Looking back on 2025
31/12/2025
Looking back on 2025
Towards the end of this year I try to reflect on the adventures and challenges that came on my path in 2025. They changed me and shaped me, made me learn how to trust and let go, to accept and to never give up.
I am so proud of all we achieved with the Bivamuntuyo projects The Nutrition Unit has been extremely busy and treated over 150 malnourished patients this year and we had our first 8 graduates who finished the practical training skills course.
I am so grateful for my lovely family, we had a tough year with baby Ajani but we stayed strong, loving and caring but to be honest it has not been easy and has taken a toll on all of us.
My wish for 2026 is to create financial stability for Bivamuntuyo as the services we provide are life saving and need to be continued and expanded.
And for myself and my family I hope the adoption process for Hanna and Ajani will be successful and Babi and Rosah will get an opportunity to study from the Netherlands and explore the world.
I want to thank all of you for the support and love we receive continuously and which keeps us us going💕
Enjoy 2026 and let the new adventures begin!!!
Roadblock on the main road to Kampala: stuck for 12 hours!
29/12/2025
Stuck in traffic for 12 hours
1- Kim wants to pick up her little brother Erwin from Entebbe airport. He is coming to visit for four weeks.
However, things don’t go as planned.
She ends up in a traffic jam and is stuck in traffic for 12 hours.
2- Christmas with the whole family couldn’t happen because Hanna had measles and malaria.
On New Year’s Eve, the party is repeated in Masaka.
Christmas Day did not go as planned
27/12/2025
Kim is stuck in the village because Hanna is ill
1- Kim receives gifts from the hospital staff.
2- Hanna has malaria and measles.
As a result, Kim is stuck in the village
and cannot go to Masaka to celebrate Christmas with her children Babi and Roos.
The Bivamuntuyo Christmas Party 2025
23/12/2025
The Bivamuntuyo Christmas Party 2025
Kim has been busy preparing for the Bivamuntuyo Christmas party 2025.
Traditionally, there is a lot of food at the party. That is why she bought the necessary ingredients for 70 people at the market, such as avocados, pumpkins and tomatoes.
She has also been working with a Biva team to put together packages for the staff.
In addition to the convivial get-together and the presentation of the packages to the staff, eight women will also receive a certificate for completing the practical courses given at the farm last year.
Ajani is back in hospital
27/10/2025
Ajani is back in hospital
We are back in the hospital with Ajani. After several operations to manage his hydrocephalus (waterhead) the doctors have not found a way yet to stabilize his condition and so this past year we have been in a specialized hospital for over 10 times.
Our lovely and ever so patient nanny Prossy stayed most of the time with him as his caretaker during admissions. We gave her a long deserved off as the care for Ajani is heavy both mentally and physically.
Last week he declined again due to malfunctioning of his shunt. A journey of 12 hours to reach the hospital, Ajani was so weak and I was scared.
The staff here is so friendly and experienced and as long as we are here I know there are possibilities although the doctors are puzzled at the moment about the way forward as almost all options are tried and unfortunately failed to work.
This beautiful boy came in our lives for a reason and am learning again so much from this experience being his caretaker in the hospital. I share the ward with 50 mothers and children, all suffering from hydrocephalus or/and Spina bifida…I realize how many mothers are struggling with their child but not giving up…I have to admit I do feel like giving up sometimes as I find it so difficult to see him suffering and weak.
Lack of sleep and financial worries also dont work well for a positive mind but what doesn’t kill you make s you stronger and I take this opportunity to learn and become stronger just like all the amazing mothers here on ward. Trust is again the word that I carry in my heart and keeps me going. Let’s give him the love and care he deserves and trust that all will work out for the best❤️
Ajani was found last year juli in a sack in the coffee plantation just after delivery and police brought the few hours old baby to our nutrition unit to feed the newborn. The biological mother has not been found and eventually we brought him home, not knowing the challenges that were ahead of us.
All the children, friends and colleagues help out with the care for Ajani and I am so lucky with all these great people in my life. I feel so supported especially in the moments when I don’t see the point of the things that happen anymore… Luckily there is always a friend that brings me back with my two feet on the ground and making sure to find a way forward and not to give up💪🏾Let’s take this road one step at the time and see were it will lead too…..💙
Watch: Vlog #199 – Dark days in the hospital
Farewell to the Netherlands
02/10/2025
Returning Home
Back in Uganda after a 4 months adventure in the Netherlands. It was not easy to leave work and family behind and many times I thought “what am I doing here in this crazy, busy country”?
It has been so inspiring and a real pleasure to meet Bivamuntuyo sponsors, being interviewed by a radio station, promoting Bivamuntuyo on several occasions, ride my bicycle, step into a bus that is not overloaded, working in the kitchen of a restaurant with a sea view, having nice colleagues, meeting new people and seeing friends and family on a regular base.
