The Humanitarian A Red Cross Society quarterly publication April-June 2009

Lira district health worker and URCS board member Mr. Obalim Christopher immunizing children during the supplemental polio campaign at Alebtong health centre in Lira 2 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

Word from Editor Contents

Imagine a world without Red Cross Red Crescent! During this quarter the Red Cross Movement celebrates 150 years of the battle of Solferino. This gruesome battle which took place in Italy saw the birth of an idea, after Duanant recommended that relief societies be set up to take care of the wounded. To celebrate Solferino, over 200 youths are engaging in various activities including a walk from Solferino to Geneva in commemoration of the 150 years.

On the local scene, Uganda has had to register cases of Polio in some parts of the country, after 11 years of being a polio free country. To this, Government launched supplemental immunization campaigns for polio and in addition to measles across the country to ensure that all children below 5 years are immunized. We are happy to have been part of this exercise in which government targeted 6m children. As auxiliary to Gov- Former abducted child returns to ernment, we supported in social mobilization, provision of transport for school Page 6 vaccines, medical equipment and health workers to the immunization cen- tres. The National Society is grateful to the over 8, 000 volunteers and staff deployed for the two campaigns.

Some parts of the World are experiencing threats of H1N1 Influenza. To that effect, Uganda Red Cross Society launched its Humanitarian Pan- demic Preparedness Programme (H2P) to prepare communities incase of any influenza. Implementation of the project started a year ago. Working closely with the Ministry of Health, URCS is undertaking a number of activities in this line.

The effects of climate change have not spared some parts of the country. Teso sub region in Eastern and Karamoja sub region in North Eastern Uganda are some of the areas experiencing drought, famine. URCS through its food security programme continues to distribute seeds and Uganda Red Cross wins PR tools to communities to enable them plant food for current and future awards page 11 consumption.

The NS continues to respond to small disasters that have increasingly spread across the country. Victims of the disasters ranging from fires, Branches conduct high level dis- floods, hail storms and land slides have received emergency kits (non food semination sessions pages 5 and 7 items) like tarpaulins , kitchen set, soap, jerry can, among others.

We salute our partners and stakeholders who supported our activities and interventions in the quarter. Our Mission Editorial team: To improve the quality of life Design Layout: Catherine Ntabadde, Senior Public of the most vulnerable people Relations Officer as an effective and efficient humanitarian organization. Editorial Adviser: Hasifa Kabejja, Assistant Commu‐ Our Vision nications Officer. An empowered, healthy and Photos: Catherine Ntabadde, Hasifa Kabejja, George self sustaining community Nkugwa, Albino Odongo, Loice Kasande, George that responds to the needs of Orochi and Bob Ssebuliba. the most vulnerable. 3 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Mbarara Branch

Mbarara constructs shopping mall for income Generating By Thecelah Ndagire -ple in the community, the branch conducted youth exchange visits. The senior exchange visit Income Generating Activity was between Ntare School and Bweranyangi Girls S.S. The junior exchange program conducted lo- As a way to raise income, the Mbarara branch came up with vari- cally was at Lugazi Progressive Junior School. The ous projects which include construction of a shopping mall and theme of the exchange was “Young people the canteen. Future of Tomorrow in addressing humanitarian needs in vulnerable community.” During this visit a series of activities were done as social interaction, dissemination, sports and debates.

The branch office in Mbarara University also hosted a four day junior youth camp. The camp was conducted under the theme “Young people Agents for Protecting Human Dignity”. The camp was the first of its kind in Mbarara Branch. The camp fire was graced by the presence of the Chair- man Branch Governing Board Mr. Webaale Pat- rick.

A section of the shopping mall still under construction Dissemination Early this year, the branch was able to finish its ground floor sto- ried shopping mall project situated at Rwebikona in Mbarara. Between January-March 2009, the Branch recruited The complete ground floor is being rented out at 300,000/ per 56 senior youth, 12 life members, junior youth 94 nd month. The 2 phase of construction started in June 2009. totaling to 162. The quarterly target of the Branch Youth Empowerment which is 150 members was exceeded due to active mobilization, planning and activity creation that In a bid to develop and retain youth as the most active volunteer brought every one on board. force to respond to their vulnerabilities and needs of other peo-

Message from the Secretary General

Dear readers, with much pleasure the URCS shares with you the highlights of its activi- ties for the second quarter 2009.

The Society commenced the review of its strategic with the support of our partners and the Department of Social Work and Social Administration of University. Specific programme reviews were also done for Health and Care programmes and the youth and volunteer management programme. We were also able to complete the audit exercise for financial year 2008.

A number of new Initiatives/Partnerships were developed during the period.

