ABOUT TUPENDANE
Uganda is a country rich in beauty, culture, and resilience. Yet for many communities, daily challenges related to food security, education, and long-term stability remain very real. In the midst of this, remarkable work is being carried out through Back to the Bible Truth (BBT) and the Good Samaritan School, which cares for more than 2,700 children, many of whom are orphans.
Tupendane exists to walk alongside BBT as a strategic partner—supporting the long-term sustainability of their school and farm through agricultural development, accountability, and shared vision.
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A Partnership Rooted in Relationship and Purpose
Tupendane was founded in 2009 with a simple conviction: meaningful, lasting change happens when people work with each other—not over each other.
After years of relationship with BBT, it is clear that the work happening there is remarkable, built on local leadership, deep faith, and a vision to nurture and empower the next generation. Tupendane’s role is to strengthen that work by providing strategic support where it will make the greatest long-term impact.
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Tupendane Mission Statement
To partner with Christian African organizations to provide hope and a future by transforming the body, mind and soul through sustainable innovations.
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As such, Tupendane seeks to accomplish this by:
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Partnering in the transformation of the community’s body, mind and soul
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Empowering local people through innovation, healthcare, education and resources to achieve a healthier, self-sustaining community
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Inspiring hope for a brighter future
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What We Do
Tupendane’s work is focused and intentional. We do not function as broad humanitarian aid, nor do we spread ourselves across numerous projects. Instead, we partner closely with BBT in areas that build long-term independence:
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Agricultural Development
Mechanized farming allows BBT to grow the food needed for the 2,700 children in their care. Over the years, we have helped develop modern farming practices, improve yields, and build the systems needed for long-term self-sufficiency.
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Education Support
Through stable food production and strategic partnership, we help ensure the Good Samaritan School can continue offering consistent teaching, structure, and care for children.
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Spiritual Support
BBT is a Christian ministry, caring for the children’s spiritual development as well as their physical and educational needs. Tupendane supports this by providing Bibles, resources, and training that strengthen their ministry.
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Skills, Knowledge, and Accountability
Our role is to equip, coach, and strategically fund the vision BBT has set—not to impose a vision from the outside. We help provide tools, insight, and planning so the work grows stronger and more stable each year.
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Why Our Approach Matters
Well-meaning Western support can unintentionally create dependency. Over time, organizations may shift their goals to appease donors rather than follow their own community-rooted vision. Tupendane is committed to a better way.
We believe Back to the Bible Truth knows best what their vision is and needs are to fulfill that vision.
Our responsibility is to:
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listen
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support their vision
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avoid creating dependency
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fund strategically and accountably
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equip instead of direct
This builds confident, capable local leaders, not long-term reliance.
And the results are visible: children who entered the school as toddlers are now graduating from university and returning as teachers, administrators, and community leaders. This is self-sustaining, Ugandan-led transformation, and it is the heart of everything we support.
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Looking Ahead
BBT has a bold and inspiring vision for the future. One significant example is a large coffee plantation they have planted (100 acres), which will begin producing in the coming years. Their goal is ambitious yet deeply grounded, to become fully self-sufficient and no longer require outside aid.
This perfectly aligns with Tupendane’s mission, to partner, equip, and strengthen without creating dependency, and to support a model of transformation that endures for generations.
Tupendane remains committed to walking closely with BBT, assisting in the important work of ministering Jesus' love to many children, providing the tools, knowledge, and strategic support needed to help their vision become a long-term reality.
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Tupendane Board of Directors
Tupendane is led by a volunteer board of directors with expertise in:
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Agriculture / horticulture
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Agricultural equipment and mechanics
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Finances
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Management
Above all, this diverse team shares a deep love for Jesus and others, coupled with a strong commitment to ensuring the success of initiatives that help Back to the Bible move toward self-sufficiency.

ryan warkentin - board chair
Ryan joined the Tupendane Board in 2017, bringing a unique combination of experience in full-time ministry and construction management. His expertise has been instrumental in providing continued support for existing programs, addressing challenges through effective troubleshooting, and shaping the vision for future assistance.
Ryan's background enables him to approach projects with both practical and spiritual insight, ensuring that the ministry's efforts are impactful and sustainable. His passion for serving others, coupled with his commitment to supporting the ministry's mission, has made him a valuable asset to the Tupendane team.
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Eunice Mcallister - board treasurer
Eunice has been a dedicated member of the Tupendane Board since 2009. As the Director of Finance and Operations for Southland Church, she brings extensive expertise in not-for-profit management, providing valuable insights into organizational requirements and best practices.
Eunice's passion for children is evident in her commitment to supporting Tupendane's mission. Serving as a vital liaison between Southland Church and Tupendane, she helps strengthen the partnership and ensures seamless collaboration. Her leadership and dedication have been instrumental in fostering the ministry’s growth and impact.

randy plett - board member
Randy, a farmer from the Steinbach area, joined the Tupendane Board in 2015 after being involved with the organization since 2011. He acts as the liaison and mentor between Tupendane and the Kingdom Farm Manager, providing critical support and guidance. Randy, along with his wife Twyla and two of their children and their spouses, owns and operates a 5,000-acre grain farm. With over 40 years of farming experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge in farming practices, machinery, and operational management. His mentorship equips the Kingdom Farm Manager with the skills and understanding needed to run a successful farm, ensuring sustainable practices and long-term growth

kevin unger - board member
Kevin joined the Tupendane Board in 2015, bringing valuable expertise as the owner of an excavating business and extensive experience in equipment operation and maintenance. Growing up on a farm also gave him a strong understanding of agriculture, which has been vital to Tupendane’s focus on sustainable, mechanized farming. Kevin’s involvement began in 2011, years before joining the board. His practical knowledge has been key in establishing Kingdom Farm’s operations, and he continues to mentor the Ugandan mechanic team to strengthen their skills. His ongoing support plays an important role in the farm’s efficiency and long-term growth.

david grienke - board member
David joined the Tupendane Board in 2024, bringing well-rounded agricultural expertise shaped by his upbringing on a farm and his career in the agricultural equipment industry. His practical knowledge of machinery, crop production, and operational efficiencies offers valuable insight as Tupendane continues to strengthen its sustainable farming initiatives. David is motivated by a genuine desire to serve and make a lasting difference. He is committed to applying his experience to support Tupendane’s programs, empower local communities, and contribute to meaningful, sustainable growth across the organization’s work.

Children at the Good Samaritan Center

Medical Clinic in the town of Mate

Well drilled for community use

Growing maize for food for the Good Samaritan Center

Good Samaritan Center

Training in sustainable farming practices
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