modest journey Messages from the patron, chairperson and the chief executive officer p4-5 Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans th

uwesoBringing smiles to faces of vulnerable children 30 march, 2018

don’t miss! photo gallery inside

Consolidating Our Leadership OVC services in protecting children > Story of UPE and UWESO Skills development ... p28—34 + who we are: UWESO’s 30-year journey ... p12-13 FINANCE TRUST BANK

REDEFINING BANKING

A NEW WAY OF BANKING WHERE WOMEN’S NEEDS COME FIRST

inance Trust Bank rebranded into a money. In addition to financial literacy, we have Fcommercial bank in 2013 and it is a bank developed women specific products for savings that Puts Women First. dubbed Mama Safe savings and Women’s We are walking the talk of Putting specific loans - (Women’s choice). Women First by redefining banking to Women on the mama safe savings account accommodate the female reproductive roles. are able to save as individuals or in groups As part of FTB’s endeavor to put Women and also have access to subsidized medical first, we have embarked on various activities insurance for themselves and members of their to engage women. families. This is done in partnership with IML- Finance Trust Bank has developed International Medical Link. a financial literacy curriculum for the This is done to change the lives of women adult customers to enable them become financially and socially so that they are able to knowledgeable financial customers and gain take care of their medical and health needs. the financial knowledge and skills needed to Women can access the Mama safe account create financial plans, including savings plans at any of our 36 branches and pay as little as to achieve financial goals and effectively 370,000 for medical insurance which allows manage their money. them both inpatient and outpa-tient services We do this passionately to empower at all medical centres and hospitals that are women and we strongly believe that the registered by IML. outcomes of financial decisions have We have gone further to provide special significant implications for a woman’s spaces for Women in our banking halls. These financial security and standard of living as spaces are referred to as Mama Corners. well as the welfare of her family. In these spaces women can breast feed; A Woman with a good level of financial A woman with a good level of bottle feed their babies as they wait to be literacy is likely to manage financial affairs financial literacy is likely to served. The mama corners even have a play in a prudent manner. Of course, by contrast, manage financial affairs in a area where toddlers can play with toys as their poor financial choices are sometimes based prudent manner.“ mothers transact in the bank. All this is set up on lack of understanding of financial matters, to make it easier for women of the nation to and this can result in a number of negative save and prosper their lives. out-comes, including a lower level of Its under this note that I thank UWESO for financial wealth and poor debt management. supporting Finance Trust Bank in its endeavour Finance Trust Bank has trained over Fortportal. These workshops are free for all to reach more women through our products 14,000 women in 21 districts where there women and we encourage women to take and services for poverty reduction. branches are housed and will continue doing ad-vantage of these opportunities to better We pledge our support to UWESO initiatives so this year in Jinja, Mbale, Kampala and their knowledge and skills in management of now and in the future. MARCH, 2018 CONTENTS EDITOR’S PICK

4

4-5 | Messages | The journey of UWESO as told by the patron - First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, chairperson - Mabel Kiggundu and Chief Executive Officer - Jennifer Aguti. 7 | Interview | As a former UWESO chairperson between 2000 and 22-23 2002, Dr Maggie Kigozi shares THE FUTURE her experience, successes and Through well planned projects, UWESO is seeking ways challenges. through which it can achieve financial independence. 12-13 | The 30-year journey | The achievements that have been reached so far have purposely been built through a well structured system that has leadership right from the EDITOR’S PICK grassroots. 24-27 | Pictorial | Several key UWESO milestones are captured on camera which gives our readers, well wishers and partners a graphical view of who we are. 28-34 | Skills development | Through a number of projects, UWESO has been able to support a number of OVCs as well as enabling their families join different projects. This created avenues through which OVC families have been empowered with sustainable income generating skills for betterment of their livelihoods. 19 35 | Spot-on priorities for the 2016-2020 strategic plans | Through strategic partnerships UWESO has been able to identify certain priorities that is seeks to achieve for the period running between 2016 and 2020. Key among the priorities is achieving financial independence. 14-15 | Timeline | The story of 36-39 | Giving children renewed hope and transformation | UWESO since 1986 to date is UWESO’s long term plan is to lift OVCs out of vulnerability by giving presented in a graphical format them life sustaining skills. This shall be achieved with a number of highlighting different milestones. projects, some of have already taken shape. 16 | Protecting children | Over the years UWESO has participated in both government and civil society 40-41 42-43 44-45 programmes that seek to protect child’s rights. 20 | UPE and UWESO | UWESO has actively participated in UPE programmes with the view of enabling OVC access education. 21 | The numbers | To understand the story of UWESO you need to look at its numbers that present a graphic representation of the achievements so far reached.

success stories partners the uweso team

uweso@30 3 Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans th The impact of UWESO on the lives of vulnerable children uweso and their households in Uganda cannot be underestimated. Bringing Smiles to faces ofVulnerable Children 30 therefore, as the First Lady, I pledge continued support to Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans UWESO and vulnerable people in every way possible. P.O. Box 8419 Kampala Tel: 0392-777448 / 0414-532395 Plot 2, Tagore Crescent, Kamwokya Email: [email protected] From the patron

THE TEAM: Janet Kataaha Museveni - Patron Mabel Kiggund - Chairperson Jennifer Aguti - CEO Dear Readers, MANAGEMENT TEAM: fter a protracted war in 1986, I was inspired as a Silvanus Bob Turyamwijuka - Head of Programmes woman and mother to mobilise other women and Gladys Yiga - Head of Operations men in one fold to take responsibility of the orphaned Damalie Peace Jingo - Human Resources children. Officer Through humble beginnings, Uganda Women’s Collins Kansiime - Group Internal Audi- EffortA to Save Orphans (UWESO) was born in 1986. tor Harmon Opira Kiteze - Monitoring & Evaluation Officer And over the last 30 years the organisation has made EdrisaWambewo - Child Protection Manager tremendous gains notwithstanding the challenges. UWESO has not only become a credible and leading local Non- Governmental Organisation, it has been key in responding to the needs of orphans and vulnerable children. Therefore, the impact of UWESO on the lives of vulnerable children and their households in Uganda cannot be underscored. As the First Lady, I pledge my continued support to UWESO and vulnerable children in every way possible.

Editor: Janet Kataaha Museveni Othman Semakula

Layout & Design: Muhammad Tamale

Copyright © 2018 All rights reserved. No sections of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means mechanical, electronic, photocopy, recording or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher and copyright owner.

uweso@30 Magazine 2018 is a publication of uganda women’s efforts to save orphans.

4 uweso@30 Statement chairpersons From the board chairperson over years Congratulations... congratulate UWESO on Wakiso District. 1986 - 1988 this milestone. Thirty years We have also hosted the wife Joyce Mpanga of supporting orphans and of the vice president of India vulnerable children (OVC) who promised to partner with us is worth celebrating. in supporting OVCs. II am delighted to know that The work of supporting OVCs the work we do touches hearts, is just starting, every time I drive especially of children. on Jinja Road, I see destitute 1989 - 1990 The Bible in, the book of children begging. This pains me Diana Lule James 1:27: say: “What God the because our future generation Father considers to be pure and cannot continue surviving on genuine religion is to take care mercy. of orphans and widows in their This is a challenge considering suffering...” the limited funding available to Indeed UWESO serves the cater for the increasing numbers. Almighty God, and I am happy UWESO being a Gon- 1994 - 1995 to be associated with this great Governmental Organisation, Devota Karuhije organisation that I have served has not been able to publicise since 2009. We have ably carried the great work it does to uplift on the work of previous boards, the plight of OVCs. Therefore, as implementing 29 projects in six we embark on the post 30-year regions in UWESO’s focus areas. journey, our plan is to harness We have also regularised local resources so that we cut 1995 - 1999 ownership of our land and most back on donor dependence. Marcella Mukasa importantly secured titles for We hope to embark on Janet Kataaha Museveni 0.528 acres in Bugolobi and 258 a number of fundraisers to acres in Nakasongola District. mobilise funds for construction We have also strengthened of a Shs14b office block in Governance structures through Bugolobi. training board and senior I thank the First Lady Janet 2000 - 2001 management members as well Kataaha Museveni for planting Dr Maggie Kigozi as improving staff capacity the seed and her continued to build programmes and support to UWESO. I also ensured that programme applaud our staff for their implementation is guided by continued commitment to strategic plans to allow decisive supporting OVCs. activity implementation. I pledge the board’s We have also hosted continued support as we 2001 - 2009 important dignitaries such as consolidate and improve service Angelina Wapakhabulo the First Lady of Sri Lanka who delivery. donated a two-block vocational training centre at Masulita Children’s Village, our home for vulnerable children in Kakiri, Mabel Kiggundu 2009 - todate Mabel Kiggundu

