Justice & Advocacy

JENGA’s aim is to empower the whole community and not just certain parts. Inspired by the Bible’s call to love all people and to seek justice for the oppressed, JENGA is partnering with local law enforcement and justice system officials to help ensure the fair treatment of peoples regardless of wealth, religion or race.

Practically speaking, JENGA represents men and women who have been unfairly arrested or mishandled in court. With partnerships representing various legal offices, JENGA’s aim is to speak into all aspects of the Criminal and Justice System of Mbale. JENGA also works closely with the local police, assisting them with both development work and continuing education in the community.

Advocating for the protection of children is a big part of JENGA’s justice mission.

In partnership with the government social welfare office, our team recently stepped in to be a voice for a voiceless child.

We learned of a 14-year old girl who sustained serious injuries on her way home one evening. She hailed a motorcycle taxi and climbed on as usual, but it quickly became clear that something was very wrong. The driver passed her home and never stopped. Instead, he began speeding into a more desolate area. To protect herself, the girl leapt off the moving motorcycle. She sustained many injuries, including losing several upper and lower teeth, but she was brought to safety by concerned community members.

JENGA stepped in to work with the police and the judicial system to ensure that the driver was found, arrested, and brought to trial. He is now in prison serving a three-year sentence for attempted kidnapping. After he is released, he will pay a fine to the girl’s family.

JENGA also helped treat the girl’s injuries and replaced all of her teeth. Even after everything she went through, she has a beautiful smile once again!