Turn to page 4 Mr. Michael Richard Nataka 4 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

Message from Secretary General From page 3 In Health and Care; We participated in the Mass In Disaster management; Disaster Risk reduction Measles/ Polio Campaign with the Ministry of health in Projects have been started in Kisoro, Entebbe 25 districts. In addition we have established partner- and Paliisa to be funded by the Swedish, Danish ship with the Rotary Club on immunization. and societies worth A number of health emergencies were handled in- 1,500,000,000 billion over three years. cluding meningitis in West Nile and cholera in Kasese with over Shs500,000, 000 million spent. Climate change initiatives have continued through networking with several partners and Japanese Red Cross support to Reproductive Health the parliamentary committee on climate “mama bag Kits”project will commence with a visit change. We have continued to receive support from the Japanese Red Cross with a view of establish- from the climate change center in the Hague. ing a three-year programme.

Food Security initiatives in Karamoja have taken URCS has submitted a proposal for a partnership with root and a comprehensive assessment made. Compassion International to partner with all churches An appeal was made to the IFRC Zone office in on the issues of blood collection to reduce recurrent Nairobi of mid term food security. blood shortages.

With support from Oxfam, an extension of the A malaria Hang Up and Keep Up project by American community based disaster management pro- Red Cross worth 287,000USD was started with the sign- jects from Bundibugyo to Kasese branches has ing of the project agreement. URCS was also granted been made. an extension of the civil society fund for one year worth 700,000,000 million for 2009/2010 for HIV/AIDS activities. Food security and water and sanitation project proposals through the for Apac/ Oyam were developed. In Organizational Development; A proposal to EU for Karamoja with Danish Red Cross focusing on func- tional adult literacy and vocational training was sub- Trainings and partnership with the command mitted. centre for disaster management that has been established with government. Discussions have been held with the police (operations) on com- We commenced on Initiatives for capacity building munication during emergencies and how URCS and peace building for the OD department with sup- can respond. port from and Liberian and Sierra Leone Red Cross societies. We signed an agreement with German Red Cross to start a volunteers’ pro- The URCS VHF Repeater has now been re- gramme in September 2009. installed at after getting permission from Inspector General of Police Preparations were also started for the long-term Dan- ish Red Cross Youth exchange programming. The tracing programme and restoration of family links network has been revitalized and coopera- tion with ICRC improved in this programme to We participated in a number of international events in support all tracing needs in the country as well Geneva, France, Germany, , Ethiopia, USA, as request from abroad. Spain, Italy, Finland, , , and the NEPARC board meeting was hosted by URCS. We have developed emergency fund guidelines The proposed headquarter master plan was redes- as well as the response protocols to streamline igned and detailed BOQ’s, structural designs have URCS response mechanisms. been made. 5 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Rakai Branch

Fire guts 157 households, victims supported By George Nkugwa residents and promised sup-

port to all Red Cross activities Following the fire disas- in the area. ter which completely The exercise was supervised burnt 157 households at by the Mr. Salongo Lule Kasensero landing site Branch Chairperson and the in Rakai district, Uganda Mr. Kitala Vincent Branch Red Cross Society Vice chairperson BGB. (URCS) Rakai branch carried out an assess- While distributing, first prior- ment which required ity was given to extremely assistance to the af- vulnerable individuals who fected victims. included pregnant mothers, breast feeding mothers, the In response to the as- elderly persons, people with sessment, URCS head- disabilities, orphans and vul- quarter released Non nerable children and People food items as a contri- Living with HIV/Aids. bution towards the res- toration of livelihoods URCS interventions restored of the disaster victims. livelihoods of 157 households The following were dis- with 617 individuals in terms tributed to each of the of shelter by tarpaulins, nutri- affected households. tion by providing source pans 471 blankets, 314 source Jerry cans, Cups & plates, pans, 314 bars of soap, hygiene by providing soap. Left) Mr. Ssalongo Lule Rakai Branch Chairman with other branch 785 Jerry cans, 785 Soap has reduced the risks of officials distributing relief items to fire victims. plates, 785 cups, 157 sanitation and hygiene related Tarpaulins. diseases like diarrhea. The provision of tarpaulins for As a way of collaborating with local leadership, Mr. Moses Sserunjogi the Chairman shelter enabled 43 orphan LCIII, Mr. Moses Lwegaba the Town Clerk Kasensero landing site officiated over the pupils who had left the area exercise. The local leadership appreciated URCS efforts towards the well being of their for lack of shelter return.

Branches conduct high level dissemination sessions By Catherine Ntabadde tions in their areas, the history Apac, Gulu, Nebbi, Mbale, of Red Cross, Red Cross em- Mukono, Arua and Tororo with 10 Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) branches blem and the principles on support from ICRC. have conducted high level dissemination sessions which the Red Cross Move- The sessions targeted politicians, with aims of boosting membership recruitment, ment operates. corporate organizations, district resource mobilization and local partnership. and municipality officials, part- The high level dissemination ners like UN agencies and Non The sessions were also aimed at enlightening this sessions were conducted in Governmental Organisations. special category of people about URCS interven- Mbarara, Bushenyi, Lira, 6 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Psychosocial support By Catherine Ntabadde BEFORE SCHOOL

