Rubis Energy Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to community development and social responsibility by extending critical support to the Missionaries of the Poor, a faith-based organization known for its strong dedication to the marginalized and forgotten members of Ugandan society. The official handover ceremony took place at Bethlehem Children’s Home in Busega, Kampala, marking the beginning of a long-term partnership rooted in shared values and purpose.
As part of Rubis Energy Uganda’s Corporate Social Responsibility strategy, the company has provided fuel support to assist the Missionaries of the Poor with daily logistical operations.
The Missionaries of the Poor, who have been operating in Uganda since 2000, serve the most vulnerable, including children with disabilities, mentally challenged and elderly individuals abandoned by families, and street children from refugee and slum communities. Currently, over 400 residents live in the two shelters, and more than 700 homes from neighbouring communities benefit from their outreach programs.
Speaking during the ceremony, Brother Joachim, the caretaker priest at the Bethlehem Home, expressed deep gratitude to Rubis and emphasized the impact such partnerships have on their daily operations:
“We receive children even from police stations, from local councils, and even at our gate. These are the ones who have been forgotten or rejected. But here, we are here to give hope to the hopeless, the homeless, and those rejected by society. We live entirely by donations and assistance from well-wishers.”
Brother Joachim drew from Scripture to emphasize the spiritual calling behind their mission, saying, “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen,” he read from Isaiah 58:6-8, “to loose the chains of injustice… to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter? This is what we try to live by every day.” He went on to quote Proverbs 19:17 and 28:27, highlighting the divine value of generosity: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord. Those who give to the poor will lack nothing.” He concluded with heartfelt appreciation: “Rubis Energy Uganda, your support today means so much to us. Thank you for not forgetting the least among us. May your generosity bring blessings upon your company and all who work with you.”
Rubis Energy Uganda’s Country Manager, Olivier Gatera, emphasized that this initiative is not a one-off donation, but part of a broader strategy to create long-term societal impact. He noted that the company is proud to partner with organizations that demonstrate a clear commitment to serving humanity, especially those with limited access to consistent funding.
Over the years, Rubis has built a track record of responsible engagement, having previously partnered with SOS Children’s Villages to provide LPG solutions, and with Rotaract Uganda for environmental initiatives and menstrual health campaigns. The company’s CSR framework is driven by three pillars: reducing environmental carbon footprint, ensuring a safe and empowering workplace, and fostering a virtuous society through active community involvement.
The delegation from Rubis Energy Uganda, led by Country Manager Olivier Gatera and CSR Manager Henry Karuhanga, was also joined by representatives from the Uganda Red Cross and members of the media. The guests were taken on a guided tour of the facilities and dormitories, where Brother Joachim explained the critical needs of the children with disabilities and elderly residents in their care.
By collaborating with the Missionaries of the Poor, Rubis Energy Uganda is not only delivering on its CSR promises but is also joining hands with a mission that echoes the very heart of compassion and dignity. Today’s handover demonstrates the power of partnership and the belief that no one should be left behind, especially the most vulnerable. Through ongoing collaboration, both organizations hope to inspire more stakeholders to take bold steps toward a more just and inclusive Uganda.