I had some good time to reflect on my life and find out what truly makes me happy and if I am still doing what I love most.
I am so proud of my children and colleagues who managed all the work and duties that continued when I wasn’t around. .and I am happy to find out that all runs without me and that’s a true meaningful lesson I have learned.
Unfortunately I didn’t manage to meet all the people I wanted to see, appreciate and say thank you to. But I left a piece of my heart in the Netherlands this time and hope to spend more summers in the cheese country.
TRUST is what I truly tried to feel, experience and practice during my stay and it has made me grow. Trust the flow of life… sometimes it so scary to jump and let go of control but in the end everything works out well and I am so grateful for this lesson in life. 💕
Thanks to everybody who is part of my life, I know I am a lucky lady☺️
Watch: Vlog #198 – Returning Home
Promoting Bivamuntuyo in Nijmegen (The Netherlands)
18/09/2025
Promoting Bivamuntuyo in Nijmegen (the Netherlands)
An event especially for women has been organised in Nijmegen:
the Bewonder Walk. (Admire Walk)
Female entrepreneurs will be showcasing what they do in their businesses.
Kim has been invited to talk about
her projects in Uganda.
Meeting with my old ballet teacher
17/09/2025
40 years later – A meeting with my ballet teacher.
One of my wishes was to meet the woman who believed in me
and who inspired me to follow my dancing dreams.
When I was a little girl I started ballet classes and I was hooked on dancing
as many times a week as possible. Dancing on Point shoes,
beautifully made costumes that made you feel like a princess on stage,
being exposed to all kinds of music ( on tape😉)
and just feeling the joy of dancing is what this amazing lady brought me.
Today my wish came true.
I met my ballet teacher from 40 years ago and she still loves dancing
and she looks great.Because of her I studied ballet and modern dance
and graduated as a dance teacher many years ago.
It brought me so much joy.
I miss teaching, I miss dancing these days and as the time in the Netherlands
is a rollercoaster of feelings, confrontations and learning experiences I feel
I want to teach again
No idea how we are going to accomplish that in Uganda as it is impossible
to be “on time” and keep things organised but I have to find a way.
So grateful today
🧡
Large boot sale in Hoek van Holland
31st August 2025
On the last day of August, I was at a boot sale in Hoek van Holland
with my dear friend Kim Elverding.
We sold donated clothing and items for Bivamuntuyo.
When we both lived in Uganda, we always went to second-hand markets
to search through piles of clothing for nice items.
We had started setting up in the dark around 6 o’clock in the morning
and there were already people snooping around with torches.
It turned out to be a very enjoyable day with good sales and beautiful weather.🌞
Watch: Vlog #196 – Trunk Sale for Bivamuntuyo
Hanna turns 5 today
29/08/2025
Kirabo Hanna Hope, you are a precious gift in our lives and today we celebrate your 5th birthday 🎉🎂🥳
Hostess at SAIL Amsterdam 2025
23 augustus 2025
Hostess at SAIL Amsterdam 2025
For the past three days, thanks to one of my sponsors,
I have been working at SAIL Amsterdam 2025.
I was a hostess on the former radio broadcasting ship of Radio Veronica.
It was very enjoyable and busy in Amsterdam.
It’s a great way to get out and about. 😁
Rosah turns 18
17 augustus 2025
Rosah turns 18 years 🥳
I can’t believe this little girl has grown up into a lovely lady
who can’t wait to finish secondary school and become a (famous) make up artist.
Rosah came into my life when she was two weeks old.
She was a funny girl always dressing up and definitely the naughtiest one of all of them…
Rosah is a special girl and taught me so much over the years….
especially when I say ” that’s not normal“…and she questions me “what is normal“??
‘This girl is on fire‘… is one of her favourite songs and it definitely fits her😉 ….
I can’t be physically with her today to celebrate this special day
but I hope all her wishes will come true when she blows out her candles.
🎂 Happy birthday my dear Rosah❤️
Selling items for Bivamuntuyo at a garden market.
09/08/2025
Vlog #194 – More work to be done
On 3 August 2025, there was more work to be done.
A garden market was held at camping ‘t Weergors in Hellevoetsluis.
Bivamuntuyo was also there with a stall selling Ugandan items.
A lottery was also organised, with the proceeds going to Bivamuntuyo.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Working on a Flea market in Schiedam, the Netherlands
22/07/2025
On 29 June 2025, there was a flea market in Schiedam.
During her stay in the Netherlands, Kim received a lot of clothes
and other items to sell for Bivamuntuyo.
