Working this last year with Okello has been a huge highlight of working overseas these last two years. Now I want to introduce him to you (in his own words), the longest serving member of the SMI team, Okello Andrew Ronnie.
Here Is Andrew’s Story
My name is Okello Andrew Ronnie. I am currently the longest-serving member of the SMI board, and I’d like to share the remarkable journey God orchestrated for me to become a partner in our mission in Uganda.
I was born in northern Uganda in 1989, the eldest of five children. My childhood took me from the north to the east, following my parents’ work, and by ageeleven, we had settled in the village of Kiburara in western Uganda.
Kiburara became not just our home, but the place where our family’s faith deepened. One night, when my father fell critically ill, my mother reached out to our neighbor, a young pastor named Moses Nkwasibwe. Pastor Moses prayed with us and invited our family to come to Christ even before he prayed for my father’s recovery, knowing our spiritual need was even greater than my father’s physical need. That night marked a turning point for all of us as we found faith together, and it set me on a personal journey of being shaped and challenged over the years as I’ve trusted God.
For much of my schooling, formal and spiritual education, I was close to Kiburara, but I received my degree in accounting and management in 2012 from Kampala. That same year, my path intersected with a team from Covenant Life Church USA during our church’s annual Youth Conference. It was here that I met John Emilio and Bart Hungerford, whose compassion for Kiburara’s needs led them to start Sustainable Missions Inc. (SMI).
After many conversations with John and Bart, dreaming and strategizing about SMI’s future, I was honored to become the organization’s first employee in 2013. After more than a decade, I am still privileged to help execute SMI’s vision for clean water, health initiatives, widows’ livelihoods, and sustainable farming. I’ve worked alongside remarkable teams and community members across the three neighboring districts of Ibanda, Kamwenge, and Kitagwenda, to touch lives and bring sustainable change.
My personal journey took a beautiful turn in 2014 when I met Joan, an active worshipper and leader among our church youth. Three years later, we got married. Joan’s unwavering support and hands-on dedication, especially with SMI’s widows and hygiene programs, have really enriched our ministry.
In the years since we’ve married, we have had to trust God’s providence for the slow but steady growth of SMI, with the growth of our small family (we’ve now grown to six) and with the ups and downs of ministry here in Kiburara. Together, through faith, action, and unwavering hope, we strive to shape a brighter future for our community—one project, one family, and one life at a time.
Okello’s Leadership and Impact at SMI
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http://www.sustainablemissionsinc.org
Okello’s journey stands as a testament to his remarkable adaptability and unwavering dedication. Since our first meeting in 2013, I have witnessed his humility and steadfast commitment, qualities that have consistently guided SMI’s mission and advanced God’s purposes within our organization.
Leadership Across Organizational Levels
Okello is actively engaged at every level of SMI. With the support of Alex and James, our farm workers, he skillfully manages operations in our absence, ensuring the ongoing success of our projects and the welfare of our team. His discernment and initiative have been crucial in navigating the complexities of international operations and maintaining organizational momentum.
Driving New Initiatives
Over the last two years, Okello’s embrace of SMI’s mission has led to the implementation of two significant initiatives: Inductive Bible Studies and the Men’s Saturday Fellowship. Through these efforts, Okello has played an instrumental role in strengthening the community’s spiritual and social foundations, fostering unity and growth among members.
Community Inspiration and Ongoing Projects
We are continually inspired by the generosity and warmth shown by the people of Kiburara. Their support encourages and motivates our work. Our ongoing projects—including the Widows Farming Project, the Goat Give-away Program, clean water development, and well maintenance—continue to deliver tangible improvements and hope throughout the community. These initiatives reflect the heart of our mission and the positive impact of collaborative effort.
Partnering for Impact: How You Can Join Us
Sustainable Missions Inc. is founded on the principle of building meaningful relationships that foster lasting change both in the United States and in Uganda. The messages and updates we receive from friends and supporters are a continual source of encouragement and motivation as we pursue our mission together.
We warmly invite you to remain connected with us. Your thoughts and stories are always welcome—please feel free to share them with us directly. We also encourage you to forward this newsletter to others who may be interested in joining and supporting our work, expanding the circle of impact and community.
Opportunities for Support
In addition to the Tree Planting Project, we are seeking dedicated partners to help fund an irrigation system for our newly established 10-acre coffee and cocoa farm. Both of these projects are integral components of our broader vision for sustainable agriculture—efforts that we believe will lay the foundation for continued ministry and future growth.
The Power of Partnership
Every contribution, regardless of size, plays a vital role in advancing our mission. By working in unity, we are confident that God will provide for these needs through your generosity and partnership.
DONATIONS can be made at: www.allegrosolutions.org (code: wellsinuganda.001).
We are deeply grateful for your ongoing support and encouragement. Stay tuned for more updates, stories, and photos as we continue this incredible journey—together!
With gratitude,
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Up With Uganda 