uweso@30 5 Statement

... the handout approach of giving out start-up capital in form of cows, goats and money has had to change to a more sustainable approach that enables communities to generate their own incomes. From the CEO The past, present and future he past 30 years have been incomes. a period of good will and The new approach encourages the commitment from women creation of a saving culture among the and like-minded civil society communities and to us this is a more organisations that bought into the focused intervention as it lies within our Tvision and mission of UWESO. mandate of supporting orphans and From the beginning, UWESO set out to vulnerable children to attain sustainable be a non-governmental organisation with a livelihoods. national outlook and mandate with regional We also guide them on the registration offices that have been able and continue to process of their groups at sub-county serve as coordination centres through which level as well as helping them to acquire UWESO reaches out to as many Districts as certificates. possible. This has enabled many members to Most of our programmes are donor- compete for national livelihood programmes driven. Therefore, our such as NAADS and the newly created stakeholders have an Operation Wealth Creation. input in the choice of This has encouraged many of them to In the next years, especially in regard where we work. form VSLA groups to benefit from different to our five-year strategic plan, we shall Some or many programmes. focus on sustainable livelihoods, child of our programmes In the next years, especially in regard to protection and education... Similarly, are started as pilot our five-year strategic plan, we shall focus we shall focus on institutional development to ensure that women projects; therefore, on sustainable livelihoods, child protection, capabilities are fully functional. it is possible to find education and continue to provide capacity different interventions building and technical assistance in our care happening at the and support structures. same time. Here, we shall deal with issues that affect However, in the past years, UWESO has child development such as integrated had to change its focus from providing relief community health, which specifically services to orphans and vulnerable children focuses prevention, nutrition and provision to developing programmes such as Village of good sanitation practices. Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) with a Similarly, we shall focus on institutional view of building sustainable livelihoods. development to ensure that community As such the handout approach of structures are fully functional. giving out start-up capital in form of cows, goats and money has had to change to a more sustainable approach that enables communities to generate their own Jennifer Aguti

6 uweso@30 Interview her story. Dr Maggie Kigozi was UWESO NEC chairperson between 2000 and 2001. She shares her experience, successes, and challenges. ‘Joy and hope kept us going’ What was your experience during your time at UWESO? t that time there were many children orphaned mainly by wars and HIV/ AIDS and UWESO was the only prominent national non-governmentalA organisation taking care of orphans. We were faced with many emotional situations but the joy of rescuing a child and offering them the opportunity to a better life, kept us going.

Was it fun working with UWESO? Certainly yes, I had a hardworking team and dedicated board. In fact, most of these people had UWESO linked to benefit from Government some of its lands with self-sustenance at heart. They sacrificed time and programmes. projects. resources to take the organisation to the next level. Most importantly, What were your achievements? What would you say about the our patron - First Lady, Mama Janet During my term, I had a discussion apparent need to protect the girl- Museveni - was always there for us with some of our donors – IFAD in child? to support these children and other Rome, Italy. They were impressed with Government has enacted various interventions. One of the memorable our plans that they decided to support laws that seek to protect the girl child. moments is, during school holiday us. I also pioneered the establishment However, the challenge is, there are time, we would go to Masulita of Masulita Children’s Village and gaps in regard to enforcement. Children’s Village and Migyera UWESO Migyera UWESO Vocational Training This, therefore calls for Vocational Training Institute to interact Institute and Secondary School to strengthening of the Family Protection with children. cater for the increasing number of Unit of police to develop capacity OVCs who needed support. to apprehend perpetuators of child If you were invited back to UWESO, violence, especialy of the girl-child. what would you do different? Could you share some of your There is also need to adress gaps I would focus on skills development most challenging moments? in Universal Primary Education such of youth, especially through Sourcing funds and I believe, remains as quality and provision of sanitary vocational training programmes and a major challenge to date. towels to the girl-child to promote empowering them with life skills so their retention in school. that they take charge of their lives. Where do you see UWESO in the I would also focus on sourcing next 30years? What is your final remark? local funding instead of development I would like UWESO to be a self- The UWESO Board of staff should keep partners as well as ensuring that sustaining organisation. My wish is to up the spirit of serving orphans and young people are guided and see it raise its own money to develop vulnerable children.

uweso@30 7 Acronyms list of Acronyms

AIDS Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome ARDI African Rural Development Initiatives BOC Banking On Change BEC Branch Executive Committee CBT Community Based Trainer CSF Civil Society Fund CSO Civil Society Organisation CBSD Community Development Services Department ECLT Elimination of Child Labour in Tobacco Growing DFID British Department For International Development ECP Education And Child Protection FAO Food And Agriculture Organisation FFS Farmers Field Schools HIV Human Immune Deficiency Virus IFAD International Fund For Agriculture Development ILO International Labour Organisation IHAA International Hiv/Aids Alliance TSO Technical Service Organisation LG Local Government M&E Monitoring and Evaluation MCV Masulita Children Village MGLSD Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development MUTI Migyera Uweso Training Institute NAADS National Agriculture Advisory Services NEC National Executive Committee NGO Non-Governmental Organisation OVC Orphans and Vulnerable Children SUNRISE Strengthening the Uganda National Response for Implementation of OVC Services SCREAM Support Children’s Rights Through Education, Arts And Media UBOS Uganda Bureau of Statistics USAID United States Agency for International Development UWESO Uganda Women’s Effort To Save Orphans UPE Universal Primary Education VSLA Village Savings and Loan Association. USDL United States Department Of Labour

8 uweso@30 Where we are Our funders

UWESO KEY FUNDERS/ Project coverage & reach PARTNERS AND PROGRAMME UWESO HEAD OFFICE Wakiso, Lyantonde and Kampala THEMATIC AREAS Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Capital City Authority Orphans (UWESO) Livelihoods (2006-2017) Plot 2, Tagore Crescent Kamwokya East Central Ifad, Dfid, Care P O Box 8419, Kampala/ Bugiri, Namutumba, Iganga, Jinja, International In Tel: +256(039)2777448 Kamuli, Kayunga, Mayuge and Mukono Uganda, Barclays Bank Uk, Mofped, European E.mail: [email protected] Union, Amfiu, Local Website: www.uweso.org Eastern Leaders & Community- Manafwa , Budaka, Bukwo, Busia, Based Structures, GOU Central Uganda Butaleja, Kapchorwa, Mbale, Pallisa, Hoima, Wakiso, Mukono, Nakasongola, Sironko, Bududa and Tororo Community Health Kiboga, Masindi and Kibaale (2008-2017) South West Csf, Unicef, MOH, Baylor Eastern Uganda Bushenyi, Ibanda, Isingiro, Kabale, Uganda, Unaso, Taso, Mbale, Tororo, Busia, Butaleja, Sironko, Kanungu, Kiruhura, Kisoro, Mbarara, Jcrc, Uac, Un Habitat Pallisa, Budaka, Manafwa, Bududa, Ntungamo and Rukungiri & Health Service Bulambuli, Bugiri and Iganga Providers, GOU Eastern and Northern Southern Uganda Mbale, Tororo, Bugiri, Iganga, Mayuge, Child Protection & Masaka, Rakai, Sembabule, Lyantonde, Jinja, Kamuli Arua, Gulu, Kitgum, Education (2010-2017) Bukomasimbi and Mutukula Omoro, Lira, Oyam, Apac Eclt Foundation, Un Ilo, Koinonia Ministries, Western Uganda UWESO REGIONAL OFFICES Opm (GOu), Un-Iom, Mbarara, Kiruhura, Isingiro Ibanda, Western Region Unicef, Dfid, Hiltop Bushenyi, Kabarole, Ntungamo, Mbarara Kamukuzi Road, Plot 11 School-Canada, Rukungiri and Mitooma P O Box 1564, Mbarara Mglsd, Usdol, Tel: 0772 022 752 World Education Northern Uganda Northern Eastern Region International, MOEs, Straight Talk North West: Adjumani, Arua, Koboko, North Avenue Plot 12 Foundation, Kcca, Maracha, Moyo, Nebbi and Yumbe P O Box 427, Soroti Local Authorities In Tel: 0392 854 432 Karamoja, C& D, SrI- North Central Southern Region Lankan Government Amolatar, Amuru, Apac, Dokolo, Gulu, Hobert, Plot 38 And Ucrnn, GOVT OF Kitgum, Lira, Oyam and Pader. P O Box 1313, Masaka REPUBLIC OF INDIA Tel: 0782 837 838. North East Eastern Region Technical Support Amuria, Abim, Kaabong, Kaberamaido, Mbale Municipality, Aryada street, Services (2006-2017) Bukedea, Katakwi, Kotido, Kumi, Plot 43-47 Usaid, Local Moroto, Nakapiripirit and Soroti P O Box 1095, Mbale Governments, Save The Tel: 0352 276 750 Children, Foc-Rev/ War Western Central Region Child Holland, Tpo, Buliisa, Bundibugyo, Hoima, Tagore Crescent, Kamwokya, Accord, Ihaa, Msh Avsi, Kamwenge, Kasese, Kibaale, Kyenjojo Plot 2 Africare, and Masindi P O Box 8419 Kampala Wei/Bantwana, Child Tel: 0392 777 448 Fund International Central Northern Region and Mglsd Kalangala, Kiboga, Luweero, Masaka, Lira Church Road, Plot 36 Mityana, Mpigi, Mubende, Nakaseke, P O Box 367 Nakasongola, Rakai, Sembabule, Tel: 0392 777 448

uweso@ 9 Anthem

UWESO Anthem

Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans UWESO, for God and my Country Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans UWESO, we’re destined to win