Together with her cousin, Kim goes to the flea market to sell the goods.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Baby Ajani Mitchel undergoes another operation
15/07/2025
Vlog #192 – Back to the Hospital with Ajani
Februari 2025. Baby Ajani Mitchel has been staying with the family for six months.
The baby’s health remains a concern.
He has undergone several operations to insert a drain to properly drain cerebrospinal fluid.
This requires a 12-hour journey to a hospital that specialises in this procedure.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Kim turns 45 years today
12/07/2025
Today I turn 45.
I would have preferred to stay 44 forever,
but unfortunately, life goes on and so another year is upon us.
This morning I felt so grateful and realised that all the ups and downs
of the past 44 years were opportunities to grow and learn.
To become wiser and to discover what values are important in my life.
Freedom, love, sharing, caring and awareness
are high on my list, and I experience them all in this life, lucky me.
So I dive into the next 45 years of my life with confidence,
faith, excitement and curiosity,
because I believe that there are very beautiful years ahead.
Bussiness Trip for three 3 months
11/05/2025
Vlog #191 – Off to the Netherlands
Kim is going to the Netherlands for three months.
She is not only there for pleasure, but also for business purposes.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Journey to Mombasa in Kenya
02/11/2024
Vlog #187 – Wedding Bells on the Beach
Kim sets off on an adventurous bus and train journey to Mombasa in Kenya.
She is going to visit her friends Andy and Alis, who are getting married on Kilifi beach.
Many friends (who live or have lived in Uganda) will be there,
and she is looking forward to this wonderful reunion and mini-holiday.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Update about Ajani Mitchel
19/10/2024
Vlog #186 – Newborn Joy: Ajani Mitchel
The first three months in the life of Ajani Mitchel.
He was found in a bag and taken to the Feeding Unit at the hospital.
Kim is taking care of the vulnerable baby for the time being.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Mothers have begun training courses
12/10/2024
Vlog #185 – Practical training has started
Practical training for the mothers has started.
In addition to hairdressing and sewing courses,
the students are also receiving lessons in small-scale agriculture.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
The Nutrition Unit is expanding
28/09/2024
Vlog #184 – Expansion of the Nutrition Unit
[1] Kim is visiting Rosah’s school.
[2] Due to an outbreak of Yellow Fever, the entire population in the region is being vaccinated.
This includes all schools.
[3] The Nutrition Department is being expanded.
By breaking through a wall, the space is enlarged and better supervision is possible.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
25/09/2024
Baby found
On 6 July, this little boy was found in a bag on a coffee plantation. A newborn baby with the placenta still attached to the umbilical cord. 
Over the years, I have learned not to judge immediately here in Uganda, because there are various circumstances that can unfortunately lead to this kind of action.
The little one was eventually dropped off by the police at the feeding department, and the caring staff took responsibility 
for feeding him and giving him the care he needed.
The investigation into the mother began, and a suspect was arrested who ultimately turned out not to be the one who had given birth to this baby.
I wonder if his biological mother lies awake at night regretting her actions. Since there was nowhere else to go, we took him home to await further instructions from the probation officer.
We discovered that he was suffering from hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid in the upper layers of the brain, and for the past 4 weeks he has been in a specialised hospital with our wonderful nanny Prossy, waiting for an operation to insert a shunt that will drain the excess fluid from his brain to other parts of his body to reduce the pressure and lower the risk of brain damage.
Unfortunately, he has not yet had the operation because he is still weak, so we will be going back at the end of October for a 12-hour journey.
I am so grateful for the wonderful help from all the children, my colleagues and friends who are lending a hand in any way they can. It gives me courage and support, but above all, it makes me feel that I am not alone, and that makes me grateful.
We have no idea what the future will hold for him, but with love and care, I believe he will go a long way. Let me proudly introduce Ajani Mitchell, a beautiful baby boy and a blessing in our lives.
The construction of the school building is progressing steadily.
17/05/2024
Vlog #183 – The new classroom building
– A new building has been under construction for some time now to provide practical training.
Students will then be able to work independently with a sewing machine or as a hairdresser.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Who wins the cake baking contest?
05/04/2024
Vlog #181 – A cake baking contest on Easter Monday
– A new kitchen has been built on the farm.
– A cake baking contest was held on Easter Monday.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
About picking Coffee Beans and other things
22/03/2024
Vlog #180 – Patience is required for this job
In this vlog:
– A sunny day with the children at home.
– The last water tank is delivered, and we take a look at coffee bean picking.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
Family portrait
18/03/2024
– My girls. 💕 Sometimes you have those moments when you feel so proud, grateful and happy. 😊
23/12/2023
– We have launched a campaign for Bivamuntuyo to buy its own minibus. Would you like to contribute?
