July 2026 marks a watershed moment for Man Up in Bulangira, Uganda. Several years ago, our AMP cohort leaders in Uganda presented us with a 22-page proposal outlining a bold vision: a Skills Training Program that would equip AMP graduates with practical, income-generating skills such as welding, carpentry, shoemaking, tailoring, lawn maintenance, baking, and more. Although they had a clear vision, they lacked the startup capital to bring it to life. After years of prayer, faithful perseverance, and waiting on God's perfect timing, that vision is finally becoming a reality. Just a few weeks ago, construction began, and today three buildings that will serve as the training center are nearing completion. This is an exciting new chapter in the life of the AMP program. We are filled with gratitude for God's faithfulness and eager to see how He will use this training center to transform lives and create new opportunities for generations to come. .
The AMP program has been running in Uganda since 2018. Since inception, the program has seen close to 1,000 men discipled and hundreds more indirectly impacted by the men who have been a part of the program. Pastor Geofrey Ochari Man Up's In-country Director states, “We have heard testimony after testimony from men who have gone through the program and from their spouses, and they have become a great encouragement to us. There aren’t enough pages to write down all the testimonies we have heard throughout the 8-year journey of discipleship”. Pastor Geofrey also shared, “We realized that people are gifted and talented in different areas but lack the skills that can take them through and empower them. We want to come along as a team to help men discover themselves and afterwards empower them to exploit their potential and become better financially. We believe teaching them a skill will be more effective than giving them money.” With that, Pastor Geofrey and the other cohort leaders proposed a “Skills Training” concept instead of a micro-loan. Geofrey adds, “We believe skills training will help reduce the stress and struggles involved with loan recovery. Under this new arrangement we intend to give men necessary skills and start up support in the form of tools and not cash. We further suggest that the support given will be at 50% cost-share in the program. We have realized this will create a sense of responsibility and ownership.” The AMP program’s purpose has always been to see men develop holistically as followers of Jesus, husbands, fathers, entrepreneurs and active participants in the mission of God in the world through the work of the local church. To see men given the opportunity for upward mobility; not a “hand-out” but a “hand-up.” When men are living out their divine calling the problem of fatherlessness can be eradicated, which is the vision of Man Up.
Outcomes (Where cohort members have demonstrated a significant increase): Knowledge and skills related to entrepreneurship, financial management, marketing, and development of business plans Enhanced confidence and motivation to start and manage their own business Community building and a sense of fostering community and collaboration especially among other cohort members Members indicate improved family relationships and increased financial stability Men report gratitude to the program for giving them a "hand up" instead of a "hand out" They are realizing their divine calling to alleviate Fatherlessness Roughly 50% of the men that have graduated are still continuing to meet & pool resources. They report developing holistically as followers of Jesus, husbands, fathers, entrepreneurs, and active participants in the mission of God in the world and the work of the local church. Conclusion: The "Man Up Authentic Masculinity Program" in Holeta provided men with valuable training, resources, and community support. The phased approach allowed for a solid foundation in biblical principles, business skills development, and ongoing mentorship. The program represents a significant investment in the holistic development of men, with the potential to positively impact families, communities, and the local church. Continued monitoring and evaluation will be crucial to assess the long-term impact of the program. Will continue to emphasize the importance of covenant community and accountability; provide ongoing business mentorship and support to participants, explore opportunities to expand the program to other communities, and develop a strong system for tracking and evaluating the long-term impact of the program".
Lessons from Phase 2 - Authentic Masculinity Reports from cohort leaders in Uganda 🇺🇬 on the start of Phase 2 of the AMP curriculum. Phase 2 lessons focus on basic business practices and the development of income generating activities (IGA). Geofrey Ochari our in-country director reports, "Today in Kibuku our discussion centered around time management. Every one had to show us how they divided up their 24 hours. Time was divided across 4 areas." 1. Personal devotion 2. Family 3. Income generating activities 4. Ministry and serving others This from Eliazar Kabugo our cohort leader in Namwiwa. "Analysis of IGA's from our Asset Maps was so amazing coming to realize that God has put everything we need well at our disposal. Yet, sometimes we can't see because of the narrative from our culture, friends, and family. How eye opening it was to make new resolutions!"
Every year Man Up AMP Alumni and current cohort members organize a marriage conference in Uganda. This year there were over 100 couples participating in the conference. The conference is facilitated by our In-country Director, Geofrey Ochari, together with AMP cohort coordinator, Pastor Abraham Koche, and ministry partner from Ebenezer Ministries, George Kooli. They work with pastors and other church leaders around the area and also invite a guest speaker. What a blessing to see these couples coming together seeking to improve their relationships and hear how to create a marriage after God's own heart!
Gabiri Tefiro leading in performance so far in Kibuku district. He is in Phase III and has opened a produce store and tripled his efforts in farming. He currently has 5 acres of land growing cow peas in three separate gardens.