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Uganda on the Road to Better Health: Enabel donates vehicles for improved health access .
Sharon IBENU | 14/08/2025
One of the biggest challenges facing Uganda’s health sector is the lack of reliable transportation for health workers and essential supplies, which limits access to quality healthcare—especially in remote and underserved areas.To help address this critical gap, Enabel has handed over four vehicles to the Ministry of Health to strengthen the health system’s ability to reach those most in need. This support aims to ensure that timely and effective health services are accessible to all Ugandans, no matter where they live. The vehicles will help the Ministry of Health respond faster to emergencies, deliver medicines and supplies, conduct outreach and supervision activities, and ensure quality health services across the country. With better mobility, health workers will reach more people faster, leading to timely treatment and reduced deaths.For communities, this translates into faster access to care, timely interventions, and ultimately, a reduction in disease morbidity and mortality. The vehicles will play a crucial role in supporting quality assurance activities, responding to epidemics, outreach activities, emergency response, and routine supervision, all of which are vital for a resilient health system. This hand-over is part of the long-standing partnership between Enabel and the Ministry of Health, built on a shared goal to strengthen health systems, ensuring quality services reach every corner of Uganda. "These vehicles have come at a critical time when the health sector is under increasing pressure to serve all communities,” said Mr. David Katabarwa, Principal Assistant Secretary at the Ministry of Health. “We thank Enabel for the continuous partnership in strengthening health services across the country.” Imakit Richard, Quality Assurance Expert at Enabel, noted that these vehicles represent more than just transportation. They symbolize Enabel’s ongoing commitment to partnership, progress, and impact. “By investing in the tools and resources that empower our partners, we are helping to build a stronger, more responsive health system. This handover is a testament to what can be achieved when partners and government institutions work hand in hand, guided by a common purpose”
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Saving Mothers’ Lives: How Virtual Reality is Transforming Midwife Training in Uganda .
Sharon IBENU | 14/08/2025
Maternal mortality remains a significant public health challenge in Uganda, with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) standing out as one of the leading causes of preventable maternal deaths according to the 2022/23 Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDS) report. Despite ongoing efforts to improve maternal health outcomes, many health workers—especially those in rural regions face barriers to accessing up-to-date, practical training on managing life-threatening complications like PPH. To address this critical gap, Enabel, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has introduced Virtual Reality (VR) technology to train midwives in the Rwenzori and Busoga regions. Health workers in Enabel-supported health centers are now using VR headsets to learn and practice essential skills for managing PPH, equipping them with hands-on experience that can help save lives. Even with more mothers giving birth in health facilities and improvements in clinical guidelines, PPH remains a big challenge. This shows the need for new solutions that help midwives not only learn the right procedures but also apply them quickly and effectively during emergencies. The VR training focuses on the EMOTIVE procedure—Early detection, Massage, Oxytocics, Tranexamic acid, IV fluids, and Examination. This method is based on evidence and helps midwives manage heavy bleeding after childbirth step by step. With VR headsets, they can practice in a realistic, risk-free environment, repeating the procedure as many times as needed. Through interactive simulations, trainees experience real-life scenarios, make critical decisions, and refine their skills in managing PPH. This hands-on approach not only boosts confidence but also ensures that midwives are better prepared to act swiftly and effectively when faced with real emergencies. Rita Niwamanya, the National Treasurer of the Uganda National Midwives Association and a member of the national safe motherhood experts committee, noted that the VR device is an excellent tool that improves how midwives think and act in emergencies. It helps to strengthen their decision-making, problem-solving, and hands-on skills needed for medical procedures. Marion Kainza, a nurse at Bukuku Health Center IV, shares a similar view. She highlighted that practicing with VR technology allows midwives to use their hands in a realistic, safe setting, helping them refine their techniques before working with actual patients, thereby improving the quality of care to mothers and newborns. “Empowering midwives with practical, hands-on training is essential to reducing maternal mortality,” says Okello Ambrose, Digitalization for Development Officer at Enabel. “VR technology enables us to scale up training efficiently, reaching more health workers across different locations while maintaining high-quality and consistent learning, which is vital for building a resilient health system.” Enabel and the Ministry of Health remain committed to ending preventable maternal deaths in Uganda. With each simulation, every skill mastered, and each life saved, Uganda moves closer to a future where childbirth is a moment of joy, not loss.
