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12 March 2026
Redefining Manhood: How a father in Uganda grew to support his family in new ways
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08 March 2026
Uganda Marks International Women’s Day 2026 with Renewed Commitment to Justice for Women and Girls
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Speech
08 March 2026
RC Remarks at the National Commemoration of International Women's Day
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Uganda
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Uganda:
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05 February 2026
Solar electrification boosts Uganda’s health centres
An excited old man greeted us on our arrival at Ayer Health Centre III in Uganda’s northern district of Kole on the morning of October 1st. At 76 years, Johnson Okello had just got a daughter with his 24-year-old wife Pasquine Acen, and everyone was saying the baby was his spitting image. The celebration of the drastic drop in Okello family’s average age most probably wouldn’t have happened were it not for the heroic feat by Sister Ketty Adiambo. The dedicated midwife had performed the delivery under general darkness, relying solely on the light of her phone which was tightly gripped between her teeth. Okello had already named the hours-old baby girl Ketty Adiambo.Power outages are frequent in Uganda, but fortunately for mothers seeking maternity services at Ayer and 250 other Health Centres III in the country, Sister Adiambo and hundreds of her colleagues nationwide soon won’t have to perform such acrobatics trying to bring children into the world. Thanks to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) Health Facility Solar Electrification (HFSE) intervention being implemented with UNICEF and the Ministry of Health, 250 health centres across Uganda are being fitted with solar electricity installations to ensure a constant, uninterrupted power supply. This will not only guarantee full-time lighting but also run all vital medical equipment to ensure uninterrupted delivery of critical services. As UNICEF’s HFSE consultant Lokesh Sharma explains, the programme being implemented under the Cold Chain Equipment Optimization Platform aims at raising awareness in communities that health facilities will soon have a reliable power supply, which ensures proper storage of medicines and use of modern functional equipment. People will thus no longer be discouraged from seeking health services, as they will be assured of adequate care within their reach and will be counted on to safeguard the solar-powered systems as their own. Indeed, Saul Odyek, the clinical officer in charge of the 16-bed health facility that conducts 60 deliveries a month, cannot wait for the day in a couple of weeks when installation will be complete. Standing at the site, which is already prepared for mounting the solar panels, Odyek can hardly hide his excitement as he exclaims.“Imagine we have suspended testing for TB because there is no piped water in the lab, but only rainwater there from the dusty roof, which tampers with the results in sensitive tests. I hope someone will provide a pump to channel water to taps in the lab now that uninterrupted power can be supplied around the facility,” says Odyek.Sister Adiambo too, is also praying that with the electricity supply guaranteed, investments will soon be made to ensure the maternity ward gets running water. “That will make the health centre actually healthy,” she says.In the next sub-county at Amomwa Health Centre III in Dokolo District, where the solar electrification installation is complete, we find the 15 staff all in high spirits.A UNICEF Uganda solar engineer consultant, Abdeel Kyezira who is already packing up his gear to move to the next location, takes us through the solar electrification journey, starting at the micro solar farm with several panels and ending at the power room, where the direct current generated is converted to alternating current for distribution and use. He explains that the system is set to work for ten years before any upgrade would be needed. Abdeel says the installed system completely replaces all previous, disjointed power installations at the facility. The lithium-ion batteries in the power room have a warranty of ten years.Richard Joe, the facility’s clinical officer in charge whom we found busy initializing a brand-new fridge, says it has been in the store since 2022 but there was no point unpacking it without electricity supply. Now with the solar power available it is being put to work. For while the vaccine fridges have been working throughout using their standalone solar power sources, the new system ensures that all medicines and laboratory reagents are also safely stored.Similarly, Florence Akello, who is in charge of midwifery at the facility, also shows off equipment that has been dormant but is now being put to use, including an oxygen machine in the kangaroo room. She is also excited at the prospect of being able to conduct deliveries anytime due to uninterrupted lighting.“I don’t know why babies have this habit of coming at night,” she says with a knowing smile.Whatever the reason for most babies arriving at night, Florence is at least sure there will now always be light to deliver them safely. Expected outcomes from the programme:Communities are aware that health facilities now have reliable electricity, ensuring proper storage of medicines and the use of functional modern medical equipment.Reduced need for long-distance travel to far-off health facilities, as local centres are now better equipped to deliver effective services.Increased community knowledge about solar electricity and its role as a resource for local development.Active community participation in safeguarding the solar energy systems as shared assets that benefit all.According to Lokesh Sharma, community engagement will facilitate local ownership, contributing to the long-term sustainability, operational oversight, and security of the deployed solar energy systems.
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12 February 2026
Pastoral communities unite across borders for resilient livelihoods
In the drylands of the Karamoja Cluster, where the Ateker communities mainly live, borders exist only on maps. For these closely linked pastoral communities who have lived here for generations, constituted by the Turkana of Kenya; the Karamojong of Uganda; the Nyangatom of Ethiopia and the Toposa of South Sudan, movement is a way of life. Their journey is not driven by nationality, but by the search for water and pasture for their animals.To them, grass and water mean life and survival. And when drought tightens its grip, herders travel long distances across countries, often converging at the same few remaining marginal resources. Without coordinated management, this natural movement towards marginal resources inevitably brings tension, conflict, and the spread of livestock diseases.
