RIDE-AFRICA
Background
Human Rights and Democracy Link Africa (RIDE-AFRICA) began in 1996 as the Integrated Women’s Development Program (IWDP), founded by women social workers in Nyankwanzi Sub-County, then part of Kabarole District. Using music, dance, and drama, the organization raised awareness on human rights, equality, and social justice.
When Kyenjojo District was created in 2000, splitting from Kabarole District, IWDP became a registered NGO under the name Human Rights and Democracy Link Africa (RIDE-AFRICA), expanding its reach across the Tooro and Rwenzori sub-regions.
Over the years, RIDE-AFRICA has grown into a recognized women-Found and focused , organization, strengthening community resilience, promoting economic empowerment, and influencing governance. Today, it continues to help communities move from vulnerability to self-reliance.
Who We Are
Human Rights and Democracy Link Africa (RIDE-AFRICA) is a women-founded and women focused non-governmental organization advancing human rights, gender equality, and social justice in the Tooro sub-region and across Uganda.
Since 2000, we have worked with women, children, and vulnerable groups to amplify their voices, protect their rights, and empower them to shape decisions that affect their lives.
Through community-driven solutions and engagement with policymakers, we strengthen livelihoods and promote financial inclusion. We also ensure that marginalized communities are supported to influence laws and programs, enabling families and communities to move from vulnerability to lasting self-reliance.
Our Strategic Pillars
Human Rights & Gender Equality
We provide gender-responsive services and human rights for women, children and vulnerable groups by strengthening child protection, preventing gender-based violence, promoting sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), and expanding women’s economic empowerment.
Democracy & Good Governance
We improve transparency and citizen participation by building civic awareness, enhancing social accountability, and promoting community involvement in planning and monitoring services.
Climate Change & Environmental Conservation
We advance climate resilience through an ecosystem restoration, climate-smart agriculture, disaster risk reduction, and renewable energy adoption.
Organizational & Community Capacity
We strengthen RIDE-AFRICA and grassroot groups through improved governance, economic empowerment, digital systems, fundraising partnerships, and strong accountability mechanisms.
Vision Statement
“A society where all women, children, and other vulnerable people thrive with dignity and equality.”
Mission Statement
“To empower women, children and other vulnerable people in Uganda through promoting human rights, gender equality, and participation in community development.”
Core-Values
Justice
We advance social justice by addressing inequalities, protecting rights, and holding duty-bearers accountable.
Integrity
We act with honesty, transparency, and accountability in everything we do.
Empowerment
We enable communities to shape their own future by amplifying their voices and strengthening their capacities.
Collaboration
We build inclusive partnerships and co-create solutions for lasting impact.
Leadership and Governance
RIDE-AFRICA is a women-founded and women-led organization, with governance that places women at the center of decision-making. By policy, the Board Chair is always a woman, and women make up 70% of the Board, ensuring gender-responsive strategic oversight.
The technical team, led by the Executive Director, drives program implementation with 85% women staff, including program managers, project officers, finance, administration, and M&E specialists. Together, they design and implement community-driven initiatives in human rights, gender equality, health, education, and economic empowerment.
This leadership approach ensures women’s voices guide decisions, enhancing program quality, accountability, and community impact.
Our team is a dedicated group of professionals passionate about delivering exceptional results. With a blend of expertise, creativity, and collaboration, we work together to bring innovative solutions and lasting value to every project we take o
BOARD MEMBERS
Annet Kandole Balewa
Master of Science in Forestry Extension Board Chair.
Kisembo Baylon
Master of Arts in Education Administration Board Vice Chair.
Rukidi Sam
Master’s Degree in Human Resources, Board Secretary & Executive Director RIDE-AFRICA
Kemigabo Catherine
Board, Member and District Health Educator, Kabarole District.
Mwanga Julius
Master’s Degree in Business Administration (HumanResource), Board Member, and Private, Civil Society Development Consultant.
Batamuliza Beatrice
Bachelor’s Degree in Social and Community Development Board Member and Hospital Administrator, Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital
Ven.Rev.Joselyne Bagamba Twoole
Master’s Degree in Theology and Development Studies. Board Member and Community Development and Advocacy Specialist
Our team is a dedicated group of professionals passionate about delivering exceptional results. With a blend of expertise, creativity, and collaboration, we work together to bring innovative solutions and lasting value to every project we take on.
Ms. Kobugabe Christine
Master in Business Administration (MBA) Bachelors Degree of Business Administration (Accounting) Certificate in Grants Management, Certificate in M&E. Board Member
Our Technical Team
Kahunde Erina
Deputy Executive Director.
Kataama Tom
Human Resource.
Ihunde Farridah
Project Officer.
Kansiime Sylvia
Project Officer.
Kahunde Rose
Accountant.
Kemigisa Stella
Project Officer.