Legal Standing of The Neem Initiative

Often when people hear about projects in Africa, they think only of Nigerian scams.  The West has heard so many negative stories coming out of Africa, everything seems suspicious.  So, just to be clear, I want to present the legal standing of The Neem Initiative (TNI) in Uganda and how it is organized.

Rev. Dr. Tumuheirwe

TNI is a New Development Initiative for Juna Amagara Ministries which is a registered NGO in the Republic of Uganda and is recognized in the U.S. as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation.  Juna Amagara means "Saving Life" in the local language and, since 2004, has taken care of nearly 1,000  of the neediest AIDS orphans in Southwest Uganda.  The ministry runs schools, health clinics, and children's homes in four locations.  The ABIDE young people's leadership training program operates nationwide.  JAM is a Ugandan-run organization under the guidance of Rev. Dr. Ben Tumuheirwe who holds a PhD from Trinity International University in Deerfield, IL.

Every year, as part of the government's scrutiny of NGOs, reviewers look for enthusiasm and vision to grow beyond existing levels... they ask "How can you do more?"   That's where TNI comes in.   Building on the Juna Amagara passion for

TNI Managing Director Obadiah Monday

saving life and especially for children, an effort to stop the scourge of malaria fits perfectly with the ministry's charter.  The organizations share resources and personnel.  For example: TNI Managing Director Obadiah Monday works to build Neem infrastructure but he also manages the child sponsorship program in Kayanja Village.  TNI and JAM operate as autonomous organizations, each with its own operating constitution but all finances are overseen by a qualified Internal Auditor and are reported annually to the government.

Juna Amagara Ministries is a Christian organization in a Christian country but the services provided touch people of all faiths.  There are no restrictions for services or employment based on religion, tribal affiliation, gender or age.  There is no effort to "convert" non-Christians away from their faith.

The Ugandan Ministry of Health and the King of the Bunyoro/Kitara have expressed enormous confidence in TNI based on the accomplishments, reputation and commitment of Juna Amagara.  One observer recently said..."TNI and JAM... it's a marriage made in heaven."  Amen.