Footprint Volunteer Uganda November 6, 2023 No Comments

INTERNSHIP & VOLUNTEERING IN UGANDA 2024/2025

Volunteering in Uganda during your internship holidays – A chance to impact lives while building your career.

Are you looking for internship and volunteer programs in Uganda? Look no further, here is everything that you must know about internship in Uganda. In this article, you will understand what doing your internship or volunteer program in Uganda means. You will also get an insight into the country’s need for volunteers and interns for economic and social transformation.

Know about Uganda

Located in the Eastern part of Africa is Uganda – the Pearl of Africa. The climate and geography of this nation have been a blessing to the natives. Uganda is one of the countries in Africa that were colonized by the British during the colonial days. She gained her independence in 1962 on the 9th of October. Since then, Uganda has been through thick and thin – from political wars to restoration of peace, fighting poverty, and then economic transformation up to where she is now. For about three decades, Uganda has registered tremendous success in terms of growth and development. This is evidenced by steady population growth to about 49,029,364 people in 2022.

Irrespective of Uganda’s achievements, she is still battling with problems such as HIV/AIDS, drought in some parts of the country, high mortality rates, to mention, domestic violence, Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), and of course the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic effects. This is the reason why Uganda needs as many intern volunteers as possible. Their innovation and creativity can be transferred to the vulnerable communities in Uganda and hence have an impact on growth and development.

In this guide, we are highlighting the guidelines that one should put into consideration before choosing which country or organization they are to volunteer with or do their internship.

Who is an intern volunteer?

An intern volunteer is a person who unconditionally sets out to identify with and participate in the work of an organization like Foot Print Volunteering Uganda through for the love, interest passion, and commitment to the work without expecting any financial or material reward. Material rewards, if they come, should be incidental to and not the primary motivation of the organization they are volunteering for. Usually, intern volunteers are students who are looking forward to finalizing their studies at a University or College. They usually use this opportunity to get introduced to the world of real work and hence apply the knowledge and skills acquired from their institutions of learning. Depending on one’s qualifications, the assignments given to Intern Volunteers relate to the Organization’s strategic activities or administrative and technical functions.

Internship volunteering as a response to Uganda’s call

 Uganda has communities that need your services as intern volunteers both in the rural and urban areas. When you visit many orphanages like one under the Love Uganda Foundation, you will realize that there is a need for more volunteers in Uganda. In such a home, children who have been dumped on the streets are being taken care of. The only source of income for the sustainability of such a project is donations from child sponsors. It is true that the children are more than the sponsors meaning that there is more need for improvising.

Remember, that is just one orphanage out of thousands of them across Uganda. I have not talked about the number of cancer patients who are stuck in hospitals, teenage mothers on the streets of Kampala, the people of Karamoja who have been hit by famine and drought, and the refugees in the many refugee camps all over Uganda.

In regard to this, what you see as little service to you might be the only turning point for a street child in Uganda. Why sit on that construction skill yet some widows in Uganda live under ramshackle houses? Don’t you think you are doing someone a disservice?

Having that at the back of your mind, do not forget that many organizations in Uganda are open to volunteers from different parts of the world to come and render their services to the vulnerable communities in Uganda for the betterment of our future. The time is now, you do not have to wait anymore.

To Volunteer with Foot Print Volunteering Uganda, Click here 

 What to put into consideration before making the decision to do your internship in Uganda

Volunteering experience helps students

 Before you make your internship volunteering choices, there are quite a number of questions you have to answer. The questions regarding when, where, and with whom are most important during your volunteering choices.

For countries like Uganda, there are many organizations and fields one can volunteer in. However, all give a different internship and volunteer experience.

Below are a few guidelines that may act as a starting point while making your volunteer internship choices.

  1. Purpose of Volunteering

The question of why are you embarking on that volunteer/internship project is very important otherwise you might get a nightmare. In answering this question, you should evaluate your own reasons in comparison with the reasons of the organization and the program you intend to do your internship volunteering with.

It does not make sense for a doctor to volunteer in a construction department when the hospitals needs them most. Such a scenario comes when the question regarding the purpose of volunteering is not fully attended to. Most of the organizations in Uganda usually specify the purpose of their internship programs in their advertisements.

  1. Eligibility required by the program/volunteer organization

Different Organizations require eligible volunteers, those that will fit in the communities and the programs they are to volunteer in.