In November 2008, the Finnish project Evelyn Akao was interviewed by Red Cross sent two journalists the two Finnish journalists. Her life was from the Finnish Broadcasting very touching and sad especially that she Corporation to develop stories needed to return to school but lacked about the psychosocial project funds. One of the journalists, Esko Varho implemented by Uganda Red promised to do something about Evelyn’s Cross Society (URCS) in Lira studies. and Gulu districts. funds the project which It is important to note that Varho was provides psychosocial support able to raise money for Evelyn’s 2009 to former abducted children education. Evelyn is now happy and back and those affected by the Lord to school, thanks to the psychosocial pro- Resistance Army (LRA) war. ject. Evelyn’s support is managed by URCS Community Development pro- One of the beneficiaries of the gramme officer Alex Simba. Psychosocial is under Community Development. Former abducted Evelyn Akao beautifying her hut in November 2008 child returns to school EVELYN IN SCHOOL

Varho

Akao carrying beans from the family garden

Akao with her class teacher and URCS psychosocial pro- ject officer Albino Odongo.

Akao at Akao in class break time 7 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Uganda Red HIV/AIDS Uganda Red Cross collaborates with TASO Cross hosts By Hasifa Kabejja NEPAC meeting Uganda Red Cross Society By Catherine Ntabadde (URCS) and The AIDS Support Organization Uganda Red Cross Society (TASO) are negotiating (URCS) hosted the New Part- possible ways of collabora- nership for African Red Cross tion to improve the quality and Red Crescent Societies of life of AIDS clients. (NEPAC) Executive meeting in Entebbe from May 20-22, 2009. TASO is an organization that was started 22 years NEPAC is chaired by Mr. Tom ago by 16 volunteers to Buruku who is also URCS provide free services like board chairman. Mr. Richard counseling, testing and Hunlede is the new Chief Ex- treatment to AIDS patients. URCS Head of Organisational Development Richard ecutive Officer for NEPAC. URCS too has an AIDS Amadro addressing staff of TASO. programme that does al- The executive meeting was at- most the same work as generating activi- help reduce the workload, tended by Kenya Red Cross, TASO. ties. duplication of services and South African Red Cross, Cote URCS offers counseling would also improve the d’ Voire Red Cross, Ethiopia During a meeting services, home care ser- on 9th March, offi- quality of services. Red Cross. The other members vices, psychosocial support, on the executive Namibia Red cials from the two TASO encouraged URCS referrals, nutritional sup- organizations ob- to refer patients to their Cross, Nigeria Red Cross and port and hygiene promo- Cameroon Red Cross. served that col- centre since its free. tion. URCS also supports laboration would clients to start up income Among other issues, members discussed ways of exploring partnerships for NEPAC and Mbarara/Bushenyi branches increasing its membership among the African national Dissemination sessions in branches societies. The meeting also dis- cussed the SGS Audits and the International Federation of Red Cross/Red Crescent Gen- eral Assembly slated for Nov.

Aaron Birimbo former vice chairman NEPAC participants Bushenyi branch during dissemination. Participants to one of the high level dis- semination sessions. 8 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

International Red Cross Red Crescent Day

Red Cross celebrates birth of Henry Dunant By Catherine Ntabadde

Uganda Red Cross Society (UCRC) and Interna- tional Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) cele- brated the International Red Cross Red Crescent day on May 8th 2009 with a call to communities to make a move for a better world.

This year’s celebrations held at Old Secondary School playground focused on the role volunteers have played to reach out to thou- sands of vulnerable people across the globe.

Through a global campaign, Our World, Your Move, the public was called upon to take action by participating in interventions and activities of Uganda Red Cross Society in its 51 branches across the country. Mr. Buruku, Hon. Janat Mukwaya, Dr. Baguma & Bishop (Rtd) Ba- haragatte and board members inspecting stalls during the Red A football match between URCS and ICRC was Cross Day. flagged off with penalty where URCS chairman Mr. Tom Buruku and ICRC Head of Delegation Jurg Eglin each scored one. URCS won 1-0 against ICRC. A football She hailed URCS for its efforts in alleviating human suf- match between URCS and Police FC was won by the latter, fering. “As Government, we are grateful for the auxiliary 2-0. Kampala Central branch won the netball game. role Uganda Red Cross Society has played for 45 years now. Government can not reach out to the entire coun- URCS President Bishop (rtd) Edward Baharagatte, Deputy try alone. It is through partnerships with various entities General Secretary Dr. Bildard Baguma, Danish Red Cross like Uganda Red Cross Society that government can play Country Representative Charlotte Kjørup and partners at- a meaningful role,” Mukwaya said. tended the function. She added that the government will consider an impor- Uganda Police and Uganda Taxi Operators and Drivers As- tant role for URCS in the National Disaster Management sociation (UTODA) staff trained in first aid received certifi- Policy which is in the offing to guide the nation in prepa- cates. ration and management of disasters. URCS has always taken lead in disaster management and response in the The guest of honor Hon. Janat Mukwaya Minister of Gen- country. eral Duties in Prime Minister’s Office handed over certifi- cates to those that had donated blood for more than 30 Mr. Buruku informed guests that URCS engages in many times. humanitarian activities throughout the country. He rec- ognized URCS volunteers and members for the great The minister tasked URCS to ensure that Government rec- work done. ognizes those who donate blood many times as national heros. “What more heros would you need. Blood is only ICRC Head of Delegation Mr. Jurg Englin appreciated sourced from human beings. Not so many people can do- the strong relationship between URCS and ICRC. He nate these many times. Why not recognize those who vol- explained the level of activities of ICRC in Uganda. Mr. untary donate many more times than the rest?” Mukwaya Englin said the Our World. Your Move campaign is noted. aimed at calling upon communities to take action to stop the increasing humanitarian needs.

