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Uganda’s “What If Innovation Festival 2025”: doing more with less
Sharon IBENU | 20/06/2025
On June 19th, Enabel in collaboration with Start-up Uganda, the National ICT Innovation Hub and its partners, hosted the What If Innovation Festival 2025-a vibrant showcase of smart, cost-effective solutions aimed at addressing Uganda’s most pressing challenges. In a time when budgets are tight and expectations are high, the festival was a rallying call to do more with less, act boldly, and collaborate across sectors for real, lasting change. The festival brought together professionals and organizations from the fields of education, health, employment, and the circular economy. Presentations were framed around powerful “What If” questions-each one highlighting a real-world problem and the practical, tested solution that followed. These were not abstract theories, but proven, low-cost, and scalable approaches that are already making a difference. The festival’s impact revolved around three key themes, with the first addressing the reality of budget cuts and the need for cost-effective solutions. A session titled “What If a simple bracelet could help prevent Gender-Based Violence?" by SafeBangle Technologies showcased a discreet wearable safety device that allows women and vulnerable individuals to quickly alert loved ones during emergencies or assaults. Another session presented by Enabel and babies and Mothers Alive, featured the Mama Rescue app, which connects women in labour with nearby motorcycle taxi (boda boda) riders, ensuring fast, life-saving transport to health facilities. Secondly, the festival emphasised that innovation is not a luxury, but a necessity-a practical tool for solving everyday challenges. Ugandan-led innovations took centre stage, showing how creativity and technology are already transforming classrooms, clinics, offices, and communities. Finally, the event fostered shared learning and meaningful connections. Participants reflected on the solutions that inspired them most considered how they could improve them and explored how to apply them in their own contexts. Saul Kabali of SafeBangle Technologies, winner of a return ticket to Europe sponsored by Brussels Airlines for the most innovative solution, remarked: “Innovation isn’t about having more resources; it’s about seeing possibilities where others see limits. Winning this award at the What If Innovation Festival proves that with creativity and determination, we can truly do more with less and create solutions that change lives.” H.E. Hugues Chantry, Belgium’s Ambassador to Uganda, stressed Enabel’s commitment to supporting homegrown solutions and fostering a culture of experimentation, learning and bold action. “Like many countries, Belgium faces budget cuts in international development, and we must now do more—perhaps even more than before-with fewer resources. But I am convinced that innovation is the key to overcoming this challenge. This aligns perfectly with the renewed vision of our new Minister for Development Cooperation, who has placed innovation and digitalization at the heart of our future approach.” Enabel’s contribution to innovation is already evident. Through the EU-funded WeTeach and Belgium-funded WeLearn projects, it has provided ICT equipment to 20 schools and expanded access to e-learning. To date, over 10,000 Ugandans have been certified through Enabel’s e-learning courses, supported by a WhatsApp-based chatbot for micro-learning. Three mini-innovation hubs have been established in refugee settlements, with more planned in Jinja and Adjumani. Advanced skills labs are also being set up to enhance health training. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Enabel to kick off the “What If Festival” as a dynamic and thought-provoking activity under Uganda Innovation Week, whose finale will be in October later this year,” said Jean K. Makki, Vice Chairperson of Start-up Uganda. “This festival is more than an event-it’s a celebration of bold ideas, creative risk-taking, and the power of innovation to shape a better future. Our partnership with Enabel reflects our shared commitment to fostering an inclusive and resilient innovation ecosystem for Uganda and beyond,” she added. Enabel’s continued dedication to innovation across sectors was evident throughout the festival, which served as a testament to the role of partnerships in delivering sustainable, scalable change.
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Empowering Uganda’s educators through Competence Based Curriculum training.