Age:  Most of the projects require youth aged 19 years to about 40 years. These are the ones who are flexible and can fit in a dynamic environment.
Academic qualifications and fields of interest: Internships are usually reserved for students who have completed their first degree or those pursuing their postgraduate degree program (second university degree or higher) or technical/professional studies. However, there are some projects that demand more social skills than professional skills. This is why the applications are always open to all applicants.
Languages: Excellent spoken and written knowledge of English are the most common language requirements in Uganda. This is because English is the official language used in Uganda. You should bear in mind that most of the vulnerable communities in Uganda use local languages. This is why you should learn some words in the Ugandan local languages before embarking on a volunteering safari to Uganda.

Computer skills: Computers are the shape of this generation and their use in Uganda increases now and then. It is therefore important to have some basic computer skills such as the Use of Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, etc.
Availability: It is important for you to know how much time the volunteer project is likely to require your services as well as how long you will be there. This will give you an opportunity to plan your stay in Uganda in regard to visa and passport acquisition. It is so bad to realize that you overstayed simply because of volunteering or you will have to leave earlier because your visa expired.

4. Check for who is recruiting Volunteers and the process of recruitment.

It is equally important to check for the organizations that are recruiting volunteers at a given period of time and in a given area. Most of the volunteers in Uganda are hired on a “Personal wish” criterion. Volunteers volunteer to Volunteer and just send in their applications. Sometimes it is based on a “First Come first served” basis. It is not a guarantee that you will be rendered an internship placement upon your application. Usually, organizations state boldly that “Only qualified candidates will be contacted” This is why you should try more than one organization while looking for an internship or volunteer placement.

  1. Check for the terms and Conditions of services /Contract or agreement

Most organizations require that volunteers work on their terms and conditions, do not be overshadowed by them and you be oppressed. Volunteers/interns have rights for example you have the right to say NO or YES to things that are not in line with your expectations.

It is important to sign a contract before starting your internship or volunteer work. This acts as a check and balance tool for you and the organization you are working with.

  1. Check for Remuneration

Check whether the organization will provide remuneration such as food, transport, allowances, medical insurance, and accommodation. Remuneration here does not mean salary. Below are some of the common remuneration terms and conditions;

  1. The organization does not remunerate or pay Interns/Volunteers.
  2. Costs and arrangements for travel, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of Interns/Volunteers or their sponsoring institutions.
  3. The Organization accepts no responsibility for the medical insurance of interns/volunteers or for costs arising from accidents and illness incurred during an internship.
  4. Interns / Volunteers are fully responsible for arranging at their own expense health and other forms of insurance covering the period of internship with the Organization.

The Interns/Volunteers shall during the period of internship respect the agreed working hours and observe the norms required of staff of the Organization which may include;

  1. Conduct themselves at all times in a manner befitting their status as public servants.
  2. Not engage in any activity that is incompatible with the proper discharge of their duties with the organization.
  3. Avoid any action and in particular any public pronouncement which may adversely reflect the integrity required of them.
  4. Exercise discretion in regard to all matters of official business and shall not communicate to any person unpublished information known to them by reason of their position except in the course of their duties or by authorization of their supervisors.
  5. Interns are expected to respect the confidentiality of information collected or received within the organization.
  6. No reports or papers may be published based on the function obtained within the organization without written official authorization.
Benefits to the Intern/Volunteer
  1. Self-motivation.
  2. Exposure/experience and expansion.
  3. Satisfaction and participation.
  4. Contacts and networking.
  5. Learning and training.
  6. Guidance.
  7. Intellectual understanding.
  8. Responsibility.
  9. Assessment and evaluation
Benefits to the organization
  • Extra working capacity in daily work
  • A participant in planning and implementation of projects
    Participate in the assessment/ evaluation of reports and analysis
    Contribute ideas and solutions to working team(s)
Benefits to society
  • The community or society should also have a common benefit:-
  • Good citizenship among its young people, responsibility voluntarism, and resource development.

We believe that at this point you are just one step closer to your internship volunteering in Uganda. All you need is to make the right choice of Organization. Then start your journey of impacting the future generation.