9 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 150 years in action Red Cross Red Cresc

Bushenyi branch volunteers paint a zebra crossing in Bushenyi Busia branch volunteers cleaning Solo B town.

Uganda Red Cros

URCS Board Ch man Mr. Tom B ruku and ICRC Head of Delega tion Jurg Eglin shaking hands with the ICRC s before a footba match with UR

The Uganda Red Cross Society football team that played ICRC on 8th May.

Stephen Ssebirumbi URCS Tracing Field Officer ex- plaining to the Minister of General Duties, Prime Min- ister’s Office Hon. Janat Mukwaya as she inspected stalls on the Red Cross day at Old Kampala. Looking are on URCS Board members (L-R) Mr. Godfrey Kaganda, Mr. Tom Buruku, Mr. Ssalongo Lule, Mr. Stephen Mutenyo, Mr. Han- nington Segirinya and A URCS volunteer clearing plastic bottle President Bishop (rtd) Ed- a water channel in , Kampala N ward Baharagatte branch 10 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 n: birth of an idea! cent Week 1-8th May

ss Society volunteers marching along Kampala Road. Beneficiaries of the Civil Society Fund HIV/AIDs project in Uleppi and Katrine sub counties receive goats for income generation.

hair- Bu- a- s staff all RCS.

Uganda Red Cross Secretary General Mr. Michael Nataka being interviewed by journalists during the launch of the International Kasese branch governing board member handing over cholera kits to health workers. Seated is the Kasese Red Cross Red Crescent week. Branch Coordinator Mike Mukirane.

Volunteers of Nebbi Branch during a community clean es from up along Main Street of orth Nebbi town. 11 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Public Relations Excellence Awards

URCS scoops 2 By Jacqueline Zawedde

It was a great evening, spiced with corporate colours of black PR awards and red as Public Relations practitioners in Uganda converged to witness the inaugural PR Excellence awards 2008.

For the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS), what more could Uganda’s leading humanitarian organization ask for after scoop- ing two PR awards on April 23, 2009 at .

The awards were organized by the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU).

URCS Senior Public Relations Officer Ms. Catherine Ntabadde submitted two entries to PRAU. One entry was for Young PR Practitioner of the year award and the second was for PR Excel- lence Award-Non Profit. URCS won both awards.

The Young PR Practitioner of the year Award required partici- pants to be PR professionals in in-house departments or consul- tancy firms who have practiced PR for 3 years and were below 30 years by end of December 2008. Entries had to contain the nominee’s career history and professional qualifications. Entries also had to include a 100 statement highlighting why the nomi- nee thinks they should win the award.. URCS Senior Public Relations Officer receiving the 2008/09 PR Excellence Award-Non Profit won by Uganda Red Cross Soci- URCS was awarded the PR Excellence Award-Non Profit in ety. the field of Media relations and crisis management cam- paigns for the ‘floods in Teso’. The entry for PR Excel- lence Non Profit was judged on the following: Statement of the prob- lem; Research; Plan- ning; Execution; Evaluation.

MTN Uganda was crowned overall PR Ex- cellence Award of the year - for their campaign “MTN 5th. Kampala Mara- thon”. Zain won the PR Excel- lence Award– Private Sector while Civil Avia- tion Authority won the PR Excellence Award- Public Sector

Ntabadde receiving the Young PR Practitioner of the year award 2008/09 at Kampala Serena Hotel 12 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Golf Tournament URCS holds 2009 Golf Tournament By Hasifa Kabejja However, Ms. Fancy Ogweng, The Secretary General, Mr. Michael Nataka, Thirty-four corporate companies the lady captain and also one of also commended the companies saying the participated in this year’s fund- the 11 members of the URCS support they offer helps the National Society raising golf tournament in sup- fundraising task force, said the to reach the most vulnerable. “The URCS am- port of Uganda Red Cross Soci- figure could go higher after bulance that was bought years ago using cash ety’s initiative to resettle internally pledges from all companies that from fundraising initiatives responds to all displaced people in the Northern took part are fulfilled. emergencies in this city to date. and Eastern parts of the country. Roofings “People in the Northern and Like last year, the theme of the Uganda Ltd Eastern parts of the country were tournament was ‘Build a House, won the team severely affected by floods that Prepare for Disaster due to the event with destroyed their crops and houses. increasing demand for proper 110 points The money raised will be put to shelter in Northern and Eastern followed by proper use to ensure that these Uganda. Ugarose and people lead normal lives again,” URCS . Sh14.5m was raised at the tourna- Robert Ssebunya, Central Gov- ment that took place on May 9th. erning Board Vice chairman said. Mr. Ssebunya with the team from Roofings.