With a burden for our mother country Uganda. Women arise reaching out in love, Touching the orphans and destitute Giving them the help and hope in life

UWESO, we’re destined to win

With a vision to encourage health and education Women arise establish ways and means, A foundation for tomorrow Rooted in our love and unity

UWESO, we’re destined to win

With commitment dedication and determination We proclaim our cause to people far and near Making a future generation That will live in peace and harmony

UWESO, we’re destined to win

10 uweso@30 Our reach Areas of operation Counting. UWESO operates in over 90 districts with six regional offices in Lira, Soroti, Mbale, Kampala, Masaka and Mbarara and a project office in Hoima. The map below shows uweso coverage by 2017.

Uganda. Located in eastern Africa, west of Kenya

N

we are there. UWESO is already operating in areas shaded in blue.

uweso@30 11 Who we are

UWESO’s 30-year journey values. UWESO believes in governance structures and this is achieved through a well-built structure headed by a chief executive officer, who is assisted by the head of programmes and head of operations to oversee the implementation of programmes and management of resources (financial, human and physical) respectively. WESO was founded in contribute to “A Society where all the plight of OVC. Under the current 1986 by First Lady Mama children live a fulfilling life”. Over the five-year strategic plan 2016-2020, key Janet Kataaha Museveni, past 30 years, UWESO has evolved thematic areas are; child protection who continues to be the into a broad-based child rights and education, providing sustainable patron to date. organisation addressing the needs livelihoods, improving community UIt was subsequently registered of Orphans and Vulnerable Children health and institutional development with the Uganda National NGO Board (OVC) through different interventions as well as technical support services. under registration number: Reg. that build capacity of households, UWESO values structured No.S.5914/679. government structures and other governance and this is achieved The vision of UWESO is to civil society organisations to uplift through a well-built management

12 uweso@30 Who we are masulita children’s village is a key uweso project

structure head by a chief executive supported by and accountable to the and civil society agencies to officer, assisted by the head of head office. implement them. programmes and head of operations Regional offices serve The programmes include; grassroot to oversee the implementation of approximately eight to 12 interventions spearheaded by UWESO programmes and management of neighbouring administrative districts. members, district-based interventions resources (financial, human and In addition to the mainstream in partnership with development physical) respectively. operations, UWESO has semi- partners, government ministries and The organisation also has a autonomous units focused on distinct global level advocacy initiatives in group Internal Auditor who ensures strategic objectives including; an partnership with child-focused and quality assurance and compliance, integrated vocational training and women support organisations. In the programme management specialists secondary school in Nakasongola past 30 years, UWESO has supported based at the head office, regional District, a community-based child more than 1.2 million OVC. offices and related entities such as protection and development centre The development of a National UWESO Vocational Training Institute and vocational training institute OVC Policy in 2004 by the and Masulita Children’s Village in in Wakiso District and Community government and the changes in the Wakiso District. Multipurpose Cooperative in Kampala. political and socio-economic context UWESO has its headquarters in Over the years, UWESO has in Uganda, at the regional and Kampala with regional offices in Lira, identified a number of interventions international level, informed change Mbale, Masaka, Mbarara, Hoima, that have the capacity to sustainably of focus, moving away from provision Bushenyi and Soroti districts. Regional alleviate the plight of OVCs as well as of relief services to development offices have operational autonomy, partnering with relevant government programmes.

uweso@30 13 Timeline

1986 1989 1991 Founding 1987 Land aquisition Incorporated Children’s UWESO is UWESO acquires UWESO is 1990 Village founded by a Construction land in Wakiso group of women incorporated District to build a UWESO opens the led by First Lady, and holds its Construction of Janet Kataaha first board children’s home. the home begins Masulita Children’s 1995 Museveni meeting chaired by at acquired land Village for vulnerable Lugogo land Joyce Mpanga in Wakiso District. children, some of whom were orphaned as a UWESO acquires land result of the war. on Lugogo By-pass for the site of a commercial property to generate income through rent.

14 uweso@ 2006 2016 1997 Schools 2015 More land Officially open 2005 Sri Lanka UWESO UWESO opens a acquires land Rent Sri Lankan secondary school in Bugolobi Lugogo Courts is govt through to construct and vocational As part of its CSR their First officially open for a commercial institute to help policy, URA rents Lady offer to 1996 property. business extend its services in Lugogo Courts as build Masulita Nakansogola District a training centre, Vocational Lugogo Courts Training to contrubute to Institute Construction of Lugogo UWESO activities. Courts begins to provide income for the Masulita Children’s Village project.

uweso@ 15 Education In Nyondo, Shirulwa and Nabiri primary schools, a feeding programme was initiated, allowing pupils to have Protecting children healthy meals at breakfast and lunch. This not only improved class performance but indicated a marked improvement in enrolment levels against child labour prompting parents to approve of the programme where they would contribute Shs5,000 for their children A case study of Mbale. Between 2011 and 2012, the to have breakfast (porridge) and Combating Child Labour Through Education programme Shs15,000 for lunch per term. allowed more than 700 children who had dropped out of The programme allowed more 700 children who had dropped out school to return to school . of school to re-enroll due to the fact etween 2011 and 2012, a would be prioritised. that they had been availed with some project - Combating Child The implementation also brought items such as scholastic materials and Labour Through Education on board HUYS Link Community meals, which had in the first place - was launched in Mbale Initiative to equip a community and caused their drop out. District with the aim of school-based action programme eliminatingB child labour through through imparting knowledge and Monitoring child labour enhanced access to education. skills to improve early childhood Child labour monitoring committees The project, which was development and education. were also established (in form of implemented in Bungokho, Mbale The programme eased the burdens, village and district clusters) to sensitise District by UWESO in collaboration orphans and vulnerable children communities the difference between with ILOIPEC and SNAP, also sought (OVCs) experience to access education child labour and lawful labour. to establish measures through which through offering scholastic materials The committees played a critical efforts to reach vulnerable children such as school uniforms, books, pens, role in rescuing children from the mathematical sets, solar lanterns and worst forms of labour and returned other related basic necessities. them to school as well as worked with politicians to form by-laws to punish perpetrators and supporters of child labour.

child labour takes away the children’s 16 uweso@ right Education Increasing school enrolment A case study in Hoima

WESO has been instrumental in building programmes that seek to improve school enrolment, especially in UniversalU Primary Education schools. For instance, Buhanika Primary School in Bokerenge, Hoima District, has been a major beneficiary whose enrolment has since 2013 been uplifted from below 100 pupils to 419 pupils over the years. According to Catherine Kobusingye, a teacher at Buhanika Primary School, through UWESO’s awareness and advocacy, the school has established a club to sensitise communities against child-related labour in tobacco farms. “Before the intervention, there was high absenteeism because children were assisting their parents in tobacco gardens. However, there is now regular attendance. For instance, in Primary Six attendance has improved from 26 to The UWESO/REALIZE project has withdrawn many children from worst forms of child abuse. 40 pupils,” Kobusingye says. Apart from discouraging child labour, narrates. The sensitisation, according enrolment of girls with the current ratio UWESO through the programme was to Kobusingye, has been conducted standing at 229 boys to 216 girls. able to give some pupils uniforms, through child protection committees At Butoole Primary School in pens and books thereby contributing that teach children rights and how to Kyangwali Sub-county, UWESO to academic excellence. report when they are abused. through the REALIZE project has been REALIZE – UWESO also helped to put “Buhanika was a beneficiary of the able to offer other forms of support to up a study block, which has created UWESO project. That is why she was schools such as repairing boreholes to a conducive learning environment. brave enough to report her stepfather improve water access. UWESO has also been key in the to her teacher, who reported the matter Other forms of support have come fight against abuse of child rights to police,” she says. in the form of reading aids such as through establishing child protection The UWESO-REALISE project has solar lanterns, which according to committees assisting children to also helped Bukerenge Primary Christopher Monday, a Primary Seven withdraw from child labour and other School in Hoima District to establish a class teacher at Butoole Primary School, activities. feeding programme that has improved have been helpful especially during Jovial Buhanika (not her real name performance of pupils and their night preps. - for confidentiality), a 13-year-old attendance. “The school managed to get a First Primary Six pupil of Buhanika Primary “We have been feeding our pupils Grade candidate ever since its inception School, was defiled by her step father. since 2015,” says William Kasiime, the because of the lantern that one of our “My step-father had sexual intercourse head teacher. pupils was using,” Monday says. with me, it was painful,” the young girl, This has helped to improve In the period under review, more who has been rehabilitated through enrolment to 445 pupils. There has than 5,700 children have been UWESO supported programmes, also been marked improvement in withdrawn from child labour.

