EQUSaT Launches Nyumba Mpya Modular Bamboo Orphanage Project
EQUSaT Launches Nyumba Mpya Modular Bamboo Orphanage Project
Equator University of Science and Technology (EQUSaT) officially launched the Nyumba Mpya – Modular Bamboo Orphanage Project, an initiative aimed at providing sustainable care for vulnerable children while promoting eco-friendly architecture.
The event, held on July 25, 2025, at the University’s Masaka campus, brought together partners from Uganda, Poland, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan who collaborated to make the vision a reality.
In his speech on behalf of the Board of Trustees, EQUSaT Vice Chancellor Prof. Mouhamad Mpezamihigo emphasized that the decision to allocate University land for the orphanage reflects EQUSaT’s commitment to giving back to the community and investing in the growth of young people.
“This project is not just about providing shelter; it is about building human capacity and aligning with global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he noted.
The Chief Guest, Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Masaka, Ahamada Washaki, commended EQUSaT for its exemplary role in supporting regional development.
"While many universities focus solely on collecting tuition, EQUSaT has chosen to give back to the community and this is what we need from all institutions of this kind," Washaki remarked.
Washaki also highlighted the environmental benefits of using bamboo in construction, describing it as a fast-growing, highly renewable material that naturally promotes mental well-being.
“Bamboo is not only good to live in, but its regenerative nature makes it a vital resource for environmental conservation. I call upon the community to support such innovations to protect the environment for future generations,” he added.
Ms. Inga Rolek, the CEO at 1RS, an architecture and construction company that prioritizes environment, told the EQUSaT Post that the Nyumba Mpya project is designed to offer a safe, nurturing environment for orphans while championing sustainable building practices. She added that beyond providing a home, the initiative is expected to serve as a living demonstration of eco-architecture and a catalyst for similar projects across the region.
Mr. Turyasingura Isaac, the country director of Nyumba Mpya said that their choice to put up an orphanage in Masaka was to cater for the vulnerable children in the region and above. He also hinted that the project is funded by Polish nationals who have always felt sorry for Ugandan homeless children whenever they come into the country for tourism. He also thanked the University for offering free land for the construction of the orphanage.
As the event concluded, attendees toured the bamboo structures and interacted with project partners, reaffirming the collective commitment to community care, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
#SDGs, SDG 17, SDG 12, SDG 11
