UGANDANS can pool resources to support each other instead of seeking handouts from foreign countries, The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Henry Luke Orombi, has said.

Orombi said "many times Ugandans have believed that they cannot do anything for themselves.

Ugandans, he said, had so many resources that can be exploited at the individual and small group level to support a decent living.

The Archbishop was on Wednesday speaking during a visit to Rahab Ministries, a rehabilitation centre in Kitetika off Gayaza Road, which helps sexually exploited children.

The centre integrates girls into formal education and vocational training.

One of the girls who was rescued from the streets in 2006 is currently at Makerere University.

"I met the Lord Jesus at Rahab and I am so grateful," the girl said. "I cried on those streets and asked God to deliver me out of prostitution and finally, He did," she said.

Orombi said he was happy that 80% of the resources that run Rahab Ministries are contributed by Ugandans.

"This is a testimony that Ugandans can support themselves out of hopeless situations," he said.

The commander of the land forces, Lt. Gen. Katumba Wamala, is involved in the centre activities. During the visit, he spent time counselling the girls.

Annet Kirabira, one of the founders of the centre, said some of the girls were as young as nine and are in primary school, while others were in secondary school and vocational institutions.

The centre is involved in income-generating activities such as farming, piggery and poultry-keeping.