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Press Release
06 September 2024
The United Nations in Uganda strongly condemns Gender Based Violence and the violent murder of Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei
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Speech
12 August 2024
Remarks at the national commemoration of International Youth Day
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Speech
27 June 2024
Remarks at the Dissemination of the Preliminary Results of the National Population and Housing Census 2024
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Latest
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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17 June 2024
Transforming Plastic into High Quality Sewing Threads
Plastic waste presents a serious global challenge. According to the United Nations, the world is producing 430 million tonnes of plastic per year – a staggering 66% of which are only used for a short period of time, including single-use plastics such as water bottles, food packaging and plastic utensils.This brief life cycle has consequences: every day, the equivalent of over 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic are dumped into our oceans, rivers, and lakes. As a result, plastic pollution is set to triple by 2060 if no action is taken. In Uganda alone, current statistics from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) show that the country generates 600 metric tonnes of plastics daily. About 40% of plastic waste is collected for disposal and 60% is left in the environment. Kampala, Uganda’s capital city, itself generates 800,000 metric tonnes of plastic every year. Faced with such urgency, Hellen Munyasa, a youth partner under the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Youth4Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Facility is innovatively transforming plastics to high quality sewing threads through her company Helton Traders. Through an innovative recycling process, the start-up collects plastic, shreds it into small pieces, mixes it with cotton waste, and transforms it into thread which is later sold in markets across Uganda. By manufacturing locally, Helton Traders reduces costs incurred by textile traders from import taxes, transportation and enables faster delivery (4-7 days) to customers. Their sustainable and eco-friendly practices also appeal to businesses seeking an environmentally conscious supply chain.When UNDP came in, they greatly helped us, and they are still helping us. We received a grant and are also receiving business training and mentorship. Through the forums we attended, we have been able to understand our business very well and have also been connected to major players in the manufacturing industry. This has enabled us to be investor ready,” said Hellen Munyansa, Helton Traders.With UNDP's support, Hellen has been able to forge partnerships with major stakeholders in the manufacturing industry, like Fine Spinners who have provided her with the machinery to produce final products for the market. Through platforms like YouthConnekt Africa, she has also connected to other young entrepreneurs in Kigali and Nairobi to generate ideas.As the world commemorated World Creativity and Innovation Day 21 April 2024 the voices and visions of creative and innovative entrepreneurs such as Hellen Munyasa were amplified. Voices that advance creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and environmental protection as pathways to human development and empowerment of marginalized groups, particularly women and youth. It is on this note that UNDP is working with the Government of Uganda and stakeholders to nurture Uganda’s creatives ecosystem, providing support to young entrepreneurs like Hellen who depend on the growth of this sector for their livelihood, and to create job opportunities for more young people. Hellen is a participant and beneficiary of the UNDP Innovation Challenge, which has supported 49 different individuals and enterprises in the creatives and cultural industry of Uganda. The UNDP in Uganda Country Programme for 2021-2025, has prioritized inclusive and sustainable growth with a major focus on the youth. UNDP is already implementing the following initiatives to promote and support creative industries: • Youth4Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Facility • SMEs4Trade initiative with a focus on harnessing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) • PEARL Innovation Challenge in tourism• Rapid Project to Harness Nature and Technology to recover and build back a resilient tourism sector. • Youth Re-Skilling and Entrepreneurship Training to tackle critical skills gaps. Plastic pollution threatens our health, the environment, and socio-economic development. As we strive toward zero waste communities, we need everyone on board – Government, private sector, development partners, civil society, creatives, innovators, entrepreneurs, and communities – to tackle this global challenge and achieve a sustainable future for all. This is a call to action for all: join forces and address one of the most urgent challenges we face. Together, we can create a future that is more sustainable, resilient, and fair. Yes, it's possible!
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02 April 2024
Government and United Nations Launch Joint Programme for Data and Statistics
Government and the United Nations System in Uganda have launched the Joint Programme for Data and Statistics (JPDS) in Uganda on 30 January 2024 in Kampala. The US$ 41,898,295 joint programme implemented by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and 12 UN entities in Uganda is anchored on Uganda’s third National Development Plan (NDP III) 2020/2021 - 2024/2025, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2021-2025 and the Third Plan for National Statistical Development (PNSD III) 2020/21-2024/25.The joint programme is a strategic instrument to create catalytic change in the improvement of the quality, relevance and use of SDG data and statistics in Uganda consistent with international human rights and gender equality norms and principles. The joint programme aims at improving the capacity of the National Statistical System to produce, disseminate and use data and statistics.While launching the joint programme, First Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister noted that, “as a country, we are at that critical take-off stage where we must continuously and simultaneously plan ahead, reflect on progress and weigh the options on the best way forward towards sustainable social and economic development across all sectors.”State Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Amos Lugolobi said, “I am confident that this initiative will revolutionize our National Statistical System to tap into mainstreaming administrative and citizen generated data into the realm of official statistics."While the Chairperson of the Board of UBOS, Dr. Albert Byamugisha observed that “the joint programme will greatly enhance the Development of the National Statistical System (NSS) and make the Bureau’s mandate more achievable by bringing all stakeholders on board.” In his remarks Executive Director of UBOS, Dr. Chris Mukiza noted that, “the joint programme was conceived mainly to close several gaps that have persistently affected Uganda’s data ecosystem despite all the progressive initiative over the years including lack of baseline information for some SDG indicators, slow pace of producing data series from administrative sources, limited technical skills for compilation of new SDG indicators and harnessing data from non-traditional sources; inadequate financial resources to procure requisite equipment for data collection and analysis and inadequate human resources.”UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda, Susan Namondo called “the launch a celebration of a new approach. Several UN agencies were supporting the Government on data and statistics, but this was in a fragmented way, so a lot of synergies remained untapped. The new approach would augment the good work already happening." Twelve (12) United Nations (UN) agencies have partnered with the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) to develop a Joint Programme for Data and Statistics in Uganda are the following: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Entity for Gender Entity and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), the International Office of Migration (IOM) and United Nations Global Pulse (UNGP).The launch was attended by representatives from Government, Development Partners, civil society, faith and cultural leaders, the private sector, academia and research institutions and the media. During the launch the findings of the status review of data and statistics in Uganda were disseminated. Technical experts during the panel discussion re-affirmed the critical role of data and statistics in tracking and accelerating progress on SDGs in Uganda. They also highlighted the need to consolidate existing and build new partnerships in the implementation of the Joint Programme for Data and Statistics in Uganda. The launch drew commitment from partners to support implementation of the joint programme for data and statistics in Uganda.
