic necessities.

The good news is her life is in the early stages of an amazing transformation because she was recently embraced with the love of Jesus by Watoto Neighbourhood. Sarafina, who is deeply connected to the community, saw Sanyu and her children and knew right away Watoto would be able to help this family. In addition to welcoming Sanyu into Watoto

that will help her earn an income and take care of her children, she is also taught her value in Christ. Today, she is being empowered to be a mother as she strives to transform the future for her children.

Sanyu has taken the first steps to having her life restored. As she takes classes and gains skills

Sanyu's story is a beautiful example of how we are breaking the cycle of poverty in Jesus' name, together. Annual Stories

Judith, Margret, and Salama (top left) greet each other in a local market before heading to their weekly Watoto Neighbourhood meeting. These meetings are a chance to connect and learn ways to not only improve their own lives, but also how they can build up each other and the community at large. Sarafina (bottom left) is a leader in the community who works with Watoto Neighbourhood to ensure practical needs are being met. 98

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We are expanding our reach directly into our communities to meet the women right where they live—right where the pain and brokenness is. As we do this, we will continue to embrace women with the love of Jesus and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life. Edith (top) speaks with one of our Neighbourhood leaders. And (bottom) she is greeted by other mothers as they join the meeting. Annual Stories

Joy was only 14 years old when she gave birth to her first child. Afterward, she was forced into a life of prostitution by a member of her family. This is a harsh reality no one should ever have to face. When she could no longer take the abuse and exploitation, Joy tried to run away. But with no other way to provide for her children, she turned back to the only work she ever knew, prostitution. This cycle of desperation and poverty can easily be all there is for millions of women throughout Africa. But we are grateful that Jesus can change anyone’s story—just like he’s doing for Joy. Joy shared, “I heard about Watoto Neighbourhood through a friend. I could see her life was improving. I asked how she was able to stop being a prostitute. She told me how she became born again at Watoto. And they even taught her skills to do other work.” Sometimes it only takes seeing an example of someone who has overcome similar challenges, to believe you can do it too. Although Joy has been with Watoto less than a year, the trajectory of both her life and her children’s lives are radically changing for the better. Thanks to your support, together we are breaking the cycle of poverty for women like Joy, and their children.

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"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

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Salima

Salima used to struggle to provide for herself and her children, and often they went to bed hungry. But today, Salima is a picture of a mother, empowered. Now she runs a shop selling baked goods, and she and her children are able to go to bed with full bellies.

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Partner Schools

We partnered with 79 schools in Uganda and South Sudan to help keep girls in school and educated.

We came alongside 14,518 girls in Uganda and South Sudan— teaching them feminine hygiene education, providing them with sanitary products, and letting them know their lives matter.

Girls reached through Keep a Girl in School

Many girls drop out of school simply because their family can’t afford the fees for their education. To help ease the financial burden, Promising students we created a scholarship fund and gave a scholarship to 7 new received a promising young girls.

scholarship

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ducation is vital to a child’s future, yet many girls in Africa drop out of school simply because they cannot afford sanitary pads. What is often a celebratory milestone for teenage girls all over the world, marks the end of formal education for thousands of girls in Uganda and South Sudan. Without an education, many become vulnerable to unwanted pregnancies, human trafficking, sexual abuse, domestic violence, HIV, and a life of no choices. So, through our Keep a Girl in School initiative we are working to break that cycle by providing feminine hygiene products, soap, underwear, and hope—helping girls continue their education and become life-changing leaders of tomorrow. As we partner with schools in Uganda and South Sudan, we also teach both boys and girls the importance of knowing Jesus. As we do this, boys are taught to respect and protect their female classmates, and girls are reminded that they matter, and their bodies are their own.

Thanks to your support, we are making a way for future doctors, teachers, engineers and more to walk in their God-given purpose. We are deeply grateful for your support because this wouldn’t be possible without you. Annual Stories

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When we visited one of our partner schools in Gulu, northern Uganda, students were eager to learn that day's lesson.

Hope dreams of becoming an accountant one day, so she's usually pretty quick with the answer in math class.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”

Psalm 32:8 (NIV)

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ike many girls from her village in rural Uganda, Emily was at x risk for poverty, not potential, deciding her future. School fees were expensive and because few received an education, many ended up trapped in a cycle of poverty. But Emily was determined to learn. As a small child, she worked weekends in a stone quarry, and though her job was unforgiving, Emily was thrilled that she could pay for her school fees. Yet, Emily watched as many girls reached adolescence and dropped out of school simply because they couldn’t afford feminine hygiene products. Emily likely would have dropped out too, but through our Keep a Girl in School initiative she received sanitary towels and was taught about her value in Christ. With excitement, Emily exclaimed, “They empowered girls like me and reminded us that God created us for a purpose.” Emily excelled in primary school, but when she reached high school, the fees became too much. She was forced to drop out and went back to work at the stone quarry. But God wasn’t done with Emily yet. In her darkest moment, Jesus found her. It was then that we gave her a special scholarship so she could return to school. And today, Emily is at university studying law. With reflection she shared, “No matter what situation you might be facing, the same God that didn’t forget or leave me, sees you and has great plans for your life.”

Watoto began in the 1980s in Kampala, Uganda. As the ministry grew, so did the need to facilitate support. Today, we have 11 support offices throughout the world where our partners and sponsors live. Each office is regulated by a local Board of Directors, ensuring good practices are followed at all levels. Take a look at the map below and on the following page to see where our Global Support Offices are, as well as where our work is taking place throughout Uganda and South Sudan.

