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UCHD2023
Posted on Categories Article, Featured

About CEHURD’s Midyear Staff Retreat 2024

The CEHURD team met in Gulu in July for the mid-year staff retreat, a valuable opportunity to refresh and plan for the second half of the year. The retreat featured a series of enriching sessions, including in-depth appraisals of our institution’s key approaches, policies, and core values. This ensured that every team member was aligned and equipped to drive our mission forward.

Additionally, we warmly welcomed and oriented new staff members, introducing them to our team’s dynamic and inclusive culture. The retreat provided a platform for meaningful connections, knowledge sharing, and collaborative planning, setting us up for a productive and successful second half of the year.

Gulu District, where we held our retreat, is one of the districts where we implement our projects. In fact, we have successfully implemented three significant projects in the northern and West Nile region, including DINU, Stand 4 SRHR, and TASO Global Fund Projects OVC phase 7. These projects have enabled us to make a positive impact in the lives of the people in Gulu and surrounding areas, and we look forward to continuing our work in this region.

𝗪𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝗿𝘂𝗮, 𝗠𝗮𝗱𝗶-𝗢𝗸𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼, 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗬𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁𝘀, 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗘𝗛𝗨𝗥𝗗’𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁𝘀.

Mr Alfred Okuonzi, LC 5 Chairperson, West Nile Districts and focal person for NGOs and CSOs ~ ❝CEHURD has been a valuable partner in improving healthcare in Uganda, particularly in the West Nile region thereby complimenting Government efforts. He observed that CEHURD’s relationship with West Nile is like padlock and key – inseparable and made reference to CEHURD’s impactful TB contact tracing work within the last 3 years under TASO/Global Fund programme and Social Accountability and Legal Empowerment for social services under DINU project.

CEHURD’s work stands out and supports our goal of social accountability. Local Government values your role as a watchdog improving Uganda’s healthcare system and sees you as partners, not opposition.❞

Mr Okuonzi further noted that the TB detection rate is still low in the region, teenage pregnancy is 27% above national average of 24%, early marriages continue to be high, gender based violence and girls dropping out of school. He called on CEHURD to continue with the collaboration in addressing these persistent challenges and specifically requested for support in the development of Ordinances to that focus on these issues.

Mr Anyama Williams, Chairperson, West Nile Local Government Association observed that West Nile bears the burden of providing healthcare services to the districts in the region as well as the inflow of patients from neighbouring DR Congo and South Sudan, yet with no additional budget to cater for this inflow and cannot turn away patients from these countries.  

❝We appreciate the oversight responsibility of CEHURD. Please also consider paying attention to the challenge of the many young people who are already struggling with poverty and are using the little they have to buy “Mairungi”. Each week a young person spends the same amount they would spend on a bag of cement. Not many partners have picked interest in addressing this problem, yet i believe it is a social justice issue.❞

 #CEHURDStaffRetreat

Compiled by CEHURD’s Communications team.

Posted on Categories Article, Featured

From a Shy to a Brave Young Advocate for Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights

My name is Catherine Nassanga, and I am 23 years old. While volunteering with MildMay in 2021, I was introduced to CEHURD through a friend. Growing up as the only girl in my family, I used to be shy, which negatively impacted my self-esteem. However, through CEHURD’s interventions, I gained confidence and now speak to many fellow young people as an advocate.

CEHURD trained me in advocacy for young people’s sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), including budgeting, gender-based violence, gender justice, human rights-based approaches, and HIV/AIDS. In my community, young girls often faced early pregnancies, forced early marriages, or unsafe abortions due to a lack of SRHR knowledge and support.

After being empowered by CEHURD and learning about the right to demand better health services, I gained the confidence to support girls facing SRHR challenges. CEHURD’s interventions also helped me decide to pursue a course in counseling and guidance to speak to young people from a more informed background.

The advocacy spaces CEHURD provided have given me a platform to reach out to young people with SRHR knowledge and engage with policymakers to voice issues affecting youth. I have actively participated in budgeting processes, raising young people’s priorities for the national budget. During a Universal Periodic Review meeting, I argued that denying young people access to contraceptives does a disservice to them, as many are secretly or forcefully engaging in sexual activities.