It is these deeply rooted challenges that the Pastoralism and Livestock Adaptation to Climate Change in Eastern Africa (PLACE) programme seeks to address.Located in Lotisan Sub-county, Moroto District, Kobebe Dam serves as a critical water source utilised daily by thousands of animals. Located within the Matheniko-Bokora Game Reserve and managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, access to land cultivation and establishment of permanent residences by local communities is restricted. The combination of abundant wildlife, limited access to essential services, and considerable distances to educational and healthcare facilities continues to pose significant challenges for residents in the area. “We have between 20,000 to 30,000 cows watering from the dam daily,” explains Akiki John Robert Aduba, LC3 Chairperson of Lotisan. He observes a reduction in water volume, and given the anticipated prolonged dry period, the remaining water may be depleted within one to two months. Such a scenario would negatively impact the animals, as an extended drought causes considerable hardship if water supplies are exhausted. The influx of animals, however, increases the risk of livestock diseases. Foot-and-mouth disease, Lumpy Skin Disease, and other outbreaks are commonly affecting livelihoods built almost entirely on cattle, shots, donkeys and camels. Aduba explains, “Water and grass are what bring us together. Our Kenyan brothers come here when they lack these resources, and we all share them. Our main goal is to manage everything peacefully.”He adds, “This programme inspires hope. With steady access to water and vaccines, our cattle will be protected from disease, animal losses will decrease, and we’ll be able to coexist peacefully with our neighbors.” Regional collaboration on peaceful resource sharing On 12 November 2025, Government representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan and Uganda gathered in Moroto to review progress under the PLACE project and deepen collaboration. The steering committee meeting brought together livestock experts, local leaders, technical officers, and community representatives who live the realities of cross-border pastoralism every day. Participants discussed shared challenges including limited water, degraded rangelands, disease outbreaks, and the growing pressure of climate change. They also explored opportunities for harmonised disease surveillance, coordinated rangeland management, and peaceful transhumance.Agustino Attilio echoed the importance of regional unity. “Climate change does not respect boundaries,” said Agustino Attilio, Director General of Planning and Policies, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, South Sudan. “We must collaborate. It is the only way to help our pastoral communities adapt.”Dr. Merihun Fikru, Head of Bureau of Agriculture and Vice President of South Ethiopia Region highlighted the shared cultural heritage of the cluster. “These communities have the same way of life, the same challenges, and the same needs. When they move, they must move safely. Cooperation is not optional, it is essential.”For veterinary officers, the PLACE programme offers hope of improved surveillance and response across borders. “Disease surveillance, reagents, cold-chain equipment received through the PLACE programme these are already helping us detect diseases faster, ” notes Dr. Moses Okino, District Veterinary Officer of Moroto and Director of the Karamoja Regional Veterinary Laboratory. He further emphasized the importance of training and cross-border coordination: “with timely disease information sharing between Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Sudan, we can detect outbreaks early and respond quickly. This helps reduce losses and protects livelihoods.”PLACE will strengthen laboratory capabilities that are essential for the future of livestock trade. Achieving accreditation will enhance the international credibility of our products and expand economic opportunities for pastoral communities. The laboratory will undergo further upgrades, including improved biosafety infrastructure and the installation of an incinerator to ensure safe waste management.About the PLACE Programme The EU-funded Pastoralism and Livestock Adaptation to Climate Change in Eastern Africa (PLACE) programme, is a EUR 47 million strategic and long-term investment that seeks to address key challenges to livestock and pastoralism in four cross border areas spread across seven countries.
It is these deeply rooted challenges that the Pastoralism and Livestock Adaptation to Climate Change in Eastern Africa (PLACE) programme seeks to address.Located in Lotisan Sub-county, Moroto District, Kobebe Dam serves as a critical water source utilised daily by thousands of animals. Located within the Matheniko-Bokora Game Reserve and managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, access to land cultivation and establishment of permanent residences by local communities is restricted. The combination of abundant wildlife, limited access to essential services, and considerable distances to educational and healthcare facilities continues to pose significant challenges for residents in the area. “We have between 20,000 to 30,000 cows watering from the dam daily,” explains Akiki John Robert Aduba, LC3 Chairperson of Lotisan. He observes a reduction in water volume, and given the anticipated prolonged dry period, the remaining water may be depleted within one to two months. Such a scenario would negatively impact the animals, as an extended drought causes considerable hardship if water supplies are exhausted. The influx of animals, however, increases the risk of livestock diseases. Foot-and-mouth disease, Lumpy Skin Disease, and other outbreaks are commonly affecting livelihoods built almost entirely on cattle, shots, donkeys and camels. Aduba explains, “Water and grass are what bring us together. Our Kenyan brothers come here when they lack these resources, and we all share them. Our main goal is to manage everything peacefully.”He adds, “This programme inspires hope. With steady access to water and vaccines, our cattle will be protected from disease, animal losses will decrease, and we’ll be able to coexist peacefully with our neighbors.” Regional collaboration on peaceful resource sharing On 12 November 2025, Government representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan and Uganda gathered in Moroto to review progress under the PLACE project and deepen collaboration. The steering committee meeting brought together livestock experts, local leaders, technical officers, and community representatives who live the realities of cross-border pastoralism every day. Participants discussed shared challenges including limited water, degraded rangelands, disease outbreaks, and the growing pressure of climate change. They also explored opportunities for harmonised disease surveillance, coordinated rangeland management, and peaceful transhumance.Agustino Attilio echoed the importance of regional unity. “Climate change does not respect boundaries,” said Agustino Attilio, Director General of Planning and Policies, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, South Sudan. “We must collaborate. It is the only way to help our pastoral communities adapt.”Dr. Merihun Fikru, Head of Bureau of Agriculture and Vice President of South Ethiopia Region highlighted the shared cultural heritage of the cluster. “These communities have the same way of life, the same challenges, and the same needs. When they move, they must move safely. Cooperation is not optional, it is essential.”For veterinary officers, the PLACE programme offers hope of improved surveillance and response across borders. “Disease surveillance, reagents, cold-chain equipment received through the PLACE programme these are already helping us detect diseases faster, ” notes Dr. Moses Okino, District Veterinary Officer of Moroto and Director of the Karamoja Regional Veterinary Laboratory. He further emphasized the importance of training and cross-border coordination: “with timely disease information sharing between Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Sudan, we can detect outbreaks early and respond quickly. This helps reduce losses and protects livelihoods.”PLACE will strengthen laboratory capabilities that are essential for the future of livestock trade. Achieving accreditation will enhance the international credibility of our products and expand economic opportunities for pastoral communities. The laboratory will undergo further upgrades, including improved biosafety infrastructure and the installation of an incinerator to ensure safe waste management.About the PLACE Programme The EU-funded Pastoralism and Livestock Adaptation to Climate Change in Eastern Africa (PLACE) programme, is a EUR 47 million strategic and long-term investment that seeks to address key challenges to livestock and pastoralism in four cross border areas spread across seven countries.
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12 March 2026
Redefining Manhood: How a father in Uganda grew to support his family in new ways
The Start, Awareness, Support, and Action (SASA!) Together Approach is being used by the Spotlight Initiative to support communities to prevent violence against women and girls and reduce HIV risk by addressing power imbalances between men and women. Through SASA! communities critically reflect on how power is used in relationships, families, and society. Instead of blaming individuals, it encourages positive use of power - promoting respect, equality, and non-violence.Acknowledging the ProblemBefore joining the SASA! Together sessions, 56-year-old Valentino Muhindo had increasingly turned to alcohol, a habit that was gradually destroying his family and draining his finances in his hilly village of Kibisire, Kitabu–Kyarumba Sub-County, Kasese District, Western Uganda. “We had become strangers in our own home,” he admitted, “I didn’t care whether there was food left or not. To me, I thought I was just being ‘man enough’.” He described immense tension and conflict in the home. During the first SASA! learning sessions, Valentino was introduced to concepts on preventing violence against women and girls, family collaboration, practicing shared decision-making, and using power positively in relationships. “When I returned home after the training, I told my wife, ‘It felt as though the trainers understood exactly what was happening in our home.’ At the beginning of the sessions, I felt uninterested. But as I listened to the messages, I began reflecting on the harm I was causing in my own household because of my perceived ‘power’ as a man.” Taking Action Through the SASA! Together Approach Encouraged by what he had learned, dynamics around household finances shifted. Valentino and his wife, Jane, set aside 100,000 Ugandan shillings (approximately $28) for Jane to start a coffee trading business. Although initially skeptical about her husband’s change in behavior, Jane began making profits from the business, which also helped cover school requirements for their eight children.The family also embarked on a brick-making project to construct their dream home. “We are now in the first phase of our brick-making project, where we expect to produce 20,000 bricks. We will sell these bricks to buy building materials such as cement, iron sheets, and timber,” Valentino says with a smile. He hopes to start building their house after selling the second batch of bricks.Building Partnerships, Inspiring ChangeAlongside these more peaceful and equal dynamics at home, the couple has seen their children develop and grow, one has qualified as a health worker, another is an electrician, and one is an agriculturalist. “We are now supporting each other as a family more than ever. My other five children are also progressing well in school,” he adds. The family has planted coffee and cocoa on their three acres of land, which they hope will boost their income and improve their livelihoods in the near future. Because of his positive behaviors, Valentino now serves as the Local Council 1 Chairman of his village, Kibisire. “My community members entrusted me with this leadership role because they saw me as a changed family man,” Valentino shared. Through the learning sessions, he gained skills that enabling him to transform his community. They are shifting away from alcohol and harmful behaviours, to being responsible family men. Today, he continues to support his community members through counseling and guidance on family matters.The Spotlight Initiative is a major multi-year programme by the European Union, Embassy of the Netherlands and United Nations, dedicated to eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG), including harmful practices like child marriage and FGM, and strengthening survivors’ access to services. In Uganda, it’s implemented through a strong partnership among seven UN agencies—including UN Women, UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, and UNHCR—alongside the Government and civil society.