uweso@30 17 Education

Increased school enrolment can prevent child labour n 1992, the International Labour the action plan to fight child labour creating close to 1,200 VSLAs that have Organisation (ILO) initiated a activities in Uganda. a reach of 3,600 beneficiaries. programme; one which reduced The programme was partly VSLAs require a membership of not child-labour related activities. implemented by UWESO in Mbale and less than thirty (30) members. The programme, which was Hoima districts. This has enabled members to save, Iimplemented under International During the implementaion more borrow and invest in profitable ventures Programmme on the Elimination of than 600 children were withdrawn that have helped to bolster incomes of Child Labour (IPEC), addressed major from child labour and 300 reintegrated vulnerable families thus reducing the challenges of orphans and children into normal life by re-enrolling them vice of child labour. vulnerable to child labour. into schools and vocational institutions This has also helped communities to Historically, poverty and ignorance as well as creating sustainable support relevant measures, key among as well as farming are some of the income generating activities for their which, seek to create avenues that can major channels through which children households. completely wipe out child labour. are recruited into child labour, which One of the key approaches was For instance, in Mbale District, a called for a multifaceted approach establishment of Village Savings community initiative was able to lobby spear headed by Government. and Loan Associations (VSLA) at the for the passing of an ordinance to Under the programme; between grassroot to empower the households protect children from labour. 2009 and 2011 the government susceptible to child labour. Other measures such as SCREAM, through the Ministry of Gender Labour The project was implemented in which stands for Supporting Children and Social Development, launched six districts across Uganda effectively Rights through Education, Art and

18 uweso@ Education

uweso uses different initiatives to reduce Increased school enrolment can prevent child labour child-labour Media, have also been applied This reduced the burden orphans Beneficiaries of the programme through teacher, children and and vulnerable children experience to received scholastic materials such as community-coordinated project to access education. uniforms, books, pens, mathematical bridge communication gaps. sets, solar lanterns and other related It has also helped to create artistic basic necessities at household level. learning, self-expression as well In some schools such as Nyondo, as clarity of communicating and Shirulwa and Nabiri primary schools, openness. a school feeding system was initiated Pupils are now able to understand that emphasised the need of children their rights and can report to teachers having a healthy lunch to improve or parents any form of abuse. concentration in class, improve school Relatedly, through the HUYS Link enrolment and performance. Community Initiative, a community The intervention was gladly and school-based action programme embraced by parents who was implemented to eliminate child commended UWESO for the labour by strengthening households sensitisation drive. and community institutions with In effect, parents saw the need to knowledge and skills in early childhood contribute to their children’s feeding development and education at school process thereby resolving to respectively. contribute for this every term.

uweso@30 19 Education The story of UPE and UWESO Bridging the gap. Bottlenecks that resulted in a drop schools. The project, which comprised policy monitoring and development in performance of UPE-funded schools and completion around UPE, created awareness and set levels demanded well-thought out measures, part of up mechanisms through which the UPE which were implemented by UWESO. delivery system would be monitored and evaluated. It also raised awareness and he introduction of Universal more than 120 per cent since 1997. empowered communities to respond Primary Education (UPE) in According to the Word Bank, primary to the challenges facing UPE as well as 1997 opened a new chapter school enrolment had between 2009 training and empowering community in Uganda’s education and 2010 grown to 90.87 per cent an members to demand accountability sector giving orphans and indication that government was on from the UPE delivery system. Tvulnerable children renewed hope. the right track. The project which was implemented The UPE initiative was built on a However, the runaway increment in the districts of Mbale, Tororo, Busia foundation that sought to reduce high created some bottlenecks that resulted and Butaleja in eastern Uganda, was levels of poverty as well as improve in a drop in performance of UPE-funded applauded for presenting workable human development levels through schools and completion rates. interventions that eventually helped encouraging child education. This demanded for well-thought out reduce cases of child labour as well This would be attainable through measures part of which were between improving the education environment different measures key, among them 2008 and 2010 implemented by for the beneficiaries. making education affordable to UWESO and Raising Voices. According to available data, there Ugandans to cut the inequality gap. The DFID-designed programme was increased access to teaching and Indeed by 2003, gross enrolment sought to use civil society as a lever learning aids, increased involvement in primary schools had reached 7.6 through which the quality and delivery by local people to improve UPE system million growing to 8.2 million by 2009, of primary education would be and improved school attendance, indicating a percentage growth of improved, especially in UPE-funded among others.

Uweso supports upe to raise pupil numbers.

20 uweso@ The Numbers The Statistics Shs380b 4 donations districts Total donations and grants over the last 30 years

Health. We have managed to make access of safe water a reality in four districts and supplied malaria nets.

Number of people 2million that have been reached over the people years. 10,000 Of the two million people reached... 90 households 67% districts Education. female We have carried out classroom renovations in more than 10 districts and 33% provided scholastic materials to more male than 6,000 pupils. Livelihoods. We have reached and touched a number of households, improving their abilities 1.6m to generate income, children which has subsequently improved their well being. Reached over the years

uweso@30 21 22 uweso@ Projects Our plan to financial freedom

s we make 30 years, our plan is to consolidate gains and achieve financial independence. This will be achieved throughA careful planning that will include development of different assets within and beyond Kampala. Therefore, as we embark on this journey, we have earmarked our land on Spring Road in Bugolobi as the lead project. We plan to develop the 0.528 acre piece of land into a commercial office block. This will be achieved through a number of resource mobilisation campaigns including a fundraising dinner. Therefore, we must plan for a more sustainable way that will allow us to continuously look after OVCs. We cannot drive this agenda alone; we shall need the input of different stakeholders, especially those who are passionate about the plight of OVCs, to market our development project. artistic We need to turn our assets, impression including regional offices and other of the office entities into viable economic units block to with the ultimate aim of getting be built in funds to help OVCs. bugolobi We are happy to say, we have a number of untapped resources for which, we call upon our friends and those touched by the plight of OVCs to support our agenda to develop a plan through which we can best utilise our resources to benefit OVCs.

uweso@30 23 Pictorial

Pupils get ready for lunch. This is part of UWESO’s initiative to sensitize parents to feed pupils in UPE schools. Pupils of Butoole Primary School in Kyangwali Sub-county fetch water from a borehole provided by UWESO. Bringing water nearer to school is a key driver to improving livelihoods.

Tyxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

A teacher at Bukerenge Primary School and a staff of UWESO, Edrisa Wambewo, inspect a garden of sweet potatoes planted by pupils.

Women20 caregiversuweso have, with@ the support of UWESO, established businesses to sustainably look after vulnerable children. The new classroom block at the Vocational Training Institute at Masulita Children’s Village. Masulita Children’s Village students entertain guests during a visit of the spouse of India vice president of the People’s Republic of India.

Members of Aina Mukama VSLA discuss during a savings and loan recovery meeting.

Some of the pupils at MVC. The children have found a home-away- from home at MVC. Pupils of Butoole Primary School display solar powered lanterns that were donated through the UWESO-REALISE project to improve the level of education among vulnerable people. Tyxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Through VSLAs many women (Right) the have transformed their lifestyles. Ms Salma Ansari (Centre), the wife of the Vice President of India, uweso@ 25 hands over a Shs18m cheque to Ms Mabel Kiggundu 30 UWESO chairperson during her visit at MVC-run project. Pictorial 1 Children are given special better livelihoods and sustainable 1.care and attention to relieve sources of income. them from the burden of feeling guilty for not growing up with Pupils at Masulita Childern’s their parents. 5.Village. The children have had an opportunity to have access Co-curricular activities such education as well as other services 2.as football some of the that would have been a dream. mediums where many children are rehabilitated to fit into normal Pupils of Buhanika Primary social life. 6.School in Hoima District during assembly. These are 2 A number of vulnerable some of the children that have 3.families have benefited been saved from child labour from different UWESO projects and supported with scholastic such as getting heifers to create materials. sustainable income generating avenues. First Lady Janet Kataaha 7.Museveni at MVC during the Farmer groups have through launch of Advocacy Platform of 4.different initiatives been the Parliamentary Champions of empowered and now have the Adolescent Girl Agenda.