Youth

Danish Red Cross Youth boss visits Uganda

By Benjamin Cadet and Jacqueline Zawedde

The Danish Red Cross Youth Secretary Gen- eral Mr. Rasmas visited the Rukungiri Branch recently, his first time to Africa. In his speech to the youth, he said that the Danish Red Cross Youth is the biggest humani- tarian organization for the children and youth in Denmark. He added that the Danish Red Cross was en- gaged in several partnerships in which the Ugandan youth partnership is the oldest and most important. “The Danish will continue to support activities of the URCS and more so Rasmas in the middle dancing with URCS Kinkizi drama group those of Rukungiri Branch which strengthen the capacity of individuals as well as the society as a whole” he said. Three components includ- ing exchange programs, capacity building and actual projects will con- tinue to be supported by the Danish Red Cross Youth.

The Branch Coordinator Cadet Benjamin pointed out the high prevalence of HIV, high levels of teenage pregnancy and illiteracy in computer knowledge as the major challenges facing the branch but were being overcome by training the youth in planning and management skills while providing free computer training to the youth on holidays. “The youth in the branch now view themselves as being in a global family, having global responsibilities and the branch is aiming higher to provide relevant services that cope with the ever changing humanitarian business of the 21st century,” he said. 13 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

Polio and Measles Supplemental immunization: Red Cross supports in Social Mobilisation

By Catherine Ntabadde Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) in April and May supported government in the supplemental immunization campaigns against polio and measles. URCS focus was on social mobilization in 11 districts of Kampala, Apac, Amorator, Dokolo, Lira, Oyam, Abim, Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto and Nakapiripirit for Polio and 15 districts of Kampala, Masindi, Nebbi, Masaka, Mukono, Kisoro, Kanungu, Bushenyi, Apac, Lira, Iganga, Kamuli, Pallisa, Soroti and Mbarara for measles. The campaigns were aimed at fighting the deadly immunisable diseases. URCS polio activities were supported by the International Federation of Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) while the measles cam- paign was supported by Ameri- can Red Cross.

The districts selected for the sup- plemental immunization exercise are among the 29 high risk dis- tricts identified by the Ministry of Health. The districts were se- lected based on their proximity to the boarders. In February 2009, Wild Polio outbreak was reported in Amuru District Northern Uganda and as of May more than 8 cases had been con- firmed.

URCS actions/interventions

URCS boosted the immunization URCS Kanungu sub branch volunteers assisting a health work immunizing a child activities across the country against measles at Kihihi Polytechnic in Kanungu. through social mobilization ac- tivities by carrying out commu- nity social mobilization, house to house health education, support and follow up of children during the vaccination days. In addition, URCS provided a truck to deliver vaccines to Lango districts. URCS also used its vehicle fleet to assist the district health officers in transportation of vaccines and other supplies in the districts of operation . Over 8, 000 URCS trained volunteers were deployed in these districts through the various URCS branches to imple- ment both the polio and measles campaign. Mr. Tom Buruku, Chairman Central Governing Board URCS said the over 8, 000 volunteers will work closely with district authorities to ensure that the campaign is a success.

“As an auxiliary body to Government of Uganda, Uganda Red Cross Society has been an implementing partner to- gether with the Uganda Expanded Programme on Immunization (UNEPI) for immunization programmes for the last 2 decades, contributing to some of the success of the programme in this country,” said Mr. Michael Richard Nataka, Sec- retary General URCS. 14 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

By Catherine Ntabadde Pandemic Preparedness

The Uganda Red Cross So- ciety (URCS) and CARE In- Humanitarian Pandemic Prepar- ternational on May 12, 2009 launched a Human Pan- demic Preparedness (H2P) programme to prepare edness project launched

communities in 14 districts for possible human pandemic and other diseases of epidemic po- tential. The URCS activities for the new programme are supported by USAID through the International Federation of Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). URCS is the lead implementing agency while CARE is the implementing partner in Uganda.

A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. An Influ- enza pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus appears against which the great majority of the human population has no immunity, resulting in several simultaneous epidemics worldwide with very substantial mortality and morbidity. Influenza pandemics have happened before. There were there in the 20th century, including the 1918 ‘Spanish Flu' pandemic known as the most devastating in history that killed over 40 mil- lion people worldwide. Pandemic influenza is not about birds or pigs. Kibuka Francis, a URCS Entebbe branch volunteer supporting influ- enza preparedness at Entebbe International Airport. The districts where activities are already undergo- ing are: Busia, Tororo, Bubulo, Manafwa, Kitgum , Moyo, Adjumani , Arua, Yumbe, Ntungamo, Kapchorwa, Koboko, Arua, Nebbi and Maracha-Terego. The pro- ject will endeavour to support the other districts as well to develop their preparedness plans. Uganda Red Cross Society is a member of the National task force on Avian and Human Influenza.

