why Uganda?

photo from The Archibald Project, a non-profit advocating for adoption

Well, simply put, because our kids are there.

We didn’t plan for Uganda, just like we didn’t plan for Taiwan.

However, just as our hearts were drawn toward the people of Taiwan and their country through Zoe’s adoption, once again our passions are being stirred for a country and people to whom our next three children will always belong, at least in part.

What have I learned about this country we’re now bonded to?

Child trafficking is common for forced labor and sex trades. (source)

More than a third – 38% - of the people live in extreme poverty, making less than $1.25 a day. (source)

In Uganda, 1.4million people – including 190,000 children – have HIV or AIDS. (source)

Young girls are especially at risk for HIV, because they are more likely to have older male partners – through prostitution or early marriage – and those partners are likely to have had several previous partners. (source)

More than 1million children have been orphaned by AIDS in Uganda. (source)

Every day, more than 400 people in Uganda are diagnosed with HIV. This includes 56 children. (source)

Only 32% of the children in Uganda who need HIV treatment actually receive it. (source)

Average life expectancy is 53.45 years. (source)

Those are just the bleak facts, though. The country is rich in natural resources. It is lush and beautiful. I know personally many beautiful people who live and love and serve Christ there.

And?

It is home to three of my children, which means it will always be part of our family and my heart.

Just as I made a list of bleak facts about Uganda (because, sadly, those are the easiest ones to find), I could make a list of depressing statistics from Taiwan or the United States. Those lists wouldn’t change the love I have for this country and Zoe’s country.

And now? I love Uganda too.