3 4

7

5

6 1

2

4

Ms Salma Ansari waters a plant during a visit at uweso-run projects.

uweso@ 27 Skills development Artisan apprenticeship projects ethical entrepreneurship practices. It mainly focuses on school dropouts with key emphasis on training a master artisan who then supports trainees to engage themselves in valuable training programmes. The master artisan takes on the parenting role because most of enrolled trainees are taken on while still young and without parents. UWESO, as an organisation, has been active in identifying master artisans, who are given more training in regard to prevention and care of HIV/AIDS.

Artisan apprenticeship The training which lasts between 12 and 18 months is conducted by selected village master artisans. With support from USAID; Better Outcomes and Livelihoods development has substantially improved many lives of children and their caregivers in 20 districts in the east and northern region.

The project targets 367,000 children in 61,000 households. The project applied the methodology of forming Village Savings and Loan TAILORING Associations (VSLAs). IS A KEY It also provided financial literacy training and linkage training to help them with ASPECT skills on how to save and invest their FOR ovcs. finances.

Integration of financial services to community/farmer groups Informed decisions. Through different programmes, As of December 2015 under the UWESO provides vulnerable groups with financial literacy Integration of Financial Services to Community and Farmer Groups, UWESO and consumer education which among others include livelihoods programme team has saving, budgeting and debt management to enable them enabled more than 135,600 members make informed decisions. of which 101,700 women (75 per cent) to join VSLAs rphans and vulnerable hairdressing, carpentry, motor children aged between mechanics, and brick masonry, weaving Technical support services 13 and 17 years have and knitting. For the past 30 years, UWESO has been trained in different The training seeks to provide OVCs grown its expertise in the delivery of Oskills including tailoring, with technical skills, trade-work and OVC technical support services. 28 uweso@ Skills development Energy saving stove project Saving, food WESO in partnership with Joint Environment Uand Energy Project (JEEP) has been able to construct energy saving stoves that seek to promote environmental conservation through cutting back security and on the rate of felling trees for firewood and charcoal. Under the same component, UWESO has provided support to 200 households of orphans and vulnerable children to get access to clean sources of nutrition light by providing them with solar lamps, especially in Mbale, Kumi and Soroti districts. savings culture. UWESO has strengthened the savings culture among farmers through village saving and loans associations (VSLA). This has contributed Village saving and loan to improved food security that is attained associations, a blessing through easy access to seed capital to allow to Masaka single mothers farmers get better yields, some of which is arah Namusoke, 58, a resident of sold to raise money for family needs. SButenga Sub-county in Masaka District joined the UWESO Village Saving and Loan Association in 2003 to save Small scale farmer in money that she could use to pay school Kiruhura Reaping from UWESO fees for her children Through this approach, she has been crop production venture able to educate her children with some going up to university. zee Baganda is a resident She has also been able to establish Mof Kanoni Sub-county in a business that hires out saucepans for Kiruhura District. He is among big functions such as graduation parties, the 700 model farmers and the funerals and weddings, among others. 15 community-based trainers On average, she earns Shs50,000 skilled in crop production and every week, something that has kitchen gardens. The training empowered and made her financially was part of the modern farming independent. management implemented by In addition to Namusoke, Cissy UWESO with support from the Nassolo, 45, in the UWESO Kyansi Cluster Civil Society Fund. Baganda has is full of praises for the Village Saving benefited especially from kitchen and Loan Association scheme that she gardens from which he gets says has driven her to financial freedom. good harvest. Before getting the “I was ignorant about saving but after training, he relied on fertilisers getting training from UWESO, I was but “after UWESO taught me to energised and I have been able to buy make and apply local manure for my own sewing machines that I use in the soils became richer.” From his my tailoring business,” Nassolo says. harvest, he has been able to feed This has enabled her to pay school his family as well as sell some fees for her children as well as look after crops to get money to cover her family. other household basic needs.

uweso@30 29 Skills development AYEDI: A blessing to eastern and northern communities n 2014, UWESO in collaboration with cases, enacted within group constitutions clause World Education Inc/Bantwana Initiative, that object to child labour as well as supporting Straight Talk Foundation and Reco youth to start personal income generating Industries started the implementation of activities. an Adolescent Youth Empowerment and A number of youth such as Adikini, a VSLA DevelopmentI Initiative (AYEDI) project. member in Iganga District, were given different The project, funded by the United States life skills in the area of farming and savings. Department of Labour, sought to withdraw Through the initiative, Adikini who was youth between 15 and 17 years from hazardous below 18 years then, was able to access money labour in the districts of Gulu, Lira, Iganga and from her mother, a member of the VSLA, which Bugiri. enabled her to make her own garden after Different interventions such as the Education receiving seedlings from Reco Industries. 2014 Pathway which started from clubs to graduation, “I accessed Shs50,000 from the group and community child labour committees responsible planted tomatoes, cabbages and ground nuts,” roll out year. for child labour issues and Village Saving Adikini says and revealed that she sold the In 2014, the produce to community members and earned Adolescent Youth and Loan Associations (VSLA) for economic Empowerment empowerment targeting caregivers, among a total of Shs150,000. and Development others, were rolled out. For Bundoli, a member of Balikyewunya Initiative rolled Group in Kikunyu Village Idudi Parish in Iganga out the VSLA VSLAs as mitigation for child labour related District, together with his wife, saved Shs5,000 methodology activities in eastern and northern Uganda every sitting, part of which has been useful in involving In 2014, the Adolescent Youth Empowerment Community and Development Initiative rolled out the VSLA Child Labour methodology involving community child labour Committees, local committees, local council and sub-county councils and sub leaders, field assistants and project officers for county leaders, effective mobilisation and sensitisation. field assistants The project was implemented in eastern and project and northern Uganda particularly in Bugiri and officers into the Iganga districts in the sub-counties of Buwunga, implementation Budhaya, Mayuge, Bukatu and Buyanga phase that focused respectively. on mobilisation In the north, the project was implemented in and sensitisation. Lira and Gulu in the sub-counties of Adekokwok and Unyama, respectively. The project examined the roles and responsibilities of VSLAs in the reduction of child labour, identified the processes and shared out benefits to member households. women Caregivers were economically empowered started to start non-hazardous income generating small activities that were made possible by the social projects funds focusing on the provision of basic needs through to vulnerable children. Through the initiative, vsla community members identified child labour

30 uweso@ Skills development completing their house. “I had failed to complete The Ayedi project has been useful not only in my house, but through my savings, I have been helping youth and vulnerable members to start able to borrow money that I used to roof it,” he business, but has also helped to raise awareness, said. especially against child labour. Accessing and servicing the loan, Bundoli Agnes Abote, a single mother and a member, says, is quite convenient because it does not borrowed Shs200,000 from Acan Pe Kun VSLA involve provision of securities and guarantors. group, which she used to support her grand The loan is serviced by deductions on child - Adam Leo Olet to acquire practical skills contributions which makes it a little easy and such as welding. afforded for Bundoli. Olet expects to raise According to Sarah Acen, the accountant Shs360,000 which he will for the Adolescent Youth Empowerment and use to buy material to Development Initiative, about 60 per cent of start a business as well as caregivers in different groups in Adekokwok repaying his mother’s loan. Shs8,000 Sub-county in Lira District are engaged in Many VSLA groups such share price. small and medium scale businesses such as Awe Iwot, Onot Can and Butaba VSLA was identified as one as boutiques, selling produce, retail shops Obanga Maro Wa, among of the best preforming groups with and farming. She says the initiative has so far others, have helped an average buy of four shares on a supported 5,277 vulnerable youth between 15 members to improve weekly basis at Shs8,000. and 18 years to develop marketable skills that are livelihoods through capable of securing them decent employment investing in poultry, goat opportunities. rearing and piggery. This, she argues, explains why there has been According to Musisi the group chairperson of a sizeable reduction in child labour because Butaba VSLA, there has been challenge, however Village Saving and caregivers are now able to access money through focused leadership to eliminate Loan Associations that they use to establish income generating weaknesses, the group is working well. The have been activities to support their children. group, which is in its third cycle, invests surplus instrumental Many members have been able to establish savings into buying rice from the local farmers. in uplifting rice, tomato and banana plantation and have The group was identified as one of the best household as a result stopped the practice of using their preforming groups with an average buy of four incomes. children as a source of income. shares on a weekly basis at Shs8,000.

