PLAS was established in 2005 as an international cooperation NGO supporting AIDS orphans in Africa. As the organization has grown, it has widened its support to the problems of poverty and early pregnancy and childbirth. The vision it aims for is a society where "children can open up their own futures and grow through their own strength." It holds the wish to create a bright world where a "Positive Living" way of life spreads.
In Uganda and Kenya it runs programs that support children who find it hard to dream, and their parents. Economic self-reliance support stabilizes household finances so that children can go to school, and counseling support eases parents' and children's worries about the future. Its work consists of programs such as HARMONY, BLOOM and SHINE for parent-child support, and CHOICE, SPEAKS and SRHR for education on sexuality.
It values "not aid that is given, but aid built together with local people," and works with local partner organizations including the self-help group Kayunga (カユンガ) and the NGO Giver (ギバー) in Uganda and the NGO Biajenko (ビアジェンコ) in Kenya. As of the end of December 2025, the number of children reached was 9,099. In the FLOWER program, 100% of participating children are reported to have gone on to secondary school or vocational training after finishing primary education.
Key points
- Supporting children and parents in Africa since 2005 (20 years of experience)
- Building, with local partners in Uganda and Kenya, systems that communities can sustain themselves
- 9,099 children reached (as of the end of December 2025)
Why this organization deserves attention
It looks not only at children but also at their parents, creating household stability and places to talk. The idea that a stable family helps children keep learning is shown clearly.
It publishes activity reports continuously, and offers many ways to take part, such as events and talks in Japan and charity auctions. There are also monthly donations from 1,000 yen and support through goods such as used books, DVDs and games, so people can choose how to get involved.
Editor's comment
The phrase "not just aid that is given" expresses PLAS's attitude well. Local people gradually gain confidence and come to love their own communities. Such changes encourage those of us who are involved, too.
The official website lets you see its latest reports and event information. Why not take a casual look?