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Building Stronger Leaders for Better Health Training in Uganda.
Sharon IBENU | 14/08/2025
Strong leadership is the backbone of any institution and in Uganda’s health training schools, it can mean the difference between producing well-prepared graduates or sending under-trained professionals into the Health Sector. A recent self-assessment at Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery, Hoima School of Nursing and Fort Portal College of Health Sciences revealed pressing gaps in leadership and governance. Weak internal communication, unclear decision-making, and ineffective delegation were slowing down operations, creating confusion among staff, and ultimately affecting the quality of training and services. When leadership falters, graduates are less equipped to deliver quality care to the communities they serve.In response, Enabel, through the WeTrain4Health project, designed a targeted leadership and management training programme for key staff from the three institutions. The training includes modules such as “Foundations of Delegation”, “Segregation of Duties” and "Applying Mentorship and Support Supervision.” The sessions are interactive and practical, focusing on helping leadership teams understand their roles, communicate more effectively, and build systems that promote accountability and continuous improvement. Kate Kamanda, Principal at Fort Portal College of Health Sciences, noted how the training had helped them rethink leadership with the institution. “Previously we had challenges in delegation and leadership. However, the training has equipped us with practical tools to delegate effectively, communicate clearly, and foster a culture of accountability. I am confident that these new skills will not only strengthen our institution but also enhance the quality of training we provide to our students.” Hannah Nayoga, the Project Manager for the WeTrain4Health project at Enabel, explained that building leadership capacity is essential in transforming the health sector. “Effective leadership not only improves day-to-day operations but also creates an environment where staff feel empowered, students receive quality training, and communities benefit from better healthcare service and ultimately outcomes.” At Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deputy Principal Kobusinge Juliet said that the training had helped their team to see the importance of mentorship and defined roles. “By improving our internal processes and support systems, we are better positioned to nurture competent, confident health professionals who will make a real difference in our communities.” Through investment in leadership development, Enabel is not just addressing immediate operational challenges but is also laying the foundation for sustainable institutional growth. Strong leadership and good governance are essential for creating an environment where staff feel valued; students are well-trained, and communities ultimately benefit from higher standards of care.
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Saving for Health: A Lifeline for Ugandan Families
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 14/08/2025
Health expenses remain one of the most significant financial burdens for many households in Uganda. While saving groups such as SACCOs and Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) have helped families manage various costs, few specifically focus on health-related expenses. This gap leaves many vulnerable to unexpected medical bills, especially pregnant mothers who require timely and safe deliveries. Enabel’s “saving for health” model addresses this challenge by encouraging families, particularly mothers, to set aside savings dedicated to health needs. By promoting this targeted saving strategy, Enabel is helping communities improve their financial preparedness for medical care, making access to health facilities more affordable and reliable—particularly in areas where health insurance coverage is limited.
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Saving Mothers’ Lives: Tackling the Three Delays in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 14/08/2025
In Uganda, maternal mortality remains a pressing challenge, with an average of 16 mothers dying every day during childbirth. These preventable deaths are often linked to what health experts call the “three delays” — the delay in making informed health decisions to seek care, the delay in physically accessing a health facility, and the delay in receiving adequate medical attention once at the facility. Our current development programme addresses these barriers through an integrated approach that places mothers at the heart of care. We are empowering women and families with the knowledge to make timely health decisions, improving transport and infrastructure to bring care within reach, and strengthening health systems to deliver safe, high-quality services. By targeting the root causes of maternal mortality, we are working to give every mother the chance to survive and thrive.