Sweden Norway The Netherlands

Canada United States

Germany United Kingdom

Brazil

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Juba

Gulu

Kampala Watoto Church 17 Locations

Asia

Watoto Village

3 Villages: Bbira, Suubi, Laminadera

Baby Watoto

2 Locations: Suubi & Gulu

Medical

4 Locations: Bbira, Suubi, 2 in Gulu

Australia

Keep A Girl In School

Throughout Uganda & Juba

Neighbourhood Center

3 Locations: Kampala, Gulu, Juba

Sustainability 4 Locations

Dear Watoto Family, Thank you once again for your faithful support of Watoto last year as we continued the work of “caring for widows and orphans in their distress.” In 2024, babies were rescued and nurtured back to health, children were fed, clothed and educated, and mothers were empowered, trained, and discipled. Not only were their physical needs met; they were embraced with the love of Jesus, which heals their spirit and transforms their lives. Because of your love and support, our children and mothers are thriving and embracing their new chance at life. The Watoto Children’s Choir travelled for almost 6 months from Toronto to Halifax to Victoria, sharing their stories of hope and transformation, dancing their way into the hearts of Canadians as they sang of Better Days yet to come. Thank you to all who opened churches and homes to receive these beautiful children and young adults. Your hospitality meant a great deal to us! 1 Peter 4:10-11 reminds us, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (NIV) Thank you for using your gifts and resources to serve the most vulnerable. May God richly bless you in return for your kindness. I trust that as you read this report, you will be encouraged and reminded of the results of your giving, “storing up treasure… as a good foundation for the future…” (1 Timothy 6:19 NLT) For the children, Lorne Hamlyn Country Director, Watoto Canada 118

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Canadians visited Uganda

Last year, 33 people from Canada travelled on a mission trip to Uganda to visit Watoto and take part in the work we are doing. Thank you for partnering with us.

We are thankful for each and every sponsor. And we were thrilled to welcome 1,166 people across Canada who made the decision to join our sponsorship family in 2024!

Raised for our End of Year campaign

New sponsors signed up to change a life in 2024

xDespite an end-of-year postal strike, thanks to YOU—our faithful supporters—last year we were able to raise nearly $50k for our end of year "Gift of Love" campaign, helping us continue reaching the lost and giving hope to thousands of children who need us.

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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT To the Directors of Watoto Canada Qualified Opinion We have audited the financial statements of Watoto Canada, which comprise the statement of financial position as at December 31, 2024, the statement of designated funds, and the statements of operations and changes in net assets and cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. In our opinion, except for the effects of the matter described in the Basis for Qualified Opinion section of our report, the accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Ministry as at December 31, 2024, and its its results of operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations ("ASNPO"). Basis for Qualified Opinion In common with many not-for-profit organizations, the Ministry derives revenue from fundraising activities the completeness of which is not susceptible to satisfactory audit verification. Accordingly, verification of these revenues was limited to the amounts recorded in the records of the Ministry. Therefore, we were not able to determine whether any adjustments might be necessary to fundraising revenue, excess of revenues over expenses, and net assets for the year ended December 31, 2024. Our audit opinion on the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024 was modified accordingly because of the possible effects of this limitation in scope. We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Ministry in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in Canada, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our qualified opinion. Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Financial Statements Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with ASNPO, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Ministry's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Ministry or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Ministry's financial reporting process. Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also: •

Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

•

Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Ministry's internal control.

•

Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management.

•

Conclude on the appropriateness of management's use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Ministry's ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor's report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Ministry to cease to continue as a going concern.

•

Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

Langley, British Columbia June 16, 2025

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SUMMARY FROM WATOTO CANADA 2024 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES AND CHANGES IN NET ASSETS/INCOME STATEMENT REPORTED IN CAD $

REVENUES Sponsorship $ Houses/Schools and Sustainability Visit Watoto Funds

3,591,268 22,851 77,299

General Contributions

1,080,033

Visit Watoto Funds Product Costs General Expenditures Total Program Services

4,872,322

SUPPORT SERVICES Management and Administration

231,983

Total Support Services

231,983

Total Expenses

5,104,305

Net Income

(30,313)

Net Assets at Year End

421,757

Total Contributions

4,771,451

OTHER REVENUES Interest Income Product Sales

38,796 263,745

Total Other Revenues

302,541

Total Revenues

5,073,992

EXPENDITURES Sponsorship Houses/Schools and Sustainability

3,591,268 22,851 88,244 128,049 1,041,910

WATOTO CANADA EXPENSES 2024 4.5%

95.5%

Program Services

Management & General

To see the full 2024 Financial Audit Report for Watoto Canada, please go to watoto.com/Financials

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WATOTO UGANDA

(HEAD OFFICE) +256 (0) 779 676 559 UGANDA@WATOTO.COM

WATOTO ASIA

WATOTO NETHERLANDS

+852 2639 9797 Asia@Watoto.com

+31 614 591 196 Nederland@Watoto.com

WATOTO AUSTRALIA

WATOTO NORWAY

WATOTO BRASIL

WATOTO SWEDEN

+61 (3) 9645 6547 Australia@Watoto.com +55 (41) 3039 7102 Brasil@Watoto.com

+47 977 61 010 Norway@Watoto.com

+46 10 221 61 73 Sweden@Watoto.com

WATOTO CANADA

+1 888 9WATOTO Canada@Watoto.com

WATOTO GERMANY

+49 152 553 00 288 Germany@Watoto.com

WATOTO.com

WATOTO UK

+44 203 225 1048 UK@Watoto.com

WATOTO USA

+1 813 948 4343 USA@Watoto.com