Sharon IBENU | 12/06/2025
In 2020, the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) launched Uganda’s new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), setting the stage for a major transformation in the country’s education system. The CBC was designed to move away from the old model of memorizing facts, instead focusing on helping students develop practical skills, critical thinking, and the ability to apply what they learn in real life. Implementing a new curriculum is never as simple as it seems. To truly embrace the CBC, teachers need to not only understand its principles but also feel fully equipped to apply them effectively in their classrooms Recognizing this, Enabel in partnership with the Ministry of Education, has to date trained 1,050 teachers in the Busoga and Rwenzori regions of Uganda to strengthen their knowledge and delivery of the new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). The training, conducted under the WeLearn project, is structured around five core modules of preparing to teach, lesson delivery, assessment, action research and supporting out-of-class activities. By the end of the training, the teachers should be able to plan and deliver CBC lessons more effectively, have more practical strategies for engaging students, have the necessary tools to reflect on and improve their teaching practices, as well as highlight the importance of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities in holistic learner development. The impact of this training is already being felt. Silvia Namukasa, Agriculture teacher at Jinja senior secondary school shares, "Before this training, I often relied on traditional methods. Now, I feel empowered to make my lessons more interactive and relevant. My students are going to be more engaged, and I see them thinking critically and working together in ways I hadn’t seen before." This development is set to transform classrooms into more dynamic, engaging, and relevant spaces, that prepare learners for the demands of the 21st century. These reforms are not just policy changes, but they are reshaping the daily experiences of teachers and students across the country. They also represent a strategic investment in Uganda’s future, by laying the foundation for a generation of learners who are adaptable, innovative, and ready to succeed Ms. Biira Jetrida, a Mathematics and Physics teacher at St. Theresa Girls Secondary School-Nsenyi noted: "I have now learnt how to apply ICT tools into my lessons i.e. Canva, PowerPoint, paddlet. Previously I carried a lot of textbooks to class but with this training, I have been opened to new possibilities. I am excited to implement these new approaches and watch my learners grow in confidence and skill." Elizabeth Nkwasire, a teaching and learning expert at Enabel sums it up well, "We are witnessing a remarkable shift in how teachers approach their work. The enthusiasm and willingness to embrace new methods is inspiring, and it’s translating into more meaningful learning experiences for students. This is the kind of sustainable change we strive for."
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Making learning effective through low-cost materials in Uganda
Sharon IBENU | 12/06/2025
Schools in under-resourced communities face a challenge of lack of access to traditional teaching aids. Enabel, is tackling this challenge while training educators in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) by highlighting that effective learning does not require expensive materials. Teachers across Busoga and Rwenzori regions of Uganda have been empowered to transform readily available resources such as; bottle tops, newspapers, plastic bottles, and other everyday items into valuable educational tools. This approach has enhanced accessibility and fostered creativity and adaptability among both teachers and students. Nabaigwa Norah, an ICT teacher at Buwenge Town Council Seed Secondary School, shares her experience: "When I first started using bottle tops and old magazines in my lessons, I was unsure how the students would respond. To my surprise, they became more curious and eager to participate. These materials make abstract concepts tangible, and students relate better because they see these items in their daily lives. It has truly transformed my teaching and their learning." The impact of this resourceful approach is increasingly evident in classrooms across Busoga and Rwenzori regions.Teachers report greater confidence in delivering CBC lessons, while students are more engaged and motivated. The use of familiar, everyday materials bridges the gap between home and school, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the learning process. Mr. Longoire Richard, Art and Design teacher at St. Peters Senior Secondary Namwendwa, emphasizes the creative potential: "Art is about expression, and when students use recycled materials, they realize that creativity is not limited by resources. I have seen learners who were once shy become confident artists, simply because they could experiment without fear of wasting expensive supplies. This method has opened up new possibilities for both teaching and learning." Enabel’s commitment to practical, sustainable solutions is helping to ensure that the CBC is not just a policy on paper, but a lived reality in Ugandan schools. Through promoting the use of low-cost materials, Enabel is supporting teachers to unlock the full potential of every learner regardless of background or circumstance. Furthermore, the adoption of low-cost materials is cultivating a culture of innovation within schools. Teachers are now collaborating to share ideas and develop new teaching aids, creating a supportive network that benefits the entire education community. This spirit of innovation is enhancing classroom experiences and also equipping teachers with the skills to adapt to future challenges.Ms. Flavia Mpeirwe, Teaching and Learning Officer at Enabel, highlights the broader impact: "Low-cost materials are not just a solution to resource constraints; they are a catalyst for active learning. Through our trainings, teachers discover that effective teaching is possible with what is already around them. This empowers them to create engaging lessons and inspires learners to participate more fully. The transformation is visible in the energy and enthusiasm in classrooms." As Uganda continues to implement the CBC, the use of low-cost materials stands out as a practical and sustainable strategy. It ensures that no child is left behind due to lack of resources and nurtures a generation of learners who are creative, resourceful, and prepared to solve real-world problems. The success of this approach demonstrates that with ingenuity and commitment, quality education is attainable for all.
