When Masaba* arrived at the Tigers Clubhouse in Kampala, Uganda, he was extremely weak and thin, so much so that when he walked it seemed that he would fall over at any moment. Despite his weakness, his drug addiction made him violent which struck fear into the other boys.Masaba had been living on the streets after running away from a troubled family life in a poor rural village. His relationship with his step-mother had deteriorated so much that he tried living with his grandmother instead, but when this didn’t work out he headed for the city but he soon got caught up in crime and drug abuse. He’d been in contact with Tigers Club before so when he turned up again Masaba was selected to join the halfway home, in preparation for returning home, the other boys were in uproar! Even the staff were sceptical as to whether Masaba could ever change.   Thankfully, Masaba has proved everyone wrong!
Over time, Masaba responded to the love and attention of the Tigers Club staff who counselled, discipled and guided him. He gradually gave up using drugs and his behaviour imnproved steadily. He is now smart, hardworking and even acts as an advisor and guide to other boys.

Those who once thought that Masaba could not change now describe him as one of the best boys at Tigers Club!

RETRAK encourages boys to return to their families wherever possible. Masaba is keen to move on in life and return to his family. However, although his father wants him to return, conditions are very difficult as the whole family lives in just one room. Therefore, the next step for Masaba will be to join the the Tigers Club START programme where he will receive training as a mechanic. Once he has qualified it is hoped he will be able to return to his home village where his skills will provide an income for him and his family.

*Child’s name changed to protect his identity