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A New Chapter for Uganda’s Tourism: UHTTI and Enabel Sign Strategic Grant Agreement
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 08/06/2025
On May 28, 2025, a major milestone was achieved in Uganda’s journey towards becoming a leading tourism destination in Africa. The Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) and Enabel, the Belgian agency for international cooperation, signed a €260,000 grant agreement to enhance skills development in the tourism and hospitality sector. The grant marks a significant step forward in transforming UHTTI into a Centre of Excellence for tourism and hospitality training in Uganda. With the growing importance of the sector—contributing 6.6% to the national GDP and supporting over 800,000 jobs—this investment is timely and strategic. This partnership is not just about funding—it represents a deep commitment to capacity building, digital transformation, industry collaboration, and youth empowerment. Representing the Embassy of Belgium, Luc Pirson, the Head of Cooperation emphasised Belgium’s recognition of Uganda’s unique tourism potential: “It is not only about game parks with elephants and lions, not only about the gorillas. Uganda is also mountaineering, white water rafting, adventurous bicycle tours, birding, the source of the Nile, discovering unknown cultures, coffee and tea farming.” He highlighted Belgium’s multi-pronged support to the sector, including investments in virtual reality tools for promoting Uganda abroad, sustainable tourism certifications, skills training for over 2,500 youth, and support to institutions like UHTTI and the Millennium Business School. Belgium, through Enabel and with additional EU funding, is investing over €3 million in Uganda’s tourism and hospitality industry under its flagship WeWork and Decent Work programmes. The goal: equip young Ugandans with the skills and experience needed for decent, green, and sustainable jobs. Hon. Tom Butime, Uganda’s Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, underscored the significance of the agreement: “The grant signing agreement we're witnessing today is more than just a formal gesture; it represents a tangible commitment to empowering Uganda's tourism sector through enhanced training and capacity development.” The grant’s focus areas The €260,000 grant (UGX 1.1 billion) will directly support several strategic areas: Digitalisation – Transforming UHTTI’s learning environment and operations to match global tourism standards. Staff Capacity Building – Enhancing teaching quality through training programs and workshops. Curriculum Development – Aligning curricula with international best practices to ensure graduate employability. Industry Linkages – Facilitating partnerships that provide students with internships, placements, and real-world experience. This partnership also opens doors to collaboration with institutions like Hotel School Koksijde in Belgium, enabling international knowledge exchange and exposure for trainers and students alike. It is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between Uganda and Belgium and their shared vision for sustainable, inclusive development. Enabel’s collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and key players in the private sector signals a holistic approach to unlocking the potential of tourism as a driver for jobs and prosperity. As Uganda continues to position itself as the Pearl of Africa, this new chapter with UHTTI and Enabel demonstrates that with the right investments in skills and partnerships, tourism can indeed be a pathway to national transformation.