uweso@30 31 Skills development inclusion for youth and other undeserved groups. Implemented under more than 1,750 groups, Sustainable livelihoods 40 per cent of which have been equipped with formal financial services. UWESO was ranked the best CARE partner out of seven comparative organisations after helping to form more than 1,730 VSLA groups. Improving access to The groups have helped more than 15,140 orphans and vulnerable children to save more than Shs275m with a 71.6 per cent outstanding loan portfolio of more than 228.6m with annual integrated services returns on deposits growing to more than 43.3 per cent. WESO under the REALISE The project also provided access to cheaper programme supported about credit, business management and financial literacy 750 Village Savings and Loan education that promoted and strengthened local Associations (VSLAs) in Hoima structures to sustain VSLAs and other related District alone comprised of community activities. 22,500U members. The programme helped beneficiaries to generate income through Helping women with market information trade activities as well as investing in other Through Business development support profitable ventures. services, women and other groups, majority In one way or the other, these programmes of who were small holder farmers, have been have contributed to the elimination of child trained in Selection, Planning and Management labour related activities. (SPM) of income generating activities. Similarly, with support from Barclays These have been able to start their own income Bank–UK through CARE International generating activities guided by specific assistance Uganda, UWESO has worked with Women and youth which include the use of manuals comprised of vulnerable households in Eastern Uganda have benefited five modules such as skills in enterprise selection, to improve access to integrated financial from programmes marketing, cost and profit calculations, capital services. that promote determination and management of IGAs vis-à-vis This has been key in improving financial financial inclusion. expenses.

32 uweso@ Scales heights in research and training A signpost bearing the words, influencing policy and practice for against Children (VACS), research in and street-connected children to ‘AfriChild Centre’ is unmistakable the wellbeing of the African child. All community-based child protection gather data on violence against along Mary Stuart Road in Makerere these aim at responding to national mechanisms in fishing communities children living on the street, child University. It points to a centre poised and regional (East Africa) gaps in and research in good parenting domestic workers and children living to become a leader in child-focused research on children. practices. in residential care institutions. research within Uganda and Africa. This response is articulated in “Findings of the latter research These young researchers are Inside, maps demonstrating violence the Uganda National Action Plan for have been widely used by community empowered to make discussions at and safe spaces for street-connected Orphans and Vulnerable Children members in Lira district to scale- high level meetings. children hang from the walls. (OVC), and the National Strategic up good parenting practices” says AfriChild collaborates with They were as a result of a Programme Plan of Interventions Wanican. multiple universities including qualitative study on violence against (NSPPI 2), which underline the She adds that the research Makerere, Muni, Kyambogo and children that was undertaken by the importance of research and equipping recommends that parents spend time Uganda Christian University to train centre between 2015 and 2016. It is the national workforce in the OVC with their children as this facilitates their staff to conduct quality child- evidence-based findings like these sector with relevant knowledge and mutual bonding between both parties focused research. that the centre uses to inform policies skills so as to build an effective and which improves overall child well- These then undertake qualitative and programmes which seek to sustainable national response to being. and quantitative research on a improve child well-being. children in adversity. Furthermore, in its work, the range of issues affecting children Established in early 2013, the Joyce Wanican, AfriChild’s centre engages different people such as health, education, care and centre is involved in conducting executive director says since its ranging from university dons to youth protection, using innovative tools and multidisciplinary research, building inception, the centre has conducted and peer researchers to conduct methodologies, to provide empirical evidence-based knowledge, more than seven researches including research. evidence that is used to influence undertaking skills development and a National Survey on Violence It has trained young researchers policy and practice. Skills development

Using kitchen gardens to improve nutrition

n 2009, more than 1,200 Ihouseholds were trained on how to establish and manage kitchen gardens, where they grow vegetables to supplement diet and improve their nutrition. The household also received farm inputs such as vegetable seeds, wheelbarrows and watering cans. Kitchen gardening efficiently allows one to grow vegetables in a limited space thus allowing vulnerable families to improve their nutrition as well as appreciate the value of vegetables.

development initiative fund facility The development initiative fund facility he Development The project is run under A boost to farmers’ TInitiative Fund Facility, the ministry of Gender sought to facilitate 20 farmer in collaboration with income in Kole District groups in rehabilitation International HIV/AIDS and construction of long Alliance (IHAA). Within the term agricultural productive consortium, IHAA provides infrastructures. overall management and Each group was offered technical leadership in 50 per cent of materials and capacity building while labour costs required for the ministry of Gender provides project. guidance on policy. UWESO also MSH provides leadership implemented the SUNRISE- development programmes OVC project that quickens and institutional response measures towards development activities orphans and vulnerable while UWESO managed and children. coordinated provisions of SUNRISE-OVC, technical support. which in full stands It was a five-year USAID for Strengthening the funded project that focused wenty farmer field groups improved their Uganda National Response on local governments to Tincomes by venturing into a number of for Implementation of effectively plan, manage and activities such as bee keeping value addition, Services for Orphans coordinate implementation milling and poultry. and Vulnerable Children, of comprehensive orphans More than 10 apiary centres established by created sustainable ways and other vulnerable UWESO in the sub-counties of Ayer and Akalo through which essential children services in their in Kole District enable households to tap into services were extended to districts. the new honey market. vulnerable children in 80 The project registered Apart from bee keeping hundreds of districts. tremendous results. farmers also engaged in trade with more than 600 local birds stocked by the poultry groups.

34 uweso@ The Future Spot-on priorities for the 2016-2020 strategic plans

l Strengthen UWESO 250,000 governance structures.

Livelihood support l Provide livelihood l Provide technical support support for 250,000 OVC services that provide a households to overcome supportive environment vulnerability. for a coordinated OVC response.

750,000 l Enhance effective implementation, Legal services coordination, advocacy, l Increase access to communication and protection and legal referral systems for OVCs. artistic services for 750,000 impression orphans and other of vulnerable children, their l Undertake effective bugolobi caregivers and families. office research, monitoring, block evaluation and strengthen quality l Promote proper nutrition assurance among for OVCs in homes, orphans and other schools and other 2016 750,000 vulnerable children institutions. Educational services roll out year. services provision. We have given l Expand access to ourselves 2016 educational services for l Promote abstinence as the years that 750,000 and strengthen skills we kick started 40% amongst teachers, our Strategic Plan Sanitation, shelter school management that will run up to and among in and out of 2020. 750,000 l Increase access to and schools OVC. Health services utilisation of safe water, sanitation facilities and l Enhance access to secure shelter by 40 l Increase access to essential health services per cent of orphans Integrated Financial 2018 for 750,000 orphans and and other vulnerable Services (SPM, financial Review. other vulnerable children, children at households, literacy, business A midterm review caregivers and their community and skills training) for OVC will be done later households. institutional levels. households. this year.

uweso@30 35 Projects

children have found a home of MVC.

Masulita Children’s Village Giving children renewed hope and transformation the Masulita journey. The story of Masulita vulnerable children, especially the girl-child, many Children’s Village (MCV) started on July 28, 1986 in of whom have become valuable citizens. one of Uganda’s most populous districts, Wakiso. Through aid and good will the centre has grown and the donation of a vocational building by the asulita Children’s Village (MCV) United Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka has greatly was born out of the desire by given a boost to the institution’s activities. First Lady; UWESO patron, Janet However, the lack of specialised equipment Kataaha Museveni, to create a to enhance vocational skills continues to be a collection and educational centre challenge inhabiting the centre from offering forM orphans and vulnerable children. Indeed it market-driven training to youth that could be has served the purpose, rehabilitating more than more beneficial in the longer term. The foundation 1,296 children over the years. of MVC was built on the desire to respond to This has been achieved through a number of the needs of children orphaned by war and HIV. partnerships including one between UWESO, However, beyond this there have been more Ministry of Gender and Kampala Capital City causes that push children into vulnerability and Authority, where MCV acts as a transition centre onto streets. for street children before they are resettled into This is why the Shs3b institution is positioning communities. Currently, the centre has more than itself to ensure that it responds to the needs of 101 children between three and 14 years including today’s children as well as transform their lives. nine mothers aged between 15 and 18 years. It consists of a two-storied administration block The centre has been a source of hope for and a three storeyed classroom block.