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Stakeholders call for sustainable tourism at the 9th Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo in Uganda
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
The ninth edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) from 21st to 24th May concluded at Speke Resort Munyonyo with a strong call to tourism operators and buyers to ensure that tourism uplifts communities, protects ecosystems, and delivers long-term value for future generations. POATE, Uganda’s annual tourism and travel trade show, was held under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” Organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Uganda Tourism Board, and development partners, this year’s expo brought together more than 300 exhibitors and 3,000 delegates from over 50 countries. The event featured Business-to-Business and Business-to-Consumer interactions, providing networking opportunities for local and international tourism players. During the opening ceremony, Hon. Tom Butime, the Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, described POATE as a key platform for positioning Uganda as a top destination in Africa. ‘’POATE is more than just an event,” he said. “It is Uganda’s flagship tourism marketing platform, designed to connect local tourism businesses with international buyers, investors, and media. Over the years, it has grown into a regional brand, affirming Uganda’s position as a leading tourism destination in Africa.” As part of the event, Enabel in Uganda, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, and the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries (CBI), organised a Sustainability Tourism Awards Ceremony. The awards recognised eco-tourism champions and the early adapters of Fair Trade Tourism Certification. In her remarks at the Awards Ceremony, Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices. She emphasized that sustainable tourism must be more than a catchphrase, but a guiding principle in both policy and practice. “We recognize that sustainability must go beyond individual action; it must be embedded in our policies, standards, and daily operations.” She noted that the Ministry is working with stakeholders to develop forward-thinking tourism policies, enforce certification and compliance frameworks, and support responsible investments. She also acknowledged the role of key partners, including Enabel in Uganda, CBI, and the Uganda Tourism Board, for being instrumental in creating opportunities for Ugandan tourism enterprises to align with global best practices. Tom Vanneste, the Country Director for Enabel in Uganda, said that Enabel is proud to be at the forefront of supporting Uganda's efforts to become the world's top sustainable tourism destination. He applauded the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities and the Uganda Tourism Board for driving this vision. “Together with the Uganda Tourism Board, we launched the Fair Trade Tourism certification,” he said. Tom added that the private sector actors, including lodges, hotels, and tour operators, can now register for certification and integrate key sustainability principles that boost both tourism businesses. (Fair Trade Tourism registration link: http://www.fairtradetourism.org/). Tour companies were recognised for their commitment to sustainable tourism during the awards ceremony. Sun Africa Expeditions and G&C Wild Tours/Frontiers were awarded for being early adopters of the Travelife partner certification, and Acholi Homestay was awarded for achieving the Fair Trade Tourism Engaged status. Additional awards went to Boomu Women’s Group for having the Most Sustainable Exhibition Stand under the Community groups category, and Kara-Tunga Tours received an award for the Most Sustainable Exhibition Stand under the Tourism Experience category.
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Village savings groups changing healthcare access in rural Uganda among expectant mothers.
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
With a due date drawing closer, Kajumba Joselyne in Bweramule Sub-County, Ntoroko district is preparing for one of the most significant moments of her life—giving birth. Unlike many other expectant mothers in her community who struggle to afford medical care, she has a plan. Through the Kyotuha Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), Joselyne has been diligently setting aside money every week, ensuring she can access quality healthcare when she needs it most. “I save between 1,000 to 2,000 Ugandan shillings every week,” she shares with determination. “Since I started, I haven’t needed to borrow yet, but I know that when the time comes for delivery, I will have the funds to get to a health center and receive proper care”, added Joselyne. For many expectant mothers in Ntoroko district, accessing maternal healthcare is challenging. With public health facilities often miles away and costly transport fares, some women are left with no choice but to seek help from Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), despite government restrictions on their services since 2010. Joselyne said that many women in the community walk long distances to public health centers for antenatal and other maternity services. However, when labor begins, they may not have the money needed for transport to health facilities or to afford services from private facilities, so they turn to Traditional Birth Attendants. Through Enabel’s Social Protection Project, Joselyne’s Village Savings and Loans Association group was among those selected for capacity-building training on financial management and saving for health promotion. The training equipped the group members with knowledge on managing their income and saving weekly for health to address the existing barriers to healthcare access in the community especially among expectant mothers. By promoting saving for health among the VLSA groups, community members are empowered to take control of their health by preparing for health emergencies. Kajumba Roselyne has now saved a total of 130,000 UGX for health. The Community Development Officer for Bweramule Sub-County, Biira Sylvia, said she has witnessed the impact of the health savings firsthand. “I visited one of the groups recently, and four expectant mothers had saved over 700,000 UGX. It’s inspiring to see women embracing this initiative, and preparing for health emergencies,” she said. With five months left until her due date, Joselyne remains hopeful. By the time she is ready to give birth, she expects to have saved at least 250,000 UGX—enough to cover transport to Bweramule Health Center III and purchase essentials for her newborn baby. While many expectant mothers in Uganda still face challenges in accessing proper medical care and timely maternity services, Joselyne is determined to change the narrative by being an active saving for health member. She is determined to ensure that when she welcomes her baby, she will be in the safe hands of a trained midwife.
