At the 8^th Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK 2025), held from March 17 to 21 at the Ministry of Water and Environment’s headquarters. Makerere University researchers called for more efficient management of water and environmental resources. The event, organized by the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) through the Water Resources Institute brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss challenges and solutions related to water, environmental sustainability, and climate change.

The theme of UWEWK 2025, “Water and Environment Resources for Enhanced Resilience and Improved Incomes and Livelihoods,” focused on promoting sustainable use of natural resources to enhance resilience and improve livelihoods. The week-long event also commemorated International Forest Day, World Water Day, and World Meteorological Day.

Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of the EfD-Mak Centre, delivered a keynote address on “Equitable and Sustainable Use of Water and Environmental Resources for Improved Incomes and Livelihoods.” Participating via Zoom from an Inclusive Green Economy workshop in Ethiopia, Bbaale emphasized the critical role of water in economic development, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, energy, health, and industrialization.

“Water is fundamental to the success of many sectors. It influences health, education, agriculture, and energy, all of which are integral to economic growth,” Prof. Bbaale stated. He noted that water is vital for manufacturing, services, and industrialization, and is a primary energy source in Uganda, where the country heavily relies on hydroelectric power. Globally, agriculture accounts for about 70% of freshwater use, and water is also crucial for transportation and the health of ecosystems.

However, challenges such as climate change, pollution, and resource mismanagement continue to threaten water availability and access. Prof. Bbaale referenced global data showing that 40-70% of developing countries face a lack of access to safe drinking water, exacerbating inequality and sparking conflicts. He also highlighted the economic implications of water scarcity, citing the example of India, where over-extraction of groundwater could lead to a 6% GDP loss by 2030.

In Africa, despite possessing some of the world’s largest freshwater systems, over 400 million people lack access to safe drinking water. Prof. Bbaale pointed to the shrinking of Lake Chad and the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile, emphasizing the need for cooperative water management. In Uganda, water bodies like Lake Victoria face pollution from industrial waste, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff, threatening the livelihoods of millions dependent on the lake.

Prof. Bbaale also shared success stories of sustainable water management, highlighting Singapore’s water self-sufficiency model, Israel’s efficient use of recycled water for agriculture, and the Netherlands’ world-class flood management systems. He urged African nations, including Uganda, to adopt similar strategies to ensure the sustainability of water resources.

“Water scarcity, if not addressed, could lead to social unrest and significant economic losses. However, with proper management, water resources can drive industrialization, trade, and job creation,” Prof. Bbaale concluded, calling for continued investment in sustainable water practices, such as expanding irrigation coverage and promoting clean energy.

A Robust Natural Resource Accounting Required to Support Sustainable Development in Uganda – Dr. John Sseruyange

In a parallel session, Senior Research Fellow Dr. John Sseruyange participated in a policy dialogue on Natural Capital Accounting for Nature Positive Economic Planning, discussing the efforts of the EfD-Mak Centre at the National Water and Sewerage Corporation.

Dr. Sseruyange emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to natural resource accounting in Uganda, noting that while natural capital—such as forests, wetlands, and water—is crucial to the nation’s economy, its evaluation has often been too narrow. Resources like land, fisheries, and marine assets are frequently overlooked in discussions.

“Natural capital is often misunderstood and narrowly defined,” Dr. Sseruyange explained, stressing that a broader approach is necessary to understand Uganda’s true natural wealth. He pointed out the historical undervaluation of natural resources by policymakers, highlighting that while depreciation of physical capital is considered in the country’s net national product (NNP), the degradation of natural resources such as land, water, and ecosystems is not factored in. This imbalance limits Uganda’s ability to fully account for its wealth and economic potential.

Dr. Sseruyange also discussed the role of the Environment for Development (EfD) Mak Centre, which conducts collaborative research with government agencies and local stakeholders to ensure that findings are grounded in real-world issues and relevant to policy development. The center’s Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) program trains senior civil servants on critical environmental topics like forestry, biodiversity, and energy efficiency, particularly in Uganda’s transport sector.

The EfD-Mak Centre’s research has also focused on energy efficiency and emission reduction in Uganda’s transport sector. Research teams have worked with stakeholders, including border-border operators and taxi drivers, to gather data and refine policies that can impact Uganda’s environmental and economic future.

