Amuria District witnessed a heartfelt moment of transition as Korean missionary Chung Ha Hee officially handed over the leadership of the Amuria Youth Center to fellow Korean missionary Chaa Ha Jong, marking the end of her 18-year mission under Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) Uganda and Chung Dong First Methodist Church in Uganda.
The emotional Uganda Missionary and Transition Handover Ceremony was filled with gratitude and reflection as Chung, the founder and now former manager of the center, broke into tears of joy.
At 70 years, she retires and returns to South Korea, leaving behind a powerful legacy of love, service, and transformation in the lives of over 900 children affected by HIV/AIDS.
Founded 12 years ago, the Amuria Youth Center has grown into a pillar of hope under Chung’s stewardship, providing not just basic needs, but life changing vocational skills in motor mechanics, tailoring, hairdressing, construction, baby care, and crafts.
Beyond the center, her impact includes the construction of more than 10 schools, 20 boreholes, and several churches in Amuria, Kapelebyong, and the wider Teso and Karamoja sub-regions.
“I started when I was young and never expected to achieve all this, but we thank God. Now at 70 years, I must retire and give this chance to my brother, Missionary Chaa Ha Jong,” Chung said in her farewell speech.
With humility, she asked for forgiveness from anyone she may have wronged and urged the community to support her successor with the same love they had shown her.
She expressed her deepest appreciation to Chung Dong First Methodist Church, KFHI, IDI Uganda, parents, local leaders, and especially Hon. Musa Francis Ecweru, the State Minister of Works and MP for Amuria County, for their unwavering support over the years.
“Working all these 18 years was by the grace of the Lord and your support. I love you so much, my people. Eyalama noi,” she said.
Incoming manager, Missionary Chaa Ha Jong, 30, brings with him international experience and a commitment to service.
In his first public address, he acknowledged the warm welcome from Ugandans and promised to uphold and expand the mission Chung had so faithfully nurtured.
“I’m not righteous, but I will try my best to support you. Let us stay united, pray for each other, and work together to develop our children, our communities, and our organization,” Chaa said.
The community responded with overwhelming appreciation, praising Chung’s dedication and sacrifice.
“The seeds she planted will bear fruit and continue to transform the lives of generations to come,” said one local resident.
Another remarked, “May the Almighty Lord bless you, our beloved mother Chung Ha Hee, for your selfless love and for building a brighter future for our children.”
The event was officiated by Hon. Musa Francis Ecweru, who lauded Chung and the Chung Dong First Methodist Church for their significant role in uplifting Amuria.
He acknowledged how the mission had transformed the region from one of despair into a place of opportunity and education, particularly for vulnerable children.
“Your intervention has helped transform this place and improve lives, you have empowered Teso with skilled individuals, and we thank you for establishing such a big institution in Amuria,” Ecweru stated.
He highlighted the construction of schools like Kumangor, Osekai, and Oboliai as critical in reducing illiteracy and giving school dropouts a second chance.
The minister also recognized the generosity of local families who donated land for these projects and emphasized that because of this initiative, many children who once faced malnutrition and poverty now have a brighter future.
He pledged his full support to Chaa Ha Jong and urged him to expand the work started by his predecessor.
“We will give him full support, consult him, and share ideas. There are still many malnourished children in the villages who need support. We encourage you to grow this program even further,” Ecweru urged.
Missionary Chaa responded with humility and gratitude, saying, “I will do my best, but I ask for unity, cooperation, and continued prayers so that we may together bring about positive change and strong representation for those in need.”
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