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I plan to save more for my next pregnancy, says a mother in Ntoroko district, Uganda
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
Pregnancy is a journey that brings both immense joy and responsibility to women and their families. In Uganda, especially in rural areas, expectant mothers often face numerous challenges during this period due to limited access to healthcare facilities, lack of awareness about prenatal care, and socioeconomic factors. For Bagenyi Asnet, saving for health is what will make this journey less challenging. The 24-year-old is a member of the Basambo United Village Savings and Loans Association group, in Bweramule Sub-County, Ntoroko district. From the third month of her pregnancy, Asnet started saving for health to prepare for the birth of her baby. Bweramule Sub-County in Ntoroko district is one of the areas with inadequate, poorly equipped health facilities and a poor road network. This therefore meant that for residents to access quality medical services, they will have to incur high transport costs and sometimes buy medication from private facilities. This also motivated Asnet Bagenyi to join Saving for Health in December 2023. “Reaching the health facility is our greatest challenge here. Many women who have not kept some money aside, have ended up delivering at home”, added Asnet. When Bagenyi Asnet gave birth in June this year, she had saved 80,000 UGX for health in her group, Basambo United. She borrowed 50,000 UGX from the group to fuel a hired car to transport her to Karungutu Health Center IV since her condition could not allow her to sit on a bodaboda. “My case became an emergency and I was referred to Karugutu Health Center IV. Since there was no ambulance at Bweramule Health Center III, I had to fuel a hired car”, she added. Through the group chairperson, Bagenyi Asnet's saving for health loan was approved without delay since the chairperson, Baluku David, always advised them to contact the leadership during health emergencies. “We have a very quick and transparent borrowing mechanism for our saving for health members. Issues of health do not need delays, so in most cases, I encourage them to call if they can not come physically”, said the chairperson. Bagenyi operates a produce retail stall in Masindi trading center. She plans to fully settle her loan in the next month. Her saving for health plan is to continue saving for herself and her baby and to possibly increase her weekly savings premium. “It will help me one day, perhaps in my next pregnancy”, added the jolly, Bagenyi Asnet.
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Mother determined to achieve financial security for health in Uganda
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
In Uganda’s Ntoroko district, Bweramule Sub-County, a young mother is rewriting her family’s future through saving for health. Yoles Babubema, a 24-year-old expectant mother, knows the challenges that come along with unexpected medical expenses. Having undergone three C-sections, she has faced the difficult reality of struggling to afford quality healthcare. However, she is determined to change that this time. Yoles is a proud member of Basambo United Group, a Village Savings and Loans Association group that is being supported by ‘ambassadors’ trained by Enabel to build the capacity of community micro-finance groups on financial management and to embrace saving for health among their members. When the Basambo United Group was formed in April 2023, Yoles Babulema was among the first 35 members who believed in its mission: to improve household incomes and bring essential health services closer to the community through sponsoring outreaches. Despite her enthusiasm, Yoles was unable to start saving for health immediately when the initiative took off in October 2023. “After the training, I loved the idea, but I simply didn’t have the money to start saving right away,” she recalls. Two months later, in December, she made her first health savings contribution—1,000 UGX, and 6 months later, she managed to save 80,000 UGX. Her goal was to save 300,000 UGX before her delivery to avoid the financial hardship she endured in the past. “When I had the last C-section last time, we had to sell land and take out a loan just to cover the medical costs,” she says. The emergency referral to Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital for specialized care left her family with an 800,000 UGX loan and a staggering 20% interest. Determined not to relive that struggle, Yoles is now taking proactive steps. In addition to her savings, she has invested in an annual community health insurance plan introduced by Basambo United Group. For just 50,000 UGX per year, group members can receive treatment at Masindi Medical Center, a private health facility within reach. This initiative has made accessing antenatal services more convenient and affordable for her. “It’s a short walk away, so I don’t have to go to the government facility all the time, which can be expensive,” she explains. To boost her health savings in the group, Yoles has increased her weekly contribution to 2,000 UGX. As a farmer and occasional produce retailer at Masindi trading center, she carefully balances her income to ensure she meets her weekly savings goals. By planning for her medical services, Yoles Babubema is not only securing her health but also paving the way for a better future for her children. She wants to ensure that she does not get into high-interest rate debts again, but rather, a safe and prepared journey into motherhood by embracing saving for health through her Village Savings and Loans Association.