“We don’t just write papers; we take our findings to local governments and communities to gather feedback and integrate it into our work,” Dr. Sseruyange stated, emphasizing the practical application of research to inform policymaking at all levels. He also stressed the importance of making technical research accessible to policymakers and the public, ensuring that it can be acted upon.

The session concluded with a call for continued collaboration between researchers, government agencies, and local communities to improve Uganda’s natural capital accounting. Such efforts are essential to enhancing environmental resilience and advancing sustainable economic growth.

Call for Urgent Adaptation Measures to Safeguard Uganda’s Agricultural Sector from Climate Variability

 Dr. Peter Babyenda, the IGE Engagement Specialist, presented a paper during the side event under the theme Sub-theme 2: Water and Environment for Climate Action. His paper, titled “Adaptation to Climate Variability Safeguards Welfare Loss in Uganda,” focuses on the critical need for effective climate adaptation strategies to protect the welfare of Uganda’s rural farming households.

Presenting via Zoom from an Inclusive Green Economy workshop in Ethiopia , Babyenda stressed that Uganda is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate variability, with about 68% of households relying on rain-fed agriculture for their livelihoods. According to Babyenda, this dependency makes Ugandan farmers particularly susceptible to extreme climate events, including floods, droughts, altered rainfall patterns, and rising temperatures. These changes, Babyenda explained, not only threaten food security but also exacerbate poverty.

“Climate variability is no longer a future threat – it is a present reality for millions of Ugandans,” said Dr. Babyenda. “Effective adaptation measures can mitigate these impacts and significantly improve the welfare of farming households.”

In his presentation, Dr. Babyenda used data from six waves of Uganda National Panel Surveys (2009-2019) and historical climate data from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, spanning the years 1979-2013, to assess the impact of climate variability on household welfare. He also applied the Endogenous Switching Regression model to evaluate the effect of adaptation decisions made by farming households.

The study revealed that households that adopted climate adaptation strategies saw a measurable increase in their welfare, with an average gain of 4,054 Uganda shillings (approximately $1.2) per adult equivalent. However, Dr. Babyenda highlighted that while some adaptation measures proved beneficial, not all were immediately advantageous. The initial costs of adaptation can result in short-term losses, but over time, the benefits outweigh these challenges.

“Farmers who adapt to climate variability generally experience less damage to their livelihoods compared to those who do not,” Babyenda noted. “However, the key to success lies in identifying the most effective and affordable adaptation measures.”

Dr. Babyenda’s findings stress the need for strategic policy interventions to foster widespread adaptation among Uganda’s farmers. His recommendations included educating farmers about the long-term benefits of adaptation, subsidizing adaptation measures to make them more accessible, and improving the efficiency of extension services to better support farmers.

“Policymakers must ensure that farmers are not only informed but equipped with the tools to adapt,” Babyenda emphasized. “This means enhancing extension services, targeting farmers with specific educational programs, and subsidizing key resources to make adaptation more feasible.”

Dr. Babyenda concluded by urging a coordinated effort to build resilience within Uganda’s agricultural sector. He emphasized that these strategies are vital to ensuring the long-term sustainability of agriculture, which is a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy.

“Climate change is a clear and present danger, but through careful adaptation, we can secure the future of Uganda’s agriculture and the welfare of its farmers,” Babyenda said.

The findings of the research are expected to serve as a crucial baseline for future climate adaptation policies and actions in Uganda, aiming to safeguard the livelihoods of millions of farming households affected by climate variability. The paper was authored by Peter Babyenda, Makerere University Uganda; Prof. Jane Kabubo-Mariara, Executive Director, Partnership for Economic Policy and Sule Odhiambo from University of Nairobi, Kenya.

Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer EfD Uganda

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected vulnerable populations, with adolescent girls and young women in unplanned artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) settlements bearing the brunt of its impact. Already grappling with economic hardships and inadequate healthcare access, these communities faced intensified challenges during and after the crisis, further deepening the existing inequalities.