I call upon other civil society organizations to provide advocacy spaces for young people to raise issues to responsible stakeholders. I also hope that CEHURD continues to support young people with this crucial information. This year, I set a target to reach out to at least 50 young people per day with SRHR knowledge and information through my youth corner at the Mildmay facility in Lweza Kajjansi, and I have reached over 7,000 young people so far.

I envision a society where gender-based violence against girls ends with my generation.

Posted on Categories Featured, General News

Call for participation in the 11th Annual National Inter-University Constitutional Law Moot Court Competition

Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD) is calling upon universities interested in participating in the 11th Annual National Inter-University Constitutional Law Moot Court Competition to fill »» this form as an expression of interest by Friday, 12th July, 2024 at 5:00 pm (EAT).

We invite different universities with schools/faculties of law in Uganda to participate in the competition scheduled for 24th and 25th October 2024.  

The 11th Annual National Inter-University Constitutional Law Moot Court Competition is taking place under the theme,“ Balancing competing priorities in championing Reproductive and Gender Equity in Uganda”.

This year’s moot has been designed to create a fertile environment for thorough discussions on Reproductive and Gender equality, social justice and equity in Uganda through the use of a hypothetical moot problem that students shall use to participate in the moot. The discussions under this theme will focus on examining the role of the formal and informal justice systems in ensuring access to reproductive health care services and enhancing gender justice for all.

Applicants will show the need for the advancement of reproductive health and gender equity through access to information by highlighting the Constitutional rights, referencing international treaties and conventions that Uganda has ratified, emphasizing the obligation to promote and protect reproductive health and gender equality.

Applicants will also focus on examining the policy, legal and regulatory frameworks as well as the structural and procedural bottlenecks to accessing reproductive health care services in Uganda, including the challenges faced by marginalized groups such as young people, rural women, women with disabilities, and adolescents.

The Moot will explore the impact and influence of faith-based narratives, as well as traditional and cultural practices on sexual and reproductive health and rights and gender justice in Uganda, further examining the legal framework for protecting women and girls from harmful traditional and cultural practices, and the role of the formal justice system in addressing these practices.

The Applicants will further examine the need to balance individual rights with the need to protect public health during emergencies as well as assessing whether the measures are appropriate and proportionate. They will raise key health issues in addressing access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including access to information on family planning, safe abortions, and prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections for young people.

The students will also break down gender justice by discussing the need to address sexual and gender-based violence, discrimination, and harmful cultural practices that affect girls and young women and marginalized groups in Uganda clearly denoting how that is easier when young people are empowered with information.

Respondents will elucidate further on how religious and cultural beliefs intersect with constitutionally protected reproductive and gender related rights, what legal arguments can be made to ensure access to affordable and comprehensive reproductive health related services, whether the rights of adolescent girls and young women are protected within the current SRHR and gender rights framework of Government, or the system needs an overhaul, and how the government’s commitment to the right to health can be leveraged on to advocate for better facilities to cater for mental health.

The main objective of the Moot is to train students in practical aspects of litigating health and human rights within Uganda’s Courts of Law. This kind of arrangement helps bring out lawyers that understand key constitutional and health issues beyond what they are taught in class. The Moot specifically aspires to train students in legal writing, arguing cases in Court, professional conduct and demeanor while arguing cases and preparation of Court pleadings.

#CEHURDMOOT2024

Posted on Categories Article, Featured

From VHT to Male Champion: Nelson’s Mission to Create Positive Change in His Community

Nelson, a Male Champion trained and empowered under the Promise II Project-DFPA, stands as a beacon of hope in his community, earning commendation for his tireless efforts. Nelson has embarked on a mission to sensitize people on the importance of gender equality while fearlessly speaking out against Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and other gender-related injustice.

While the inclusion of women remains paramount in advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and gender justice, the engagement of men and boys is equally essential for achieving lasting change.

