How far we have come…

What began as a shared vision between Moses Kiiza and his wife, Jennifer, in 2006 — a vision to uplift Uganda’s most vulnerable — has grown into a thriving community of hope, resilience, and transformation. Kech Pe Tii is not just a project. It’s a movement. A movement that tells a story — of struggle, of courage, and of how far we’ve come.

From the early days of GoSmile Uganda, founded to provide education to children from marginalized families, Moses Kiiza’s unwavering passion for social justice laid the foundation for something bigger. Partnering with Dr. Marcus Kreikebaum, a fellow visionary and humanitarian, they planted the seeds for Kech Pe Tii — a space where women once displaced by conflict could find not only economic independence, but also purpose and pride.

Today, we are proud to say: we have come far.

The People Behind the Progress

Vincent Ocen, once a child watching his mother roll beads, is now at the forefront of this mission. As our Project Coordinator, he manages operations with a deep sense of responsibility, guided by personal connection and lived experience.

From Faustino Okidi, our seasoned Lead Artisan Trainer, who brings over 20 years of wisdom in bead-making, to Mercy Abonyo, who empowers women with essential financial and business skills, our team is made of individuals whose passion is as strong as their expertise.

Denis Otim, our Marketing and Partnerships Manager, is helping Kech Pe Tii shine beyond borders. His innovative strategies and collaborative spirit ensure that the world sees the value in every handcrafted piece our women create.

The Artisans — Our Heartbeat

At the very center of Kech Pe Tii are the women. Brave. Skilled. Unstoppable.

They fled conflict in Northern Uganda and found healing through creativity. Women like Nekolinah Adong, Aryemo Margaret, Aporo Alice, Aol Paska, and Ayaa Nighty now lead with mastery in bead design, rolling, and crafting. Each piece they make is a story — of survival, of culture, of strength.

They have formed a sisterhood. One that lifts, supports, and thrives together. One bead at a time, they have turned pain into beauty, and fear into independence.

Partners and Global Support

We are grateful for every partner who has walked this journey with us.

From the committed students and faculty of the European Business School, whose ideas and strategies have helped expand our global presence, to local safari businesses and fashion designers who showcase our work to new audiences — each partnership has opened doors and hearts.

And of course, our thanks go to GoSmile Uganda, our anchor, for the continued guidance and resources that have enabled our growth.

The Road Ahead

Our finances come from many streams — donations, product sales, grants, and strategic partnerships. Every bead sold, every event attended, every donor who believes in our cause has helped us come this far. And we are just getting started.

We are no longer just a project helping women make beads. We are a platform for empowerment. A bridge between tradition and innovation. A home where women reclaim their future.

This is how far we’ve come.
And with your continued support — just imagine how far we’ll go.

 

Together, we are Kech Pe Tii.