To address some of these pressing concerns, the Women RISE research Project was launched to explore the economic and health impacts of COVID-19 on adolescent girls and young women in unplanned mining communities, examining their coping mechanisms and resilience during and after the pandemic.

The Women RISE project titled, “Economic and Health Impact and the Resilience of Last Mile Populations in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Unplanned Settlements in Sub-Saharan Africa Before, During and After COVID-19,” focused on Ghana and Uganda as case studies.

The project team consists of the following researchers; Betty Kwagala, Makerere University (Principal Investigator), Lydia Kapiriri, McMaster University, Canada (Co-Principal Investigator), Lydia Osei, University of Ghana (Co- Investigator), Stephen Wandera, Makerere University (Co- Investigator), Fred Ngabirano, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Uganda (Co- Investigator/Decision maker), Deborah Mensah, Northern Empowerment Agency- Ghana (Co- Investigator) and Miriam Mutabazi, Uganda Christian University (Co- Investigator)

The composition of the research team is testimony that the two-year collaborative project brought together leading institutions from Canada, Uganda, and Ghana to assess these challenges and develop targeted interventions to enhance future crisis preparedness, with support from the International Development Research Center (IDRC).

To share these critical findings and explore policy implications, an end of project dissemination workshop was convened on 13^th March 2025 bringing on board stakeholders comprising distinguished researchers, government representatives, project participants and civil society leaders for an insightful discussion on translating research into action, ensuring that adolescent girls and young women in ASM communities are better equipped to withstand future crises. Representatives from the following Ministries actively participated in the dissemination workshop: Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.

Officiating at the dissemination workshop, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University, Prof. Edward Bbaale commended the project team for undertaking a study that highlights the pressing economic and health challenges faced by adolescent girls and young women in artisanal and small-scale mining communities in Uganda and Ghana before, during and after the CoVID-19 pandemic. He underscored the critical role of evidence-based research in shaping policies and programs that foster sustainable development.

“This collaborative project not only brings to the forefront the critical economic and health challenges faced by adolescent in the small scale mining sectors in both Uganda and Ghana, but also highlights their remarkable resilience before, during, and after COVID-19 pandemic. The work you have undertaken transcends national boundaries, reinforcing the value of international partnerships in tackling shared challenges. It is my great honor and privilege, to officially open this important workshop,” the Principal said.

Prof. Bbaale explained that research projects such as the Women Rise project, Universities play a vital role in identifying gaps and generating knowledge to guide policy and programming. He emphasized that having government, civil society, and the private sector actively engaged in research efforts significantly enhances the chances of translating findings into meaningful action. He stressed that the results of this research would be practical, policy-relevant, and instrumental in opening up more opportunities for future collaboration

“I am pleased that this project contributes meaningfully to Makerere University‘s research-led agenda, where evidence-based inquiry drives policy formulation, program design, and sustainable development. As a university, we take pride in pioneering collaborations between academia, government, and civil society, ensuring that research findings translate into actionable solutions for our communities,” he stated.

Beyond being a platform for sharing research findings, Prof. Bbaale said that the dissemination workshop serves as a critical space for dialogue among stakeholders and exploring avenues for scaling up research insights into impactful interventions. He noted that such engagements are essential in ensuring that vulnerable populations, such as adolescent girls and young women in small-scale mining communities, receive the support they need to build resilience and improve their livelihoods.

The Women RISE project created awareness of the challenges faced by adolescent girls and young women in mining areas. Some of these included: dropping out of school, early pregnancies, exposure to sexual practices and intimacy at a very early age, contracting of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases and gender based violence.

Focusing on the health risks/challenges in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), Dr. Stephen Wandera, an academic member of staff at Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences stated that the rudimentary approaches to mining without protective gear expose adolescent girls and young women to mercury and dust, while men involved in the extraction are exposed to dangerous gases and dust.

“Nearly 97% of adolescent girls and young women engage in gold ore processing using mercury without personal protective gear, which exposes them, and sometimes their children to health hazards,” he said.

Dr. Wandera shared that 28% of the women reported mercury-related health issues, including fatigue, stress, headaches, muscle and joint pain, numbness, liver problems, tremors, skin rashes, respiratory illnesses like TB and, in some cases, the birth of children with congenital defects among ASM workers, with Central Uganda being a key area of concern.

