MTN Uganda’s recent donation of a brand-new Nissan pickup truck to Night Ampurire, a resilient entrepreneur and single mother of five, has sparked widespread praise from experts within Uganda’s transportation industry.
The gesture, celebrated as a shining example of corporate social responsibility (CSR), underscores the powerful impact that strategic corporate initiatives can have on the lives of individuals and the communities they serve. Industry leaders, including government officials and law enforcement, have lauded MTN Uganda for their support of Ampurire, whose old vehicle had become a symbol of her struggle and perseverance.
This donation is not just seen as an act of charity, but as a testament to the vital role that businesses can play in fostering economic development and ensuring road safety across the country.
A Story That Captured Hearts
Since 2015, Night Ampurire has been the backbone of her family and a key figure in her community in Entebbe. As a small-scale entrepreneur, she has relied on a second-hand Nissan pickup truck, registration number UAD 085B, to transport and sell fresh farm produce such as watermelons and pineapples. Purchased for UGX 3.5 million on an installment basis, the vehicle, despite its age and declining condition, was crucial to her business.
Over time, however, the truck’s deteriorating state became a significant challenge. The vehicle was no longer safe, making it difficult for Ampurire to continue her work without putting herself and others at risk. Yet, despite these hardships, her determination never faltered, as she continued to support her family and contribute to her community.
Ampurire’s story of resilience was recently featured in a widely shared news clip on NTV Uganda. The segment highlighted the struggles she faced in maintaining her livelihood while using an increasingly unreliable vehicle. The broadcast struck a chord with many Ugandans, including the team at MTN Uganda, who were moved by her unwavering spirit.
The handover ceremony took place in Kitooro, Entebbe, where MTN Uganda’s Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia Mulinge, personally presented the new vehicle to Ampurire. The truck, which came equipped with a baby car seat, a full tank of fuel, and comprehensive motor insurance, was a lifeline for Ampurire’s business, ensuring that she could continue her work safely and efficiently.
Speaking at the event, Sylvia Mulinge emphasized MTN Uganda’s dedication to supporting local communities. “At MTN Uganda, we believe in the power of community and the importance of uplifting each other. Night Ampurire’s story is a powerful reminder of the determination and resilience that define our people. We are both honored and proud to support her journey and hope that this new pickup truck will help her expand her business and ensure her safety, and that of other road users, as she continues to provide for her family and serve both her community and clientele better,” Mulinge stated.
Ampurire, deeply moved by the donation, expressed her heartfelt gratitude. “This is a dream come true for me and my family. MTN Uganda has not only given me a new vehicle but also the hope and strength to keep pushing forward. I am deeply thankful for their support, and I am excited about what the future holds for my business,” she said.
Industry-Wide Praise for MTN Uganda’s CSR Initiative
MTN Uganda’s donation has been widely praised by key figures in Uganda’s transportation industry, who see the gesture as a benchmark for corporate social responsibility.
Gen. Katumba Wamala, the Minister for Works and Transport, expressed his admiration for MTN Uganda’s actions. “Thank you, MTN Uganda, for this great gift to Night Ampurire. I highly appreciate and applaud you for this exceptional action. This is CSR at its best,” Gen. Katumba remarked. He highlighted how such initiatives not only support individuals but also contribute to broader societal goals, including road safety and economic development.
Hon. Balaam Barugahara, Minister of State for Gender, Labor & Social Development, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of empowering local businesses. “In a heartwarming gesture that underscores the company’s commitment to empowering local businesses, MTN Uganda handed over a brand-new pickup truck to Night Ampurire, a hardworking entrepreneur and single mother of five from Entebbe,” Hon. Barugahara said. He noted that this donation will have a lasting impact on Ampurire’s business, enabling her to continue her operations and support her family with renewed vigor.
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The Superintendent of Police Michael Kananura, who also attended the ceremony, praised the collaboration that made this donation possible. “We are excited to announce that Night Ampurire has received a brand-new Nissan Pickup, generously donated by MTN Uganda. This heartwarming gesture comes after NTV Uganda shared Night’s touching story a few weeks ago, inspiring us to reach out to MTN Uganda for support. We extend our deepest gratitude to the OC Traffic Entebbe Police Station, ASP Tumwesigye Wyclif, for spearheading this campaign through community policing, and NTV Uganda for sharing Night’s story and raising awareness. This donation is a testament to the power of collaboration and corporate social responsibility. We thank MTN Uganda for their kindness and look forward to continuing our efforts in promoting road safety,” Kananura said.