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A mother in Uganda determined to save for her family’s health insurance
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
When Evera Pauline started saving for health in 2023 with her Village Savings and Loans Association group in Kyotuha Village, Bweramule Sub-County in Ntoroko district, she did not only plan it for herself but also for other members of her household, especially her children. She knows that as head of the household, it is her responsibility to ensure that her family members are healthy and receive proper medication whenever they get ill. Evera’s health fund indeed came in handy when her son became ill in May 2024. She did not worry so much about the medical bills after taking him to a private health facility, Masindi Medical Center in Bweramule Sub-County, Ntoroko district. “I had to first rush him to the health facility before calling our group chairperson to borrow money”, said Pauline. After the group chairperson, Mukume Robert, considered her request, 250,000 UGX was deposited in her mobile money account, as requested. “The borrowing process from my experience was very easy and our group leaders are supportive as well”, she said. Evera did not have to incur more transport to physically come to pick the money from the group chairperson. Had she not saved for health, Evera said that, as usual, she would have considered the possibility of borrowing from her neighbours which also comes with a lot of uncertainty. “Just like myself, people do not have money every time. Getting a loan from neighbours or friends is always a matter of chance”, she said. Evera said that previously when a person in the family fell sick, and the medical bill can not be settled easily, they would sell a goat or cow to meet the cost. A practice she said robs her family of the productive assets that could have the family at a later time. As a businesswoman, dealing in selling fish and crop produce, Evera saves between 2,000 to 5,000 UGX weekly for health in Kyotuha Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) group. To date, she has saved a total of 690,000 UGX. After borrowing from the group, she has fully repaid her loan. “The saving for health money supports all of us group members during medical emergencies. I am glad that I did not delay with loan the repayment so that other members can also borrow in case the need arises.” She added. As part of her plans, Evera intends to set her weekly saving for health amount to 5,000 UGX or more. She also plans to encourage other women in her business circle to join saving for health to benefit from the initiative. She hopes that one day, some of them if not all can consider her encouragement.
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Inspiring expectant mothers in Uganda to save for health.
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
When Karungi discovered that she was expecting her third child, she knew she wanted things to be different this time. In her previous two pregnancies, she gave birth at home with the help of a traditional birth attendant. While both deliveries were successful, she understood the risks that birth complications could be life-threatening, and newborns were vulnerable to infections due to inadequate medical care, especially in the hands of unprofessional birth attendants. But like many mothers in her community, the cost of transportation to a health facility and medical expenses seemed overwhelming. This worry, however, changed in September 2023, when the Kyotuha Village Savings and Loans Association introduced a new initiative: saving for health, after the group received capacity-building training on financial education and saving for health by Enabel trained Village Health Team members, under the Social Protection and Decent Work Project. The programme encouraged members to set aside money specifically for medical needs, including maternity care. Roset saw an opportunity to take control of her pregnancy journey and immediately joined the initiative, determined to ensure a safer delivery. With discipline and commitment, Roset consistently saved, and by the time of her baby’s arrival, she had accumulated 111,000 UGX in her health account. When the moment came, she borrowed an additional 200,000 UGX from the group to cover transportation to the health facility and purchase essential supplies for her newborn. “I felt secure knowing that I had the funds to reach the hospital and receive proper maternity services,” said Roset. Roset operates a small retail business for household items, and has already paid off more than half of her interest-free health savings loan to the group and plans to clear the balance 2 months later. Her goal is to maintain access to financial support for any future health needs, both for herself and her family. Inspired by Roset’s experience, other expectant mothers, Basemera Teddy and Kajumba Joselyne, have also embraced saving for health. Seeing the benefits from Roset’s experience strengthened their commitment to plan for their deliveries. Both women balance agricultural work with selling fish and other retail produce at the local market to generate income to ensure that they can consistently contribute to their weekly health savings. Together, Teddy and Joselyne saved 370,000 UGX, with each having 240,000 UGX and 130,000 UGX, respectively. Depending on their weekly earnings, they set aside small amounts for their health savings at Kyotuha Village Savings and Loans Association. Teddy contributes at least 2,000 UGX per week, while Joselyne saves 1,000 UGX; both mothers have plans to increase their savings during harvest season when they expect to earn more from selling crop produce.For these women, saving for health is more than just financial planning, but a commitment to their well-being. They are taking charge of their personal and family health through embracing saving for health.
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We are saving for the health of our family, Ugandan family.
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
When labor pains started, Eunice Bimbo felt a quiet sense of assurance. Unlike her previous delivery, where she had to undergo a C-section, Eunice had prepared differently this time, thanks to the saving for health plan she had joined in her Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA). She was not worried about transport costs to the health center or the unexpected medical bills because she had access to timely health funds when she needed, and that made all the difference. Eunice embraced saving for health in August 2023 when her Village Savings and Loans Association, Ngenge Women Tweyimukye, participated in a financial literacy and Saving for Health training organized by Enabel through trained Village Health Team members. “I didn’t want to face the same struggles I did during my last delivery,” Eunice reflected. The training empowered Eunice and 31 other women in the group to start saving for health, to benefit them and their family members. Founded in 2016, the Ngenge Women Tweyimukye Village Savings and Loans Association was created to help women in the community access capital for business ventures and agricultural investments. However, after the training, Eunice and her fellow members quickly realized that financial stability was more than just business, but also health. “Many women in our community struggle to access quality healthcare, especially during pregnancy. Transport to the health center costs 40,000 UGX for a round-trip, and that’s simply out of reach for many of us.” Said Eunice. After the training, the group was determined to ensure that pregnant mothers have access to maternity services without the constant worry of financial strain by borrowing interest-free health loans. This was aimed at breaking barriers that prevent expectant mothers from attending maternity services. For Eunice, the effort hit close to home. She vividly recalls the challenges she faced during her last pregnancy, when complications led to a referral from Bweramule Health Center III to Rwebishinge Health Center IV for a C-section. The financial burden of the procedure left her with a 5% interest loan from money lenders. It was a difficult experience, but it sparked her resolve to save for health. After saving 80,000 UGX for health in her group, Eunice was able to borrow double the amount from the group. The amount facilitated her movement to give birth at Karugutu Health Centre IV in March last year. “It was enough to acquire everything I needed for that day since my husband had already arranged for transport to the health facility,” she says with a relieved smile. Eunice's income comes from milk sales from the family herd, as well as purchasing milk from other farmers in the community to increase her quantity and sales. She has already repaid the loan in full, a month later, an achievement that reinforced her commitment to her health savings plan. She intends to increase my weekly contribution to 2,000 UGX or more. With a supportive partner, Eunice is happy that they will save for health together. “My husband has embraced the idea. He helps me with the weekly savings sometimes, and together, we’re building a secure emergency health fund for our family.” She said.
