While FJMC International has been connected to the Abayudaya Jews of Uganda and Kenya for over a decade, we have taken on a new role in supporting this inspirational Abayudaya community through FJMC’s new International Region, and are redoubling our efforts to increase awareness of the Abayudaya throughout the global Jewish world while also helping them overcome unique challenges.
The Abayudaya community consists of nearly 30 villages and more than a dozen small synagogues, located primarily around the southeastern Ugandan city of Mbale but also extending toward the country’s north and over the border into Kenya. There are at least two main schools – the Hadassah Primary School and Semei Kakungulu High School – as well as a health clinic. It is largely Conservative/Masorti – led by U.S.-trained Chief Rabbi Gershom Sizomu, with other spiritual leaders throughout the villages – but also has some Orthodox and Reform, and has had an established FJMC club for several years.
More than 100 years after first adopting Judaism, the Abayudaya today are committed Jews, dedicated to eagerly learning, observing and joyously celebrating our faith. But as with most of their non-Jewish neighbors, many live in basic subsistence conditions, in a largely impoverished country. As a result, while generally physically safe, they face unique financial needs due to political, educational, medical, and environmental insecurities in the region. As their brethren, we feel not only an obligation but an excitement to help our fellow Jews who have so enthusiastically embraced us.
Please consider contributing to our ongoing fund as we build up our capacity to help the Abayudaya, whether it is for their students to attend Jewish schools, to support the needs of their synagogues, to provide religious items for worship or observance, or to enhance their economic conditions toward self-sustainability through micro-business loans or community support. Your donations go much farther in Uganda and Kenya, so while their needs are great, we are able to meet them more easily.
All funds are distributed by the FJMC Abayudaya Committee with guidance from the FJMC International leadership. FJMC International is coordinating our donations with other Masorti and Jewish assistance organizations to ensure that they are used as effectively as possible.
If you have interest and capacity to contribute at higher levels, please contact to discuss additional ways to give.