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08 March 2026
Uganda Marks International Women’s Day 2026 with Renewed Commitment to Justice for Women and Girls
On 8 March 2026, Uganda joined the global community in celebrating International Women’s Day at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala. The national commemoration brought together a wide range of stakeholders including , the Vice President, the Prime Minister, Ministers, the UN Resident Coordinator, Heads of UN agencies, Members of Parliament, government officials, development partners, civil society, religious leaders and members of the public.The event highlighted the country’s progress in advancing women’s rights and leadership, while also acknowledging the work that still lies ahead to ensure equal access to justice, protection, and opportunities for women and girls across Uganda.Looking Back: From 1984 to TodayThe commemoration also reflected on a historic moment captured in a 1984 video clip featuring Mama Miria Obote, former First Lady of Uganda, during the country’s first International Women’s Day observances. In her remarks at the time, she noted that women statistically outnumbered men in Uganda, yet they remained significantly underrepresented in leadership and decision-making positions. She highlighted the stark disparities of the time, which can be seen compared to today’s statistics, 42 years on:1984: No women in Cabinet. 2026: 44 women in Cabinet1984: No women judges. 2026: 51% of judges are women1984: Only one woman Permanent Secretary. 2026: 17 Permanent Secretaries are womenForty-two years later, the situation has changed significantly. Today, Uganda has seen remarkable progress in women’s representation, these milestones reflect decades of advocacy, policy reform, and sustained efforts to promote gender equality.Voices from the EventThroughout the celebration, speakers emphasized the importance of access to justice, women’s leadership, and social transformation.The Chairperson of the National Women’s Council, Hajjat Faridah Kibowa, highlighted the importance of women’s leadership and participation in national development, emphasizing that women must be active agents of change. “Women are not spectators but shapers of our nation” she stated. She also noted progress in women’s access to land and new initiatives designed to strengthen economic empowerment. “A new initiative now allows women to register for land titles online, and already 30% of those who have registered their land are women,” she added. The Chairperson also emphasized the need to protect women and girls in conflict situations. “Where there is conflict, women and girls are affected the most.” The UN Resident Coordinator, Leonard Zulu, emphasized that access to justice is central to gender equality and sustainable development. “Access to justice means that a woman can report violence without fear of retaliation,” he said. He also stressed that justice must work for everyone, particularly those most vulnerable. “Justice must be available, accessible, affordable, and responsive to those most at risk of being left behind,” he added.He highlighted initiatives supported by development partners that are helping improve justice outcomes, including Special Gender-Based Violence (GBV) sessions, which have:Resolved over 4,500 Sexual and Gender-Based Violence casesIncreased conviction rates from 20% to 80%These initiatives are supported by the United Nations, the Government of Uganda, Austria, the Netherlands, and the European Union. The French Ambassador, Virginie Leroy, highlighted the global importance of advancing women’s rights and addressing social barriers that continue to affect women and girls. “Empowering women and girls is the cornerstone of sustainable development,” she said. She also reminded participants that statistics represent real lives and experiences. “Behind every statistic is a woman and a girl whose rights need to be protected and whose voice needs to be heard,” she added. She called for continued efforts to transform social norms and strengthen initiatives such as the Women Uganda 2025+ movement, which promotes gender equality and male engagement.The Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi Ongom, highlighted the critical role women play in society and emphasized government efforts to strengthen legal protection and opportunities for women. The Minister emphasized education initiatives supporting girls and young mothers. “Through the Second Chance Education Initiative, girls who become pregnant can return to school and continue their education,” she said.Speaking on behalf of the President, the Vice President, Jessica Alupo, stressed the importance of women’s education and empowerment in strengthening families and communities. She highlighted policies designed to support girls’ access to education, including the additional 1.5 university admission points awarded to female students to enable them to join public universities. The Vice President, emphasized that women’s education also improves broader family wellbeing. “When mothers are educated, they better understand the importance of vaccination, breastfeeding, and hygiene for their children,” she said.Launch of National StrategiesThe event concluded with the launch of several key national frameworks aimed at advancing gender equality and strengthening protections for women and girls:The Second National Action Plan on the Elimination of Gender-Based Violence (2026–2031)The Uganda Gender and Equity Climate Action Strategy (2026–2031)The National Strategy on Ending Female Genital Mutilation (2026–2030) Key Actions Moving ForwardThe event issued a strong call for continued collaboration between government, development partners, civil society, and communities to strengthen women’s access to justice and leadership.Key actions highlighted included:Mobilizing both women and men to create safe and inclusive spaces for womenStrengthening inclusive governance and decision-makingExpanding mentorship opportunities for young womenIncreasing women’s representation in leadership and senior government rolesStrengthening laws that protect girls and keep them in schoolAddressing child marriage and gender-based violenceProviding paralegal training programs to help women access justice and understand their rightsBuilding the capacity of women leaders through targeted training
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06 March 2026
Protecting the Most Vulnerable in an Era of Constrained Resources
When a sudden flash flood in Northern Uganda’s Lamwo District submerged the road, 28-year-old midwife Alice found her ambulance and life-saving medical supplies stranded on the wrong side of the raging water, cut off from a refugee mother of six who had just gone into premature labor with twins.Acting on pure instinct, Alice grabbed a waterproof plastic sheet from a UNFPA dignity kit, hurled it across the water to shield the vulnerable newborn from the torrential rain, and waded across the receding waters to manually resuscitate the hemorrhaging mother, saving both her and her surviving baby.Alice’s story is extraordinary, but the precipice on which that mother’s life hung is becoming alarmingly common. Uganda is globally recognized as the gold standard for refugee hosting, offering progressive policies that grant land, movement, and integration to nearly 2 million refugees. But behind the global praise for Uganda’s open-door policy, the reality is brutal: international funding is evaporating, and the basic medical infrastructure that allows frontline workers like Alice to keep women alive is collapsing. The surge in vulnerabilityAcross Uganda’s refugee settlements, an estimated 60 per cent of health care providers have been laid off because the money has simply run out. UNFPA recently identified a critical need for 267 midwives to support emergency response teams; today, because of a persistent cash shortfall, only 23 per cent of those midwives are in place. Those who remain are routinely forced to manage caseloads of over 100 patients a day, double the accepted medical