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Unlocking Decent Work and Social Protection for Uganda’s Informal Workers
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 08/06/2025
In Uganda’s bustling markets, verdant farms, and growing tourism hotspots, a quiet but powerful transformation is underway—one that aims to uplift millions of workers who have long laboured without a safety net or voice. A new initiative by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), in partnership with Enabel (the Belgian development agency), is striving to turn the tide on poor working conditions and limited social protection in the agriculture, tourism, and hospitality sectors of the Albertine-Rwenzori region. The Problem: Millions Working Without a Net Uganda’s informal economy is massive, employing more than 90% of the working population. Yet only 3.1% of Ugandans are covered by even one form of social protection. Women—especially those in agriculture and hospitality—are disproportionately left behind, often juggling unpaid care work, informal jobs, and zero workplace benefits. For most, there’s no maternity leave, no pension, no recourse in case of workplace injuries. While the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) exists to offer a savings-based cushion, it covers just 5% of Uganda’s working-age population. The 2022 legal amendment that allows informal workers to voluntarily join NSSF marks progress, but much more remains to be done—particularly in raising awareness and facilitating enrollment. The Response: Building Systems That Include Everyone The new two-year project led by ILO and supported by Enabel is designed to address these structural challenges head-on. It focuses on building a culture of decent work and extending social protection to workers who’ve traditionally been excluded. The project is structured around five interconnected pillars: Fundamental Rights at Work: Training thousands of workers, union leaders, and employers in labour rights, freedom of association, workplace safety, and gender and disability inclusion. Through a cascade model of training-of-trainers (ToTs), this knowledge will ripple out to thousands more. Social Protection Access: Partnering with NSSF and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to roll out voluntary contribution schemes, targeting informal workers in tourism, agriculture, and hospitality. This includes sensitisation campaigns and capacity-building for NSSF outreach teams. Social Dialogue: Empowering women’s organizations, trade unions, and employer associations to advocate for improved working conditions. Special attention will be given to elevating female voices in leadership and strengthening negotiation and organizational skills. Labour Productivity: Supporting the national Productivity Task Force through capacity-building and evidence-based policy development to improve national labour productivity and create more decent jobs. Policy and System Strengthening: Aligning efforts with Uganda’s Vision 2040, National Social Protection Strategy (2023–2028), and the Decent Work Country Programme (2024–2028), ensuring that every intervention contributes to national goals. “This initiative focuses on sectors vital for inclusive growth but still facing significant challenges,” noted Tom Vanneste, Resident Representative of Enabel in Uganda, at the project’s launch. “We’re not just funding activities—we’re shaping a long-term shift by uniting our field presence with ILO’s technical leadership.” Indeed, the collaboration builds on years of groundwork: from drafting employment and apprenticeship regulations to training MPs and Labour Advisory Boards on the importance of decent work. What’s different now is the speed, focus, and scale. What’s Next: Making Rights Real The project aims to directly benefit thousands of workers and indirectly uplift entire communities across the Albertine-Rwenzori region. Women and youth, especially those in precarious employment, are at the heart of the intervention. By leveraging Uganda’s national frameworks and the ILO’s global expertise, the initiative is charting a path toward more inclusive, fair, and sustainable livelihoods. With strong stakeholder engagement—from farmers and hotel owners to district labour officers and national policymakers—this initiative is more than a policy; it's a movement. Because decent work should never be a privilege—it should be a right.
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Empowering adolescents through SRHR education across Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 19/05/2025
In Uganda, knowledge is more than just power—it’s a lifeline. For too long, many young people in Uganda have grown up without clear information about their health, rights, or choices. A recent study by Enabel revealed a worrying statistic: only 42% of adolescents in Rwenzori and 38% in Busoga have basic knowledge of Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR). This lack of awareness leaves them vulnerable—facing challenges like early pregnancies, school dropouts, and preventable health issues. But change is happening. Enabel, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Health (MoH), is implementing a transformative school health education programme. The initiative targets 147 school clubs from 73 schools across the Rwenzori, Busoga, and West Nile regions. These clubs, comprising student leaders and their patrons, are being equipped with essential SRHR knowledge and skills. The training is not just about theory. It’s a dynamic, engaging experience. Through games, storytelling, and simulations, students are not only learning but becoming empowered advocates for change. They are discovering their rights, understanding their bodies, and gaining the confidence to educate their peers. The impact of this training doesn’t end in the classroom. Equipped with new skills, club leaders will develop work plans, lead sensitisation sessions, and even organise school-wide awareness events. This ripple effect ensures that the knowledge gained by a few is shared with many. This initiative is a collective effort. From the passionate facilitators of Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) to the committed teachers (patrons) guiding the clubs—every stakeholder is playing a part in transforming lives. But beyond the numbers and the training sessions, this program is about young people discovering that their voices matter—that they can be leaders, change-makers, and advocates for healthier futures. Because when young people are empowered with the right knowledge, they become a force for positive change.
