Proposed RAU Yumbe On-the-Ground Branch
The mission and vision of Reaching Africa’s Unreached/ABWE has always been, and with God’s grace, will continue to be for generations to come—vigorously living out the strong call of 2 Timothy 2:2!
RAU’s next step in this mission is to expand a “boots on the ground” branch to the mostly Muslim Yumbe district where RAU has been working since 2013. The land is available, and we have the conviction that the timing is right to construct a second “boots on the ground” long term campus. We are looking to raise $246,000 (broken down into three phases) to fulfill this vision that the Lord has placed on our hearts. Please read on for more details regarding the why’s and the how’s.. Thank you!
“Wisdom is knowing what to do next, skill is knowing how to do it, and virtue is doing it.” (David Starr Jordan)
“A vision without a task makes a visionary; a task without a vision is drudgery; a vision with a task makes a missionary” (George Deakin quoted in Leonard Ravenhill’s book Why Revival Tarries-1974 Edition p.14)
A Section from RAU’s Mission/Vision Statements
“Our Mission is to reach Africa’s unreached people groups with the glorious Gospel of Jesus by participating in the planting of Christ exalting churches in their midst in partnership with local churches. Furthermore, we will endeavor to strengthen local churches and their leaders through careful exposition of the Scriptures in word and deed that they may be strengthened to plant churches in nearby villages with no church and among unreached peoples in their geographical regions…We hold that the primary work of cross cultural mission work is to plant local churches which in turn plant other local churches. Our goals, therefore, are 1) to see new churches planted in unreached areas 2) and to assist operating local churches through Biblical exposition which is “profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work” ( 2 Timothy 3:16-17). As much as possible we will seek to instruct church leaders from Uganda, South Sudan, and the Republic of (North) Sudan who can faithfully teach others (See: 2 Timothy 2:2 & Acts 19:8-10). Multiplication is key! RAU will endeavor to place Study Bibles and sound Christian literature into the hands of these church leaders…” ( See the whole statement here: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/about/)
By God’s grace, since 2013, the Lord has decisively opened a myriad of pathways to fulfill 2 Timothy 2:2! RAU has organized around 50 transformative 3-6 day module trainings on doctrines most central and essential to the Christian faith, consistently bringing together an average of 40 church leaders in the Hall of Tyrannus.
Furthermore, RAU has conducted numerous single- and multi-day trainings for local church leaders across various locations. We have had the privilege of holding discipleship sessions with a diverse range of pastors from different denominations, both on campus and off, which have been a significant encouragement to us and the broader church in our region. Additionally, we have distributed tens of thousands of study Bibles and theological books, empowering Ugandan and Sudanese church leaders. We are immensely grateful for the grace given to walk out crucial role RAU has taken in equipping leaders with the essential truths of the Christian faith. Our hearts overflow with gratitude for God’s remarkable grace, provision, and for the dedicated prayer warriors and many who have sacrificially given which the Lord has raised up to stand with us! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
A significant blessing and advantage of being full-time, on-the-ground missionaries for 12 years are the numerous relationships established with many churches across diverse denominational backgrounds among Ma’di, Aringa, and Sudanese from South Sudan and the Republic of (North) Sudan. This is a testament to God’s grace and stems from the commitment to 2 Timothy 2:2 training, focusing on the first-tier, primary truths of the Christian faith with church leaders from various denominations. The prevailing estimate indicates that 85% of church leaders in our Sub-Saharan region lack formal Bible training and have only received sporadic modular training. It’s clear that in our immediate area, that percentage is higher.
The Great need of the fast growing Sub-Saharan Africa Church Is Biblically trained leaders
RAU’s intention, Lord willing, will always involve bringing church leaders to Afoji-Moyo’s RAU’s Hall of Tyrannus for training modules, especially when we have visiting, gifted Bible teachers/pastors, and when we are blessed with more boots-on-the-ground missionaries. Due to the diverse tribal languages represented in the Hall of Tyrannus, we exclusively teach in English, ensuring that attendees are proficient English speakers and are “leaders of leaders”. Education in Uganda is conducted in English from Primary (Elementary) level through to University.