standard.The effects of these cuts are immediate and fatal. Fuel and salary shortages have grounded mobile midwifery teams in major settlements like Bidibidi and Rhino Camp. When care is restricted to stationary clinics, a woman in a remote zone who cannot afford transport has no choice but to give birth at home. This drastically increases her risk of postpartum hemorrhage, which is already the leading cause of maternal death in these settings.The crisis extends far beyond the delivery room. Across the settlements, clinics are operating with a 30 per cent shortage of basic supplies, missing everything from the dignity kits Alice used, to contraceptives and oxytocin.Meanwhile, a 68 per cent reduction in funding to protect women from gender-based violence (GBV) has forced vital safe spaces to shut their doors. Consequently, we are tracking a 32 per cent rise in cases where survivors are left entirely without clinical care or psychological support.Furthermore, as school fee subsidies dry up and dedicated youth spaces close, teenage pregnancies are spiking. Girls as young as 13 are entering maternity wards instead of classrooms, pushed into early marriage or transactional sex just to survive the sudden loss of basic food and cash assistance. The Humanitarian Reset The international community knows the global aid system is financially strained. In response, a Humanitarian Reset is underway to reorganize how aid is delivered, aiming to make emergency responses more efficient and localized. UNFPA supports making aid more effective. We know the system must adapt to do more with less.However, as we reorganize how we deliver aid, we must sound a clear warning: efficiency cannot come at the cost of women’s lives.Reforms must not inadvertently create a two-tier humanitarian system where food, water, and shelter are deemed ‘essential,’ while reproductive health and protection from gender-based violence are sidelined as secondary or "optional" extras. A safe delivery kit, a contraceptive, or the skilled hands of a midwife are not luxuries. As Alice’s story proves, they keep women alive.As global pushback against reproductive rights grows right alongside tightening aid budgets, we are working closely with our partners to ensure the protection and medical care of women and girls remain central to all humanitarian action, rather than an afterthought.Uganda’s progressive refugee model cannot survive on the goodwill of the host government and the sheer grit of its frontline workers alone. It requires actual cash and sustained funding from the international community.We cannot balance the books of the global humanitarian system on the backs of women and girls. Their bodies and futures must not be the shock absorbers for global aid cuts. If we allow maternal and protection services to be stripped away in the name of efficiency, we are abandoning the very people the humanitarian system was built to protect.
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05 March 2026
From Disaster to Recovery: Restoring Safety at Kiteezi Landfill
Officials from the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO), Government of Uganda, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and UN-Habitat visited Kiteezi landfill on 5 March 2026 to assess progress on ongoing rehabilitation works following the tragic landslide in August 2024 resulting from a garbage sludge that led to the collapse of the landfill claiming 35 lives and destroyed millions worth of property.The disaster, caused by unstable slopes where waste had accumulated to heights of 36 metres across a 35-acre site leading to a massive landslide, triggered urgent efforts to improve safety, environmental management and long-term waste practices in Kampala.The visit highlighted significant progress in stabilizing the landfill through the government of Japan funded emergency technical support to rehabilitate the dumpsite. The project has made progress in the stabilization of waste slopes, leachate treatment and safe release of methane gas. Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, Minister of State for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, reported that about 84 per cent of the rehabilitation work has been completed, with key infrastructure nearing completion. “I am happy with the progress I have seen today. I am confident that the remaining part of the work which includes the installation of additional pipes to extract wastewater will be finalized by the end of March 2026,” said Hon. Kyofatogabye. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Leonard Zulu, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in strengthening environmental protection and improvement of waste management systems in Kampala. He noted that there are 29 UN agencies operating in Uganda, creating opportunities for broader cooperation and joint programmes to support sustainable urban development.“Emergency interventions are often catalytic in nature. This project demonstrates that waste can be managed effectively and at relatively low cost through locally driven solutions. It offers a practical model that can be replicated at dumpsites throughout the country, contributing to safer waste management practices and helping to prevent similar disasters in the future.” said Mr. Zulu.Nature-Based Solutions to Manage Waste and EmissionsEngineers and environmental experts are implementing nature-based solutions “Fukuoka Method”– semi aerobic land fill technology from Japan for low-cost waste management to address key environmental risks at the site. A network of more than 1,200 vertical pipes, made using recycled plastic bottles, is being installed across the landfill to extract methane and allow oxygen to circulate through the waste layers, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing the risk of fires, which were reported at the site in February 2025 due to methane buildup.“This initiative will help reduce plastic waste while supporting recycling efforts,” said Mr. Ishaku Maitumbi, Head of Sub-regional Programme UN-Habitat. He explained that 35 plastic bottles equal approximately one kilogramme, and each two-metre pipe requires about 315 kilogrammes of plastic bottles to manufacture. At the same time, a “fishbone-style” drainage system of pipes is being constructed to capture leachate and channel it into a treatment pond before the water is released safely into Lake Victoria. As the liquid moves through the system, it is naturally filtered and oxygenated, reducing pollutants without the use of chemicals.Preventing Environmental RisksThe landfill also contains a stream running through the site, which authorities are working to protect to prevent flooding upstream and contamination of nearby water systems. Monitoring of the stream will remain ongoing as rehabilitation work continues. Environmental assessments indicate that much of the waste at the landfill is organic material, which can be treated more effectively through oxygenation and controlled drainage. Plastic waste makes up about 10% of the rubbish at the site. Supporting Livelihoods and Community ResilienceBeyond environmental developments, the project is also creating livelihood opportunities for nearby communities, particularly through recycling initiatives and the collection of plastic bottles used to produce methane pipes.Local leaders welcomed the progress. Mr. Samuel Kibuuka, LC1 Chaiman Kiteezi Village in Kasangati Town Council, Wakiso District, said that residents can see the good work being done and are happy. He expressed appreciation to the United Nations, the Governments of Japan and Uganda for their support. “My hope is that the project will not only prevent further disasters but also help protect homes, improve waste management and create jobs for young people in the area,” said Mr. Kibuuka.Looking AheadLooking ahead, the Minister stated that the goal is to complete the rehabilitation process within the next five years. Once the landfill has been fully stabilized and rehabilitated, the site could potentially be repurposed for sports, recreation or other community activities.