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Enabel champions scalable innovations for development
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 19/05/2025
Enabel’s Innovation Hub successfully hosted its first-ever Innovation Bootcamp at Motiv in Kampala, Uganda—bringing together 23 dynamic projects from across Africa for a week of immersive learning, collaboration, and exchange. Throughout the week, participants engaged in hands-on workshops focused on scaling strategies, Action Research, and pitching, gaining practical tools and insights to take their innovations to the next level. Curated field visits offered a unique opportunity to experience Uganda’s vibrant innovation ecosystem, while sessions with local experts deepened connections to the wider development landscape. This milestone event also marked the official launch of the Knowledge Exchange Network (KEN)—a new platform designed to spark peer-to-peer learning, cross-country collaboration, and engagement with external partners. More than just a bootcamp, this initiative is a catalyst for scaling impact and fostering a community of innovators committed to sustainable development. And the momentum continues. This June, Enabel will co-host the What If Innovation Festival with StartUp Uganda at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Kampala. The festival will spotlight transformative ideas, convene thought leaders, and build bridges across sectors—from entrepreneurship and education to health and climate action. From kick-starting bold conversations to scaling real-world solutions, Enabel is driving innovation where it matters most.
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Mining for a better future: Enabel & Blencowe join forces in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 19/05/2025
In Northern Uganda lies a game-changing opportunity for inclusive development. The Orom-Cross Graphite Project, led by Blencowe Resources, is not just a mining operation—it’s a potential driver for lasting social and economic transformation. As the company concludes a decade of exploration and shifts into full-scale production, Enabel sees a powerful moment to co-create lasting impact with both the company and local communities. With a projected 14-year lifespan and scaling output from 5,000 to 100,000 metric tons annually, Orom-Cross is positioned to become one of Africa’s most significant sources of graphite, a critical mineral in the global energy transition. A future processing plant will also produce battery-grade graphite, further boosting its strategic value. Yet, the value of this project goes beyond minerals. Enabel proposes a 360° partnership model to ensure shared, sustainable benefits that reach beyond the mine fence: Supporting responsible, sustainable, and inclusive mining practices Ensuring local communities manage revenues and improve services Creating jobs and supporting local enterprises Improving the business environment and sector governanceTo kickstart this approach, Enabel and Blencowe have engaged the Kitgum District leadership, aligning on community needs and priorities. Through inclusive discussions with district officials, councillors, CSOs, and affected communities, the partnership aims to deliver a win-win-win: Help Blencowe operate responsibly and successfully Empower communities and local governments to thrive Advance shared development goals for Uganda and the EU With the right support, this collaboration can become a national model—where mining drives inclusive growth and sustainable development for all.
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Stronger together: Strengthening Local Governance for better social service delivery in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 19/05/2025
Local governments play a vital role in delivering quality social services in Uganda, such as education and healthcare, yet they face critical challenges. The data speaks volumes: 300+ vacant critical staff positions across 20 secondary schools in the Rwenzori and Busoga regions.200+ vacant critical staff positions across 14 Health Centre IVs in the Rwenzori and Busoga regions. Billions in unspent wages at the district level. Delays in recruitment approvals and late or inadequate release of funds.Improving these systems requires more than individual effort—it calls for coordination, trust, and shared responsibility. In partnership with the EU and the Embassy of Belgium, Enabel convened key stakeholders, including ministries, Chief Administrative Officers, District Education and Health Officers, district planners, local chairpersons, and city town clerks, to explore how local governments can better serve their communities. During the workshop, Assistant Commissioner Emmanuel Kimbowa highlighted the crucial role of local governments in monitoring development programmes. He stressed the need for enhanced strategies to strengthen their monitoring capabilities, including the adoption of digital tools for efficient data collection and reporting, as well as fostering stronger collaboration with development partners to ensure more effective outcomes. Together, Enabel and local government leaders agreed to co-develop a long-term performance monitoring framework. This tool will track progress across sectors, promote accountability and ensure that every investment translates into tangible improvements in service delivery. To deepen this collaboration, H.E. Hugues Chantry, the Belgian Ambassador to Uganda, hosted the local leaders at his residence for an evening of dialogue, reaffirming Belgium’s commitment to strengthening local governance in health, education, and skilling.