Challenges faced while Volunteering in Uganda
Footprint Volunteer Uganda September 19, 2023 No Comments

CHALLENGES OF VOLUNTEERING IN UGANDA

Knowing the Challenges of Volunteering in Uganda for a Greater Experience

Like the saying goes “Everything that has an advantage, has a disadvantage as well” Volunteering is not an exception. From our interaction with our dear volunteers and the experience gained from the past years, we have realized that, much as the positive results of volunteering outweigh the negative ones. We believe that availing you with the information about the challenges of Volunteering especially in countries like Uganda will do more good than harm. This is not only on the side of the volunteers but also on that of the communities and the organizations in which the volunteers render their services.

We believe that having the knowledge of the bad side of volunteering will not stop anyone from their desire to volunteer. It will rather help you gain a better understanding of the concept. This will help you come when you are prepared for the best way to deal with the challenge.

 What are the major challenges of Volunteering in Uganda – on the side of the Volunteer?

  1. Volunteering means getting out of your comfort zone
  2. Volunteering usually comes with a hard-to-break emotional attachment
  3. The new environment may not be friendly
  4. Getting exhausted while at work
  5. Poor Communication due to language barrier
  6. Finishing your volunteer time and coming home
  7. Undervalued Positions

Volunteers tend to find challenges that are social, economic, and psychological in nature and these include among others but are not limited to the following;

  • Volunteering means getting out of your comfort zone

Challenges of Volunteering in Uganda

Making a choice to volunteer especially outside your own country is not a national anthem that everybody can sing. It is something that requires commitment emotionally and physically. Many volunteers with whom we have shared stories talk about how difficult the choice can be. This is simply because of the requirement to get out of one’s comfort zone if they are to volunteer.

Naturally, human beings tend to avoid activities that demand a lot of time and full attention from them. But the beauty of this is that those who get out of their comfort zones and volunteer are the ones who gain a better and more diverse experience that lasts as long as they live.

If you have been thinking about volunteering in Uganda and maybe have been discouraged by a friend or a relative, it is better you come and see things for yourself. Usually people like talking about the negative side of the coin and ignore the positive one. When you finally decide to volunteer. You will see for yourself and make up your own mind. Trust me, you will be so grateful for the charity organization to have given you this opportunity to work in such incredible communities and thus gain more knowledge and experience.

  • Volunteering usually comes with a hard-to-break emotional attachment

 Since volunteering in Uganda usually involves working in vulnerable communities, it usually comes with a strong emotional attachment in the end. Imagine volunteering in an orphanage such as Love Uganda Foundation Orphanage in Kalaji–Mukono, the kids have emotional stories but seeing them smile because of your services can result in getting strongly emotionally attached. In the event that you do not have time to extend your volunteering period, you will end up feeling hurt when bidding farewell to them.

The attachment can also come from friends that you make during your volunteer period in Uganda. Imagine the person who offered you a bottle of water the first time you arrived in Uganda. There is that guide who has been translating for you so that you can communicate with the local members of the communities in which you have been volunteering. All that comes

However, emotions are a normal part of human life and you should therefore not be discouraged to come and your services in such projects.

  • The new environment may not be friendly

The other common challenge associated with volunteering is the negative effects of changing the environment. This affects both socially and emotionally. Sometimes you are required to leave your families and loved ones behind and go volunteering. This means no more movie nights on Fridays or Weekends at the theatre or watching football.

To some people, a changing environment may result in allergies, food poisoning, malaria, and nausea, to mention but a few. Some parts of Uganda are dusty while others are muddy depending on the season. Some volunteers might not be used to all-day sunshine and hence find it a challenge during their volunteering period.

  • Getting exhausted while at work

Volunteering

Volunteers in Uganda fetching water with children

Usually, volunteer jobs in Uganda are more physical than mental. The common ones include the construction of houses, schools, water sources like boreholes, and teaching, to point out just a few. All these activities require some degree of physical strength and a lot of energy. If you have not been used to such, adapting can be challenging.

This is why we advise you to carefully understand the project and the nature of the job you will be doing before making your way to Uganda. It is equally important to read the job description before requesting for the opportunity to volunteer.

  • Poor Communication due to language barrier

Traveling to a new country for volunteering means interacting with different people speaking different languages. Uganda has over 40 tribes each speaking a different language with the official language being English followed by Kiswahili and then Luganda.