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28 January 2026
Building sustainable livelihoods through youth entrepreneurship in West Nile
In the expansive savannah plains of Terego District, Uganda, 26-year-old Peter Oyok moves confidently through his poultry house, checking on his 1,300 birds. The morning routine of collecting eggs represents more than daily income—it symbolises a transformation from struggling student to successful entrepreneur.What began as desperate YouTube searches for business ideas has transformed into something he never imagined: a thriving enterprise that employs over 20 people and supplies eggs across refugee settlements and trading centres throughout the Terego and Madi Okollo districts of West Nile, Uganda.Peter's entrepreneurial journey began out of necessity. When financial constraints threatened to end his education, he refused to accept limitations. With parents supporting multiple children and step-siblings, resources were stretched thin despite having adequate farmland for cultivation.Determined to create opportunities, Peter and his brother started a second-hand clothing business. However, disappointing profits led them to seek alternatives. Peter's curiosity about fish farming eventually evolved into something more practical after discovering YouTube videos of Ugandan poultry entrepreneurs. "Since the world is now digitalised, I always follow things on YouTube," Peter explains, reflecting on how young people can leverage technology to acquire business knowledge even in remote areas.Converting their clothing business into startup capital, Peter raised US$1,000 to construct poultry structures and invested US$729 in buying 600 one-day-old chicks. His brother, David, joined as a business partner, and together they built what would become a thriving operation.Today, Peter's business generates US$1,630 monthly from selling an average of 570 eggs (19 trays) daily. His operation employs his brother as accountant and sales manager, four female attendants, and 16 casual workers. The business supplies eggs across Imvepi Refugee Settlement, host communities, and over 20 trading centres throughout Terego District.Peter's breakthrough came when the World Food Programme's Agriculture and Market Support programme, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, through ForAfrika, identified his poultry business as a promising enterprise. This five-year partnership, launched in March 2022, aims to create 73,000 jobs for youth across Uganda's food systems by 2027. Through the programme, Peter received comprehensive business development support, including training in record-keeping, business growth strategies, and connections to essential extension services. The initiative linked him with partner organisations such as Omia Agribusiness for vaccination services and market linkages, plus eMaisha, a digital financial company providing financial literacy training and e-voucher cards for streamlined transactions."Small businesses usually struggle with keeping records, but through the training, I learned proper financial management, which helps me calculate profits and plan for growth," Peter reflects.Peter also acquired a cargo tricycle through the programme to safely transport his fragile produce. The vehicle has reduced egg breakage during delivery and allows him to move larger quantities to markets across the district, significantly cutting losses and boosting profits. Peter's success represents one story within a comprehensive initiative spanning 15 districts across Uganda. By mid-2025, the WFP-Mastercard Foundation partnership has reached 75,000 youth, including 61% women and 29% refugees. The programme has supported 2,363 youth-led enterprises across six value chains: maize, beans, sorghum, cassava, oil seeds, and horticulture. Emerging value chains—poultry, fisheries, and apiculture—are also covered, reflecting youth interests and market demand.Through production training, market linkages, financial inclusion, and digital connectivity, these enterprises have generated US$1 million in sales. Youth participants have mobilised US$4 million in savings and accessed US$1.9 million in loans, enabling 52,000 youth to transition into work."From the previous state, that state of life that I've been through, I think the earnings, the living, is now a bit simplified," Peter reflects on how the programme support has improved life for him and his group members.His enterprise has enabled him to support his siblings' educational needs, breaking cycles of limited opportunity that once threatened his future."Business is not for those who have money," Peter states with conviction. "Set a goal, have the right attitude and take the risk. That way, you can achieve what you never imagined."Peter has ambitious plans for expansion. He hopes to purchase additional land and expand his flock, potentially diversifying into other agricultural ventures. His vision extends beyond personal success to creating more employment opportunities for youth in his community.
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28 January 2026
Youth Business Incubator: Shaping the Next Generation of Business Leaders
“I was surprised when I was selected as a finalist for this grant,” says Lairah Babirye. “With the UGX 8.8 million I won, I am going to open a big stationery business called Glory Stationery Solutions and employ more young people.”Babirye is one of eleven young entrepreneurs who won a $30,000 grant from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) through its Youth Business Incubator (YBI) initiative.Others include Lilly Kihunde, Derick Abaho, Elizabeth Nalubega, Gloria Nalule, Jude Palia, Amina Nakayiza, Goodwin Oyar, Innocent Asiimwe, Jeremy Nimungu, and Proscovia Nabulo. Each winner will receive up to $3,000, disbursed in two installments, to formalize their business, acquire supplies, and begin operations.Hon. Esther Davinia Anyakun, the State Minister for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, handed over symbolic cheques to the winners during a ceremony in Kampala last month. In her remarks, Minister Anyakun reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing youth unemployment. However, she also made an urgent appeal, calling on the private sector to bridge the funding gap for young entrepreneurs. “H.E. the President has over and over again come up with initiatives to address this situation, but like we say, more needs to be done,” she stated. “By cultivating a robust entrepreneurial culture, the country can empower its youth to innovate and establish a future that is resilient, equitable, and responsive to evolving national needs.” Also in attendance was the UN Resident Coordinator, Leonard Zulu, who commended IOM for fostering youth entrepreneurship as a means of curbing irregular migration.“While there are many of these initiatives supporting youth, very few focus on those who are about to graduate or have recently graduated from tertiary institutions,” he observed.The YBI initiative, established in March 2024, supports young people, particularly students, from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to develop entrepreneurial skills as an alternative to seeking employment abroad. It is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom under the Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) programme.“Our work is driven by the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, whether they choose to pursue opportunities locally or abroad,” emphasized IOM Uganda Chief of Mission, Sanusi Tejan Savage. “We remain committed to addressing the root causes of irregular migration by investing in youth entrepreneurship, skills development, and economic resilience.”Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge in Uganda, where over 73 per cent of the population is under 30, and only an estimated 80,000 formal jobs are generated annually. This crisis is worsened by young entrepreneurs’ lack of access to financing due to high interest rates and stringent collateral requirements.Consequently, many resort to labour migration as a survival strategy, which often exposes them to the risks of irregular migration, including physical violence, abusive practices, and unsafe work environments. Thus, the YBI project offers a vital alternative by equipping these young people with the tools and resources needed to remain in Uganda and establish viable businesses. The selection process began with recruitment across the districts of Mbale, Kyenjojo, Bushenyi, Wakiso, and Arua, reaching 1,039 participants. A rigorous exercise identified 26 finalists, who then underwent intensive business modelling and planning training. An independent jury comprising experts from the banking sector, the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and civil society finally chose the eleven winners after they pitched their business ideas.The IOM Youth Incubator Programme aligns with the organization’s strategic objective of addressing the root causes of irregular migration by supporting skills development and entrepreneurship. Apart from Uganda, IOM is currently implementing the programme in Ethiopia, Kenya, Burundi, Djibouti, Rwanda, Somalia, and South Sudan.