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Enabel backs review of fisheries regulations to promote sustainable fishing in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 15/05/2025
Enabel facilitated a two-day workshop in Kampala on April 29 and 30, where key players in Uganda’s fisheries sector gathered to review the country’s draft Fisheries and Aquaculture Regulations. The workshop was organised by the Uganda Fish Processors and Exporters Association (UFPEA) and it brought together participants from government, the private sector, fishing communities, and development partners.The draft regulations are part of efforts to implement the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act of 2023 and align with the 2018 national policy. They aim to address illegal fishing, protect aquatic ecosystems, and improve livelihoods in fishing communities.Valentina Moltisanti, an Agribusiness and Green Agriculture Expert at Enabel, said that Enabel was pleased to support the review as part of its broader work of promoting green and inclusive job creation.“The fish value chain was identified as a priority for the Busoga region because of its strong potential to create decent jobs for youth and women,” she said. She added that Enabel’s support aligns with Uganda’s Development Agenda, which recognizes the fisheries sector as a major contributor to GDP, employment, and food security.Participants stressed the urgency of the reforms, citing figures that show Uganda loses more than Shs5.5 trillion each year due to illegal fishing, with much of the trade flowing through unregulated routes such as the Mpondwe border point. These losses undermine both the national economy and the sustainability of fish stocks.State Minister for Fisheries, Hellen Adoa, emphasized the need for strong enforcement mechanisms and adequate funding to ensure sustainable management of the sector.The Chief Executive Officer of UFPEA, William M. Tibyasa thanked Enabel for its support, noting that the workshop came at a critical time. He said the review process provided a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to shape regulations that address key concerns in the sector and improve the quality of Uganda’s fish exports.Participants also called for inclusive implementation of the regulations, with meaningful involvement of women, youth, and minority groups. The outcomes of the workshop will be submitted to the Directorate of Fisheries Resources at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) for further action.This initiative is part of Enabel’s WeWork Project, which promotes green and decent jobs for youth across Uganda and reflects the agency’s commitment to supporting sustainable and inclusive economic development.
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Enabel partners with De Heus to transform the fish value chain in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 14/05/2025
We’re thrilled to announce a new partnership with De Heus Uganda Ltd, a global leader in animal nutrition, to strengthen Uganda’s fish value chain. This partnership combines De Heus’s expertise in aquaculture and its state-of-the-art aquafeed plant near Jinja with Enabel’s commitment to sustainable development, aiming to address key challenges in the sector. The partnership will focus on · Sustainable raw material procurement: Establishing efficient outgrower schemes, ensuring local farmers benefit directly. · Youth empowerment: Providing young people with practical skills and employment opportunities within the fish industry. · Innovative research: Exploring alternative protein sources for fish feed. · Green Practices: Promoting operational efficiency processes during feed formulation, ensuring sustainable production. · SME development: Strengthening the capacity of small and medium-sized fish producers to boost competitiveness and unlock growth potential. Together, Enabel and De Heus aim to create real change in the Busoga region by creating a more resilient and sustainable fish industry that benefits local communities and supports economic growth. This initiative is part of Enabel’s broader commitment to strengthening Uganda’s fish value chain, including support for reviewing Fisheries and Aquaculture regulations—an essential step toward sustainable fisheries' management.
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Enabel strengthens Uganda’s health training with the SPICES Model.