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Biira Rehema in Uganda has found strength in saving for health
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
The story of Biira Rehema is a journey of resilience, hardship, and ultimately, empowerment. As a mother of four, she knows all too well the unpredictability of health emergencies and the financial strain they can bring on a person or family. When she went into labor during the height of COVID-19 restrictions, like her previous three deliveries, this one required a Caesarean section at Karugutu Health Center IV. But what should have been a moment of relief turned into a nightmare when post-surgery complications arose. Biira was told that she needed specialized treatment at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital. But there was one major obstacle: money. With no savings and limited ambulance services, she and her husband, Bwambale Umaru, were forced to make a hard decision. They had to sell six of their goats to afford transport and medical expenses. Her recovery was slow and costly. Spending weeks in the referral hospital meant mounting bills, pushing them to the brink of selling a plot of land they had acquired. “Had my husband not succeeded in borrowing from friends, we could have lost that piece of land as well,” Biira recalls. Determined to never face such desperation again, Biira took a bold step in 2022 by joining the Nombe Beekeepers Saving Group. There, she learned beekeeping and, more importantly, the power of financial planning. When an Enabel ambassador introduced the concept of Saving for Health, Biira saw a lifeline and joined 22 other members in setting aside money specifically for medical emergencies. She saved up to 60,000 UGX before a health need came up. That preparation, however, paid off when her child fell sick. This time, there was no reason to panic and no need to sell their hard-earned family assets. She was confident in her savings group and reached out to the chairperson to request a loan of 200,000 UGX, which was granted swiftly, requiring only a fellow group member as a guarantor. Her husband, Umaru, a peasant farmer, expressed his relief and pride. “She saved us from that unplanned expense,” he said. Having supported his wife in her beekeeping activities by setting up hives and harvesting honey, Umaru is happy that the venture has rescued their family at a time of need. He is also happy that Biira has embraced saving for health in her group. True to her commitment, Biira repaid 120,000 UGX of the interest-free loan within three weeks and plans to clear the balance of 80,000 UGX in the following month. The chairperson of Nombe Beekeeper Village Savings and Loans Association, Mutalinga George, emphasized the importance of timely loan repayment to ensure that funds remain available for other group members in need.Having benefited from the saving for health initiative, Biira is complementing the effort of the Village Health Team members to promote saving for health in her community. She actively encourages other women to join the group and start saving. Thanks to her efforts, four new members have already signed up, according to the group chairperson.
