Overview
Solidarity for Rural Development Organisation (SORUDEO) is a community-based, non-political, non-governmental, non-profit, and non-denominational organization dedicated to rural development.
Rooted in rural communities, SORUDEO operates on the principle of inclusivity and non-discrimination. The organization does not discriminate on the basis of religion, political affiliation, ethnicity, race, color, creed, national origin, age, disability, marital status, gender, or language. Every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and equality. SORUDEO strives to foster a unified family of humanity within rural areas.
SORUDEO is committed to improving the lives of vulnerable populations through poverty reduction, economic empowerment, and social transformation. Its programs are community-driven and designed to address the needs of rural women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), individuals living with illnesses such as sickle cell disease and HIV/AIDS, as well as orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs).
The organization recognizes women as key drivers of development and children as the foundation of the future. Therefore, empowering women and educating children are central pillars of its strategy for achieving sustainable development and lasting peace.
History and Background
SORUDEO began in 2011 as a small self-help farmers group known as Solidarity Farmers Association (SOFA), with the primary aim of combating food insecurity.
In 2015, the group underwent a significant transformation and was restructured into Solidarity for Rural Development Organisation (SORUDEO). This transition expanded its mission to address broader challenges, including hunger, poverty, and violence in rural areas, through sustainable agriculture, education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and socio-economic development.
The organization was founded by Reverend David Okullu, alongside ten committed members who had experienced the devastating effects of over two decades of conflict in Northern Uganda, a region still grappling with high levels of poverty, food insecurity, and violence.
Following Reverend Okullu participation in the U.S. Professional Fellows Program in 2015, hosted by ITD in Amherst, Massachusetts, and Smith College, he returned to Uganda inspired and equipped with new knowledge and global perspectives. With renewed determination and the support of his colleagues, SOFA was transformed into SORUDEO as a nonprofit organization with a broader vision of fostering shared prosperity in rural communities.
The organization acknowledges the inspiration received from Safe Passage-USA and the valuable contributions of volunteers in Uganda, including university professors, lawyers, teachers, and students. SORUDEO continues to welcome individuals and partners who are committed to advancing rural development.
Guiding Philosophy
SORUDEO philosophy is grounded in the belief that all people are equal and uniquely valuable. Every individual has the right to a good life, including access to health, education, a productive environment, economic opportunity, and other basic human needs.
Motto : Together We Achieve.
Legal Status
According to the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (as of 15th February 2006), Article 29, Section 1, Solidarity for Rural Development Organisation (SORUDEO) is legally recognized in Uganda. The organisation is registered as a Community-Based Organisation (CBO) with the Kitgum District Local Government and officially operates within Kitgum District under Registration Number 11174.
SORUDEO is also registered with the Kitgum NGO Forum (KINGFO). In addition, it has been duly registered and incorporated as a national Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) with the Government of Uganda through the National NGO Board under Registration Number 3064; INDR120012636NB.