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Press Release
08 December 2025
Children and their Rights need to be protected and promoted during Uganda’s election process
KAMPALA, UGANDA – 8 December 2025 –As Uganda goes through a pivotal election period, the National Initiative for Civic Education in Uganda (NICE-UG), the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Uganda Child Rights NGO Network (UCRNN), and UNICEF Uganda call on all political actors, the media, parents, and the public to prioritize the protection and promotion of child rights during the 2026 election season in Uganda.The national and international child rights protection institutions are highlighting that children must be kept out of political spaces and protected from harm. The four institutions are reminding Ugandans that elections are a cornerstone of democracy and a key moment to prioritize the well-being of children and the fulfilment of the right of every child in Uganda. Elections cannot come at the expense of the safety, dignity, and well-being of Uganda’s children.‘Protecting children from harm and exploitation is not optional. It is a shared responsibility. It is the duty of all parents and caregivers, teachers, religious, cultural, and political leaders, and the media fraternity to ensure that children are protected during elections’, said Mr. Joseph Biribonwa, Chairperson, National Initiative for Civic Education in Uganda.The participation of children in rallies and campaign activities is a violation of their right to protection that exposes them to physical and psychological harm. Involving children in political advertising is child exploitation and violates children’s right to privacy and safety. The human rights and child protection actors are calling upon all stakeholders to respect and uphold the rights of every child before, during, and after the election process, and are appealing to the general public to report any child rights violations through established helplines and reporting mechanisms.‘More than half of all Ugandan citizens are children. Investing in children, listening to their voices and promoting their rights needs to be a priority during these elections,’ said Mr. Damon Wamara, Executive Director of Uganda Child Rights NGO Network.Political parties and candidates are urged to commit to child-friendly policies and practices, ensuring that their campaigns and political programmes reflect the best interests of children. To support their appeal for a child-friendly campaign and policies, the child rights organizations developed, inspired by the manifesto that Ugandan children produced under the guidance of the Uganda Child Rights NGO Network, a guiding document for political parties and candidates who are competing during the 2026 general elections. The document calls on politicians to prioritize child rights issues during the campaign and in their political programmes, and to commit to concrete actions to tackle teenage pregnancies, fight malnutrition, promote access to early childhood education and protect children against violence, among others.This document was shared recently with the political parties. Political parties and candidates are invited to be inspired by the document as they canvass for votes and to commit to holding child-friendly campaigns.Hon. Mariam Wangadya, the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, stressed: ‘We urge all political actors, media, parents, and the public to protect children’s rights during the election period. Let us not allow this election to compromise the safety and well-being of our children.’ ’To ensure the rights of children are respected during the election period, the child rights partners developed a set of practical DOs and DONTs for the general public as well as for children, parents, politicians and the media. The DOs and DONTs - including printed flyers - are being widely disseminated through social media platforms and mass media partners, and at events. ‘UNICEF remains dedicated to working with the Government of Uganda and alongside all partners, including cultural, faith-based and civil society organisations, to protect and promote children’s rights, ensuring their safety and well-being across the country during and after the election period,’ said Dr Robin Nandy, UNICEF Country Representative.Experience from previous elections in Uganda and the region has shown that children face heightened risks during election periods, including exposure to violence, exploitation, and disruption of essential services. Through strengthened coordination, the development and dissemination of advocacy materials, strong reporting and mitigation initiatives, the child rights organizations aim to ensure children’s rights are upheld throughout the electoral process.About UNICEFUNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.For more information about UNICEF and its work for children, visit www.unicef.org/uganda
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Press Release
08 December 2025
Children and their Rights need to be protected and promoted during Uganda’s election process
KAMPALA, UGANDA – 8 December 2025 –As Uganda goes through a pivotal election period, the National Initiative for Civic Education in Uganda (NICE-UG), the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Uganda Child Rights NGO Network (UCRNN), and UNICEF Uganda call on all political actors, the media, parents, and the public to prioritize the protection and promotion of child rights during the 2026 election season in Uganda.The national and international child rights protection institutions are highlighting that children must be kept out of political spaces and protected from harm. The four institutions are reminding Ugandans that elections are a cornerstone of democracy and a key moment to prioritize the well-being of children and the fulfilment of the right of every child in Uganda. Elections cannot come at the expense of the safety, dignity, and well-being of Uganda’s children.‘Protecting children from harm and exploitation is not optional. It is a shared responsibility. It is the duty of all parents and caregivers, teachers, religious, cultural, and political leaders, and the media fraternity to ensure that children are protected during elections’, said Mr. Joseph Biribonwa, Chairperson, National Initiative for Civic Education in Uganda.The participation of children in rallies and campaign activities is a violation of their right to protection that exposes them to physical and psychological harm. Involving children in political advertising is child exploitation and violates children’s right to privacy and safety. The human rights and child protection actors are calling upon all stakeholders to respect and uphold the rights of every child before, during, and after the election process, and are appealing to the general public to report any child rights violations through established helplines and reporting mechanisms.‘More than half of all Ugandan citizens are children. Investing in children, listening to their voices and promoting their rights needs to be a priority during these elections,’ said Mr. Damon Wamara, Executive Director of Uganda Child Rights NGO Network.Political parties and candidates are urged to commit to child-friendly policies and practices, ensuring that their campaigns and political programmes reflect the best interests of children. To support their appeal for a child-friendly campaign and policies, the child rights organizations developed, inspired by the manifesto that Ugandan children produced under the guidance of the Uganda Child Rights NGO Network, a guiding document for political parties and candidates who are competing during the 2026 general elections. The document calls on politicians to prioritize child rights issues during the campaign and in their political programmes, and to commit to concrete actions to tackle teenage pregnancies, fight malnutrition, promote access to early childhood education and protect children against violence, among others.This document was shared recently with the political parties. Political parties and candidates are invited to be inspired by the document as they canvass for votes and to commit to holding child-friendly campaigns.Hon. Mariam Wangadya, the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, stressed: ‘We urge all political actors, media, parents, and the public to protect children’s rights during the election period. Let us not allow this election to compromise the safety and well-being of our children.’ ’To ensure the rights of children are respected during the election period, the child rights partners developed a set of practical DOs and DONTs for the general public as well as for children, parents, politicians and the media. The DOs and DONTs - including printed flyers - are being widely disseminated through social media platforms and mass media partners, and at events. ‘UNICEF remains dedicated to working with the Government of Uganda and alongside all partners, including cultural, faith-based and civil society organisations, to protect and promote children’s rights, ensuring their safety and well-being across the country during and after the election period,’ said Dr Robin Nandy, UNICEF Country Representative.Experience from previous elections in Uganda and the region has shown that children face heightened risks during election periods, including exposure to violence, exploitation, and disruption of essential services. Through strengthened coordination, the development and dissemination of advocacy materials, strong reporting and mitigation initiatives, the child rights organizations aim to ensure children’s rights are upheld throughout the electoral process.About UNICEFUNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.For more information about UNICEF and its work for children, visit www.unicef.org/uganda
