Dignity &
Partnership
We affirm the dignity of vulnerable communities when we see them not just as beneficiaries of charity but as valuable contributors and stakeholders in the solutions to their challenges.
We affirm the dignity of the members of vulnerable communities when we see them not just as beneficiaries of charity but as valuable contributors/stakeholders in the solutions to their challenges.
A Journey of
Community Service
Community First Uganda was founded in 2020 by Philip Onen with a vision to serve the most vulnerable and marginalized communities in Kampala, Uganda. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Somali urban refugees living in Kampala's slum areas, our founder established an organization built on the principles of dignity, partnership, and community-led development.
What began as a small initiative has grown into a comprehensive community development organization serving over 300 individuals annually through four core program areas: Literacy & Development, Sports & Social Engagements, Community Services, and Livelihood Support.
Our journey has been marked by the resilience and determination of the communities we serve. From Somali refugees rebuilding their lives to women gaining economic independence through skills training, every story of transformation reinforces our commitment to community-led development.
Participatory
Development Approach
We engage vulnerable communities to establish their felt needs and empower them through participatory research, critical discourse, and community-led development.
Community-Led Development
We engage the Somali community to establish their felt needs and empower them to improve their livelihood through participatory research and critical discourse.
Partnership & Participation
Projects are initiated by beneficiaries themselves and developed in partnership throughout the entire process from planning to execution to evaluation.
Empowerment & Self-Reliance
We aim to empower the community and reduce dependence, helping them realize their potential to take control of their situations and impact others positively.
Holistic Transformation
Our engagements are designed to see the community holistically transformed into thriving, self-sufficient groups — socially, psychosocially, and economically.
Executive Leadership
Dedicated individuals committed to serving vulnerable communities with integrity and compassion.
Philip Onen
Executive Director
Under Philip's leadership, Community First Uganda serves marginalized and vulnerable communities across Uganda, with a special focus on Somali Urban Refugees living in Kampala's slum areas.
Community Team
Program Coordinators & Volunteers
A dedicated team of program coordinators and community volunteers working together to deliver impactful programs across all four core areas.
The Community
We Serve
Our work focuses on holistic transformation — socially, psychosocially, and economically — across vulnerable communities in Uganda.
Somali Urban Refugees
Our current target community living in the slums of Kampala — including Katanga, Bwaise, and Mengo areas — focusing on establishing felt needs and empowerment.
Vulnerable Families
Supporting the most vulnerable families within the Somali and broader community through holistic intervention programs addressing education, health, and economic stability.
Women & Youth
Empowering Somali women and youth through skills development, leadership training, and income-generating activities including crocheting, henna art, tailoring, and soap making.
Indigenous NGO —
Registered in Uganda
Community First Uganda is officially registered under the Ugandan National Bureau for NGOs, ensuring transparency, accountability, and legal compliance in all our operations.
Legal Status
Registered NGO under Uganda National Bureau for NGOs
Indigenous Organization
Locally-led, community-based organization serving Uganda since 2020