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15 June 2024
EU and UNCDF Renew Collaboration to Foster Sustainable Agribusiness Growth in Uganda
The European Union Delegation in Uganda, in partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) on 6 March 2024 announced the launch of a new initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agribusiness growth throughout Uganda. The facility, known as Support to Agricultural Revitalization and Transformation (START) Phase II, represents an investment of EUR 11.5 million (UGX 48.9 billion) co[1]financed by the European Union. This initiative is geared towards catalysing economic development, job creation, and sustainable growth in the country. Building upon the success of START Phase I, where over 50 SMEs received UGX 13.5 billion in concessional loans and reimbursable grants, creating markets for over 120,000 farmers, START II is expanding its reach across Uganda. The overarching objective of this phase is to tackle the significant obstacles faced by agribusiness SMEs in accessing financing for their expansion and growth. START II will focus on promoting value addition and agro-processing by providing agribusiness SMEs with access to affordable medium-term financing. This support aims to facilitate the expansion of their operations while prioritizing the adoption of green practices and inclusivity, particularly for vulnerable groups and women-led enterprises. Notably, the initiative is committed to allocating 30% of its resources towards promoting gender equality and supporting green SMEs.Sophie De Coninck, Head of Uganda Office at UNCDF, remarked, "The launch of the START Facility is a crucial step towards unlocking the potential of agribusiness SMEs in Uganda. By addressing the financing gap and enhancing technical capabilities, we aim to drive sustainable growth, create jobs, and foster economic resilience in the country and beyond."European Union Ambassador to Uganda Jan Sadek said: "Cultivating sustainable growth and prosperity in Uganda remains a top priority for the European Union. Through our continued collaboration with the United Nations Capital Development Fund, we are committed to empowering agribusiness SMEs and fostering an environment conducive to economic resilience and job creation. The launch of START Phase II underscores our dedication to supporting inclusive and green economic transformation, ultimately contributing to the long-term prosperity of Uganda and its people." To ensure effective implementation and maximize impact, START II will collaborate with various stakeholders, including financial institutions, private sector foundations, government bodies, and international organizations. Key partners involved in the implementation of the START facility include the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises (FSME), Aceli Africa, and the Uganda Development Bank Limited (UDB). In summary, START Phase II aims to revolutionize the agribusiness landscape in Uganda by: • Strengthening institutional capacity through tailored Business Development Services (BDS) and digitalization of SME operations. • Enhancing technical capacity to create bankable green investment proposals and adopt sustainable practices. • Enabling access to affordable finance for agribusiness SMEs, with a focus on value addition and responsible agro[1]processing.The development challenge addressed by START Phase II is rooted in the difficulties faced by SMEs, particularly agribusinesses, in accessing appropriate and affordable financing mechanisms. With approximately 1.1 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) employing around 2.5 million people in Uganda, these businesses play a crucial role in the country's private sector and development. However, challenges such as poor management, lack of records, collateral, and capital hinder their growth potential. Agribusiness SMEs interested in participating in the START facility are encouraged to apply through the online portal: https://www.start.go.ug/ The portal will remain open throughout the year to receive applications.