36 uweso@ Children of different age groups have had a second chance at life at MCV. Giving children renewed hope and transformation

Musulita children’s village is a key uweso The children’s centre gives disabled project children an opportunity to live a fulfilling life with support from others and staff.

uweso@30 37 Projects Masulita Children’s Village Benefits to the community together we can. From the onset UWESO has worked During the event, Jennifer Aguti, closely with communities in which it operates and the the UWESO chief executive officer, said the donation symbolised Uganda same can be said of Masulita Children’s Village. and India’s will to transform the lives of vulnerable children, pledging that the CV, according to Children’s Village, which is shared with money would be used to boost poultry, Mzee Ben Salongo, residents in nearby places. vocational training and farming. the Masulita village “At the beginning, we thought UWESO, according to Mabel chairperson, has not the centre was only for children from Kiggundu, the organisation’s National only uplifted the Karamoja but after, we were sensitised executive committee chairperson, has villageM economically but has had social we have a good and mutually beneficial transformed livelihoods of vulnerable effects as well. Many people, he says, relationship,” Mzee Salongo, says. children thus, she thanked the Indian have come to work at the village and Various demonstration gardens have government for sharing a dream that in the process spend on household been established and these are helping seeks to put a smile on the faces of necessities such as food thus giving an communities to enhance their skills, vulnerable children. income to residents. especially in regard to farming. The chairperson informed the Indian Beyond this, a number of vulnerable In February 2017, Salma Ansari, the delegation, 1,446 children had been children have received free vocational wife of the Indian vice president visited rehabilitated and resettled with their training in tailoring and other related the centre and the visit signified high families since the start of the Street practical skills, which has helped them level partnership between India and Children’s Project at MCV alone. to start up their own income generating Uganda. Jocelyn Rugunda, the wife of the projects in and around Masulita. The visit indicates that both Prime Minister, who represented Janet Other projects include improved governments put the plight of children Kataaha Museveni, said the future access to water sources resulting from at the forefront which was emphasised of Uganda lies in children and it is installation of piped water in Masulita by a donation of Shs18m by Ansari. “important to invest in them now”.

Hundreds of children have been resettled at MCv. 38 uweso@ Migyera

Carpentry, among others, is a key aspect at Migyera that seeks to promote vocational skills among young people. UWESO Vocational Training Institute vocational skills. The institute has grown over the years to provide hands-on vocational skills.

igyera UWESO Training It is the only way we can help them Institute (MUTI) was secure their future,” he says. founded in 2003, Over the years, Ruzayo says, they north of Kampala in have seen a vast increase in enrollment Nakasongola District. of vulnerable youth, which necessitated MThe institute is a two-in-one the establishment of another vocational establishment; composed of a institute in Wakiso District. secondary school - Migyera Secondary However, there are challenges in School and a hands-on skills training regard to provision of non-formal skills institute - Migyera Vocational Training due to the related costs. Institute. Its main purpose is a post- “Training vocational skills is costly. primary function that integrates and We want to build an institution that supports vulnerable children orphaned has capacity to train youth at no cost,” and infected with HIV/AIDS. he says. The institute, according to E.M. This, he adds, will offer Bemanya Ruzayo, the artisans training entrepreneurial and life skills that are coordinator, has grown over the years necessary in the current Uganda. to provide hands-on vocational skills. “Once we have funding, we will “We train vulnerable youth to ensure that vulnerable youth benefit Motor works is a vital facet of vocational empower them with self-reliant skills. from vocational education,” he says. skills at Migyera Training Institute.

uweso@30 39 Success stories Stories of some beneficiaries

Tracing our own. Uweso has over the years facilitated a number of people. We traced some of them who have since grown into useful and important citizens. Festus Emmanuel Rwabuhihi

e was born in Ngoma In 1992, Rwabuhihi was allowed village in the then to join Masulita Orphans’ Centre that Luweero District and was later renamed Masulita Children’s current Nakaseke District. Village. He was enrolled as a Senior As a child, Rwabuhihi One student, where he studied until foughtH along the NRA rebels that he completed Senior Six. brought President Museveni to power. As luck would have it, in 2003 the Much of his early childhood was then managing director of Kampala consumed by war and he had little International University, Hassan opportunity to go to school before Basajjabalaba - offered two bursaries joining Masulita Children’s Village. to the First Lady, Janet Kataaha “At 15 years, I could not write nor Museveni, one of which was extended read. The war could not allow me to go to Rwabuhihi through UWESO. to school,” he says. “God used the First Lady and UWESO Before joining Masulita Children’s to transform my life. I came crying Village, Rwabuhihi was first enrolled and hopeless but I now have tangible into Mbarara Kadogo Polytechnic achievements and a firm foundation” School but quit after going through a he says. “horrible” experience. Rwabuhihi has since studied to “I decided to quit and returned to attain a PhD in Management Science Kampala, where I wrote to UWESO specialising in rural development asking them to enroll me into their and he currently works as the Deputy care given that I had been orphaned Dean of Students’ Affairs at Kampala by war,” he says. International University.

Sarah Mbabazi arah Mbabazi and her young send us to UWESO. And indeed words sisters were picked by a alone cannot express my gratitude for UWESO van that came for what UWESO did for me to grow into them at their grandmother’s the person I have become,” Mbabazi home. says. She has many fond memories SMbabazi’s grandmother had been at Masulita Children’s Village but she weighed down by old age and could particularly cannot forget Sunday nolonger look after her orphaned lunch, Christmas parties and the staff grandchildren, choosing to send them at the village, among others. to Masulita Children’s Village. She currently lives in the US where “She explained to us why she had to she is a pre-kindergarten Teacher.

40 uweso@ Success stories Pidson Mwebaze

fter losing both his parents, As luck would have it, Mwebaze life for Pidson Mwebaze, was enrolled as one of the pioneers at who was born in Busheny’ Migyera Vocational Training Institute District, seemed to have before moving to Mbarara Vocational ended. Training Institute. AHowever, before he could give “UWESO through its different up, he tried his luck, seeking for help institutions instilled in me discipline particularly from government. and a helping heart. I was helped as an One time while at Mbarara District orphan and I would want to return the headquarters, Mwebaze heard people favour, at some point,” he says. talking about UWESO, the organisation “I am what I am today because of that would later change his life for the UWESO,” the superintendent of police better. in Uganda Police Force says. “I heard people talk about UWESO. I Mwebaze hopes to one day return never knewn it but I had to try and see the favour by looking after orphans if I could be taken on,” he says. and supporting UWESO activities.

Mwebaze (L) and staff of UWESO enjoy a light moment during a visit at the head offices in Kamwoky, Kampala.

uweso@30 41 Partners Growing together. Our growth over the years has not been without support. A number of other partners have walked with us in this 30-year journey. Straight Talk Foundation ounded in 1993, the Straight Talk approach focusing on the livelihoods, Foundation has effectively touched a education and the environment. Fnumber of hearts through its model Straight Talk has a specialised niche of of communicating to young and adult young people, and a comparative advantage Ugandans. in communication for social and behaviour Straight Talk primarily targets young people change. Its radio and print materials are trusted between 10 and 24 household names and it is a world best practice: years with teachers and proven, documented and replicable. parents targeted as a Though it started as an adolescent secondary audience. organisation, its work with adults has Originally, it focused grown tremendously through the family life entirely on adolescent approaches targeting parents, teachers and sexuality and communities at large. reproductive health as Straight Talk has technical expertise in well as preventing HIV. education, early childhood development, HIV, However, it has sexual and reproductive health, life skills and grown to focus broadly rights, alcohol abuse other risk and protective on livelihoods and the factors. environment. To date Straight Talk work has grown to The shift was partly informed by the fact include education, livelihoods, environmental that elimination of HIV needed a multifaceted protection, disability and special needs. Sanyu Babies Home hrough friends and well-wishers, The organisation receives no regular Sanyu Babies Home has looked financial support but entirely depends Tafter abandoned children within on support from friends, who through Kampala and around the country. different donations, support the The home was founded by Milnes home’s activities. Winfred Walker (RIP), who, as a The home also has a number of midwife at Mengo Hospital, income generating facilities realised the need to collect such as the Sanyu Craft Shop, the overwhelming number and Sanyu Guest House of children abandoned after that support the day-to-day birth within the hospital. operations. Walker later established Just like UWESO, the home Sanyu Babies Home, which is has over the years offered currently run under the Namirembe support to vulnerable children many Diocese - Anglican Church of Uganda of who have been shaped into useful auspices with a fully-fledged governing citizens. board. Sanyu Babies’ Home also has a farm The home, which currently has - Kitete Farm – from where different more than 44 staff members, operates kinds of food are harvested to feed the as an independent organisation that babies and staff with the surplus sold runs a 24-hour baby care system. for income generation.

42 uweso@ Partners Reproductive Health Uganda

safe motherhood, family planning, HIV/AIDS, adolescent interventions and advocacy. Reproductive Health Uganda works with a number of partners and stakeholders, including UWESO to eproductive Health Uganda realise set goals and objectives. started as Family Planning It mainly targets young people and RAssociation of Uganda before the most vulnerable groups, with focus rebranding in 2007 after celebrating on hard-to-reach areas. 50 years in Uganda. They also pay special attention to The organisation is a member of promoting gender inclusiveness. the International Planned Parenthood In 2007 after rebranding, Federation, operating 17 branches Reproductive Health Uganda, has since spread throughout the country. repositioned itself away from mere It is a volunteer-owned and led family planning to the broader and organisation that focuses on access to holistic sexual and reproductive health sexual and reproductive health rights rights that the organisation embraced and policy development. during the 1994 International Its contributions have redefined the Conference on Population and sexual and reproductive health rights Development. landscape in Uganda boosted by a The repositioning sought to tackle long-standing history of offering quality current and future challenges that have reproductive health services such as broadened beyond family planning.

