About RHIF
Founded in 2016, driven by purpose and compassion.
RHIF is a locally registered indigenous non-profit organization founded by a group of enterprising professionals in 2016, with its head offices in Ntinda, Kampala District. The organization currently works across several districts, including Wakiso, Jinja, Buyende, Kampala, Kaliro, and Butebo, and continues to expand as resources allow.
Our main goal is to break the sickle cell cycle through evidence-based advocacy, improved access to testing and screening, better care and psychosocial support, and increased awareness on prevention, detection, stigma reduction, and discrimination.
Founded
2016
Base
Ntinda, Kampala
We are building healthier communities through action.
- •Advocacy for evidence-based interventions that improve quality of life.
- •Expanded access to screening, diagnosis, and care for affected families.
- •Awareness that supports prevention, early detection, and reduced stigma.
- •Community-led support for patients, caregivers, and advocates across Uganda.
A Message from Our Founder
My advocacy journey began after the painful loss of my cousin brother and sister to sickle cell disease in 2016 and 2017. During this time, I realized the staggering lack of awareness, education, and screening services and care for sickle cell disease in Uganda. I knew something had to change.
I made a lifelong commitment to ensure that no other family would face such suffering in silence. That commitment gave birth to Raising Hope International Friends (RHIF) in November 2016, a non profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, increasing access to screening, improving care, and offering psychosocial support to individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.
At Raising Hope International Friends (RHIF), we are driven by the urgent need to create a world where individuals born with sickle cell disease are not only seen but supported, empowered, and given the tools to thrive. Our mission is to transform lives through awareness, early detection, access to care, and psychosocial support.
Our holistic approach recognizes that Sickle cell disease is not only a medical condition— it is a lifelong journey that deeply impacts the mental, emotional, and social well-being of those affected. While the pain crises and physical complications are often visible, the invisible battles—depression, stigma, anxiety, and isolation—are just as devastating. We need to join forces to address these hidden struggles that require deliberate focus on mental health as an essential part of holistic care.
What began as a personal journey of grief has since evolved into a nationwide movement that has educated over one million people about sickle cell disease, its symptoms, prevention, and the importance of early screening. Through tireless community outreach, school programs, health camps, and partnerships, RHIF has successfully screened more than 12,000 individuals and placed over 5,000 people—especially children and families—into care and support programs tailored to their needs.
None of this would be possible without the incredible partnerships and collaborations we have nurtured over the years. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Ministry of Health Uganda, our funders, and our technical and community partners for believing in our vision. We also thank the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who give their time and hearts to serve communities with compassion and excellence.
Isaac Okello
CEO & Founder