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Community members in Uganda beating all odds to access healthcare services
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
Access to healthcare services has long been a challenge for community members in Kinyamangi village. With the nearest health facilities, Karugutu Health Center IV and Musadama HC III, located 8 kilometres away, community members often have no choice but to carry their sick on wooden stretchers over the hilly and rough paths. For years, maternal and infant deaths, preventable illnesses, and the burden of high medical costs have weighed heavily on this resilient community. But in 2022, they decided to take matters into their own hands.With a group of 135 members (95 women and 40 men), they combined efforts to form the Kinyamangi Tukurakurane Village Savings and Loans Association. Their vision extended beyond improving household incomes to wanting a financial fund for health emergencies by pooling their resources, to ensure that no member of their community suffers due to a lack of funds to swiftly rush them for medical care.With guidance from the Enabel trained Village Health Team members (ambassadors) in August 2023, the group members began to save for healthcare expenses. Within 8 months, they had saved 2,167,000 UGX, setting a weekly savings goal of at least 50,000 UGX, with each member contributing not less than 500 UGX per week.Basemera Margaret, one of the mothers in the group, was able to borrow 30,000 UGX to treat her child’s injury. “I used the loan to pay for transport for taking the child to Karugutu HC IV,” she shared. Another member, Musubaho Amos, also borrowed 30,000 UGX when his child fell sick. He said, “it is a relief to know that when our children or even ourselves need urgent medical care, we have somewhere to turn to and acquire a loan without interest.” At the time of borrowing, Basemera had saved 18,000 UGX for health, while Amos had 21,500 UGX.The savings fund has also been a lifeline for expectant mothers who are members of the group. Two women in the group accessed funds to cover transportation costs to the health facility for safe deliveries. “It may seem like a small amount, but these savings ensured that our mothers gave birth safely, by paying for transport to health facilities.” Said Kaswara David, the group’s chairperson.As the membership continues to grow, David said that the group is considering engaging in income-generating activities and seeking government support through livelihood programmes to further bolster their savings.The group chairperson said that the lack of safe drinking water has led to an increase in diseases such as typhoid, diarrhea, and malaria, further underscoring the necessity of the saving for health initiative as they continue to advocate for a lasting solution to address the above disease causes.Against all odds, the group members of Kinyamangi are determined to ensure that their health savings fund continues to promote access to healthcare services through facilitating the movement to facilities and the buying of medicine.
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Village group in Uganda changing lives through saving for health
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
In Bweramule Sub-County, Ntoroko district, community members have come together to form a group to make a positive economic and health impact in the community. The Basambo United group was formed in April 2023 to improve the income status of members and promote public health initiatives through activities such as health outreaches, hygiene and sanitation campaigns, and Sexual reproductive health and rights sensitizations.By embracing saving for health and investing in local health insurance, Basambo United group is ensuring that community members have access to locally sustainable initiatives through which they can keep and access emergency health funds.The nearest public health facility, Karugutu Health Center IV, is about 10 miles away, and just getting there costs at least 20,000 UGX in transport fees—an amount that doubles if an emergency occurs at night. As a result, many community members faced with financial constraints delay seeking treatment, as a way of trying to avoid the expenses. This has in many occasions worsened the health conditions, leading to even more expenses.With 35 dedicated members (17 men and 18 women), Basambo United group was inspired to start saving for health after receiving training on financial management and saving for health from Kasangaki Edward, a Village Health Team member trained by Enabel to support existing community saving groups to embrace saving for health in their programmes. The group chairperson, Baluku Daniel, said that the knowledge they acquired from the training was in line with their core objective of starting the group.As a result, the group has so far saved 2,000,000 UGX specifically for the members’ healthcare needs. “Each member contributes 2,000 UGX every week to the collective health fund, allowing them to provide financial assistance through interest-free loans to those requiring healthcare services such as maternity, transport to facilities, and buying prescribed medicine”, said Baluku. He said that 996,000 UGX has already been borrowed by 20 members, and about half the amount was successfully repaid.Baluku Daniel recalls a sad incident last year that reinforced the need for group members to embrace the saving for health initiative. “Early last year, a mother lost a pregnancy because she did not have enough money to facilitate her transport to the health center in time. By the time funds were mobilized, complications had set in, and she had to be referred immediately. Unfortunately, it was too late”, he narrated. This incident served as a wake-up call for the community, highlighting the urgency of participating in saving for health.The expectant mothers who are now part of the savings group have peace of mind, knowing that they will not struggle with last-minute financial hurdles. “Compared to other pregnant women, expectant mothers who save for health worry less about transport to health facilities and the cost of maternity services”, said Baluku. He also emphasizes the importance of men supporting their wives in this effort, ensuring that every family is prepared for such critical moments. With a private health facility, Masindi Medical Center being the closest and easily accessible, the group encouraged each member to save at least 50,000 UGX to access essential healthcare services.Dr. Kato, the Director, Masindi Medical Center, acknowledges the commitment of the community members to take charge of their health by saving for health in the groups. Every month, the facility delivers an average of 40 mothers, many of whom come from Bweramule and neighboring sub-counties. He applauds Basambo United’s initiative, noting that community-driven healthcare models can bridge critical healthcare gaps.