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17 June 2024
Breaking Ground: Betty Laker's Journey to Justice in Kitgum District, Uganda
It is a Tuesday afternoon as the sun beats down relentlessly, casting its fiery gaze upon the earth below. In a nearby garden, 47-year-old Betty Laker diligently works, her weathered hands delving into the earth as she uproots cassava tubers. Despite the evident delay in her meal preparations, she remains focused, determined to provide nourishment for herself and her family. In the tranquil village of Oryang, nestled within the Kitgum District, a remote locale 481 kilometers to the north of Uganda’s bustling capital city, Kampala, she finally begins to find solace. Here, she seeks refuge from the torment inflicted upon her by her late husband’s relatives. "They prevented me from cultivating on my husband's land after he passed away. I had no means to feed my four children," she recounts, the anguish of her past hardships evident in her eyes as she reflects on the challenges she faced over the years. Amidst the relentless barrage of insults and ongoing abuse that endangered her very existence, Laker finally reached her breaking point and made the difficult decision to relocate to her ancestral home, the place of her birth - Oryang Village.Little did she know that leaving her husband's home in neighbouring Palabek-Kal Sub-county, situated in Lamwo District, would not free her from oppression, as her own clan imposed similar constraints upon her. "I had come to settle on the land of my father being the only surviving child. However, my uncle informed me that I have no entitlement to any portion of the land, as it has already been divided among his younger children," she recounted with a heavy heart.Like in many parts of Uganda, the prevalence of violence against women and girls, including challenges related to land ownership rights, remains distressingly high.Today Laker is glad that she received help from the Legal Aid project office in Kitgum, who wrote a letter and summoned her relatives who had illegally settled on her ancestral land. “At first, they were very arrogant, but they were later advised to divide the land and I was allocated 2 pieces measuring about 2 acres in total. I constructed in one while the other piece is cultivation,” Lucker explained. I’m glad to report that ever since we had meetings, they ceased disturbing me plus my children over this land.“I’m very grateful to Legal Aid and UN Women for rescuing me. I had lost hope because I didn’t expect to be barred from accessing even our ancestral land from my own family members,” she added.Laker is among the many women that are being supported through UN Women’s Spotlight initiative to eliminate violence against women and girls, including sexual and gender-based violence and harmful practices in Uganda through a European Union (EU) Funding.
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15 June 2024
Government and UN Discuss Key Priorities at Joint Steering Committee Meeting
The annual Government-United Nations Joint Steering Committee meeting to review progress on implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2021-2025) was held in Kampala on 9 May 2024. The meeting was co-chaired by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja and UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Susan Namondo Ngongi.The meeting was attended by representatives from Government (Ministries, Departments and Agencies) including Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and technical staff; the Local Development Partners Group (LDPG); Private Sector and Civil Society Organisations. The meeting reviewed collective humanitarian and development efforts by the UN system in 2023 in support of implementation the third National Development Plan (NDP III). The meeting also provided strategic guidance on pertinent issues including enhanced coordination and key priorities going forward to benefit all Ugandans.The Prime Minister highlighted Uganda's partnership with the UN, which has contributed significantly to development. She emphasized the importance of aligning the next UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026 - 2030 with the country's national objectives, particularly the implementation of the fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), whose formulation is underway. UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Susan Namondo Ngongi, stressed the need to strategically position the partnership for the future, with a next UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030 expected to be finalized by the end of next year. She noted that the collaboration between the Government of Uganda, the UN, and multiple development actors remains crucial for driving progress. The meeting demonstrated the commitment to multilateral cooperation and partnership progress, paving the way for continued advancement in Uganda's development and humanitarian efforts. Several key areas of focus emerged from the meeting, which will guide joint efforts moving forward:• Disability Inclusion: Deliberate integration of disability considerations in all programming. • Health Promotion: Prioritizing health promotion to reduce the disease burden. • Sustainable Urban Development: Emphasis on well[1]planned towns and decent housing. • Strategic Growth Areas: Aligning UN programmes with Uganda's strategy to grow tenfold in sectors like agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral beneficiation, and science and innovation. • Early Warning Mechanisms: Strengthening these systems to enhance preparedness for shocks and disasters. • Improved Coordination: Breaking silos to ensure better coordination and avoid duplication of efforts and resources.
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17 June 2024
Ending AIDS by 2030 is a Shared Responsibility: Uganda Police Force as Key Stakeholders
With support from the Embassy of Netherlands, UNAIDS in collaboration with Uganda AIDS Commission held a dialogue with top leadership of the Uganda Police Forces on 26th April 2024 at Hotel Africana, Kampala. The dialogue was geared towards sensitizing the police on the burden of HIV and the importance of removal of barriers for Uganda to achieve the 95 - 95 - 95 Global AIDS targets by 2025. Since the re-introduction of the debate on the Anti Homosexuality Act in March 2023, there have been anecdotal reports from some districts arising out of the different interpretations of the law. Increased anxiety among service providers and the key populations, increased stigma, discrimination, and gender-based violence (GBV) against the equity populations in the districts, at facilities and in the communities have been reported. “I am pleased to state that our collective work to end AIDS by 2030 as a public health threat is on the right track” said Susan Namondo Ngongi, the UN Resident Coordinator in her remarks. “It is on the right track because of the collective and relentless efforts by government, development partners, civil society, communities, and stakeholders, including your effort and support to the HIV response,” she added. The meeting discussed the dissemination of HIV prevention messages, the revised Equity Plan, and the national commitments therein and importantly, publicizing the Ministry of Health Director General of Health Services and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution’s Circulars. The Circulars focus on the continuity of health services based on non-discrimination, and on the management of cases to minimize arrests and human rights violations, in the current socio-legal context. The meeting also discussed issues of safety and security of the potentially affected communities and how best these could be addressed. Officers from the police leadership welcomed the dialogue, expressing willingness to support ongoing HIV prevention initiatives. They also called for continued engagement with the UN family, including UNAIDS, and with the Uganda AIDS Commission to educate all levels of the police and the wider community, on strategies to end AIDS as a public threat by 2030. The event was also attended by the UNAIDS Country Director, representatives from the Embassy of the Netherlands, the Acting Director General Uganda AIDS Commission, and members of the National HIV/AIDS Equity Steering Committee. Currently, with support from Embassy of Netherlands, UNAIDS is working with partners on a programme to support affected communities, particularly the most vulnerable and marginalized members access sexual and reproductive health services, including HIV services. The programme also aims to have the sexual and reproductive health rights of these groups institutionally respected and protected.
