Watoto

The Watoto Children’s Choir is an African choir that is dedicated to improving the way of life for children in Africa. The choir is based in Kampala, Uganda. The choir visiting Bradford is one of four touring all parts of the world. Since 199, those children, accompanied by a team of Ugandan adults, have toured Canada, the United States, Britain, New Zealand, Australia, Israel, Japan, Brazil, the Netherlands, China, and Germany.

Watoto means Children in the Lugandan language and is made up of 11 boys and 11 girls ranging in age from 7 to 11. All children have lost one or both parents to the AIDS epidemic or to war. Their performance is a unique blend of native African rhythms, contemporary gospel music and ethnic dance. They have released a number of music albums including their latest Mambo Sawa which means It’s all right. Funds raised on their tours help to support four children’s villages, three homes for babies, two primary schools, a high school and a vocational school.

The vision behind Watoto is Rescue a child. Raise a leader. Rebuild a nation.

You have not seen enthusiasm on display until you have seen the Watoto Children’s Choir. These youngsters need, and deserve our support.

No doubt this section about Outreach has left out many other areas where St. John’s has been involved in helping others. We have tried to give examples that show we are a God-loving church where many acts of kindness are not always in public view.