Sharon IBENU | 12/05/2025
When Kiisa Cynthia Shanitah, a third-year nursing student of clinical medicine and community health at Fort Portal college of health sciences, walks into her classroom these days, she knows she won’t be sitting quietly in the back, scribbling notes from a long lecture. Instead, she’s likely to be engaged with classmates, debating the best way to manage a patient’s symptoms, or out in the community, learning firsthand about the challenges her future patients face. “It’s different from what I expected when I joined,” Kiisa says, her eyes lighting up. “We’re not just memorizing facts, lessons are systematic. We’re solving real problems, and I feel like I’m already making a difference.” Ms. Kiisa, is one of hundreds of students whose education has been transformed by the SPICES model-an innovative approach that’s sweeping through health training institutions. SPICES stands for “Student-centred, Problem-based, Integrated, Community-based, and Elective-driven and Systematic.” It’s a mouthful, but for students and teachers alike, it’s become a recipe for deeper learning and greater impact. The model enables the development of health professionals who are lifelong learners, can relate theory to real world challenges, work together to solve them and serve the needs of the community with compassion, courage and humility For years, health education just like any other, followed a familiar script: teachers lectured, students listened, and exams measured how much information had been absorbed. But as the demands on healthcare professionals have grown, so too has the need for a new approach. The WeTrain4Health project is working to ensure that we have both the numbers but also the quality of health workers we need to better promote equitable access to health care for all and improve maternal and child health statistics in Uganda. Ms. Namitego Juliet, a health tutor at Hoima school of nursing and midwifery noted that tutoring was no longer about the teachers because students are actively involved and stimulated to think critically. “When I started teaching, I realized my students needed more than just knowledge—they needed to know how to think, how to work together, and how to adapt. The SPICE model has come in handy. Now, I’m more of a facilitator than a tutor,” she says, adding that she guides discussions, poses questions and lets students find the answers.Pearl Mugala, the National pedagogy expert at Enabel noted that effective health education goes beyond transferring knowledge. It is about empowering students to think critically, engage actively, and apply their skills compassionately in real-world settings. “At Enabel, we are committed to strengthening pedagogical practices that prepare nursing and allied health students not just to pass exams, but to become confident, competent healthcare professionals who can transform communities across Uganda." As the SPICES model takes root, its impact is spreading, faculty are sharing best practices, and students are taking the lead in community projects. The hope is that this new generation of health professionals will be better prepared not just to treat illness, but to promote health and well-being in their communities. For Omach Harriet, a Health tutor at Jinja school of nursing and midwifery, “The SPICE model has given us a new way to teach, and a new way to learn. It’s exciting to be part of something that’s making a real difference. The model has helped me, and my colleagues manage the big numbers more easily.” Kabeera Peter a student at Fort portal college of health sciences sums it up: “We’re not just learning for exams. We’re learning for life, and for the people we’ll serve.”
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Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister witnesses impact of International Cooperation in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 29/04/2025
On April 29th,2025, Hon. Maxime Prévot, Belgium’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, visited Uganda and was warmly received at the Ambassador’s residence in Kampala. During his visit, Enabel proudly showcased our ongoing work in Uganda, highlighting our commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. The visit was an opportunity to tell the story of Mary, a young Ugandan whose life has been positively transformed through several of Enabel’s interventions. Tackling Maternal Mortality: A Holistic Approach Under Pillar 2, we presented the 3 Delays Model, a framework addressing key barriers that contribute to maternal mortality: Delay 1 - Making Informed Health Choices Through Social Protection initiatives, such as Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), communities have mobilised over UGX 800 million in savings. These savings empower families to be financially prepared, enhancing access to health services when they are most needed. Delay 2 - Reaching Health Facilities in Time The Mama Rescue App, a digital innovation, is bridging the gap between expectant mothers and timely healthcare. By connecting pregnant women with transport and medical help, the app is saving lives. Delay 3 - Receiving Adequate Health Care Projects like WeCare (Open.Enabel - Belgian agency for international cooperation / Caring for Mothers’ Lives -WeCare) and WeTrain4Health (Open.Enabel - Belgian agency for international cooperation / Training for Excellent Health Care (WeTrain4Health) are building the capacity of health workers and training institutions, ensuring quality maternal care across the country. Additionally, the WeLearn project (Open.Enabel - Belgian agency for international cooperation / Boosting Equal Learning Opportunities - WeLearn) is helping keep girls like Mary in school - tackling school dropout rates and promoting gender equality in education. Skills for the Future: Empowering Youth Pillar 1 focused on economic empowerment. We shared how both Mary and her peer Collins have benefited from life-changing skills through Enabel’s Life Skills and WeWork projects. These initiatives equip young people with market-relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship, opening doors to dignified and self-reliant futures. This visit was a proud moment for Team Enabel, as we demonstrated the tangible results of Belgium’s development cooperation in Uganda - transforming lives, empowering communities, and building a more inclusive and resilient society.