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17 June 2024
UNODC partners with Justice Institutions to Strengthen Access to Justice and Enhance Capacity in Responding to Organized Crime
As part of efforts to promote and support initiatives that prioritize people's needs and rights within the justice sector, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Uganda partnered with the Judiciary to hold the first National Court Open Day for inclusive active citizen engagement and participation. Held on 15 April 2024 under the theme “A People-centred Approach to Justice”, over 1,000 participants were sensitized on different court processes and interacted with various justice institutions including the Judiciary, Uganda Police Force, the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, and the Uganda Prisons Service. Presiding over the National Court Open Day, Hon. Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, the Chief Justice of Uganda, highlighted that the Judiciary has a duty to account to the public for what it is doing, and in turn the public has the right to question the Judiciary what it is not doing well. “We plan on holding the National Court Open Day on an annual basis so that we can continue engaging with the public to make courts and court experiences better,” noted Hon. Owiny-Dollo. Similarly, UNODC in Uganda is collaborating with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to ensure prosecution services are supported to effectively perform their functions while upholding the human rights of all persons in contact with the criminal justice system. From 22 to 24 April 2024, UNODC in Uganda partnered with the ODPP to equip prosecutors with the required knowledge and skills to effectively manage and prosecute organized and emerging crimes at the Annual Prosecutors’ Symposium. Over 300 prosecutors from across the country were trained on various topics ranging from prosecution of transboundary organized crimes; the trends of human trafficking; cybercrime and law enforcement; effective recovery of assets, proceeds of crime and enforcement of compensation orders; practical aspects of dealing with forensic evidence in criminal proceedings; professional ethics and integrity for prosecutors; and conducting joint investigation with Uganda Police Force, among others.Building on the Annual Prosecutors’ Symposium, UNODC in Uganda further collaborated with the ODPP to pay tribute to the late Joan Kagezi, an accomplished lawyer and prosecutor who was assassinated in the line of duty in 2015, for her significant contribution to the field of criminal justice. Held on 25 April 2024 on the theme “Prosecution of Transnational Organized Crimes to Foster Security and Socio-Economic Development: The Linkage between Terrorism, Human Trafficking and Smuggling of Migrants,” the 7th Joan Kagezi Memorial Lecture was graced by H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of Uganda, as the Chief Guest, and other key criminal justice actors. Giving the keynote address, Ms. Sharon Nyambe, the UNODC in Uganda Head of Office, stressed the role of effective prosecution in countering transnational organized crime.“By giving priority to prosecution, enhancing inter-agency cooperation, and embracing a holistic approach that tackles the interconnection between terrorism, human trafficking, and migrant smuggling, we have the potential to cultivate security, safeguard human rights, and advance socio-economic progress in Uganda,” said Ms. Nyambe. To further strengthen the country’s response to organized crime and to counter risks associated with use of new technology in Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing (ML/FT), UNODC in Uganda collaborated with the Financial Intelligence Authority to build the capacity of the ML/TF National Working Group to conduct oversight of virtual assets and their service providers in Uganda.
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15 June 2024
Empowering Refugee Communities through Proactive Nutrition Initiatives
Every month, the community gathers for a Village Health Committee meeting under Primary Health Care and Community Empowerment Initiative (PHCCEI) led by the area chairman, Mugisa William. During these gatherings, children are monitored for any nutrition challenges with growth monitoring equipment like MUAC tapes, height boards and Salter weighing scales provided by UNICEF with funding from UKaid. Mothers are also counselled by members of the Village Health Teams (VHTs) on best nutrition practices and sensitized through dramatic presentations of music and dance. “In 2022, the district health team officials came and assessed the community and noted several challenges. We then formed a Village Health Committee and produced an action plan which tackles all the pain points they identified,” Mugisa says. Their commitment to this action plan is evident in the tangible results seen through the quelling of malnutrition in the village and success in implementing complementary projects like improved access to safe water and cultivation of kitchen gardens. Emmanuel Tumusiime, a Kamwenge District local government nutritionist, underscores the significance of adherence to the PHCCEI action plan by the VHTs in addressing nutritional deficiencies comprehensively. “Central to Rubaba Village's success is the pivotal role played by VHTs, whose training equips them with the knowledge and tools to screen for malnutrition at community level. Armed with growth monitoring equipment and nutritional training from UNICEF, VHTs engage mothers, sensitize communities, and refer cases to health centres for further management, when necessary,” Tumusiime says. The statistics in Rubaba Village are promising and the leaders consistently refer to it as a malnutrition-free zone. Kwebiha Agnes, a VHT, says that they are not about to relax while explaining that this stringent adherence is why their village maintains its green status. "We haven't always been malnutrition-free," she explains. "When we started our work, a few cases were identified as red and referred for further management at the regional referral hospital, while the yellow cases were managed by the VHTs. We are always alert as we comb through the village looking out for any new cases. The good thing is that our mothers are also supporting these efforts from their homes by using MUAC tapes to monitor their children and making sure their children are eating nutritious meals.” Among the caregivers attending the meeting is 65-year-old Beatrice Bonabana, who has brought her one-and-a-half-year-old grandson, Godwin, to the meeting. She says the child was left in her care after her daughter-in-law abandoned her son. With limited resources and lacking proper education, Bonabana fed the child the same food she ate at home, leading to his malnourishment. “Fortunately, a VHT visited us during a monitoring visit and discovered