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Local Governments equipped to advance business and human rights in Uganda
John CANDIGA | 06/08/2025
Uganda has made notable progress in promoting Business and Human Rights (BHR), including developing a National Action Plan to promote responsible business conduct that respects human rights. However, local authorities in key regions such as Busoga, Albertine, and Kampala Metropolitan face operational challenges such as limited transport, poor documentation, weak Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) systems, and delayed reporting, which hinder effective monitoring and response to business-related human rights issues.To address these gaps, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, and Enabel, through the Advancing Respect for Human Rights by Businesses in Uganda (ARBHR) Project, have provided essential equipment to local government Business and Human Rights focal points. The equipment will enhance their effort to conduct field inspections, engage with communities, document violations, improve data collection, and support evidence-based decision-making.The equipment-17 laptops, 1 desktop, 8 heavy-duty printers, and 4 motorcycles- was handed over to officials from 12 districts within the project implementing regions of Busoga, Albertine, and Kampala Metropolitan. The handover took place at the Enabel Head office in Kampala and was led by Mr. Benard Mujuni, the Commissioner for Equity and Rights (Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development).Speaking at the event, Mr. Mujuni said that limited transportation and data tools have hindered the work of district staff. “Many of our officers on the ground face difficulties in accessing remote communities and properly recording case data. This equipment will go a long way in addressing those challenges,” he said.District officials, led by their Chief Administrative Officers (CAO), received the items and were trained on how to use them safely and effectively.Rose Athieno, Country Strategy Advisor at Enabel, noted that the initiative marks a milestone in implementing Uganda’s National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR) at the district level. “These tools will facilitate the local government officials to access hard-to-reach areas, and to monitor human rights issues in workplaces,” she added.The handover is part of the European Union funded initiative to reduce human rights abuses linked to business, particularly those affecting women and children. It supports Uganda’s 2021 National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR), and aligns with Vision 2040 and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.This strategic investment in mobility and technology reinforces efforts towards Business and Human Rights enforcement at the grassroots level. Strengthening local governments with the tools reaffirms the commitment to inclusive, rights-based development. With empowered local actors at the forefront, the path toward ethical and responsible business conduct across Uganda looks more promising than ever.
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Former trainee empowers fellow women to thrive through tailoring in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 09/07/2025
Beatrice Ajonye is a refugee from South Sudan. She lives in Imvepi Refugee Settlement in Arua-Uganda, where she once tried to survive by selling aggregates—small stones used for construction. Life was difficult as the income she earned was hardly enough for her to survive. Today, she stands confidently behind a sewing machine—not just as a tailor, but as a trainer and mentor, surrounded by other women she has helped to empower. Her journey started in 2022, when she received training in tailoring from Welthungerhilfe (WHH) in Arua for three months. After that, she was given an extra one-week business planning course, also by WHH. With the skills she gained, she received a grant of UGX 920,000 (€224). She used the money to buy a sewing machine, start her tailoring workshop, and also bought two goats and some sorghum. She later sold the sorghum to pay her children’s school fees. Over time, her goats multiplied—she has sold eight of them to support her children’s education and still keeps eight more.Impressed by her skills and potential, WHH recommended her to Enabel for more training under the Support Programme for Refugee Settlements and Host Communities in Northern Uganda, funded by the European Union Trust Fund. Enabel, together with WINEPS, trained Beatrice for one week on how to plan lessons using the Competence-based approach and how to assess the gaps her trainees might have. Since then, Beatrice has trained over 200 youth and women in different centres. Organisations such as AVSI, BRAC, and YETA (Youth Empowerment to Act) have contacted her to train women across different locations. Depending on the project, she earns between UGX 50,000 (€12) and UGX 70,000 (€17) per trainee every month. Most trainings last between three and six months. In one year, she can train two to three different groups. She estimates that since she started training, she has earned about UGX 40 million (€9,756).“I used to run my business blindly,” she recalls. “But after the upskilling, I became more organized and I have even started expanding. Now, I’m passionate about guiding other youth so they can also start their own businesses,” Beatrice says. One of the women she trained is Hellen Duku, also a South Sudanese refugee and a single mother of three. “I didn’t know many things,” Hellen says. “But now I can do more than I ever imagined—like marketing through WhatsApp and keeping records.” Hellen has since received a school uniform order from Juba, South Sudan. Her daily income has grown from UGX 30,000 to UGX 80,000. She also learned how to make items like pillows and doormats from leftover fabric—skills she picked from Beatrice’s training.“After losing my husband, I was stressed and struggling. But the support I got has empowered me to feed my children and pay their school fees in a school in Koboko", says Hellen with tears running down her cheeks. The impact Beatrice has created is stitched into the stories of women like Hellen, who are now confident, capable, and creating new futures for their families. Enabel continues to work with WHH under the WeWork–Green and Decent Jobs for Youth project to empower youth and women in West Nile. Successful youth like Beatrice are expected to get more opportunities to train others and help create decent jobs in their communities.
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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.