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Enabel highlights green solutions at climate action summit in Uganda
Jovia KAVULU | 24/04/2025
Enabel joined a diverse group of climate actors at the Climate Action Summit held at the Social Innovation Academy (SINA) in Mpigi, Uganda. The event, organised by Youth Challenge International’s HerStart programme and Jangu International/SINA, took place on Earth Day, 22nd April 2025, and brought together environmental activists, youth innovators, policymakers, and researchers to explore practical solutions to the climate crisis. As a sponsor through its WeWork project, Enabel took the opportunity to share its ongoing work in sustainable development. Esther Magambo, Enabel’s Green Economy Expert, spoke about the organisation’s efforts to promote green jobs, sustainable construction, and climate resilience. She explained how Enabel supports young entrepreneurs and enterprises by encouraging the use of alternative building materials like bamboo and raising awareness about resource-efficient, environmentally friendly construction techniques. She also introduced Enabel’s climate-responsive design manifesto and an online platform offering tools and resources to support climate action. "We have developed a manifesto available on a climate website that offers resources and training courses for youth on climate response design", said Esther.The summit featured a series of panel discussions and interactive sessions. One of these was a workshop on the connection between gender and climate change, co-facilitated by Flavia Ajok, Enabel’s Gender and Inclusion Officer. The session encouraged participants to reflect on how climate initiatives can better respond to the needs of women and local communities. Group discussions focused on themes such as policy, education, and infrastructure, and participants shared ideas on how to make climate action more inclusive. The venue of the summit had beautiful bamboo buildings and structures made from recycled plastic bottles. Participants also had a chance to walk through a nearby bamboo forest, where they learned how bamboo can be used in environmentally friendly ways and how it can support green businesses. Enabel’s participation in the Climate Action Summit reflects its continued engagement in Uganda’s climate dialogue. The event offered a valuable platform to connect with other stakeholders and strengthen collaborations aimed at building a greener, more resilient future.
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Celebrating the faces behind every impact: Appreciation week sparks gratitude and connection at Enabel in Uganda.
Sharon IBENU | 02/04/2025
At Enabel, we firmly believe that our people are the driving force behind every success, every milestone, and every impact we create. Last week, laughter filled the corridors, handwritten notes of gratitude exchanged hands, while colleagues recognised one another during our much-anticipated Appreciation Week. Colleagues shared uplifting comments like " Thank you for always coming to work with a smile, it’s contagious" and "You have an amazing ability to make everyone smile no matter the situation." These simple yet powerful words reminded us of the importance of recognizing and valuing one another-not just for the work we do, but for the unique energy and spirit we bring to the team. For Peter Mark Nyanzi, an IT graduate trainee who has been with Enabel for just five months, the Appreciation Week was a transformative experience. "I felt good, happy, and loved. The fact that people see and value you is something I didn’t expect. People are soft and kind. I am happy to be part of this amazing family " he shared. Peter was not alone in being moved. Many others like Fred Muyanja, a driver, echoed similar sentiments: "I didn’t know that people appreciate the work I do. I am more motivated to do my job now and glad I received wonderful messages." For Fred, the week was a rare and meaningful moment of recognition that left a lasting impact. Rose Kato, the Enabel in Uganda Relations Stewart, summed it up perfectly: " The week reminded us that even in the busiest of times, taking a moment to acknowledge each other can have a profound impact. The smiles, laughter throughout the week were a testament to the strength of our team spirit and the deep connections we share as colleagues. As we move forward, let’s carry the lessons of Appreciation Week with us. Let’s continue to celebrate each other, uplift one another, and create an environment where everyone feels valued. After all, it’s the people who make Enabel truly exceptional.” she noted. Enabel staff also marked International Women’s Day during the week by honouring and celebrating all the incredible women who are part of the organisation. It was a moment to reflect on the vital contributions of women in driving Enable's mission forward and to recognise their strength, resilience, and dedication. The celebration was a powerful reminder of the importance of gender equality and the value of creating an inclusive workplace where everyone thrives. Here’s to the incredible team that makes it all happen—thank you for being the heart of Enabel!
