About Friends of Bwindi

Friends of Bwindi facts

  • We are a small UK-based charitable organisation
  • run entirely by volunteers
  • founded June 2007
  • awarded charitable status by HMRC Charities
  • Volunteers work from home - we have no office costs
  • 100% of donations are used to support beneficiaries in Uganda

Our life chances depend to a large extent on the place, family and conditions into which we were born, something over which we have no control.

Friends of Bwindi* was started in June 2007 by a group of ordinary people living in England, UK, who were lucky enough to be born in a place where everyone has a chance of an education, health care and other support.

The communities around Bwindi Impenetrable Rainforest include some of the poorest people in the world, made poorer by being forced to bear the costs of conservation - in an area of the world devastated by the HIV/AIDs pandemic which has left huge numbers of orphaned and vulnerable children.

Friends of Bwindi was founded on the belief that we have a responsibility to support each other in our global community, particularly orphaned and vulnerable children living in poverty. We believe that many others feel the same way and aim to give them a way to make a real contribution towards improving lives.

None of us can combat world poverty alone, but if a group of people concentrate their efforts on supporting a community we could make a significant difference for those people - and that has to be worth a try.

Friends of Bwindi aim to use the funds entrusted to us in the most effective ways possible, and insist on transparency and accountability from those receiving funds.

Our 100% Commitment

A little can go a long way in Uganda, but there are many people needing support and our funds are limited. We aim to make your donations go as far as possible.

We commit to dedicating 100% of your donations to direct support of our beneficiaries in Uganda - maybe even more! Find out how

Origins orphaned girl cuddling doll

Friends of Bwindi was founded by a visitor who, like many people, first visited Bwindi to see rare mountain gorillas. During her visits she realised that many visitors are motivated to help the local community but find it difficult to do so once they return home.

Find out more about how and why we started Friends of Bwindi, and how this little girl helped to inspire us.

Aims, Mission & Values

Friends of Bwindi aims to work in partnership with families and community organisations in the Bwindi region, enabling the funds entrusted to us to be used in the most effective way.

We do not have any religious or political affiliations.

More about our aims and ethos.

People

Our trustees and volunteers have a range of skills and experience in charity management and other relevant areas. More about our trustees and volunteers

Charity Details

Friends of Bwindi aim to be fully accountable to our supporters, donors and beneficiaries.

Find out more ...

Contact Us

If you have more questions or would like to support our projects we would love to hear from you!

Contact Us

* Our organisation was formerly known as 'Friends of Bwindi Orphanage'.