UDS ambition lies in our mission, to equip rural and other vulnerable communities with relevant information, knowledge and skills for sustained improvement of lives. Our desire is to empower vulnerable communities with the relevant information, knowledge and skills to help them make the change they so desire. Our solution to empower must be of relevance and therefore formed in response to an information need and or problem. Our solution must be one that is aligned to national strategies and policies, that way; we contribute to national development but also effectively meet the needs of the communities, within the Uganda policy framework. Meeting and working with others is inevitable to make meaningful and significant impact.
Uganda Development Services’ history is traced back to the work of the Late Dr. John Maitland and his wife, Hilary, who came to Uganda in the 60’s under the Church Missionary Society (CMS). Based in Ngora Hospital, in Teso, between 1963 and 1976 and working with local community groups, they recognised the contribution and the potential of these groups to Uganda’s development, both at local and national levels. They also recognised that these community groups lacked information to realize their potential. From this was born the vision that is now Uganda Development Services.
For rural and other vulnerable communities to be well informed, knowledgeable and skilled.
To equip rural and other vulnerable communities with relevant information, knowledge and skills for sustained improvement of lives
UDS is committed to empowering people and communities with the knowledge, information and skills for improvement of their lives. In order to do so, UDS has based its whole organizational culture, and the development of its capacity to achieve its goals, on the values of love, dignity of the individual, Integrity, professionalism, justice and fairness for all and teamwork and cooperation.
At the strategic governance level of Uganda Development Services is a 7- member Board of Directors. These are charged with leadership, strategic direction and overall oversight to the organization.
The Staff team is led by an Executive Director who oversees the entire country operations of the NGO and is assisted by a staff team that includes a Programs Coordinator, an Information Manager, Accounts Manager, Administrator, Program Assistants and Project Assistants.