“Going where God sends… always relying on His provision.”
IKOOVA {pronounced "E-cove-ah"} is the Ugandan name for the pied crow, which is also known as “the Reverend” because of its characteristic white markings. Ravens are mentioned in Psalm 147:9, Job 38:41, Prov. 30:17, and was also the bird first sent out by Noah after the flood. Ravens fly about continually in search of food and yet God assures us in His word that He ultimately provides them their nourishment. In the same way, He provides every one of us our basic needs.
Mission
Partnering with communities to overcome poverty through discipleship, education, and skills training.
We aim to create an atmosphere in which individuals and families are enabled to support themselves and to become productive members of the community. Financial aid is provided with the long-term goal of the person becoming self-sufficient.
A Bit About Us
Turning A Call Into Action
In July of 2017, Jeff Downs felt a calling on his life: "Go out and serve." He felt God pointing him towards Uganda but was unsure about the details. In November of that year a friend shared the need of a community outside of Jinja, Uganda in Wakitaka Village. After a lot of prayer and vetting, Jeff and his wife, Jenika, felt an urgent prompting to do some further research on the ground. Their goal was to discover what was needed by this community in Wakitaka so they could help raise support for them. Without a well- formulated plan, Jeff went on his solo mission trip in February, 2018. His prayer was simple, "God give me discernment and may Your will be done." Once in Jinja, he was met by many God-appointed friends and quickly established relationships and discovered how best to serve this community. Upon enrolling the first 15 kids in Musana boarding school, Jeff was asked, "What Ministry do you represent?" He responded that he was there doing the Lord's work! This sparked the beginning of the Downs family seeking to establish a non-profit in order to continue the good work that was begun with this initial visit to Uganda.
It was amazing to witness what God can do when one is yielded to His voice. In 3 short weeks, God provided the connections and the financial support to enroll 45 children in school and ensure regular meals for them. He brought trustworthy and God-fearing people into Jeff's path so that IKOOVA Ministries could be birthed. We continue to pray for God's discernment, wisdom, and for HIs will to be done. May He be glorified through the lives that are impacted through this ministry!
