Denis Mukasa's story

Denis Mukasa was just three years old when he lost both his parents—and later his younger siblings—to HIV/AIDS in Ssembabule District. Left without family support, he faced a future that, for many children in similar circumstances, often leads to not attending of school and a lifetime of struggle.

That trajectory changed when he was taken in and supported through COSMA’s early child sponsorship efforts. With access to education, basic care, and consistent guidance, Denis found not only stability, but a renewed sense of hope.

In 2021, Denis established Valentine Medical Centre – a community health center in Kirangira Village in Mukono District with a simple goal: to provide affordable, reliable healthcare to low-income families. Today, the facility offers services including maternal care, malaria treatment, and HIV testing and counseling – serving people who would otherwise struggle to access care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Denis stepped forward to serve those in need. In a community where health services are scarce, his presence has become essential.

But his work does not stop at healthcare. Understanding the challenges vulnerable families face, Denis has also taken steps to support children affected by HIV. To insitutionalize this work, he established a Community-Based Organization named Hoperise for Vulnerable Communities Uganda, initiating small livelihood efforts, including a piggery project, to help provide school supplies and basic needs for the children.