The People Of Ssempa Village

Sempa Village is a place that deeply touched our hearts during the JFM outreach. Alcohol has taken a painful hold on the community, with elders, youths, and even children exposed to drinking. It was heartbreaking to see how deeply alcohol had become part of everyday life. My goodness, the situation was so serious that communicating with some people was difficult because they were already drunk.
As JFM tried to share the love of Jesus with the people, we realized that many were struggling with a bondage much greater than we could see from the outside. Alcohol was affecting families, relationships, and the future of young people. Yet we did not come to condemn them. We came carrying food, love, prayer, and most importantly, the hope found in Jesus Christ.
At one point, we asked them a simple question: “Who brings you alcohol every day?” Their answer surprised us. They said, in essence, that just as JFM had come to bring them the love of Jesus, someone else comes to bring them alcohol. It was a funny answer, but behind their laughter was a serious reality—there are always people and influences competing for the hearts and lives of the community.
Still, we believe that Jesus is greater than every bondage. JFM continued to pray with the people and share the Gospel, believing that no life is too broken for God to restore. The Bible says, “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” (John 8:36, KJV). Our prayer was not simply that they would stop drinking, but that they would encounter Jesus and receive a completely new life in Him.
Among those who responded to the Gospel were John Ndaqula and Tracy, who gave their lives to Jesus. What a beautiful reminder that even in a village where alcohol seems to have captured so many lives, God is still saving people. Every soul matters to Jesus, and every person who comes to Him is a reason for heaven to rejoice.
Sempa Village reminded us that our mission is not only to feed hungry stomachs but also to reach hungry hearts with the Gospel. We may not be able to change an entire village in one day, but we can bring the light of Christ one person at a time. We continue to pray for Sempa—that alcohol will lose its grip, families will be restored, young people will find purpose, and many more will discover that true joy and freedom are found in Jesus Christ.

About Author

Mathiew Saba

Saba Mathiew:  I was born and raised in Uganda, where my journey of learning and service began. I attended Galikwoleka Nursery School, where a strong foundation for my academic life was laid. I later participated in New Eden Christian Primary School for my primary education, a place that nurtured both my character and my love of learning.

For my secondary education, I joined Agape High School, where I completed my Ordinary Level studies. I later advanced to C.T.R, where I completed my Advanced Level education. These years shaped my discipline, resilience, and passion for communication and service.

I pursued higher education at Ndejje University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. My university training equipped me with strong skills in writing, communication, storytelling, and media engagement, which I continue to apply in my professional life.

Currently, I am employed at JesusFedMe.com (JFM) as a Logistics Specialist and Article Author. In this role, I support the coordination of ministry activities while also writing impactful stories that reflect the mission, compassion, and work of JFM. Additionally, I serve as a translator for JFM, proficient in Luganda, Kiswahili, and English, helping bridge language gaps and ensure clear communication with the communities we serve.

Through my work, I remain committed to service, communication, and supporting the mission of transforming lives through love, compassion, and faith.

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