The J4:14 Foundation, an international charity organization operating in Uganda since 2010 and officially registered in 2021, is facing mounting criticism.
Accusations have surfaced that the organization, under the leadership of its president, Mr. J.D. Smith, has withheld salaries from its Ugandan employees and is exploiting local communities by imposing exorbitant fees for access to water.
Initially lauded for rehabilitating government boreholes to provide clean water, the foundation reportedly implemented a community savings scheme of 1,000 Ugandan Shillings (UGX) per household to cover minor repairs.
However, after Mr. Smith’s visit to Uganda in June of last year, a more exploitative model was allegedly introduced, charging 4,500 UGX per family per month without proper community engagement. This abrupt shift has ignited public anger, as the foundation’s operations were initially presented as charitable, not profit-oriented.
Further exacerbating the controversy, Mr. Smith is accused of attempting to forcibly merge J4:14 with another organization in Kampala. This decision, reportedly made without consulting employees, has caused significant internal strife. Workers with contracts extending until 2026 were caught off guard, leading to demands for unpaid salaries, outstanding National Social Security Fund (NSSF) contributions, and clearance from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).
The situation escalated when Mr. Smith dismissed a senior manager who informed employees about the planned merger. Workers now accuse him of evading accountability and exploiting the tax exemption granted to the organization in the United States.
Former employees have announced plans to stage a protest at the American Embassy in Kampala, seeking justice and intervention. They allege that Mr. Smith has exploited both Ugandan communities and the charity’s staff while generating unethical profits.
This unfolding crisis raises serious concerns about the operations of foreign charity organizations in Uganda and the accountability of their leaders. Authorities and relevant agencies are urged to investigate these allegations to ensure justice for the affected workers and communities.