TASO he Aids Support Oragisation (TASO) Twas founded in 1987 by Noerine Kaleeba and 15 others some of who have since passed on due to HIV. Its founding was based on unified experiences at the height of the HIV/AIDS pandemic that had killed a number of Ugandans. It also sought to counter rising stigma, ignorance and discrimination against people affected by HIV. From a small support group, TASO has evolved into a non-governmental organisation with 11 service centres and four regional offices spread across Uganda. TASO has over the years touched a number of lives for its active campaign against HIV/ AIDS that has partly seen prevalence rates fall to below 7 per cent.

uweso@30 43 UWESO team UWESO staff over the years Valuable. Whereas we value teamwork, it is important that we recognise some of our staff who have toiled through the years to make UWESO what it is today.

Silvanus Bob Turyamwijuka Head of programmes

Turyamwijuka ensures that different interventions are harmonised to run in accordance with UWESO’s strategic plan. The interventions include sustainable livelihoods, child protection and education, Gladys Yiga improved community health and Damalie Peace Jingo Head of Operations technical support services. Human Resource Officer These have different As Head of Operations, Ms Yiga is in programmes that are supported UWESO has various key units that charge of day-to-day operations of through different coordination support its functionality to ensure UWESO activities as well as upholding parameters that begin at the smooth operation and fulfillment of corporate governance within the household to national level. targeted goals. organisation’s structures. Over the last 30 years UWESO The key units include Through her office, she ensures has registered pragmatic and communication and advocacy, that more than 124,000 active institutional growth to become a human resource management women volunteers in six regional credible civil society organisation and administration, audit, resource offices work through vibrant that meets the needs and defends mobilisation, monitoring and structures that link them up with the rights of vulnerable children. evaluation. various levels of operations covering Therefore, UWESO has Therefore, as a human resource sub-counties and districts up to the established tested and refined officer, Ms Jingo plays a support role national executive committee. management systems that that positions and strengthens staff At village level, governance underpin the organisation’s and partners, who are UWESO’s first is ensured through the cluster support and capacity building point ambassadors. system that comprises of 25 to 30 to other civil society actors in As you are well aware, great households. monitoring and evaluation as institutions are built by people, Sub-counties have executive well as increasing programme therefore, UWESO invests in its staff committees while districts have efficiency, relevance and reach. guided by shared values of integrity, a branch executive committee professionalism, passion for children, supervised by the national executive accountability, commitment and committee. transparency. All these provide oversight in the “We are committed to a common operation and implementation of vision of bringing smiles to the faces programmes as well as ensuring that of vulnerable children,” she says. relevant policies are adhered to. UWESO also emphasises UWESO, prides in corporate developing a vibrant and conducive governance and draws inspiration working environment that motivates from different levels including staff each and every employee to make members, senior management, the a meaningful contribution to the board and the patron – the First Lady. organisation.

44 uweso@ UWESO team

Collins Kansiime the grassroot. We have been able to Group Internal Auditor secure UWESO’s properties including pieces of land in Bugolobi, Mbarara, The Audit department was started in Bushenyi, Masulita Children’s Village, 2008 under the Global Fund Initiative. Migyera to name but a few. Its main function is to improve risk All this has been achieved with management as well as promoting support from other departments. corporate Governance. In the next 30 years, our intention UWESO has withstood challenges is to redevelop all our assets into because of a well-structured system income generating properties to that values transparency right from reduce our dependence on donors.

Baker Waiswa, former senior Edrisa Wambewo, Child staff, UWESO-UK Trust Protection Manager

I joined UWESO in 1997 and worked Child abuse, neglect and up to 2009 as a senior staff at the exploitation constitute some of UWESO - UK Trust. the major drivers of vulnerability; I was recruited as a field therefore as a child protection executive, which gave me an programmes manager, I ensure that opportunity to fulfil my childhood children are protected from harm dream of helping orphans and less and exploitation. privileged people. Key among our activities is This passion made me leave a sensitisation to make communities big job to join UWESO-UK Trust aware of child rights, responsibilities which was housed in a very small Harmon Opira Kiteze and dangers of abuse. office with only one staff. Monitoring & Evaluation This has been done with support As a senior staff, my focus Manager from international organisation was on skills development, such as International Labour which helped me to implement The department is an integral part Oganisation, where community- a number of projects such as in UWESO programme design based campaigns have been establishing income generating and implementation. It is also a promoted particularly within Mbale activities for disadvantaged people resource that informs management District with focus on strengthening and constructing pit latrines decisions. social protection systems. for vulnerable people as well as The unit was strengthened and Currently, more than 12,000 providing them with sustainable revamped through development children in Mbale and Hoima alone farming skills. of a comprehensive monitoring have been withdrawn from child My experience with UWESO and evaluation plan, refining labour and different programmes gave me a real feel of the suffering monitoring and evaluation tools have improved access to education, that orphans go through. and training of staff at all levels. water and sanitation facilities. Therefore, as a mechanism, monitoring and evaluation enhances programmes accountability as well as empowering OVC, their caregivers and other local stakeholders. This allows partners to promote and utilise participatory approaches in regard to performance monitoring and evaluation.

uweso@30 45 UWESO team Bosco Epila linkages to strengthen economic UWESO Livelihood programming for orphans and Programmer vulnerable children (OVC). He has, in partnership with UN Over the last 17 years, Epila has Agencies, international organisations, provided a wealth of expertise, Government ministries and knowledge and leadership to the development partners and UWESO UWESO Livelihood Programme Team structures, successfully established in VSLA Methodology. more than 20,000 functional, mature He has been a key player, whose and sustainable VSLAs in Uganda. knowledge has been valuable in Seventy five per cent of these are the area of enterprise development, women with a financial portfolio of financial literacy as well as creating more than Shs15b.

PARTNERS IN PROGRESS

Cables & Engineering Roses for all occasions Consumer & Industrial Goods

Insurance COMMITTED TO THE COMMUNITY Healthcare Education Community Programs Sports Training Enquiry : +256 312 555 500 UGANDA CHILD RIGHTS NGO NETWORK

First Lady, Janat Kataaha Museveni with MGLSD UCRNN officials and children at the 2016 Child Rights Convention

About Uganda Child Rights NGO Network leaders, private sector, religious leaders and government Uganda Child Rights NGO Network (UCRNN) is a coalition representatives. The event presided over by the first lady of 250 community based, national and international child marked the establishment of an annual national level focused organizations working for the welfare and rights of platform on ending Violence against children. The initiative children in Uganda. is being scaled out to include other actors and contribute to Goal 16.2 of the 2030 global agenda (SDGs). Established in 1997 to spearhead the generation of the NGO Alternative report on the progress of implementation n Policy and Legislative Advocacy; of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the With close to 20 year of experience in policy and legislative Network has over the years played a leading role in advocacy, UCRNN proactively engages with policy makers mobilizing child focused organizations for collective action to influence legal reform and service provision for children. at national, regional and international level and has been the CSO voice on child rights in Uganda. In the past three years, UCRNN has been at the forefront of advocating for the amendment of the Children Act that UCRNN creates a platform where national, regional and was passed by Parliament in March 2016 and effectively international organizations working with and for children becoming law in June 2016. UCRNN continues to influence who share similar goals and vision, pursue a collective full implementation of provisions within the Amended Act agenda. Our vision is a society where children’s rights are and other child related laws. realized. We exist to undertake collective action for the promotion and protection of children’s rights in Uganda. n Monitoring and reporting on the implementation of national, regional and international child rights Our current Interventions instruments: • Coordinating efforts on The Network’s core undertaking is monitoring and ending violence against children reporting on the commitments made by the government UCRNN in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Labour of Uganda in the various child rights legal frameworks and and Social Development, convened the first National instruments. Research and documentation to generate Convention and Learning Event in June 2016 that brought information on child rights issues to inform advocacy together over 500 different stakeholders to dialogue engagement government, regional and international child with children and share potential solutions on ending all rights bodies is undertaken to influence government to act forms of violence against children with the media, cultural in the interest of children. Bringing smiles to faces of vulnerable children

Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans Plot 2, Tagore Crescent Kamwokya P O Box 8419, Kampala Tel: +256(039)2777448 E.mail: [email protected] Website: www.uweso.org

our partners