that the child was in the yellow zone. They taught me how to properly feed Godwin by teaching me how to make a locally made multi-mix meal called ‘ekitobero’ which resolved the malnutrition soon after.” Kebirungi Medinah, the Rubaba PHCCEI Ward Agent, says that the mothers in the area have always had access to plenty of food because the Tooro sub region where Rubaba Village is found is food-rich, however there was a gap because mothers lacked basic nutrition knowledge. “Caregivers in the area previously fed children with carbohydrate rich food like cassava and mandazi while ignoring other food groups including proteins and vitamins but thanks to the VHTs knowledge sharing efforts, the mothers are now well informed," Kebirungi reflects. Kebirungi vividly remembers the case of 5-year-old Catherine, who was left in the care of an elderly grandmother struggling with alcoholism. By the time she was discovered, Catherine was in the red zone because she was neglected and only fed with cassava. The child was placed in the care of a compassionate caregiver by the village leaders and underwent aggressive treatment by the VHTs with ekitobero and Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) provided by UNICEF. "As I speak now, Catherine is in perfect health," she says.Stunting in Tooro However, challenges persist, particularly in the Tooro sub-region. Tumusiime says that Tooro has the country’s highest levels of stunting, a condition where a child is too short for their age due to chronic or recurrent malnutrition, reaching 42 per cent. He explains that stunting has far-reaching effects, including the impediment of physical growth and cognitive development. Statistics from the Ministry of Education and Sports, show that the average result in Kamwenge District in the 2023 Primary Leaving Exams was a dismal 21 aggregates. Tumusiime attributes this concerning performance to the high prevalence of stunting in the district, emphasizing its link to consequential cognitive impairment among children. The World Health Organization highlights that malnutrition during the critical periods of growth and development, especially in early child[1]hood, can lead to irreversible cognitive deficits. Despite these challenges, Tumusiime remains optimistic that ongoing nutrition interventions in Kamwenge District will contribute to significant improvements in school performance over time. “Addressing the root causes of stunting and its associated cognitive impacts and implementing interventions like those in Rubaba Village hold promise for fostering a healthier and more academically successful future for the children of Kamwenge District,” he says. A concerted effort Sharon Nalunkuuma, a program manager with Kabarole Research and Resource Centre at the Kyaka II Refugee Settlement field office in Kyegegwa District says UNICEF’s role is deeply intertwined with other actors in the pivotal task of addressing malnutrition in the refugee communities across western Uganda. “Preventing malnutrition requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing maternal and child health alongside nutrition interventions. Working in close partnership with UNICEF, we have recognised that addressing stunting—a chronic issue requiring long-term support— is essential for ensuring the overall well-being of our community. To tackle stunting effectively, we have developed strategies in collaboration with UNICEF, including strengthening the care group approach,” Nalunkuuma says. This has all been possible with funding from UKAID.Care groups, comprising at least 10 mothers with children under two years or those who are pregnant, serve as vital channels for disseminating information and fostering community support. “By identifying mothers during antenatal and immunization visits and organizing them into groups, we facilitate peer-to[1]peer education and knowledge sharing,” she says. In his capacity as a nutritionist at Kikuube District, Albert Mugabi highlights that UNICEF has supported efforts to scale up nutritional interventions, particularly micronutrient interventions and the management of acute malnutrition for children. “UNICEF has aided in capacity-building efforts at the national level by training trainers and supporting regional rollouts. At the regional level, they train district teams who, in turn, educate community teams on various aspects of nutrition, including integrated management of acute malnutrition. Additionally, they provide support for deworming, vitamin A supplementation, food security, and routine outreach programs for nutritional assessment,” Mugabi says.
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Press Release
06 September 2024
The United Nations in Uganda strongly condemns Gender Based Violence and the violent murder of Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei
The United Nations in Uganda strongly condemns the violent murder of Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, allegedly at the hands of her ex-partner. We mourn her tragic loss and extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and the entire sporting community.This horrific incident highlights the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls in Uganda, a problem that demands urgent attention. Too often, women face violence from those closest to them, those they should be able to trustGender-based violence is a grave violation of human rights, and it knows no boundaries. It impacts women and girls from all walks of life, undermining their health, dignity, security, and autonomy. Despite its prevalence, it often remains hidden, shrouded in silence and perpetuated.According to the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey 2022, 44% of women and 39% of men aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence since the age of 15. In the 12 months preceding to the survey, 23% of women and 14% of men reported experiencing physical violence; while 17% of women and 6% of men have ever experienced sexual violence. The 2023 Police Crime Report recorded 14,681 cases of domestic violence, a decrease from 17, 698 cases in 2022. However, only1,520 cases reached the courts, with 423 resulting in convictions.The United Nations remains steadfast in its commitment to working with the Government of Uganda, civil society organisations, and communities to address the root causes of gender-based violence and ensure that women and girls are safe and empowered. This includes:Strengthening legal frameworks: Ensuring that laws and policies effectively protect women and girls from violence and hold perpetrators accountable.Improving access to justice: Providing survivors with access to comprehensive support services, including legal aid, healthcare, and safe shelters.Promoting gender equality: Challenging harmful social norms and stereotypes that perpetuate violence against women and girls.Engaging men and boys: Encouraging them to become active allies in preventing and ending violence against women and girls.We urge all Ugandans to unite in condemning violence against women and girls, and to work together in building a society where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence.Rebecca Cheptegi’s tragic death must serve as a wake-up call to intensify our efforts to end gender-based violence in Uganda. We owe it to her, and to all women and girls, to create a world where they can live in peace and safety.End of StatementFor more information, please contact:Michael Wangusa Communication OfficerUN Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO)Email:michael.wangusa@un.org
