Empowering Communities. Transforming Futures. Inspiring Change.
About RAVT Innovation Center
RAVT Innovation Center is a registered community-based organisation rooted in Mpigi, Uganda, working to uplift vulnerable communities through skills training, innovation, environmental stewardship, social justice, gender equality, and holistic wellbeing.
We believe that when people are equipped with opportunity, dignity, and support, they become powerful agents of change.
RAVT exists to create those pathways — practical, sustainable, and community-led.
Our Mission
To foster sustainable development by equipping communities with skills, promoting innovation, protecting the environment, advancing human rights, and delivering holistic wellbeing programs that uplift women, youth, refugees, and vulnerable groups.
Our Vision
A resilient and thriving society where empowered individuals, sustainable ecosystems, and innovative solutions drive inclusive growth and social transformation.
Our Story at Innovation Center
RAVT began as a simple act of service inspired by the lived experiences of its founder, Rtn. Richard Ssali, who grew up in extreme poverty, discrimination, and hardship as the child of a Rwandan refugee. Having been rescued by education, compassion, and community support, Richard made a commitment to give back and create opportunities for others facing the same struggles.
What started as a small team of volunteers supporting youth, orphans, and refugees in 2014 has grown into a community innovation hub transforming livelihoods across Mpigi and beyond.
In 2022, RAVT officially registered as a Community Based Organisation, and in 2023, we established our permanent home on 2.5 acres in Kafumu — the foundation of the RAVT Innovation Center you see today.
The name RAVT carries deep meaning:
Rukundo African Volunteers Team — named after Richard’s late mother Rukundo, meaning love.
Love, dignity, resilience, and community continue to shape everything we do.
Our Core Approach
We use an integrated, community-driven, feminist, and regenerative approach focused on:
Our Pillars of Transformation
Creating change through skills, innovation, justice, environment, and wellbeing.
Skills & Livelihoods
Environment & Tourism
Peace & Refugees
Social cohesion, legal aid, inclusion programs
Digital Innovation & Technology
Mental Wellbeing
SRHR & Gender Equity
Menstrual health, GBV prevention, youth health
The Team Behind Our Work
Professionals with one purpose: creating lasting community change.
Rtn. Richard Ssali
Diana Namirimu
Cissy Nakiwala
Esther Nansamba
Together, We Can Build Resilient Communities
Your support helps youth, women, and refugees access skills, healing, and opportunities that create lasting impact. Join us in driving innovation, justice, and sustainability across Uganda.