More recently, we have been collaborating extensively with our Ugandan and Sudanese co-workers to go to their sites for training, which are primarily local church buildings and sometimes under trees. For example, we have been conducting impactful training sessions in several Metu Mountain churches, at the Bidi Bidi refugee camps, and in Yumbe district with church leaders who are bravely standing firm in their faith despite pressure from the surrounding Muslim community. This was recently highlighted when we had around 180 Aringa church leaders from various denominations for a day of training; the topic was “What Is the Gospel?” Each person received the book by Greg Gilbert with the same title, as well as his book, “Who Is Jesus?” and another book, “Is Jesus Really God?” by Greg Lanier. They also each received an Africa Study Bible.
The advantage of this approach is its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, allowing us to reach more church leaders in their context rather than bringing them to RAU. This enables us to fulfill the vision of 2 Timothy 2:2 more effectively within specific tribes, while providing translation into their local languages with the assistance of skilled English-speaking nationals from each region.
RAU has been making significant strides in Yumbe District, working closely with Aringa church leaders and forming strong partnerships with local Aringa churches for evangelism and discipleship, as well as meaningful dialogues with Muslim Sheikhs and Imams since 2013. The Aringa tribe is recognized by the Joshua Project as an unreached people group. Our closest Aringa co-worker and dear friend, Onduga Charles, proudly earns the title of our “Aringa Macedonia man.” We have also been equipping church leaders from various tribes, many of whom fall into the “unreached” category, from both South Sudan and the Republic of (North) Sudan who reside in the nearby Bidibidi refugee resettlement camps. Our vision and prayers for a second physical location are firmly set on establishing a strong, mature Aringa and Sudanese church. We first envisioned a RAU on-the-ground branch in Yumbe town in 2013, yet the timing has never aligned for various reasons.”
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5)
We now have the conviction that the time is ripe for a RAU on-the-ground Yumbe branch.
“A vision without a task makes a visionary; a task without a vision is drudgery; a vision with a task makes a missionary” (George Deakin quoted in Leonard Ravenhill’s book Why Revival Tarries-1974 Ed. p.14). This 1974 edition was personally given to me by Leonard Ravenhill.)
We are seeing the Lord opening the way for a RAU Yumbe branch. This is all the more important as outside Muslim countries are placing a high focus on Yumbe and the Aringa people. The Aringa church is under heavy pressure from local and foreign Muslims, and most of the Aringa local church leaders have had very little biblical training while experiencing discouragement as they see “believers” succumbing to pressure from Muslims to convert (luring them away through the offer of resources and such). Many Aringa church leaders have a hunger like that of the Bereans in Acts 17:11, greatly desiring biblical training as well as resources such as Aringa New Testaments, Africa Study Bibles, Christian-Muslim apologetics materials, and biblically sound Christian books.
Furthermore, establishing a RAU Yumbe on the ground branch strategically positions RAU closer, reducing our driving time to approximately one hour to the Bidibidi refugee resettlement camp. This is a significant improvement from the 2-3 hours required from the RAU’s Fodia/Moyo location. Bidibidi stands as one of the world’s largest refugee settlements, currently sheltering around 285,000 refugees. Over the years, we have actively brought influential church leaders from Bidibidi to RAU’s Hall of Tyrannus for modules. Many of these outstanding individuals have since taken on the role of educators within the refugee camps, and some have returned to Sudan to share their knowledge. While we have made visits there sporadically, the distance has understandably limited our reach. With a RAU Yumbe branch, we would amplify our impact in fulfilling 2 Timothy 2:2 with church leaders from both South Sudan and the Republic of (North) Sudan in the Bidibidi refugee camp, utilizing local churches as training centers. Many church leaders living in Bidibidi come from unreached tribes, some of which are 99% Muslim. Being in close proximity would significantly enhance our ability to impart core principles of the Christian faith to a greater number of Sudanese church leaders.
A recent Bidibidi training graduation
Onduga Charles owns a prime plot of land measuring .865 acres in Yumbe town, featuring several existing buildings that he is prepared to sell to RAU at a fair market price. Acquiring land in Yumbe town poses a significant challenge for non-Aringa Christians or Christian mission organizations like RAU, given that the Yumbe town is predominantly Muslim, comprising of approximately 98% of the town’s population.