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Press Release
21 June 2024
Japan contributes US$ 4.3 million to support efforts towards refugees and host communities in Uganda and food and nutrition security in Karamoja sub-region
The Government of Japan has committed approximately US$ 4.3 million to support refugees and host communities as well as vulnerable population in Karamoja sub-region, over a period of one year from April 2024 to March 2025. The support has been channeled through the United Nations and International Organizations: the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). “We recognize that the humanitarian situation in refugee-hosting areas has become more serious by the day and vulnerable communities in Karamoja have been suffering from chronic food insecurity. The 2024’s contribution will be made with a specific focus on lifesaving protection and security of food and nutrition for refugee communities and Karamoja area. The Government of Japan will continue to support Ugandan people with acknowledging Uganda’s refugee policy and needs for humanitarian–development supports under our strong partnership among the stakeholders.” said Ambassador Sasayama Takuya. Honourable Lillian Aber, Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, who attended the press conference said, “On behalf of the Government of Uganda I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Government of Japan through the Ambassador of Japan in Uganda for the generosity exhibited towards supporting the refugee community this year again. This year, support for Karamoja sub-region is also covered. We are grateful for Japan’s cooperation in supporting humanitarian situations in Uganda despite a variety of global forced displacement and climate change effects. We look forward to a year of close cooperation and collaboration with Japan in the implementation of some of our GRF pledges made last year at GRF summit.” Speaking on behalf of the UN system in Uganda, Susan Ngongi Namondo, the UN Resident Coordinator, said, “I would like to applaud the government and people of Japan for this valuable contribution to sustaining support to refugee and host communities. Japan’s commitment to Leaving No One Behind by focusing on vulnerable people in need of food and nutrition assistance in Karamoja is admirable.” Present at the press conference were representatives of the involved UN agencies: Mr. Matthew Crentsil (UNHCR Uganda, Representative); Ms. Gift Malunga (UNFPA Uganda, Country Representative) and Mr. Abdirahman Meygag (WFP Uganda, Country Director).At the middle of last December, the 2nd Global Refugee Forum was held in Geneva with over 4,000 participants. The government of Japan made 9 pledges to a wide range of areas in the Forum. In line with the commitments of GRF, this JSB grant will be surely one of the very results made by Japan with the partner agencies. Uganda is the largest refugee hosting country in Africa with more than 1.6 million refugees and majority of the refugees in Uganda originate from South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia. Refugees and asylum seekers are entitled to work, have freedom of movement and can access social services. The supplementary budget projects will ensure and strengthen their livelihood improvement against conflict and gender-based violence. Another objective of the assistance has been provided to overcoming the vulnerability of the global food system caused mainly by the Ukraine situation lasting. Uganda has faced commodity supply disruption which affects household food and nutrition security. Karamoja sub-region specifically faces severe food insecurity and malnutrition situations which are caused by prolonged climate change, and the needs of vulnerable population in the area are critically high since the situation has not eased yet. UNHCR: has received US$ 2,400,000 towards Uganda's Country Refugee Response Plan for 2024. This support will enable UNHCR to provide comprehensive assistance services to over 1,100,000 refugees and their host communities in Uganda, with a focus on addressing immediate health and food security needs, promoting self-reliance, and providing children and women with humanitarian assistance. UNHCR is also committed to promoting refugee inclusion in line with the Government's Global Compact on Refugees commitment and will facilitate access to arable land for agriculture productivity, and economic inclusion, through advocacy, involvement of the private sector and support to rice farmers. This intervention will specifically support the continuation and expansion of UNHCR-JICA cooperation on rice promotion and farming for refugees and their hosts, in line with the country’s Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework, which promotes refugees’ socio-economic inclusion in their hosting communities. This contribution is a remarkable gesture of solidarity with Uganda. UNFPA: has received US$ 1,001,855 to provide critical lifesaving Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRHR) and Gender Based Violence (GBV) services for the newly arriving refugees and other disaster-affected persons. The project "Delivering Lifesaving Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Interventions in Emergency (DELISiE)" will integrate Minimum Initial Service Package. The DELISiE project will provide vital SRHR and GBV services in disaster-prone districts, prioritizing women of reproductive age, especially pregnant women, GBV survivors, sexually active men, and boys, along with members of host communities and older refugee populations. The project will support 36 health centers III, 12 health centers IV, and 5 hospitals to ensure they can provide essential lifesaving care. The project is expected to reach an estimated 335,188 women of reproductive age, including 40,223pregnant women and 6,033 pregnant women in need of obstetric care. Additionally, 6,704 GBV survivors will receive vital support and services. The project will be implemented in refugee-receiving settlements in the hosting districts in West Nile, Acholi and Southwest and disaster-prone districts in Eastern and Southwestern Uganda. WFP: has received US$ 312,000 to support the treatment and prevention of