On Saturday, 29th November 2025, Merowa Junior School in Kibuli came alive with colour, music and laughter as the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation (4040) hosted its first-ever Angaza Day. From early morning, children, teachers, parents, volunteers and community members gathered to celebrate the achievements of learners who have journeyed through the Angaza Programme this year.
The day began with the joyful revival of 4040’s tradition, Breakfast with the Kids. Volunteers and guests stirred porridge, handed out snacks and shared stories with learners who could barely contain their excitement for the festivities ahead.
“Sharing breakfast with the children brought us back to the heart of Angaza, the community. It set the tone for everything that followed.” Mabel Apili, 4040 partner
Showcasing Skills and Creativity
Under the theme “Shine Your Light,” learners took centre stage—just as Angaza intended. Performances, poetry, drama, dance and music filled the school grounds, while exhibitions displayed an impressive range of skills: liquid soap, paper bags, mats, crafts and more.
For many learners, it was their first time to stand before a big crowd.
“I was scared when I saw many people, but when I started speaking, I felt brave. Angaza taught me that I can try anything,” Shadia, P.6 learner
Teachers beamed with pride as they watched their learners demonstrate confidence and creativity that had steadily grown throughout the year.
“We see the change every week, children expressing themselves more, thinking critically, helping each other. Today was proof that exposure and care make a world of difference.” Ahmed, Teacher at Merowa Junior School
Parents, many of whom had only heard about the programme from their children, were emotional seeing their progress first-hand.
“My son talks about Angaza all the time, but seeing him explain how he makes liquid soap and why self-awareness matters…I realised he’s learning skills I never learned at his age,” Mariam, Parent
Their presence reaffirmed the power of community-led education, an approach that has guided Angaza since its early days.
For the past nine years, the Angaza Programme has supported learners from under-resourced schools in Kibuli and surrounding communities, equipping them with life skills such as self-awareness, problem-solving, resourcefulness, community agency, literacy and numeracy. Since 2012, 4040 has reached over 3,500 children through a dedicated volunteer network of 600+ individuals.
At Angaza Day, the 4040 team reflected on how far the programme has come.
“Angaza started as a dream to provide children with the tools to see themselves differently, to believe they are capable. Seeing these learners shine today reminds us why this work matters,”Jonathan Mutungi, Head of the Angaza Programme
The highlight of the day was the prize ceremony, where learners who demonstrated outstanding leadership, creativity, teamwork and growth received certificates and gifts. Cheers and ululations filled the air as names were called out, celebrating not just individual success but collective effort. 5 teachers who have offered unwavering support to the implementation of the programme were recognised as well.
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