Coordinates for above RAU Yumbe Branch
After the purchase, the land title would be secured, firmly establishing ownership of the RAU Yumbe branch in the eyes of the government. Thanks to longstanding Yumbe friendships, this crucial step will can be accomplished much easier. Onduga Charles and his family would continue to reside in the existing buildings on the plot, which is vital as Charles is a significant Aringa partner. Additionally, understanding the necessity for water availability, I enlisted our trusted well driller—an expert I have relied on multiple times—to conduct a test for water on the plot Charles is willing to sell to RAU. Initially, I was skeptical about finding water due to the plot’s size. To my delight, not only did we discover water, but there is also a deep pool located about 45 meters down! This substantial water source can serve both the Yumbe RAU campus and the surrounding Muslim community. We would like to install two 10,000-liter tanks on a tower—one for the RAU campus and the other for community members. This initiative will ensure that clean water is more readily accessible to our Muslim neighbors, demonstrating our love and commitment to being there for them.
Furthermore, with long term missionaries families from ABWE and our exceptional staff of Uganda/Sudanese RAU co-workers, we are strategically positioned for this expansion without compromising the work being achieved at the main RAU Fodia/Moyo campus. Additionally, the construction of a new hard surface road from Moyo to Yumbe will drastically transform travel, reducing the journey to a swift 55-minute drive, a remarkable improvement from the previous 2-3 hour trek. This development will enhance collaboration between the two campuses.
Current RAU Afoji-Moyo Campus and Demo Farm
The major point of a RAU/Yumbe branch puts an RAU family/team in local proximity to the Aringa church, for the purpose of fostering strong relationships and collaborating within the Aringa church community. In the beginning years, because of relationships already formed in Yumbe, this would need to be Carol and me (Jacob). This facility will enable future ABWE families to dig deeper into the Aringa culture and language. With the new road in place we would be under a hour away from RAU’s main campus. Later, in God’s timing, an ABWE family/team would take over.
“Over the years, I gradually realized that the great Shepherd has chosen to utilize me (RAU in this case) most often as a sheepdog. . . . I’ve been a recruiter, one who keeps God’s sheep moving in the direction of his not-yet-harvested fields.” (Greg Livingstone)
This strategic location not only allows RAU’s “2 Timothy 2:2 mandate“ to be effectively integrated with the Aringa and Sudanese church but also enhances the possibility for a more constant day-to-day input of teaching and discipleship with Aringa and Sudanese church leaders. By engaging in this partnership, both RAU and the Aringa and Sudanese church can benefit from a wealth of shared resources and knowledge, creating an environment where continuous spiritual growth and support can flourish, especially when the believers are experiencing persecution and discouragement. This collaboration will enable leaders of Aringa and Sudanese churches to receive consistent guidance, deepening their understanding of Scripture and empowering them to fulfill their roles more effectively in their churches, equipping them and their churches to plant churches. Ultimately, this relationship will strengthen the faith and outreach efforts amidst the strong Muslim presence that is receiving much aid from outside Muslim-dominated countries.
“The most urgent need in the Christian Church today is true preaching; and as it is the greatest and most urgent need in the Church, it is obviously the greatest need of the world also.”(Martyn Lloyd-Jones)
YouTube Video Interviews with Aringa Onduga Charles
“Wisdom is knowing what to do next, skill is knowing how to do it, and virtue is doing it.” (David Starr Jordan)
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)
I firmly believe that having a plan is just the beginning; it must encompass a comprehensive A-Z outline detailing how we will bring it to fruition. As the saying goes, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail”. To this end, I have conducted thorough research and collected quotes the best I can for the budget necessary to complete this project, which I present below. This investment is significant, it is an investment that will echo throughout eternity! Reflecting on our journey since my (Jacob) first ministry to this area in 2007, I am heartened by the consistent provision from the Lord at every stage of what has been accomplished. The paramount need in our Sub-Saharan region is for leaders firmly rooted in the essential first-tier doctrines of Christianity, who will be personally mentored/discipled to effectively implement these teachings in practice.
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5)
Charles, Carol, and I have earnestly sought the Lord’s guidance on this matter, and we are convinced it aligns with His will. Andy Kirby, the African Director with ABWE, sees this as a “bold and courageous vision”. RAU is proudly partnered with ABWE. The RAU board of directors has unanimously approved moving forward. The RAU board have requested that the project commence only once the full amount of funds is secured in a designated account at RAU’s American bank. R.A.U. has Ugandan NGO Status & U.S.A. 501 c3 Tax Exemption Status.