malnutrition targeting over 5,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women and under-5 children in the Karamoja region of north-eastern Uganda. In strong coordination with Government structures and communities, WFP interventions will aim to reduce prevalence of malnutrition in Moroto and Nabilatuk districts in Karamoja. WFP has also received US$ 590,000 under another funding instrument of the Government of Japan for management and prevention of malnutrition in Uganda, namely the Project for Emergency Support to improve Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa. Together with the Supplementary Funding, these contributions will be used for management and prevention of malnutrition in Uganda. The project will focus on providing Specialized Nutritious Foods (SNFs) to 51,000 beneficiaries for management and prevention of malnutrition in refugee hosting districts of Uganda while implementing Social Behaviour Change (SBC) approaches to promote long term and sustainable health and nutrition behaviours and practices at household level.Embassy of Japan in Uganda Office of the Prime Minister Hiroyuki Hayashi Douglas Asiimwe First Secretary Ag. Commissioner Refugee Management Tel: +256 752 734 484 Tel: +256 772 969 054 Email: hiroyuki.hayashi-3@mofa.go.jp Email: asiimwedw@yahoo.com UNHCR Uganda UNFPA Uganda Frank Walusimbi Ms. Chan Ju (Janice) Park Associate Communications Officer Resource Mobilization & Partnerships Specialist Tel: +256 772701140 Tel: +256 773082149 Email: walusimf@unhcr.org Email: cpark@unfpa.org WFP Uganda Magnus Bruun-Rasmussen Head of Partnerships Tel: +256 775 828 223 Email: magnus.bruunrasmussen@wfp.org
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Press Release
31 January 2024
United Nations Agencies and Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) Launch US$ 41M Joint Programme for Data and Statistics
Kampala, 30 January 2024, Government and the United Nations System in Uganda have launched the Joint Programme for Data and Statistics (JPDS) in Uganda. The US$ 41,898,295 joint programme implemented by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and 12 UN entities in Uganda is anchored on Uganda’s third National Development Plan (NDP III) 2020/2021 - 2024/2025, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2021-2025 and the Third Plan for National Statistical Development (PNSD III) 2020/21-2024/25,
The joint programme is a strategic instrument to create catalytic change in the improvement of the quality, relevance and use of SDG data and statistics in Uganda consistent with international human rights and gender equality norms and principles. The joint programme aims at improving the capacity of the National Statistical System to produce, disseminate and use data and statistics.
While launching the joint programme, First Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister noted that, “as a country, we are at that critical take-off stage where we must continuously and simultaneously plan ahead, reflect on progress and weigh the options on the best way forward towards sustainable social and economic development across all sectors.”
State Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Amos Lugolobi said, “I am confident that this initiative will revolutionize our National Statistical System to tap into mainstreaming administrative and citizen generated data into the realm of official statistics.”
While the Chairperson of the Board of UBOS, Dr. Albert Byamugisha observed that “the joint programme will greatly enhance the Development of the National Statistical System (NSS) and make the Bureau’s mandate more achievable by bringing all stakeholders on board.”
In his remarks Executive Director of UBOS, Dr. Chris Mukiza noted that, “the joint programme was conceived mainly to close several gaps that have persistently affected Uganda’s data ecosystem despite all the progressive initiative over the years including lack of baseline information for some SDG indicators, slow pace of producing data series from administrative sources, limited technical skills for compilation of new SDG indicators and harnessing data from non-traditional sources; inadequate financial resources to procure requisite equipment for data collection and analysis and inadequate human resources.”
UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda, Susan Namondo called “the launch a celebration of a new approach. Several UN agencies were supporting the Government on data and statistics, but this was in a fragmented way, so a lot of synergies remained untapped. The new approach would augment the good work already happening."
Twelve (12) United Nations (UN) agencies have partnered with the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) to develop a Joint Programme for Data and Statistics in Uganda are the following: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Entity for Gender Entity and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), the International Office of Migration (IOM) and United Nations Global Pulse (UNGP).
The launch was attended by representatives from Government, Development Partners, civil society, faith and cultural leaders, the private sector, academia and research institutions and the media. During the launch the findings of the status review of data and statistics in Uganda were disseminated. Technical experts during the panel discussion re-affirmed the critical role of data and statistics in tracking and accelerating progress on SDGs in Uganda. They also highlighted the need to consolidate existing and build new partnerships in the implementation of the Joint Programme for Data and Statistics in Uganda. The launch drew commitment from partners to support implementation of the joint programme for data and statistics in Uganda.
FOR INQUIRIES AND INFORMATION CONTACT
Mr. Didacus Okoth
Senior Public Relations Officer
Tel +256 755342128 / 773342128
UGANDA BUREAU OF STATISTICS
Statistics House, Plot 9 Colville Street
P.O Box 7186 Kampala, Uganda
TEL: 0414706000, FAX: +256414237553
EMAIL: ubos@ubos.org, WEBSITE: www.ubos.org
Or
Mr. Michael Wangusa
Communication Officer
Tel. +256 771005 988
UN RESIDENT COORDINATORS OFFICE
WFP Building Plot 17-19 Clement Hill Road
EMAIL: UNRC.Uganda@un.org WEBSITE: uganda.un.org
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Press Release
21 November 2023
Outcome Statement of the National Partnership Forum for the Government of Uganda and its Development Partners
1. The National Partnership Forum (NPF), convened by the Government of Uganda and its development partners, concluded its deliberations on matters of mutual interest consistent with the Vision 2040 aspirations implemented through the National Development Plans, National Partnership Policy, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Principles (GPEDC). The NPF reaffirmed its commitment to work together for sustainable development in Uganda.