As part of the H2P programme, URCS and CARE are carrying out the following activities; Strengthening of the Avian & Human Integrated National Action Plan (AH INAP) to include Pandemic pre- paredness which was hitherto not emphasized. Developing a business continuity plan for URCS and assist other organizations to prepare business continu- ity plans in case of a pandemic Reviewed existing & adapted relevant communication materials for use in case of a pandemic influenza. Establish institutional capacities for response (programmatic and Human Resource) at national and district levels. Identify and document key contacts at district and National levels and circulate to all stake holders. Develop preparedness plans including technical guidelines, tools and Monitoring & Evaluation plans adapted to the Uganda settings and need. Train community volunteers including Village Health Teams and help communities develop contingency plans for drug and/or food access during a pandemic and carry out targeted community dialogue with com- munity leaders. 15 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

Mpigi/Moyo/Amuria/Katakwi/Mbale/K Kabong/Karamoja alangala/Busia/Arua/Rakai branches 28, 000 relief items 2, 792 disaster af- distributed in Kabong, fected households re- Karamoja sub region

ceive relief items.

By Catherine Ntabadde The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has distributed over 28,000 non food items including blankets, cook- Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) recently supported 2, ing pots, laundry soap, jerricans, cups and plates to 792 households that were affected by disasters with non- over 2000 households in Layoro Sub-County of food items. The items include jerrycans, kitchen sets, soap, Kabong District in the Karamoja sub region. buckets, plates, cups, tarpaulins and blankets. Layoro is one of the sub-counties which had limited The disasters ranged from fires, floods, hailstorms and humanitarian interventions due to insecurity. Accord- landslides. The supported ing to Mr. Anthony Lokongo, the parish council- households are in Mpigi- fire By Jacqueline Zawedde lor, the sub-county last received food aid and 80 households; Moyo-floods house hold items in September 2008. This situation 516 households; Amuria-hailstorms 292 households; Ka- was assessed during an International Committee of takwi-hailstorms 76 households; Rakai-fire 57 households; Red Cross (ICRC) protection delegate visit to the Mbale-landslides 616 households; Kalangala-fire 52 house- Lodiko parish and Loyoro Sub- County. holds; Busia- fire/hailstorms 1262 households; Arua- Marachi- fire 205 households With support from ICRC, the distribution exercise lasted four days in the parishes of Toroi, Lokana, In addition, URCS distributed 400 latrine digging kits and Lomeruma and Lodiko of the Layoro Sub County. 9,795 bars of soap to 3, 261 households in 2 parishes (Apeotolim and Iriri), Lopoko Sub County in Moroto. This was later followed by a “lesson learning work- shop” attended by the Sub-county’s opinion leaders As a way of improving access to safe water, an assessment and local council representatives. The workshop aimed of 7 non functioning boreholes for rehabilitation in Nabwal at sharing experiences of a new kind of aid rendered to them and also to compare the Non-food items distrib- uted by URCS with other relief assistance by other or- ganizations in terms of priority. It was also intended to gauge the perceptions and responses of the recipients of the non food Items.

According to Aine Rueben, the Acting Food Security Officer the distribution acted as an open entry for URCS intervention in Karamoja sub region as a whole and it provided awareness of the existence of Red Cross and its humanitarian services to non privileged communities such as theirs. “URCS’s other activities like malaria control and Immunization campaigns helped in mobilization of the beneficiaries and there- fore we appreciate URCS together with ICRC for these developments,” he said. One of the distribution exercises 16 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Moyo branch Case study: Transforming life of youth gangsters By Mawa Alatawa -ort with the In its effort to enhance the capacity of the youth to par- group ticipate in URCS activities, Moyo branch came face to leaders face with the appalling state of the youth in the district who under the pretext of modernity. later

The youth are embroiled in drug consumption, excessive confided alcohol drinking and formation of gangs that affect the to the communities they dwell in and inflict incredible suffering branch to the people in these communities. The youth who in- coordi- dulge in these defiant behaviors have been labeled as nator. social outcasts and are purportedly viewed as aliens in The The reformed youths pose for a photo with their counsellors their own communities hence forcing them to start their branch own counter productive community with their own engaged over 10 professional volunteers to schedule coun- norms and survival strategies. seling sessions for over 30 once dreaded youths.

These youths were suspicious henceforth; contemptu- The branch through the counseling sessions realized that, ously treated anybody who attempted to focus on their most of the youths met their fate out of desperation due to plight, as a result reaching out to them became a night- the breakdown in the moral values and prohibitive family mare for most of the organizations that provided socio- support services. As parents were busy trying to make ends psychological services that would have benefited them. meet, early socialization was left incumbent to paid ser- vants/maids who minded much about task accomplish- URCS Moyo branch saw this gap and ultimately wanted ment rather than imparting moral values to the children, to bridge it. The branch was oblivious of the task ahead this exposed the children early to dysfunctional behaviors of it. This group of people is well organized, bound to- either from the internet or movies that were at their discre- gether by common belief sets. tion.