“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” (Psalm 127:1)
Building in the far north of Uganda presents numerous variables, something I (Jacob) have personally seen and have dealt with over the years, that will undoubtedly influence the overall project timeline and budget. As stated above I have crafted estimates as best I can which accounts for key factors such as materials, labor, and potential complications that may arise during construction. Any additional funds (if the estimates are high) would be directed into the RAU general funds, enabling us to effectively tackle any unexpected expenses as they arise or ministry use in accordance with this vision. Furthermore, we need to be prepared for any shortfalls, as we confidently trust that alternative revenue sources and donations will supplement our needs, ensuring we can progress without significant delays or obstacles. Every decision we make will be driven by prayerful and thoughtful consideration and a strategic approach to mitigate the risks related to funding and resource allocation.
“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” (Proverbs 24:3-4)
“Wisdom is knowing what to do next, skill is knowing how to do it, and virtue is doing it.”
(David Starr Jordan)
Phase One
- Land plot and existing buildings- $30,000
- Land title, building and other government fees (a Muslim run government system)- $8,000+- Total= $38,000.00
Phase Two
- Borehole (water well) 40-45 meters deep- $8,000+-.
- Submersible water pump and solar to run it- $6,000 +-.
- Water Tower and two 5000-liter water tanks- $10,000 +-. *One tank would be for surrounding Muslim neighborhood and one tank for the campus.
- Government water permit- $2,000 +-.
- Wall around property with strong gate and razor wire for security- $22,000 +-.
Total= $48,000.00 +-
Phase Three
- A duplex house for two missionary families, guest rooms for visiting short term teams, a library with small meeting discipleship room and a Bible/book storage facility. All tied into a septic system on campus. – $140,000 +-
- Electrical Solar System for whole complex-$15,000+-
- Trees, plants, walkways and driveway- $5000 +-
Total: $160,000.00
Grand Total: $246,000.00
Note: If for some reason we get the above done with money remaining, it would be put into furnishings in the duplex for missionaries, guest rooms for teams, small meeting discipleship room.
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”
(Proverbs 16:3)
“I’m a dreamer and continue to dream of what can and will be, “Expecting great things from God, Attempting great things for God”
(William Carey (August 17, 1761–June 9, 1834)
Would you pray and consider helping us make this happen? Your support can play a transformative role in bringing this vision to life. Would you also be one of our ambassadors, sharing not only this vision but also the essential funding needed to see it realized? Together, we can make a meaningful impact and inspire others to join us in this God given vision. Your help is crucial, and every voice counts in amplifying this vision and securing the resources necessary for success.
Please free to email me, Jacob Lee, at JacobLeeRAU@ gmail.com and/or WhatsApp message me at +256 788688492
“I am sure that none of us will say when in heaven that we prayed too much, we sacrificed too much, proclaimed the gospel too much, and were too passionate to get the gospel to those who have little to no access to this gospel of grace. Let us together press on to make it our ambition to preach the gospel where Christ has not been named!” (Jacob Lee)
*Information on Giving* https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/
All gifts given are tax deductible as Reaching Africa’s Unreached has 501 c3 tax exempt status as a charitable organization. If you wish to write a check you may write it out to: R.A.U. and mail it to Lifegate Missions/RAU, 395 Lifegate Ln., Seguin Texas 78155. Write in note “Yumbe branch”. Funds for this project would be kept in a separate account in RAU’s Seguin Texas bank account.
*PayPal Link: Write in note “Yumbe Branch” https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=WAR99DL4JFWXQ&ssrt=1753661274824
*Carol and I are are also Associate Missionaries with ABWE. If you prefer you can give at our ABWE Uganda Ministry Operations link* https://give.abwe.org/projects/rau-uganda-ministry-ops
The greatest evil is having the gospel and not doing everything within our power to get it to those who do not have it! (Jacob Lee)
What we do now in the Lord and for Him will echo throughout eternity for His praise and honor….all else is dust in the wind! (Jacob Lee)
Reaching Africa's Unreached 