2. The NPF had two main sessions. The first session focused on Government priorities, the Parish Development Model (PDM) – as an accelerator programme and guidelines as well as principles for development assistance that are aimed at creating an enabling environment for mutual accountability and achieving effective results. These guidelines underscore the importance of development cooperation principles both for the Government and development partners working in tandem to ensure we achieve the desired results.
3. Recognizing the invaluable contributions of Development Partners in various sectors of Uganda's development as indicated in the last paper by the LDPG, we acknowledge the significance of Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Uganda. However, we stressed the need to explore opportunities to strengthen our economy and establish a sound revenue base to sustain our nation's development goals.
4. The NPF is an integral part of the National Partnership Dialogue Framework, which operationalizes the National Partnership Policy. Going forward, we recommit to ensuring that all organs of the NPF continue to meet and discuss issues of mutual interest. To further uphold our partnership principles, we have agreed to establish a Joint Accountability and Results Framework, which will be instrumental in cultivating a culture of mutual accountability.
5. This NPF is seen as a launching pad for further engagements to address even the most challenging issues. We commend the remarkable efforts of the Prime Minister, all government agencies, and the Local Development Partners Group for their dedicated work in making this event a success.
6. As we move forward, all partners in the NPF remain resolute in their determination to collaborate, build strong relationships, and work collectively to achieve the development goals set out in Uganda's Vision 2040 and National Development Plans. We look forward to the continued growth of our partnership and are confident that together, we can overcome any challenges that lie ahead.
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Press Release
18 August 2023
United Nations Joint Statement on International Youth Day 2023
The International Youth Day 2023 is marked by the national theme: “Accelerating Recovery from COVID-19 and full implementation of the 2030 agenda; the role of youth”, where the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the United Nations (UN) agencies and partners have come together to celebrate youth contributions to national development and to highlight issues related to youth and their wellbeing, their ambitions and aspirations that remain unmet.
Uganda’s significant youth population, comprising 76% under 30 years old, holds immense potential for development. Proper investments in education, health, and protection can harness this potential, while neglect can leave them vulnerable, impacting their well-being. Uganda's adolescents and youth already face Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) challenges, which worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic that led to disrupted education, interruptions in access to SRHR services and information, increased poverty, food insecurity, exposure to violence, abuse and exploitation.
It is crucial to capitalize on the potential of young Ugandans and to involve them in national and subnational planning and policy development from a demographic dividend, human rights and results based perspectives for the nation's COVID-19 recovery. Their unique experiences, views and ideas can contribute to the national and international development goals.
Spanning from 6 August, the Youth Week has been a vibrant celebration in Uganda in observance of the International Youth Day. Notably, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the National Youth Council and 13 UN agencies (FAO, ILO, IOM, UNAIDS, UNCDF, UNDP, UNESCO, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNODC, UN Women and WHO) will be launching the UN Adolescent and Youth Joint Programme on 18 August, when the momentous commemoration ceremony is held.
The Programme, broadly aligned to the Global UN Youth Strategy and the national frameworks and policies, aims to address the barriers hindering youth potential. The focus areas are: sexual and reproductive health, inclusive quality education, skills and employment opportunities, climate action, and peace and security. With an approximate value of 22 million USD, the Programme covers 8 districts across 4 regions of Uganda for the 2023-2025 period, which is the first phase with roll-out to other districts.
In her remarks at the commemoration of the International Youth Day, Dr. Mary Otieno, UNFPA Uganda Country Representative, while speaking on behalf of the UN System in Uganda, called for both vision and action for the youth, noting, “Youth are the resource and backbone on which the country must rely on to advance sustainable development and to generate innovative solutions that will help the country achieve its development goals and reap the demographic dividend.”
“Together, we can ensure that the 2030 agenda and Uganda’s vision 2040 promote the human rights, health and well-being of the largest generation of young people in history,” Dr. Mary Otieno concluded.
-Ends-
Notes to the Editor
Every Year on 12 August, Uganda joins the rest of the world to commemorate the International Youth Day (IYD) designated by the United Nations and is commemorated every year on 12 August 2023. The Day was proposed at the 1st World Conference of Ministers responsible for youth that took place in Lisbon-Portugal 8-12 August 1998 and approved in 1999 under Resolution 54/120 of the 54th UN General Assembly.
Uganda joins other Commonwealth countries to mark the Year of the Youth 2023, by supplementing the already existing youth programmes and will deliver on other interventions that are intended to support the youth towards COVID-19 recovery and attainment of the SDGs. Some of these programs include but are not limited to the following:-
▪ The UN Joint programme for Adolescents and Youth;
▪ A Coordination Mechanism for Youth Programmes with functional coordination structures at all levels;
▪ A National Action Plan for Youth, Peace and Security;
▪ A reviewed National Action Plan for Youth Policy;
▪ Take on mainstreaming of youth issues into Whole of Government approach;
▪ Professionalization of Youth Work for better service delivery to the young people;
▪ Support the implementation of the Parish Development Model; and
▪ Produce an annual report on the Status of Youth in Uganda.
It is believed that Uganda can harness the demographic dividend offered by its youth population by recognizing youth as key stakeholders in the recovery process; by strengthening platforms for youth participation in decision-making processes; by investing and allocating resources to youth development activities; by having a cohort of professional youth workers to support the youth; and by collaborative efforts involving government, civil society, and international partners. Uganda can pave the way for sustainable development, social progress and a brighter future for its young generation.
For more information please contact; Michael Wangusa, Communication Officer, Office of the UN Resident Coordinator - Uganda via Email: michael.wangusa@un.org
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