SOS Children’s Village members visit Vision Group

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A group of children and staff from SOS Children’s Village Kakiri have paid Vision Group a courtesy call.

The Wednesday, May 14, 2025, visit to the group's headquarters in Kampala city's Industrial Area on First Street saw the children and staff interact with Vision Group chief executive officer (CEO) Don Wanyama.

Vision Group chief executive officer (CEO) Don Wanyama. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)

During the visit, Wanyama shared insights into the broad scope of Vision Group’s operations, including its various TV and radio stations, online news platforms, textbook and calendar printing services and its countrywide workforce of nearly 1,000 employees. He encouraged the children to take charge of their futures, telling them, “You cannot do a lot about your past, but your future is in your control.”

Children from SOS Children’s Village.

The visit was a source of inspiration, according to many children. Sharon Nakayima, a student under SOS care, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to meet the CEO.

“It’s not every day that children are given such an opportunity. I am inspired by the work New Vision does,” she said.

Moses Ssekandi appreciated the range of programmes Vision Group offers. He noted that both the entertainment and news content help him and others stay informed about events happening within Uganda and around the world.

SOS Children’s Village staff and children.

Vision Group chief executive officer (CEO) Don Wanyama.

Lillian Natukunda highlighted the importance of the “Pass PLE” section that appears in the newspaper. She said it helps students tackle tough questions and prepare effectively for their Primary Leaving Examinations.

Joseph Kakooza shared his love for the Toto Magazine, especially the colouring pages and spelling games. “It’s an interesting read,” he said.

Donto spoke about her younger sister, who cannot read yet but still enjoys the Toto Magazine.

“She loves it so much, so I read it for her every Wednesday,” Donto said.

In a gesture of appreciation, Sharon Nakayima invited Wanyama to the SOS Children’s Village celebration of the Day of the African Child on June 20, 2025.

To mark the occasion, Wanyama donated sh1m towards the celebrations and gifted each visitor a notebook, pen and textbook.

Vision Group chief executive officer (CEO) Don Wanyama walking with SOS Children’s Village children.

Background

SOS Children’s Village Kakiri comprises 13 family houses, a kindergarten, youth houses and several support facilities, including a multi-purpose hall and workshops. The kindergarten hosts around 110 children from both the village and surrounding communities. When children turn about 15, they transition to one of the three SOS Youth Houses, where they are guided toward independence under the care of youth leaders. Their stay typically lasts up to four years, depending on their education or career path.