The concerted effort by the branch to reach these people URCS IMPACT almost hit a snag, because of the utmost commitment of The branch in order to reach out to more vulnerable the group to hold the wider society at ransom. youth, has formally registered the football team in the zonal league, where they are the 2nd on the table standings, This situation persisted until the branch came up with an determined to qualify for the super league. encompassing approach to reach out to them. The branch started leisure but passion filled football for juve- The branch also increased the number of professional niles that had its training ground near the groups’ hide- counselors from 05 to 10 as volunteers to provide socio- out where they indulged in their dreadful activities. psychological support services to the youth. At first their instincts were at their peak, but with the The branch also developed concept a paper seeking for non disruption of their bragging rights, the suspicion on funds to introduce carpentry and joinery workshop to URCS soon eased. benefit over 50 reformed youth who have embraced self

THE TURNING POINT help income generating initiatives in collaboration with Moyo technical institute.

Events took a new twist when the URCS team chal- lenged the group into playing a friendly match, an invite The branch re-united 09 children with their parents, 04 they hastily accepted, the branch provided first aid and have since gone back to secondary school, 02 primary refreshment to them during the friendly match, an act school, 01 tertiary institution and 02 to university. These they could not easily understand. reformed youths are now being used by the branch to The friendly match enabled the branch to develop rapp- reach out to more youths who didn't benefit directly. 17 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

Kotido/Karamoja Red Cross distributes seeds in Karamoja

URCS Vice Chairman Mr. Robert Ssebunya (l) and Kotido branch chairman Mr. Jimmy Owiri distributing seeds and tools in Kacheri.

By Catherine Ntabadde They are seated under a mango tree. Majority of them are women! They are anxiously waiting for a package from their friends, the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS).The people of Karamoja are determined to start farming instead of spending their time on cattle. Achieng Brenda of Kacheri sub county in Kotido has this to say, “We used not to think of digging. We would think of only cattle. But now it is going to be different. I am grateful to Red Cross for bringing seeds and tools for fighting hun- ger,” she said.

Karamoja has continued to experience famine and drought due to the prevailing climate situation. It is however pre- dicted that the region will receive some rainfall in the next season. On March 4, 2009 URCS distributed seeds and tools to over 5, 000 households in Kacheri Kotido. Each household has about 5-8 people. The URCS vice chairman Mr. Robert Ssebunya flagged off the distribution. He appealed to the beneficiaries to ensure that the seeds are planted and not eaten.

Mr. Ssebunya said URCS has intensified its programming in Karamoja with an aim of alleviating the suffering of the

Karimojongs who have for many years been into cattle rustling. Mr. Jimmy Owiri, chairman Branch Governing Board Kotido said the people of Karamoja are committed to changing their life styles. He said the seeds and tools are timely because the rainy season is near. He said he would ensure that the seeds are effectively utilized by monitoring the beneficiaries.

The seeds distributed were sorghum (3kg), maize (3kg), beans (3kg) and vegetables; egg plant (20 grams), sukuma wiki

(20 grams), onions (20 grams), dodo (20 grams), okra (20 grams). The benefiting sub counties are Kacheri, Nakapemiru in Kotido and Nyakwae and Alerek in Abim. The distribution of seeds and tools is part of URCS’ short term food security programme supported by the Interna- tional Federation of Red Cross/Red Crescent (IFRC) Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF). After the short term programme, URCS will embark on a four year long term food security programme which will include water and sanita- tion, HIV/AIDs activities. 18 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

Uganda Red Cross Society has sent a 4 man team Celebrating the battle of Solferino; 150 years headed by the National Youth Chairman Hannington Segirinya to Solferino to participate in the activities for the 150 years.

On 24 June, 1859, Henry Dunant, a Geneva businessman travelling through Italy, witnessed the horrors of war at the Battle of Solferino. He reached out to help the wounded soldiers, regardless of which side they had fought on, and organised volunteers to provide relief. It was there that the idea of the Red Cross and Red Crescent was born. Dunant suggested that relief societies be established to care for the wounded during wartime – an idea that would lead to the world's largest humanitarian network. A century and a half later, the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement continues to protect and care for the vulnerable in 186 countries worldwide.

From 23 June to 27 June, Red Cross Red Crescent staff and volunteers from more than 150 countries gather in Solferino, to reflect on 150 years of action and to examine tomorrow's challenges. These activi- ties are tied together under the global theme: Our world. Your move. Commemorative activities