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Press Release
10 June 2025
UN Allocates US$2.5 million in emergency funding to support surging refugee influx in Uganda
The funds, provided through the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), will enable three UN Agencies – United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), UN World Food Programme (WFP) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) continue to deliver critical services such as food, nutrition, water, medical care, and protection for refugees in their first two weeks of arrival. The response will focus on Uganda’s overstretched transit and reception centers in Kabazana, Nyakabande, and Matanda, in the Southwest sub-region. Uganda, already Africa’s largest refugee-hosting country, has seen a dramatic increase in new arrivals—more than 65,000 Congolese refugees from January to May 2025—pushing the total number of refugees in the country to nearly 1,900,000.“We are grateful for this timely and urgently needed contribution from the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund. It comes at a moment when our capacities are severely stretched and will be a step in the right direction to help us provide urgent support to the thousands of people arriving in search of international protection and assistance. Emergency response funding and strong partnerships like this are critical to sustaining Uganda’s progressive refugee policy and continuing dignified support for all refugees,” said Leonard Zulu, UN Resident Coordinator in UgandaThe sharp spike in displacement—a 600% increase from the same period last year—has pushed Uganda’s reception system to a breaking point. Many refugees, mainly from Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Sudan, are arriving traumatized, malnourished, and in urgent need of care after harrowing journeys.Matthew Crentsil, UNHCR Representative in Uganda, said, “This CERF allocation will enable us to provide immediate and essential services—clean water, health care, and protection—at reception centers operating far beyond capacity. Timely and targeted support like this is critical to sustaining a coordinated emergency response.”With food pipelines under threat, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned of serious consequences without swift support.“This CERF funding is a lifeline—it helps us prevent a full-blown food crisis within an already dire humanitarian emergency,” said Marcus Prior, WFP Country Director. “It enables us to deliver immediate food and nutrition support when refugees need it most—right at the point of arrival.”UNICEF is focusing on child health, as malnutrition rates soar among new arrivals.“We are seeing children arrive in extremely weakened states, many suffering from malaria and severe malnutrition,” said Robin Nandy, UNICEF Representative in Uganda. “This funding will allow us to scale up emergency nutrition services by continuing to screen and treat malnourished children and provide life-saving health interventions for those most in need.”.”The Government of Uganda welcomed the support, calling it a timely boost as the country struggles to manage an escalating humanitarian emergency amid dwindling donor resources.Ends Media Contacts:UN Resident Coordinator’s Office UNHCR UgandaMichael Wangusa Frank WalusimbiCommunication Officer Assoc. Communications OfficerTel: +256 771 005 988 Tel: +256 772701140Email: michael.wangusa@un.org Email: walusimf@unhcr.org WFP Uganda UNICEF UgandaDidas Kisembo Catherine Ntabadde Communication Officer Communication SpecialistTel: +256 757 453 232 Tel: +256 772 147 111Email: didas.kisembo@wfp.org Email: cntabadde@unicef.org
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Press Release
30 April 2025
Police and Journalists commit to collaborating in upholding Freedom of Expression, Safety of Journalists and Public Order
This initiative is strategically aligned with Uganda's 2026 elections, recognizing the critical role of a free and independent media in ensuring transparent, peaceful, and credible electoral processes. It also supports the broader goal of strengthening informed public discourse and democratic participation.The two-day workshop brought together officers from the Uganda Police Force, journalists, and civil society organizations. Practical demonstrations and scenario-based discussions were conducted to equip the participants with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate complex situations around their work. Interactive discussions and shared experiences highlighted the need for trust and cooperation between law enforcement and media. Key HighlightsThe dialogue covered various topics, including enhancing professional relations between law enforcement and media, fostering freedom of expression to strengthen the rule of law and democracy, and international and regional standards on freedom of expression, freedom of press, and safety of journalists, among others.The Senior Commissioner of Police and Director in charge of Human Rights and Legal Affairs, Mr. Charles Kataratambi, expressed his gratitude for the training, noting that it marked a crucial starting point for fostering a harmonious relationship between law enforcement and media. "Journalists and police officers are strategic allies who need each other to effectively serve the public," he said. "However, the rise of citizen journalism has sometimes blurred the lines of professionalism in our sector, leading to polarization. This training is a vital step towards rebuilding trust and promoting collaboration between our institutions.UN Resident Coordinator Leonard Zulu quoted the UN Secretary-General António Guterres on World Press Freedom Day 2025: “Free and independent journalism is an essential public good. It’s the backbone of accountability, justice, equality, and human rights. Journalists everywhere must be able to report freely and without fear or favor. When journalists are unable to work, we all lose.” UNESCO Regional Director for Eastern Africa and Representative, Ms. Louise Haxthausen, reinforced the importance of the initiative: “The safety of journalists and freedom of expression are fundamental to a functioning democracy. This training underscores UNESCO commitment to building bridges between law enforcement and the media, ensuring a safer and more informed society." Participant FeedbackThe workshop provided valuable reflections from participants, many of whom emphasized its timeliness, relevance, and transformative potential:“It was nice interacting and staying in the same accommodation with journalists. I realized we share a lot in common in relation to our work.” – Police Officer“The belief that media and police cannot work together has in the past hindered the relationship. But having both groups in the room has fostered understanding and appreciation of each other’s roles. Hopefully, the animosity ends here.” – Journalist“The sessions were practical and highly relevant, especially as we head into the elections that often raise tensions.” – Civil Society OrganizationRecommendationsThe workshop concluded with key recommendations to guide future collaboration: Strengthen communication and mutual understanding of roles and responsibilities of all parties.Establish transparency and accountability mechanisms to address impunity and crimes against journalists.Create independent oversight bodies to handle grievances from both parties.Promote continuous professional development programs for journalists and police officers to deepen understanding of each other's mandates.Ensure prosecution of perpetrators to prevent the recurrence of injustices.Institutionalize regular dialogue and stakeholder engagement to foster collaboration. It is hoped that this engagement will foster a more collaborative and mutually respectful relationship between the police and journalists, ultimately contributing to a safer and more informed society.For more information, please contact:Name: Vincent OgalEmail: v.ogal@unesco.org Tel: 0704818405 | 0779474472About the UNESCO ProgrammeThe UNESCO Programme on Freedom of Expression, Safety of Journalists, and Public Order is a Multi-Donor Programme funded initiative also supported by Sweden and The Netherlands. It focuses on promoting journalist safety and combating impunity for crimes against journalists, in line with the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity. The programme builds national and regional capacities to prevent, protect, and prosecute attacks against journalists, with a particular emphasis on the specific risks faced by women journalists. Additionally, it supports legal protection for journalists worldwide and leads commemorations of World Press Freedom Day.
