Figure 1: Makondo Primary School Children’s Rights Club – Rwebisengo – Ntoroko District
Since 2018, the Promotion and Protection of Children’s Rights project in Ntoroko and Kyenjojo Districts, Uganda, has been making a powerful impact on the lives of vulnerable children. Led by Human Rights and Democracy Link Africa (RIDE-AFRICA) and funded by WeSeeHope, this initiative has brought hope and tangible change to thousands of vulnerable children and their families in the region.
The project focuses on to contribute to building the capacity of schools and communities to safeguard children’s rights, particularly in addressing issues like child abuse, exploitation, early pregnancies, school dropouts, and the increasing prevalence of child trafficking and forced labor. Through strategic interventions, the project empowers children, supports families, and works to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation that too many children face.
Key Interventions:
Children’s Rights Clubs and Community Empowerment
One of the cornerstones of the project is the establishment of self-sustaining children’s rights clubs in primary schools. These clubs are more than just a space for learning; they give children a platform to raise awareness about their legal and moral rights, promote equality, and challenge discrimination. The clubs also engage in income-generating activities to ensure they remain financially independent while supporting vulnerable students who are at risk of dropping out due to lack of school requirements.
The project has impacted 117 primary schools, directly benefiting 46,800 vulnerable children, with over 120,000 children indirectly benefiting through outreach to siblings, school committees, and community leaders. These clubs provide a holistic approach to children’s rights by focusing on both education and economic support, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the classroom.
Empowering Youth with Work Skills and Vocational Training
The project also provides practical support to orphaned and vulnerable children (OVCs) through vocational training. Over 130 OVCs have gained valuable work skills, such as tailoring, mechanics, beekeeping, and catering, through apprenticeships with established artisans. Upon completion, these young people are assisted with finding employment or starting their own businesses, providing them with a path toward financial independence and away from exploitative labor practices like trafficking or forced labor.
Strengthening Families and Reducing Child Exploitation
Figure 3: Ester Mbabzi – 16 years and primary school dropout. With support from WeSeeHope Funds, she started a small stall selling dry foods and firewood. The profits helped her invest in young goats, and today, she proudly owns 8 goats. A humble beginning of a thriving goat-rearing project.
A key element in preventing child exploitation is economic empowerment for families. Through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), the project has provided caregivers and marginalized parents with the tools to improve their financial stability. Over 150 VSLAs have been formed, with 126 continuing to thrive, collectively managing over 4.6 million Ugandan shillings ($1,277) per group. This financial support helps families meet their needs and reduces the likelihood that children will be coerced into exploitative labor practices. Mbabazi Ester (in plain black blouse) 16 years of age is a total orphan, primary school dropout and she takes care of her younger sister 12 years and responsible for her education.
In addition to VSLAs, the project has introduced income-generating activities like beekeeping and upland fish farming, providing families with alternative livelihoods and preventing children from being forced into dangerous work environments, especially in fishing communities.
Lasting Impact on Schools and Communities
By focusing on education, economic strengthening, and community engagement, the promotion and protection of children’s rights project has fostered a safer, more supportive environment for children in Ntoroko and Kyenjojo Districts. The project has not only raised awareness about children’s rights but also created a framework for sustainable change that benefits entire communities. With empowered children, trained families, and strong community support systems, this project is helping to build a future where children’s rights are protected and respected. Through this collaborative effort, we’re seeing lasting changes that will continue to shape the region for years to come. By promoting children’s rights and providing essential support to the most vulnerable, we are building a more inclusive, responsible, and hopeful future for the children of Western Uganda.
Key areas of interest in scalability for the project include:
- Establishing More VSLAs and SACCOs: Expanding Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and creating Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) in each district will provide more families with access to financial resources, further strengthening economic independence and reducing the risk of child exploitation. A small annual percentage of profits from SACCOs will be going to RIDE AFRICA to run its child protection activities hence improving efficiency and program sustainability.
- Expanding Vocational Training Opportunities: Increasing the number of vocational training opportunities will equip more marginalized children and young adults with practical skills, offering them alternative pathways to employment and entrepreneurship while helping to combat child labor.
- Increasing the Number of Children’s Rights Clubs: Scaling up the establishment of self-sustaining children’s rights clubs in more primary schools will empower more children to learn about their rights, become leaders in their communities, and advocate for a safe, respectful environment.
- Strengthening Community-Based Support Systems: Building upon the existing community networks and partnerships, the project aims to create a more comprehensive system that supports children’s rights education, economic empowerment, and long-term sustainability across a broader area.
- Enhancing Local Capacity for Child Protection: Training more local leaders, teachers, and caregivers on child protection and rights awareness will ensure the continued effectiveness of these initiatives, fostering a culture of respect and safety for all children.
By focusing on these key areas, the project aims to create a more scalable and sustainable model that can reach even more children and families, ensuring long-term impact in the region.