“While there are policy guidelines in place, having a policy is one thing, but following and properly implementing those guidelines is another. Unfortunately, most workers operate without personal protective equipment, exposing themselves to serious health risks. The challenge is that, as humans, we often tend to overlook the dangers if the effects are not immediately visible, assuming that everything is fine. However, this lack of protection can have long-term, detrimental health effects,” Dr. Wandera said.

Dr. Wandera pointed out that miners in the Eastern region continue to use mercury, leading to the contamination of water sources. The health risks, he warned, extend beyond miners to entire communities, as contaminated water from mining sites drains into swamps where people cultivate rice and vegetables, posing a major public health threat.

“Mining runoff is contaminating both soils and water bodies. We visited a site where ore was being processed, and the wastewater was flowing directly into a swamp. Some of this water reached areas where people were growing rice and vegetables. As a result, these individuals will eventually consume crops contaminated by the runoff. This situation poses a significant disaster waiting to happen,” Dr. Wandera warned.

Dr. Wandera outlined key recommendations to mitigate risks in artisanal mining, including strengthening coordination with the Ministry of Health and integrating mental health support in affected areas. He stressed the importance of enforcing occupational health and safety regulations while working towards the sector’s formalization. Additionally, he advocated for establishing effective monitoring systems and conducting regular inspections to enhance mining safety. He also recommended equipping miners with resources on safer techniques and alternative technologies, implementing education and training programs on the dangers of mercury, and fostering multi-sectoral collaboration at national and local levels to address environmental, occupational, and public health concerns.

Dr. Miriam Mutabazi, Co- Investigator from Uganda Christian University presented critical findings on the health and well-being of young women in Uganda’s artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector. She stressed the urgent need to address sexual and reproductive health challenges in these communities, emphasizing that economic vulnerability often compels young women to engage in high-risk behaviors, exposing them to significant health risks.

She noted that the study revealed a troubling trend where adolescent girls and young women engage in risky sexual practices, often in exchange for work opportunities, cash, or gold. “We realized that transactional sex and the temporal nature of relationships lead to multiple sexual partnerships, and this is very common in the mining settings. We also found that although the reports on sexual violence were low, interaction with the different participants revealed that there was actually a lot of gender-based violence, including sexual violence,” Dr. Mutabazi explained.

The findings indicated that   28% of the young women who had ever had sex had multiple sexual partners in the past year. These behaviors, she said, compounded by widespread substance abuse, have led to alarming rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with 40% of respondents reporting STI transmission.

She highlighted that the most vulnerable young women for instance those with lower wages, limited economic opportunities, and histories of sexual violence—were at the highest risk of negative reproductive health outcomes. Despite the relatively high use of modern contraceptives at 69%, adherence remained a major challenge, with inadequate access to family planning counseling and education.

In response to these findings, Dr. Mutabazi called for urgent action to protect and empower young women in the mining sector. She emphasized the need for a multi-stakeholder approach involving government, NGOs, and local leaders to strengthen health services and education in mining communities. Among the key recommendations was the prioritization of artisanal miners as a high-risk population for STIs and HIV.

Dr. Mutabazi proposed a holistic intervention strategy that includes raising awareness on behavioral change, promoting alternative income sources to reduce transactional sex, preventing sexual violence, and advocating for safer sexual practices and committed relationships. She emphasized the need to expand access to youth-friendly reproductive health services, particularly through mobile clinics that reach young women directly at their workplaces. Additionally, she called for increased investment in family planning services, enhanced health education on the dangers of mercury exposure in mining areas, and the revitalization of a multi-sectoral approach that actively involves mining host communities.

Expounding on the health hazards, Prof. Betty Kwagala, an academic member of staff at Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences informed the participants that most women in the mining areas carry their children to work, which also exposes the children to health and occupational risks.

Prof. Kwagala who is the Principal Investigator-Women RISE project noted that although the adolescent girls and young women faced health challenges, the most driver into this unfortunate scenario, were the economic factors.