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Press Release
16 April 2025
Japan contributes US$ 6.6 million to support efforts towards various sectors in Uganda
The support has been channeled through the United Nations and International Organizations: United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).Ambassador Sasayama addressed a speech, “I am very honored to announce Japan’s supplementary budget 2024-2025 contribution to the Government of Uganda with the total amount of 6.6 million USD in support of various areas, and one of the projects approved is supported by TICAD memorial package supplementary budget. We will be holding the Summit of 9th TICAD with attendance of all the African leaderships, which will contribute to promotion of further partnership between Japan and Uganda.” He also enthusiastically called for the president's attendance at TICAD 9. Right Honourable Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, who attended the press conference said, “My office expresses profound appreciation to the Government of Japan for its exceptional commitment, demonstrated through a generous contribution of up to US$ 6.6 million this year to support the Karamoja region, refugee communities, and host populations. This critical support reaffirms Japan’s partnership in advancing Uganda's development agenda, particularly in the areas of humanitarian relief, food security, and climate resilience. We commend the Japanese Ambassador for the exemplary leadership in fortifying bilateral partnership with Government of Uganda and the UN agencies supported by the Japanese Government in addressing global challenges in the area of migration, forced displacement, and climate change.”Speaking on behalf of the UN system in Uganda, H.E. Leonard Zulu, the UN Resident Coordinator, said, “I am pleased to acknowledge this announcement of a contribution from the Government of Japan to Uganda, as part of long-standing partnerships for sustainable development. These fresh contributions announced today of US$ 6.6 million is timely and will support refugees and host communities, emergency health preparedness, nutrition in Karamoja region, waste management, Women Peace and Security and Disaster Risk Reduction.” On the support to the August 2024 disaster at Kampala’s dumpsite, the UN Resident Coordinator added, “the solidarity of the government and people of Japan is exemplary, as this will not only minimize the further environmental degradation and loss of lives, but will also improve the city’s capacity to respond to similar disasters.”Present at the press conference were representatives of the involved UN agencies: Ms. Margarita Tileva (UNICEF Uganda, Deputy Representative), Mr. Grace Lubaale (Head of Office, Somaliland and Lead, Waste Management, Sub-Regional East and Horn of Africa, Regional Office for Africa, UN-Habitat), Mr. Marcus Prior (WFP Uganda, Country Director), Mr. Matthew Crentsil (UNHCR Uganda, Representative), Mr. Sanusi Savage (IOM Uganda, Chief of Mission) and Mr. Antonio Querido (FAO Uganda, Country Representative).UNICEF: has received US$ 1,080,000 towards Uganda’s Country Refugee Response Plan for 2024. This support will enable UNICEF to provide an integrated lifesaving, child-centred response to reduce mortality and deprivation resulting from the refugee influx in Kiryandongo District. The focus of the interventions is improving access to climate resilient, gender and disability inclusive WASH services. To reduce mortality and diseases caused by a surge in severe wasting, UNICEF will provide life-saving nutrition interventions to children under five years old. UNICEF’s response will directly benefit 75,783 refugees and host communities including 61,715 children. UNICEF’s response strategy leverages and strengthens existing government systems, engages and benefits local communities, promoting social cohesion, local ownership and sustainability.UN-Habitat: has received U.S.$ 1 million to provide emergency technical support to Uganda’s Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to rehabilitate the Kiteezi dumpsite. The support will specifically: a) stabilize the collapsed area of the dumpsite; b) rehabilitate approximately 4.3 hectares of the collapsed area of the 14.6 dumpsite; and c) provide technical support to KCCA to better manage dumpsites. This intervention includes the transfer and application of Japan technology – the Fukuoka method – for waste management. The project will contribute to Uganda’s commitments for SDG 6, clean water and sanitation, and SDG 13 climate action. The project is an excellent gesture of friendship with Uganda, and it contributes to reduced environmental degradation and pollution.WFP: has received US$ 1million donation from Japan that will deliver essential and lifesaving nutritional support in Karamoja. This contribution will help combat acute food insecurity and malnutrition to 25,000 households comprising children under five, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women. Additionally, WFP Uganda will be receiving 2,000 metric tonnes of rice valued at US$ 2.2 million targeting 50,000 new arrivals with hot meals at reception centres at designated border points in Uganda. A growing number of new refugees are fleeing conflict from the DRC, Sudan, and South Sudan into Uganda.UNHCR: has received US$ 1.5 million in support of Uganda's Country Refugee Response Plan for 2025. This funding will enable UNHCR to provide protection and comprehensive assistance to more than 560,000 refugees and their host communities across Uganda. The contribution will play a crucial role in strengthening gender-based violence prevention and response, enhancing primary healthcare services through Village Health Teams (VHTs) and local health facilities, and promoting self-reliance among refugees through vocational training programs. This intervention will specifically benefit newly arrived refugees settling in northern and southwestern regions, ensuring they receive essential support. The funding represents a significant act of solidarity with Uganda, reinforcing the commitment to humanitarian assistance and refugee welfare.IOM: has received US$ 900,000 to help Government of Uganda improve its capacity to handle public health threats such as Ebola, MPoX, and Marburg Virus in vulnerable border districts. This funding will enhance health systems at border entry points, support surveillance, and improve early warning functions for communicable disease prevention and response. With JSB funding, IOM will support health system strengthening by (a) providing accessible data on mobility dynamics to inform public health actions, (b) training frontline health workers and border officials, (c) raising awareness in border communities, (d) providing community-based emergency health services, and (e) improving border health coordination.FAO: has received US$1,130,000 to assist flood-affected communities in Uganda’s Rwenzori and Mount Elgon regions, with a focus on women vulnerable to climate-related risks. The project covers three key areas: (1) Climate Monitoring – installing 16 hydro-meteorological stations and training government staff in climate data analysis; (2) Early Warning Systems – establishing 2 early warning centers, training personnel, and developing gender-responsive messages to reach 88,000 households; and (3) Community-Based Flood Preparedness – identifying and implementing anticipatory actions and awareness campaigns for 5,000 households. The initiative supports Uganda’s SDG and national DRR commitments, while fostering synergies and innovation through partnerships with Japanese institutions such as JICA, JMA, and private firms, which is a strong gesture of long-lasting amity between Japan and Uganda.For more information please contact: Embassy of Japan in UgandaOffice of the Prime MinisterHiroyuki HayashiDouglas AsiimweFirst SecretaryAg. Commissioner Refugee ManagementTel: +256 752 734 484 Tel: +256 772 969 054Email: hiroyuki.hayashi-3@mofa.go.jpEmail: asiimwedw@yahoo.com UNICEF UgandaUN-Habitat UgandaCatherine Ntabadde Fiona Nshemerirwe Communication SpecialistAssociate National Officer Tel: +256 772 147 111Tel: +256 774 643 007 Email: cntabadde@unicef.orgEmail: fiona.nshemerirwe@un.org WFP UgandaUNHCR UgandaDidas KisemboFrank WalusimbiCommunication OfficerAssociate Communications OfficerTel: +256 757 453 232Tel: +256 772701140Email: didas.kisembo@wfp.org Email: walusimf@unhcr.orgIOM UgandaFAO UgandaSarah CARLAgatha AyebazibweHead of Programme and Policy DevelopmentCommunications OfficerTel: +256 760079965Tel: +256 414 349916/7Email: scarl@iom.int Email: agatha.ayebazibwe@fao.org
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