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New learning resources to transform schools in Busoga and Rwenzori regions of Uganda.
Sharon IBENU | 02/04/2025
For years, schools in the Busoga and Rwenzori regions have struggled to access adequate learning materials. Many students and teachers have had to rely on outdated or insufficient resources. For example, 10 students had to share one textbook, making learning difficult. To bridge this gap, Enabel in Uganda, through the WeLearn project, provided 18.403 textbooks and 80 desktop computers to 20 schools in the regions. In addition, Enabel provided 800.000 teacher guides and 40 internet access points equipment. These resources will improve the teaching and learning experience for both the students and the teachers. The headteacher of Masese Seed School, Hajat Aisha Male Yiga noted that the impact of the support was immediate. With overcrowded classrooms and limited resources, the new textbooks and computers have reduced the strain." Our classrooms, which were designed for 50 students, currently accommodate up to 120 learners, but these additional resources will ease the strain on our facilities. The donation of computers will finally allow our O’level students, who have been relying on theory-based ICT lessons, to gain practical skills. Our teachers are also now better equipped to deliver lessons effectively, thanks to the availability of more textbooks and the training through Enabel they have received in digital abilities." The new textbooks will improve syllabus coverage and foster better group work among students. “Previously, each textbook was shared by about 10 students, limiting their ability to fully engage with the material.” said Denis Waiguta, the Director of studies at Masese Seed School. Furthermore, the students now have access to updated and relevant content, enabling them to better understand key concepts and improve their academic performance. At Karangura Seed Secondary School in Kabarole district, where IT lessons were previously constrained by limited laptops, the new resources have improved learning conditions. Head teacher, Mr. Joseph Rwakibeede, described the support as a much-needed relief noting that the textbook sharing ratio had improved from 1:8 to 1:2. " I can now read and concentrate without anyone having to interrupt me for the books. " says Zainah Nanyanzi, a Senior three student at Karangura Seed Secondary School who wants to become a military doctor. The WeLearn project is part of Enabel’s broader mission to support Uganda’s education sector. Joeri Leysen, the project manager at Enabel, says “This is part of our commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality education and the abilities they need to succeed in the 21st century." Mr. Denis Waiguta calls this “a game-changer.” He adds, “Now, our students can finally learn ICT practically, not just in theory.”
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Belgium-Uganda cooperation: Driving sustainable development
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 06/03/2025
Since 2000, Uganda has been a key partner in Belgium’s international development cooperation, with Enabel leading efforts to support the country’s development agenda. The 2023-2028 Belgium-Uganda Cooperation Programme, backed by an €84 million budget, focuses on strengthening the private sector, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing the role of the state in facilitating economic and social progress. In addition to its bilateral programme, Enabel also implements projects on behalf of the European Union, with an additional €42 million dedicated to sustainable business development and lower secondary education. Key priorities: investing in people and prosperity Enabel’s cooperation programme is designed to empower young people and women, equipping them with the skills and opportunities needed to become independent, engaged citizens in a society that upholds human rights and provides essential services. The programme is structured around two strategic pillars: Pillar 1: Green and Decent Jobs – Supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development to create sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women.Pillar 2: Education and Healthcare – Enhancing access to quality education and healthcare services to build a more inclusive and resilient society. Aligned with Uganda’s National Development Plan (NDP III) and the Parish Development Model (PDM), the cooperation programme contributes to the country’s long-term vision of inclusive growth and sustainable development. To learn more about our impact and initiatives, explore our brochure Enabel_in_Uganda_2024_Ed2_Web.pdf.