She explained that when the adolescent girls and young women were trained and financially empowered through seed funding, the majority stopped going to the mining areas. “The adolescent girls and young women formed saving groups, became entrepreneurs, some went back to school, while others created alternative sources of income,” she said. In addition, the financially empowered adolescent girls and young women were able to transform their lives and children, uplift their families, friends and communities in general.

Presenting the gender dynamics in Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), as well as piloted interventions and their outcomes, Prof. Kwagala revealed that artisanal mining serves as an economic lifeline for many families across Uganda. She highlighted that these communities present significant challenges, particularly for young women and adolescent girls, who face gender-based disparities and reproductive health risks.

Despite their significant contributions, Prof. Kwagala said that women in artisanal mining remain marginalized. “Women are often relegated to low-paying and labour-intensive roles, such as panning and carrying ores, while men dominate the more lucrative aspects of mining. This limits women’s economic advancement and reinforces a cycle of poverty and dependence,” she said.

The findings revealed that, beyond economic marginalization, women in mining communities face an increased risk of gender-based violence. Their vulnerability is further aggravated by the absence of formal labor protections and legal recourse, highlighting the urgent need for policymakers and community leaders to take proactive measures to address these challenges.

Young women and adolescent girls in mining areas frequently encounter significant reproductive health risks. Limited access to healthcare services and inadequate sexual health education contribute to high rates of early pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. Additionally, sexual exploitation is prevalent, with many women subjected to coercion and harassment in exchange for economic survival.

As a result, Prof. Kwagala emphasized the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure and awareness campaigns to promote safe reproductive health practices. Strengthening access to contraception, maternal healthcare, and counseling services would be a pivotal step in addressing these challenges.

Another critical issue affecting young women in mining communities is the lack of educational opportunities. Prof. Kwagala disclosed that many adolescent girls drop out of school due to financial hardships, early pregnancies, or the need to contribute to household incomes. Without proper education and vocational training, they remain trapped in exploitative labour conditions with little hope for economic mobility.

To break this cycle, Prof. Kwagala called for community-driven initiatives that provide skills training, scholarships, and mentorship programs. Equipping young women with alternative income-generating skills can empower them to seek better economic opportunities beyond the mining sector.

Prof. Kwagala called for urgent action from the government, civil society, and private stakeholders to improve conditions for young women in artisanal mining. She recommended strengthening labor laws to ensure gender equity and protect women from exploitation, establishing mobile clinics and reproductive health education programs, and creating financial literacy and entrepreneurship initiatives to help women diversify their income. Additionally, she emphasized the need for gender sensitization programs to challenge harmful cultural norms and reduce gender-based violence. She also underscored the importance of advocating for increased resource allocation to adolescent and youth programs at all levels, supporting collaborative efforts to regulate excessive alcohol and drug abuse, establishing rehabilitation centers where feasible, and implementing interventions that engage male miners in promoting sexual behavior change and responsible parenthood.

Testimonies from adolescent girls and women empowered by the Women RISE project:

This being the end of the project dissemination, the participants listened to powerful testimonies from some of the adolescent girls and young women whose life was positively transformed through the Women RISE project. The transformation has had multiplier effects extending to uplifting the livelihoods of children, families and communities, where these girls and women conduct their work.

“We were monitored, trained in financial literacy and saving, entrepreneurship and equipped with life skills. We have created alternative sources of income. We have been transformed and empowered to lead better lives,” testified some of the adolescent girls and young women amidst applause from the stakeholders.

One participant emphasized that the support from partners and stakeholders is crucial for sustaining this momentum. It was disclosed that plans are already in place to expand the reach of the project, to integrate community health and education systems, and address new challenges that may arise in these rapidly growing districts.

Courtesy of the Women RISE project, the young people speak with confidence. They are in position to speak publicly and advocate for the needs of their peers. Many are making informed decisions about their lives, choosing to abstain from unprotected sex, using family planning methods, and making more assertive decisions about relationships. One participant mentioned, “I have learned that protecting my life is essential. I don’t go with anyone. I ask myself, ‘Who am I going with? What is his health status?”

Another young person shared, “This program changed my life. I was tested for HIV, and I am now confident in my decision not to engage with any man before knowing his status. Abstinence is my choice.”