Click on the button below to go to the Bivamuntuyo donation page.
23/12/2023
Vlog #178 – Make a dream come true
– Kim dreams of having her own Transport Van for Bivamuntuyo.
She rents a Van and takes the nutrition staff on a test drive to an Outreach.
Would you like to view previous vlogs?
https://www.youtube.com/KimVogelVlog
13/05/2023
This time:
– It’s not easy to ride a boda on a slippery muddy road.
– The jackfruit is the largest fruit in the world. You don’t want to be standing underneath it when it falls.
– At the market, Sofie, the baby who is being temporarily cared for, gets earrings.
29/04/2023
It’s a tough time.
With work on the farm, at the hospital, at the childcare centre,
and also caring for a foundling, fatigue is starting to set in.
15/04/2023
The existing rainwater storage capacity on the farm is being significantly expanded.
01/04/2023
A call from the local police.
They are looking for temporary accommodation for a found baby.
This brings back memories for Kim.
18/03/2023
Hanna has chickenpox, which causes a lot of itching.
To relieve the itching, pieces of tree bark are crushed.
The sap that emerges is then rubbed onto the skin.
09/02/2023
Babirye has passed her secondary school exams and we are very happy and proud.
She gave me the opportunity to become a mother and watch her grow up
into the caring and loving person she is today.
Now it’s time to celebrate and follow her dreams for the future….
12/11/2022
Cheerful flags for years of decorating fun! A beautiful, durable flag line made from colourful Ugandan fabrics.
At Bivamuntuyo, we are jacks of all trades, and so we started this flag project in collaboration with Agnes, our sewing teacher, to support young people with practical training.
It is important that young people have the opportunity to pursue education, as it increases their chances of finding a job in the future.
We sell the Happy Flags in the Netherlands and surrounding areas, and the proceeds are used to support young people in taking hairdressing or sewing courses. In addition, other lessons such as English, agriculture, life skills and administration will be offered so that they can use these skills to generate an income and support themselves in the future.
Happy you, Happy us!
- Happy Flags
Price: 18,50 Euro
The lenght of the flagline is 10 meter (40 flags)
Terugblik op 2025
31/12/2025
Terugblik op het afgelopen jaar
Tegen het einde van dit jaar probeer ik terug te blikken op de avonturen en uitdagingen die ik in 2025 heb meegemaakt.
Ze hebben me veranderd en gevormd, me geleerd om te vertrouwen en los te laten, te accepteren en nooit op te geven.
Ik ben zo trots op alles wat we hebben bereikt met de Bivamuntuyo-projecten. De voedingsafdeling heeft het erg druk gehad en heeft dit jaar meer dan 150 ondervoede patiënten behandeld.
Ook hebben we onze eerste 8 afgestudeerden gehad die de praktische vaardigheidstraining hebben afgerond.
Ik ben zo dankbaar voor mijn lieve familie. We hebben een moeilijk jaar gehad met baby Ajani, maar we zijn sterk, liefdevol en zorgzaam gebleven. Eerlijk gezegd was het niet gemakkelijk en heeft het ons allemaal veel gekost.
Mijn wens voor 2026 is om financiële stabiliteit te creëren voor Bivamuntuyo, omdat de diensten die we leveren levensreddend zijn en moeten worden voortgezet en uitgebreid.
Voor mijzelf en mijn familie hoop ik dat het adoptieproces voor Hanna en Ajani succesvol zal zijn en dat Babi en Rosah de kans krijgen om in Nederland te studeren en de wereld te verkennen.
Ik wil jullie allemaal bedanken voor de steun en liefde die we voortdurend ontvangen en die ons op de been houdt💕
Geniet van 2026 en laat de nieuwe avonturen beginnen!!!
Wegblokkade op de hoofdweg naar Kampala: 12 uur vastgestaan!
29/12/2025
Vlog #204 – 12 uur vaststaan in de file
1- Kim wil haar broertje Erwin ophalen van het vliegveld in Entebbe. Die komt 4 weken op bezoek.
Het loopt echter anders dan verwacht.
Ze komt terecht in een stilstaande file en zit 12 uur vast in het verkeer.
2- Kerstmis met de hele familie kon niet door gaan omdat Hanna de mazelen en malaria had.
Op Oudejaarsavond word in Masaka het feestje dunnetjes overgedaan.
Kerstmis ging niet zoals gepland.
27/12/2025
Vlog #203 – Kim zit vast in het dorp omdat Hanna ziek is
1- Kim krijgt kadootjes van het ziekenhuis personeel.
2- Hanna heeft malaria en de mazelen.
Daardoor zit Kim vast in het dorp,
en kan ze niet naar Masaka om bij haar kinderen Babi en Roos Kerstmis te vieren.