22 June: Run to Solferino: ICRC and IFRC staff will set off from Geneva on a five-day run to Solferino in northern Italy. There will be a photo/ video opportunity and a chance to interview some of the runners before they head out from the ICRC headquarters. 22 June: Embargoed ICRC press conference on new report, "Our World – Personal Experiences The Chairman National Youth Council, Mr. Hannington Ssegirinya (R), of Armed Conflict" with the Director of Operations, and Mr. Shaban Mawanda, member of the International Youth Com- Pierre Kraenbuehl and Deputy Director of Communi- mission, pose for a photo in Solferino. This was during celebrations to cation, Charlotte Lindsey. mark 150 years of the Red Cross. 23 – 27 June: Youth on the Move meeting in Solferino, Italy: Hundreds of young people from more than 150 countries will gather in Solferino to discuss their vision for tackling today's and tomorrow's humanitarian challenges. The meeting will result in a declaration to be pre- sented to the international community, Swiss officials and the leadership of the Red Cross Red Crescent on 2 July. 24 June: 150th anniversary of the Battle of Solferino: Geneva's famous jet d'eau will be lit in red on 24 June. Sev- eral key sites related to the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement will also be illuminated during a two week period, including the Hôtel de Ville and Musée Rath. Contact the ICRC. 25 June: A human Red Cross and Red Crescent: During the early evening, more than 2,000 people will gather to make a "human" red cross and red crescent. A great photo/video opportunity, this will be captured by a professional photographer and videographer and the content will be available for distribution. Please contact IFRC. 24 – 27 June: Humanitarian Boulevard in Solferino, Italy: Free and open to the public, this open air boulevard will feature a series of activities and exhibits highlighting disaster response and preparedness, health and safety, and humanitarian values. The media is invited to attend and experts are available for interviews. Please contact the IFRC or .

26 June: Disaster exercise in Solferino, Italy: During the morning, the IFRC will demonstrate, on Humanitarian Boulevard, how it responds to disasters using ERUs (emergency response units). This disaster exercise will be open to the media and the public. Please contact IFRC.

19 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009 Life as a Red Cross Volunteer 14 years as Red Cross volunteer

By Phillip Ngobi I have been a Red Cross volunteer for over 14 years. I have been elected to serve in the youth leadership of the Uganda Red Cross Society as youth leader from junior to sen- ior youth membership. Through that I managed to serve on the branch youth executive of Kampala cen- tral, as committee member, and branch youth coordi- nator for two consecutive terms (2002-2006. This has totally changed and developed me into a humanitarian leader and a good listener who understands people of different characters and environment mainly the youth.

I have participated in many Red Cross youth camps at national and international level. These have helped me to learn and understand youth behaviors, interests, ideas and how to interact and work with them.

URCS has equipped me with various skills leadership, volunteer management and administration, disaster response and management, project planning and man- agement, dissemination, evaluation and follow up plan- Ngobi (circled) as part of the rescue team at a building that col- ning, road safety, counseling, fist Aid, basic, standard, lapsed on Nasser Road in Kampala Central branch. trainer of trainers and instructors course among others. Red Cross has made me known to various community, political and social leaders who have continually invited me to put my acquired skills to service.

Recruiting people as members is becoming a challenge because some people expect to be paid in foreign currency while others have dif- ferent interests.

The other challenge is to be called upon by Community leaders and people in the city for every emergency at any time including the wee hours of the night.

Since I am well known to many people as the emergency rescue personnel from Red Cross, I experience challenges when am called upon for emergencies especially accidents.

I have participated in many first aid trainings as a trainer. Ngobi (with gloves) during a first aid training course in Mbarara branch. 20 The Humanitarian April‐June 2009

ive Appointments cut CS Exe UR ch at wat Daniel Musoke-Programme Officer Social Promotions Mobilisation for Immunisation & Malaria.

Lawrence Lu- taaya-Head Re- source Mobiliza- tion, Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation & Re- porting

Michael Nataka-Secretary General Other new appointments Carol Onyadi-Head, Human Resource & Administra- tion. Dr. Bildard Baguma-Deputy Secretary Andrew Disan Zirimenya - Watsan Engineer, Hoima. General/Head of Operations Consolate Aloyo - Watsan Project Officer, Gulu Evalyn Anek - Watsan Project Officer, Kitgum Patrick Bongomin - Health Project Officer, Amuru Peter Wills Buyondo-Programme Officer RMPME&R Disaster Management. Sarah Musisi- Head, Moses Mukuru-Programme Officer RMPMER Health Health and Care and Care. Patrick Wandawa- Dominic Otto-Branch Coordinator Pader Branch Health and Care Co- Catherine Ntabadde- Senior Dominic Odoi-Regional Accountant Mbarara ordinator Public Relations Officer Moses Wabuye Wabusa-Regional Accountant Mbale. Claire Nalubega-Assistant Accountant Juliet Nyakojjo-Project Officer Keep up, Hang up, Mbale region. Seira Ahmed-Senior Accountant Pro- grams/Operations.

Geoffrey Wepondi-Senior Bedious Kamugisha- Accountant Support Ser- Fleet Manager vices

Lorna Moses Mukuru, Pro- Juliet Kiyimba- Nabyonga- gramme Officer, Health Acting Tracing Pro- Senior Admin- Susan Kamanyi- and Care Programming gramme Officer. istrative Assis- Senior Accountant- (RMPMER) tant Region Other promotions Yudaya Namisango-Head Guard Reuben Aine-Acting programme officer Food Security Hillary Kupajo-Asst. Project Officer Relief (Gulu). Olive Twikirize-Asst. Programme Officer, Sam Okalanga-Driver Tracing Peter Will Buyondo. Programme Officer. Disaster Management Moses Ongetho– Warehousing Programme Officer Programming (RMPMER)