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Boda boda riders in Uganda take control of their health through savings
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
For many Ugandans, boda boda riders are the quickest and most reliable means of transport. Whether rushing an expectant mother to a health center, navigating rugged rural roads to deliver urgent supplies, or simply offering affordable transport, boda bodas have become an indispensable part of daily life in both urban and rural Uganda. Yet, for those who ride them, life is often challenging because a single illness or accident can mean days without income, and for many, unexpected medical expenses can be devastating as well.In Bweramule Sub-County, Ntoroko District, a group of boda boda riders has taken a bold step to change that reality. In 2016, 26 young riders started a savings initiative that has now blossomed into a thriving financial safety net providing loans to its members. The Bweramule Youth Boda Boda Association has now grown to 76 members (11 women, 65 men) who are redefining how informal workers prepare for medical emergencies through embracing saving for health in their group.The groups chairperson said that for years, when one of their fellow riders fell ill, the group would struggle to raise funds from among the riders, often with little success. “People wanted to help, but since emergencies are unpredictable, many couldn’t contribute at short notice.” He said.That all changed in November 2023 when Onesmo, a Village Health Team member (ambassador) trained by Enabel, introduced the concept of saving specifically for health to the group members. Through a series of financial education trainings, members realized that by setting aside small amounts consistently, they could create a dependable emergency fund for medical emergencies. Today, 56 members actively contribute to the health savings fund, and together, they have already saved 2,862,400 UGX for health. Unlike traditional loans, the health savings fund in the Village Savings and Loans Associations allows members to borrow interest-free in times of need. “Just last month, 80,000 UGX was borrowed from the fund to cover medical expenses,” says the association’s treasurer. “Now, instead of struggling to mobilize emergency contributions, members can access money quickly and focus on getting better”, he added.Beyond emergency care, the fund is addressing a major challenge faced by many rural Ugandans, such as drug shortages in government health centres. With their savings, members can now purchase necessary prescribed medications from private pharmacies, ensuring they receive timely treatment. While boda boda riding is the primary income source for most of the group members, the association is also empowering its female members, many of whom run small retail businesses, selling agricultural produce and fish. With their growing savings culture, the group has ambitious plans, including opening a motorcycle spare parts and repair business, constructing rental properties for additional income, and providing motorcycles on loan on a rotational basis to members who don’t own one yet. The chairperson said that their goal is to make sure every member owns a motorcycle. “Owning a bike means financial stability, and financial stability means more income and savings”, he proudly said.The association is also looking ahead by encouraging more community members to join village savings and loan associations (VSLAs), especially those that are actively saving for health. “One day, we hope every group member can save at least 10,000 UGX weekly for their health,” added the chairperson.
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A Ugandan village overcomes health barriers through saving for health
John CANDIGA | 10/06/2025
When expectant mother Basemera Teddy needed urgent medical care, she faced a difficult choice—walk miles to the nearest clinic or pay an expensive motorcycle fare. Like many in her village, she could not afford the transport. But a new savings initiative is changing that.For years, the people of Kyotuha village have struggled to reach medical care. The closest health center is miles away, and without transport, many have had no choice but to suffer in silence. In 2021, they formed Kyotuha Village Savings and Loans Association, initially to create opportunities to access affordable credit for small businesses like petty trade and cattle keeping. However, their impact has now gone beyond individual livelihoods.With profits from their loaned funds, they took it upon themselves to construct a simple makeshift bridge, solving a long-standing access challenge for pedestrians and motorcycle riders in the village. This act of collective effort is just one example of how they are transforming their community so that residents have access to key services, including health.Basemera Teddy recalls the heartbreaking loss of a newborn when a mother was forced to rely on a traditional birth attendant due to the challenge of reaching trained medical professionals in time. In another instance, an expectant mother gave birth to twins in the hands of unqualified community members after failing to reach the health center in time. Though the children survived, they continue to suffer from frequent health complications linked to their birth conditions.Recognizing the urgency of access to healthcare, the group embraced financial training from Kasangaki Edward, a community Village Health Team worker trained by Enabel, in September 2023 under the Social Protection and Decent Work Project. Inspired by the knowledge gained, all 33 members (17 women and 16 men) began saving specifically for health expenses. To date, they have accumulated 8,000,000 UGX in their group health savings account. Initially, the group had set a fixed weekly savings contribution between 2,000 and 5,000 UGX per member. However, as Chairperson Mukume Robert explains, they soon realized that it affected some members who faced fluctuating incomes. “We decided to let people save what they can. Someone may put in 2,000 UGX today and then bring 7,000 UGX the following week. This flexibility has been a game-changer,” he said.Already, the fund is making a difference. Five members have borrowed a total of 1,000,000 UGX to cover medical costs, with three of them successfully repaying 700,000 UGX within a month. The ability to access healthcare without sinking into debt or relying on uncertain sources of money is empowering for these villagers.Among the savers are four expectant mothers who have collectively saved 734,000 UGX, ensuring they can afford transport and medical care when it is time for them to give birth. Kajumba Joselyne, one of the pregnant women, shares her relief. “With my savings, I will be able to afford transport to the health center and buy clothes for my baby,” she says with a hopeful smile. Looking ahead, the group has ambitious plans. They aim to venture into goat rearing as an additional income-generating activity. But their most critical goal is to purchase a motorcycle for emergency medical transportation. “Given the current state of our roads, a motorcycle is the fastest and most reliable way to transport people to the health center, so we plan to buy one as a group”, explains Mukume Robert.