What does this say about resilience? These young people have demonstrated remarkable growth and are now capable of standing resiliently in case of future crises. They have learned how to manage businesses, with many having multiple income streams. One notable success story is a young person who, after dropping out of school due to teenage pregnancy, financed her child’s delivery using proceeds from her business and she testified that she went back to school to complete her studies.

Peer mentorship has contributed to both personal and community resilience. Through these programs, young people have built self-esteem and empathy while advocating for others. One peer mentor said, “I have made many new friends. Even older people trust me, and I am able to help them, even escorting them to health facilities when necessary.”

Initiatives being undertaken by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development:

Addressing the stakeholders, Mr. Fred Ngabirano, Commissioner for Youth and Children Affairs at the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development highlighted the power of grassroots transformation in fostering economic and social development.

He emphasized the commitment of the Government of Uganda to addressing social challenges and creating sustainable opportunities for young people and women in vulnerable sectors. He said that among the various initiatives under the Ministry’s mandate is the Juakali Center, which plays a crucial role in identifying and supporting women and young people in their economic journeys. “Once we organize groups of young people, we collaborate with Juakali to provide them with opportunities,” he explained.

As the project beneficiaries shared their transformational experiences, Mr. Ngabirano highlighted key lessons drawn from their testimonies. He emphasized that transformation is not solely reliant on financial aid, but rather on effective strategic planning, capacity development and resource management.

“Some individuals have received venture capital funds such as Youth Livelihood Programme, but have not made significant progress. This raises an important question—what is the key to success? The answer lies in effective financial planning and passion-driven work; it is about how well you plan and utilize what you have,” he remarked.

The Commissioner emphasized the importance of passion in professional and entrepreneurial success, saying, “If someone lacks passion for what they do, no amount of facilitation will drive success.” He thus lauded the young entrepreneurs who have followed their passion—whether in hairdressing, the grocery business, or other trades—and have, as a result, seen remarkable progress in their endeavors.

Mr. Ngabirano called for prioritizing human resource development as a means to transform people. He elaborated that investing in developing human potential should be a key focus. As the government continues to collaborate with academic institutions and grassroots organizations, Mr. Ngabirano stated that the future of youth and women empowerment remains promising.

Strategies being undertaken by the Ministry of Health:

Dr. Allan Kasozi from the Division of Adolescent Health at the Ministry of Health highlighted the pressing health challenges faced by young people, particularly those engaged in artisanal mining. He stressed the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect vulnerable youth working in hazardous conditions. Dr. Kasozi revealed that the Ministry of Health is finalizing the Adolescent Health Hosted Implementation Plan, a comprehensive strategic document that will guide adolescent health policies and interventions for the next five years. He underscored the importance of targeted service delivery, ensuring that healthcare efforts effectively reach both remote areas and the most at-risk populations.

Dr. Kasozi expressed his deep appreciation for the resilience and hard work of all stakeholders involved in the Women RISE project research, acknowledging the critical insights it has provided. He emphasized that while policymakers may not always have the opportunity to closely observe the daily realities of young miners, this research has shed light on crucial issues that demand immediate attention.

“The findings from this study, alongside the voices of young people, have been incredibly enlightening. These insights will play a pivotal role in shaping our strategies at the Ministry of Health to effectively tackle the challenges faced by adolescent populations, particularly those in vulnerable sectors like artisanal mining,” he stated.

He credited the project research team for their invaluable contributions, noting that their work provides vital evidence to inform better health planning for Uganda’s youth. “This research presents an opportunity for us to lead with informed solutions. It reinforces the need for a multi-faceted approach to adolescent health, ensuring that young people, regardless of their circumstances, receive the care and support they need.”

Contribution from the Ministry of Local Government:

Mr. Rashid Biruma from the Ministry of Local Government who represented the Commissioner for Local Council Development, Mr. Swizin Mugyema stated the critical role of research in addressing national challenges. He acknowledged the existence of numerous problems facing the country and highlighted that the identification of specific issues through research is crucial in finding solutions. He noted that the workshop had provided valuable insights into the scale of the challenges, which extend beyond the specific areas being discussed.