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Strengthening maternal healthcare in Uganda
Dorothy KYAMAZIMA | 06/03/2025
Enabel's collective effort to save lives Every day, 16 mothers lose their lives in Uganda due to complications related to pregnancy and childbirth - lives that could be saved with the right interventions. Maternal mortality continues to be a critical challenge in the country, driven by delays in seeking care, reaching health facilities, and receiving quality treatment. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, an EU delegation, led by Ms. Karolina Hedstrom (Head of Cooperation, EU to Uganda), visited Fort Portal City to strengthen partnerships and assess ongoing efforts to improve maternal healthcare. During the visit, Enabel showcased its integrated approach to addressing these three key delays, ensuring that more mothers receive the timely, accessible, and high-quality care they deserve. Delay 1: improving health choices A major barrier to maternal health in Uganda is the lack of awareness and preparedness among young people and communities. Many women delay seeking care due to misinformation, financial constraints, or cultural beliefs. Enabel is tackling this challenge by driving behavioural change through various initiatives, such as the Life Skills Toolkit, which equips young people with the knowledge, adaptability, and resilience needed to make informed health decisions. Key achievements include: 250 teachers trained across 43 secondary schools 11,000 learners reached in Phase 1 training (2024) Plans to expand to 50,000 students in 50 schools by 2027 Additionally, Enabel’s Saving for Health initiative under the Social Protection project is enhancing financial preparedness for health emergencies: 15,252 members trained in savings for health UGX 602M mobilized as a Savings for Health fund 503 groups (8,066 members) actively saving for health Delay 2: ensuring timely access to careFor many expectant mothers, distance and lack of reliable transport can mean the difference between life and death. Women in rural areas often face long journeys to health facilities, with limited or no access to emergency transportation when complications arise. Enabel, in partnership with Babies and Mothers Alive (BAMA), is implementing innovative solutions to ensure that pregnant women can reach health centers on time. Two impactful digital solutions have been introduced to address this challenge: Family Connect: A digital system that engages 40,000 expectant mothers in antenatal care through SMS notifications for upcoming visits. Currently, 5,908 women are enrolled in the system from Kabarole & Kasese. Mama Rescue App: This app connects pregnant women to boda boda riders for safe, fast transport to health centers during labor. To date, 134 mothers have been supported through this service. Delay 3: enhancing quality care at facilities Even when mothers do manage to reach health facilities, a lack of skilled personnel, essential equipment, and emergency preparedness can lead to preventable deaths. Many health centers in Uganda struggle with inadequate resources, limiting their ability to provide life-saving maternal and newborn care. To combat this, Enabel’s WeCare Initiative is strengthening healthcare facilities and improving service delivery at Ruteete Health Centre IV. The WeCare Initiative has made a significant impact at Ruteete Health Centre IV: Skilled birth deliveries increased from 258 to 345 (2023–2024) Antenatal coverage rose from 56% to 73% The facility was equipped with critical maternal and newborn care tools, including anaesthesia machines, incubators, emergency crash trolleys, and foetal dopplers High-Risk Clinics & Birth Preparedness Plans were introduced, boosting emergency response for at-risk mothers from 0% to 80% Through these efforts, Enabel and its partners are making maternal healthcare in Uganda more timely, accessible, and of higher quality, ultimately ensuring that more mothers and newborns receive the care they deserve. Together, we are enabling change and working towards a healthier future for Uganda’s mothers and their babies.
