Over 25 years ago, a young ambitious man from Nagercoil, a small city in South India, travelled to Uganda, driven by dreams of wealth and success. However, upon arrival, he was confronted with the stark reality of the country’s poverty, causing him to doubt his decision momentarily. But with the encouragement of fellow Nagercoil residents who had established a close-knit community in Uganda over a period of five decades, he found the resolve to persevere.
The Nagercoil community was known for its strong work ethics, integrity and honesty. Inspired by their example, the young man immersed himself in his career, steadily improving his standard of living while also sending savings back to support his family in India. This turning point marked the beginning of his journey towards community development.
As he grew older, the man recognised the profound impact that community development could have on people’s lives. To his delight, he found that his fellow Nagercoil residents shared the same mindset, dedicating significant time, energy and resources to uplift their community. Together, they became active members of organisations like UGA SEWA and other Tamil associations, channeling their efforts towards various charitable initiatives.
These initiatives included organising medical checkup camps, blood donation drives and educational support programs for selected needy communities in Uganda. The community also fostered local talent by supporting sports activities like badminton, cricket and chess.
The Nagercoil community’s unwavering commitment to community development is a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision. Imagine the transformative impact that could be created if other communities in Uganda were to follow in their footsteps, pooling their resources and expertise to address the pressing needs of their local areas.
The Nagercoil community’s story is a testament to the power of unity, resilience and a steadfast dedication to making a difference. Their journey inspires us, reminding us that even a small group of individuals, driven by a common purpose, can create positive change reverberating throughout an entire nation.
Author – Jahabar Sathick Head – Warehouse & Logistics
Mandela Group