One major issue raised during the workshop was the problem of child labour in mines. Mr. Biruma referred to this as a significant concern, particularly due to its association with crimes and children in conflict with the law. He praised the Ministry of Labour, Gender, and Social Development for its efforts in rehabilitating children involved in such activities, particularly through diversion programs aimed at reintegrating them into society.

“Child labour is associated to various related issues, including crime and children in conflict with the law. This is a critical issue that requires urgent attention, and we must explore ways to address and redress it. We are grateful for the support from the Ministry, which is assisting us, particularly through diversion programs aimed at rehabilitating children involved in criminal activities,” he said.

In addition to tackling child labour, Mr. Biruma highlighted the importance of leadership, particularly at the local government level. He reiterated that the Ministry of Local Government would continue ensuring compliance with legal frameworks and enforcement of rights.

Education, both formal and civic, was another point of emphasis. He encouraged the use of established community structures to promote civic education, stressing that awareness and community engagement are crucial to the success of these initiatives. He also urged the dissemination of information to local government officials to ensure compliance with community engagement strategies.

Presentation of findings on sexual behaviours of young male artisanal miners in Kassanda District:

In a study conducted by Ms. Patience Natwijuka, a Master of Science student funded by the project and her team at Makerere University, critical insights have been revealed regarding the sexual behaviors and factors influencing consistent condom use among adolescent and young male artisanal miners in Kassanda District, Central Uganda. The research, which focused on mining sites in Kagaba and Kayonza, sheds light on the health risks faced by this vulnerable population and highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions.

The study, which involved a survey of 304 male participants aged 15 to 24 years, sought to assess sexual activity, multiple sexual partnerships, transactional sex, and socioeconomic determinants affecting condom use. The findings paint a stark picture of the realities young miners face, emphasizing the intersection of economic vulnerability, risky behaviors, and health outcomes.

One of the most alarming findings was that the median age of first sexual intercourse among these young miners was 16 years. On average, they reported having 16 lifetime sexual partners, with around 8 sexual partners in the last 12 months alone. Such patterns of sexual activity significantly heighten the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV, raising concerns about the well-being of these young workers.

The study revealed that 24% of respondents had contracted an STI in the past year, while 55% engaged in multiple sexual partnerships. Additionally, 11% reported involvement in transactional sex, where economic hardships often push them into high-risk relationships. Compounding the risks, 56% of the adolescents reported alcohol use, a factor known to impair judgment and contribute to risky sexual behaviors.

A deeper analysis of the factors affecting consistent condom use revealed that marital status and parental survival played significant roles. Married or cohabiting young miners were less likely to use condoms consistently compared to their single counterparts. The findings highlighted the need for strategies to ensure that all young people irrespective of survival status of parents, receive guidance on safer sex.  

Given these findings, Ms. Natwijuka and her research team strongly recommend the implementation of comprehensive health education programs in mining areas. These programs should focus on raising awareness about HIV, STIs, and the importance of condom use among young artisanal miners. Her study serves as a wake-up call to all stakeholders, urging collaborative efforts to safeguard the well-being of young artisanal miners and mitigate the rising health crisis in Uganda’s mining communities.

Way Forward:

Prof. Kwagala shared that education remains a key pillar in the discussions, with a strong focus on empowering adolescent girls and boys in mining districts. Notably, districts such as Kassanda have made significant strides by offering vocational training opportunities, equipping young people with practical skills for a sustainable future. These initiatives have enabled many, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to return to school or enroll in vocational institutions, providing them with viable alternatives beyond the mining industry and fostering long-term economic empowerment.

While the challenges remain, the commitment from district leaders to continue building on the project’s successes is clear. One participant emphasized that the support from partners and stakeholders is crucial for sustaining this momentum. Plans are already in place to expand the reach of the project, to further integrate community health and education systems, and address new challenges that may arise in these rapidly growing districts.

In Kassanda, for example, district leaders are focused on ensuring that more adolescent girls and boys have access to the resources they need to succeed. With the involvement of more partners and stakeholders, including local schools, health facilities, and NGOs, there is confidence that the district will continue to make progress in addressing the needs of its young people.