In the countryside of Kyabigambire Central, one Sunday Nelson is breaking stereotypes by assuming the proactive role of a male champion, advocating for SRHR and gender justice. Dismantling the notion that SRHR and gender equality are solely women’s issues.

Serving as an influential role model who is challenging harmful gender norms and stereotypes within his community.

Sunday Nelson’s dedication to this cause goes beyond mere advocacy and awareness rising; he immerses himself in the community, actively engaging men and boys in crucial conversations about gender issues and empowering couples and families to embrace gender equality and justice. He has demonstrated that supporting gender equality is not only beneficial but also essential for creating healthier and more equitable societies.

Drawing from his past experience as a VHT, Nelson transitioned into his role as a male champion, now collaborating with local leaders to challenge traditional notions of masculinity that perpetuate harmful behaviors and attitudes. His unique ability to navigate through complex issues with compassion and understanding has earned him praise and admiration from those he has helped.

By redefining what it means to be a man, Nelson has encouraged other men to embrace values such as mutual respect, consent, accountability and equality, reaching accountability and collective action.

In an interview with me, Nelson stated;

“I’m passionate about creating change in my community. I believe sensitizing communities on gender equality and SGBV is key to fostering positive change, sparking meaningful dialogue and action. As a committed male champion, selected by the community, I’m engaging men in discussions about gender issues to strengthen families and communities. The Promise II project has been a turning point for me, offering training and fostering personal and professional growth. I’ve undergone a remarkable journey of growth and advancement.”

As Nelson continues to make a positive impact in his community, his story serves as a testament to the transformative power of dedication, compassion, underscoring the importance of community empowerment, mobilization, and meaningful participation. Meaningful participation from men and boys is crucial for challenging and dismantling patriarchal structures that perpetuate inequality, discrimination and denial of services. By actively involving men and boys in advocacy efforts, male champions emphasize that achieving gender justice is a collective responsibility that benefits everyone.

“With Nelson’s and the LC’s support, my wife and I successfully addressed our recent marital issues. Our disagreements had resulted in violence, but Nelson’s guidance helped me become a better husband. The positive transformations are now evident in our home.” – stated one of the beneficiaries.

Stereotypes have long permeated our perceptions of gender roles and responsibilities, often relegating men to certain societal expectations that limit their ability to engage in issues such as sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and gender justice. One of the primary reasons for involving male champions in advancing SRHR and gender justice is their unique ability to resonate with other men. Research indicates that men are more likely to listen to and heed the advice of their male counterparts.

By Fatiha Nkoobe

Communications Officer,

Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD).

Posted on Categories Article, Featured

The Unfulfilled Commitment; Eight years since the government committed to providing menstrual health products to girls

A UNESCO report indicates that in Sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 1 in 10 girls misses school during their periods due to stigma and discrimination. On average, a menstruating girl loses 13 learning days of school every school term. Additionally, an estimated 23 percent of adolescent girls aged 12 to 18 drop out of school following the onset of menstruation. 

Girls in Uganda face a multitude of challenges in managing their menstrual health. Alarming statistics on school dropout rates among menstruating girls underscore the urgent need for intervention. The absence of menstrual hygiene supplies in schools stands as a major barrier leading to many girls missing out on education, due to period-related challenges.  

Along with other challenges; including inadequate infrastructure and limited information/awareness, the scarcity of essential supplies like sanitary pads is a critical issue that has not received adequate attention. Social stigmas and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation further exacerbate these challenges, making it difficult for girls to seek the support and information they need.  

Well knowing that economic disparities have exacerbated period poverty, with only the privileged able to afford menstrual products. The less fortunate often resort to desperate measures, including risky behaviors to raise funds for pads. Young people often depend on their parents for these supplies, who are already burdened with numerous responsibilities. High levels of poverty worsen the situation, as the price of a pad ranges from 3,000 to 9,000 shillings, an amount that could cover part of school fees for a daughter in some regions. This disparity undermines the fundamental goal of ensuring equal opportunity for all, as girls face unnecessary barriers that hinder their educational advancement and overall well-being. It is imperative that governments and stakeholders prioritize initiatives that address menstrual health as a core component of women’s rights and empowerment. 

