In the lush, rolling hills of Kigezi, a quiet yet powerful transformation is taking place. At the heart of this change is the Guardian Group of the Kigezi Orphans Project — a determined circle of caregivers, mostly women, who have taken it upon themselves to support their children’s education and uplift their families through a humble but impactful initiative: making handmade soaps and jellies.
These guardians are more than just caretakers — they are artisans, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. With limited economic opportunities in the region and a deep desire to ensure that every child under their care can go to school, they rolled up their sleeves and began producing natural soap and jelly products using locally sourced ingredients. The products not only promote hygiene but also serve as a sustainable income-generating activity for their households.
Why Soap and Jelly?
Soap is a basic necessity in every home, and demand for natural, locally made products is steadily growing. The Guardian Group’s soaps and jellies are crafted with care, often infused with healing herbs and traditional knowledge passed down through generations. These products are sold within the local community and at regional markets, and every bar purchased contributes directly to sending a child to school, putting food on the table, and creating a pathway out of poverty.
Small Scale, Big Dreams
What began as a cottage industry has now become a symbol of resilience and empowerment. However, the group faces limitations in production capacity, packaging, and access to broader markets. That’s why we’re calling on passionate partners — individuals, companies, NGOs, and social investors — to walk with us.
We are seeking support in scaling up this initiative by:
Improving production quality through better equipment and training
Increasing quantity to meet growing demand
Branding and marketing support to reach national and international markets
Establishing distribution partnerships to ensure sustainability
A Call to Action
The Guardian Group is more than a soap-making team — they are a testimony to what’s possible when a community stands together. Every lather of their soap tells a story: of a child who stays in school, of a mother who earns with dignity, of a community that believes in solutions from within.
We invite you to become a part of this journey. Whether you’re a business partner, donor, volunteer, or advocate, your support can help this cottage industry grow into a powerful engine of hope and opportunity.