Prof. Kwagala emphasized that an integrated, community-driven approach is key to addressing mining community challenges. She noted that peer mentorship and education are empowering youth to advocate for safer practices and healthier lifestyles. While challenges remain, she highlighted the collective effort of local leaders, project partners, and youth as a model for lasting change. With continued commitment, the project aims to create a lasting impact, fostering healthier and more resilient generations.

She noted that outreach efforts to schools are underway to address the alarming dropout rates among girls, many of whom face early pregnancies, mining work, or repeated pregnancies. Prof. Kwagala highlighted that some girls become pregnant as early as 12 years old, stressing the urgency of interventions to create better opportunities for them.

Prof. Kwagala explained that several initiatives are in place to keep girls in school. For instance, peer mentors in Kassanda have reached out to 720 pupils. These provide age-appropriate education on menstrual hygiene, abstinence, and other essential health topics. The impact on schools has been ignificant, with peer educators playing a key role in engaging parents as well and in guiding children to health facilities for necessary services.

Prof. Kwagala highlighted the vital role of   private-public partnerships in the program’s success, where partnership with an NGO and public health facility providers in partnership with trained peer mentors, through outreach or mobile clinics facilitated delivery of services like counseling, PEP, contraceptives, STI testing, HIV testing, and ARVs. This has led to increased service utilization and referrals among young people, fostering trust in these resources. She also emphasized the importance of mobile clinics in reaching remote communities with limited access to healthcare. These clinics have successfully built trust and confidence, offering a more accessible and reliable healthcare option.

The Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence has commenced a three-day refresher training for members of the Development Committee (DC) of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. The training, which began today in Jinja, aims to enhance the analytical and technical skills of committee members who are tasked with reviewing government projects submitted by various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The training was today February 19, 2025, officially opened by Dr. Hennery Ssebukeera, who represented the Director of the Budget Directorate. In his opening remarks, Dr. Ssebukeera emphasized the importance of the refresher course in enabling the Development Committee to effectively conduct quality reviews and fulfill its mandate as a key gatekeeper of the Public Investment Plan. He noted that the training would improve the participants’ ability to appraise and implement public investments in line with the Public Investment Management System (PIMS) framework.

Speaking at the same event, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, representing the Centre Director, Prof. Edward Bbaale, expressed the Centre’s gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Uganda’s PIM cycle. He highlighted the importance of the training in harmonizing the relationship between the MDAs that draft project proposals and the analysts who review them. Prof. Okumu reiterated the Centre’s commitment to building the capacity of government officials in Public Investment Management, thereby supporting the country’s development aspirations.

The need for this training was identified during the Development Committee retreat held in 2024, which revealed limited capacity among DC members in project appraisal, specifically in reviewing prefeasibility and feasibility reports, Dr Ssebukeera noted. In response, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, in collaboration with the PIM Centre of Excellence, organized this refresher course to strengthen the participants’ technical and analytical skills.

DC is a statutory committee of government that evaluates the viability of public investment projects. Its statutory composition includes: Office of the President, Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, National Planning Authority, Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), Office of the Solicitor General, Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development, National Environment Management Authority, Equal Opportunities Commission, Ministry or Work and Transport, Ministry of Water and Environment, Public Private Partnership Unit. The PIM Center of Excellence was recently admitted to the Development Committee as a non-voting member.

The training will cover a wide range of topics, including the role of PIMS in the country’s development goals, the logical flow of project profiles, costing, and the interpretation of interconnections between prefeasibility/feasibility reports and financial models. Additionally, participants will explore the role of public-private partnerships in national development.

Dr. Ssebukeera encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions, share their expertise, and apply the knowledge gained from the training. He noted that this engagement would empower the Development Committee to effectively perform its role in reviewing and approving public investment projects, ensuring they align with national priorities and deliver value for money.

The Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence, established by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development in partnership with Makerere University School of Economics, continues to play a pivotal role in building the capacity of MDAs in managing public investments. To date, the Centre has trained over 300 officers and produced several research papers, reflecting its commitment to enhancing public investment management in Uganda.

The training in Jinja is expected to enhance the participants’ capacity to effectively review government projects, thus supporting the effective implementation of Uganda’s Public Investment Plan.