It’s been eight years since the government committed to providing menstrual health products to school-going girls, a promise outlined in the 2016–2021 Manifesto of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, with the objective of addressing school dropout rates and supporting menstrual hygiene, dignity, and the well-being of adolescent girls in primary and secondary schools. However, this pledge remained unfulfilled by the end of the term. 

The implementation of the pledge was anticipated in the Financial Year 2017/2018; however, the initiative has remained only on paper, eight years since President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni made the pronouncement. In April 2020, First Lady Janet Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports, announced plans for a sanitary pad manufacturing factory to distribute pads in schools nationwide at no cost. However, this plan is yet to materialize.  

As we mark Menstrual Health Awareness Month, I take this moment to remind the government of this important commitment outlined in the 2016–2021 Manifesto of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. Every May of each year is Menstrual Health Awareness Month, an opportunity to create awareness on MHM and amplify/challenge key issues on periods, among them the unfulfilled pledges on MHM. This campaign culminates into the commemoration of International Menstrual Hygiene Day celebrated 28 may. May is the 5th month of the year, and the average length of menstruation is 5 days every month. 

Whereas Uganda has demonstrated commendable efforts in advancing women’s empowerment and leadership through various policies, programs, and affirmative action measures, there remains a notable gap in addressing menstrual health management among girls, which directly impacts their ability to compete equally with boys in education.  

Investing in menstrual health for girls is not only a matter of health and hygiene but also a critical step towards advancing toward an equal future. While strides have been made in promoting gender equality and empowering women in other areas, the critical issue of providing adequate support for menstrual health has often been overlooked. 

Menstrual Health Management (MHM) should be promoted as a critical aspect of gender equality and women’s rights. We have to ensure that menstruation is not a barrier to education, work, or participation in society. Menstrual Hygiene (MH) is a key and a fundamental concern that specifically touches on the existence, productivity, performance, and well-being of girls in school. 

Whereas the legal framework in Uganda is alive to maternal and reproductive health rights, like Articles 30 and 34 of the 1995 Constitution of Uganda which provides for the right to education to all persons of Uganda and imposes the responsibility of providing children with basic education on the state and the parents, Uganda in its aspiration to provide maternal and reproductive health services for girls and women and specifically on Menstrual Hygiene, still faces social, economic, and cultural challenges leaving a lot to be desired. 

It is imperative that MHM is recognized and promoted as a critical aspect of the broader movement towards achieving equality and justice for all women and girls. The inability of girls to compete on a level playing field with boys due to menstrual health challenges – highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions and policies. By implementing comprehensive menstrual health programs in schools and communities, we can ensure that girls receive the support and resources they need to manage their periods effectively, stay in school consistently, and fulfill their academic potential.  

Recognizing that Menstrual health is a critical aspect of women’s empowerment, particularly for adolescent girls, as it directly impacts their education, health, and overall well-being. By advocating for comprehensive MHM policies, we can contribute significantly to breaking down barriers that hinder gender equality and women’s rights globally. Promoting Menstrual Health Management (MHM) is not just about managing periods; it is about promoting gender equality and women’s rights on multiple fronts. Addressing access to menstrual health management products for school-going populations is a crucial step towards improving overall MHM. 

Menstrual Health Management (MHM) should be promoted as a critical aspect of gender equality and women’s rights. We have to ensure that menstruation is not a barrier to education, work, or participation in society. Menstrual Hygiene (MH) is a key and a fundamental concern that specifically touches on the existence, productivity, performance, and well-being of girls in school. Finally, I want to state that, access to essential supplies is a matter of equity and social justice, as many individuals, particularly in low-income communities, cannot afford basic necessities. Let’s help girls to realize their full potential and participate equally in society. 

Menstrual health management remains a time-consuming challenge for girls, hindering their academic success. 

 Fatiha Nkoobe, the writer is a Communications Specialist and Activist, working with the Center for Health, Human, and Development. 

nkoobefatiha@gmail.com 

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