In deeper parts of the country, it might be difficult for you to find a single person speaking the language that you know especially if it is not English.

Working in such communities requires you to have the knowledge of the basic words in the local languages otherwise life can be difficult for you. Learn to be patient, listen, and try to learn the local language. By doing this small gesture, you will make the local staff feel important and happy.

This should as well not be a big scare and sit on your passion to volunteer in Uganda. Most of the organizations attach foreign volunteers to projects that have locals who speak their languages.

  • Undervalued Positions

Irrespective of how much work volunteers do, they are usually considered to be doing less than what they are supposed to be doing.

Society feels that volunteers do not give enough as they are not paid. Some feel like they better have two paid employees than have a single volunteer. This is not 100% true as we have seen the work of volunteers in the past.

What are the major challenges of Volunteering in Uganda – on the side of the organization or community?

While volunteers face quite a number of challenges as some have been discussed above, the communities and the organizations in which volunteers offer their services equally face multiple challenges. Below is a glimpse of what they go through;

  • Few Resources

Organizations face the challenge of inadequate resources to facilitate volunteers alongside running the organizational day-to-day needs. It should be noted that the majority of the organizations get their funding from donors and a little volunteer fees. They face challenges with accommodation and food for volunteers especially when the numbers are high.

The common thread in all of these challenges is a lack of a dedicated volunteer manager position. Some organizations, especially those that serve a large audience and draw high numbers of volunteers, do employ a person or persons whose sole job is to maintain an effective volunteer program.

  • Recruitment

Recruiting volunteers is not an easy process as well. It is much like the recruitment of other employees. Once the organization does not have a well-financed human resources budget, they may experience a real nightmare.

It is important for organizations to plan according. This ensures that that the Volunteer fees collected from volunteers are enough to sustain their stay during their period of volunteering. Encouraging your existing volunteers to recruit their friends and family is another popular strategy. Simply ask them if you know anyone who has the time, energy, and inclination to get involved and you should get some great referrals.

  • Volunteer Retention

Organizations in Uganda usually want to retain excellent performing volunteers and end up luring themselves into a financial trap.  Poor planning may cause  volunteer management challenges

Additionally, volunteers who are to be retained ask for quite a bigger amount of remuneration which organizations may not afford. The organizations end up giving up on volunteers.

The best solution here is for volunteers and their organizations to reach an agreement that is mutual so that no one feels like they are being cheated.

  • Limited time offered by Volunteers

Unlike the scenarios where organizations do not have enough money to retain volunteers, in this case, it is volunteers who do not have time to dedicate to the organizations. They find it so challenging and go back home in the shortest time possible. There are some volunteers who perform far better than the permanent employees. This implies that the organization will miss theory services for the rest of their lives.

  • Difficulty in balancing Cultures since volunteers come from different parts of the world.

Diversity in cultures can tend to be a problem for volunteer organizations and communities as well. Volunteers from different parts of the world become difficult to manage in terms of their ways of life. While this one likes this type of food, the other one does not like it. This becomes a great challenge especially if they are to work in the same place.

In conclusion therefore, there are challenges faced while Volunteering in Uganda, however, these challenges have solutions. Knowing a disease is being half cured. Now that you have known the challenges faced while Volunteering in Uganda, find the right organization and start your journey. Become a Volunteer Now. 

World TB Day “Invest to End TB. Save Lives”
Webmasters March 25, 2022 No Comments

World TB Day “Invest to End TB. Save Lives”

On March 24, we highlight World Tuberculosis Day to bring attention to the TB epidemic’s devastating health, economic, and social consequences and to step up efforts to end it. Robert Koch announced in 1882 that he had discovered the bacteria that causes tuberculosis, which led to the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Numbers

TB is the number 4 cause of death among communicable, maternal neonatal, and nutritional diseases. There is an estimated increase in the number of people who develop TB (90,000). Among them 12,000 were children. 7,400 people died because of TB.

Uganda is ranked among 20 countries worldwide with the highest TB infection burden. According to a health official, 3,646 TB cases couldn’t be diagnosed last year in the Lango sub-region, which is among the three sub-regions with the highest burden of TB infections.

World TB Day aims to raise awareness about TB in the Lango sub-region, which is among the three regions of the country with the highest burden, making TB a public health problem in Uganda, and that is why the Lango sub-region will be hosting the event.

Covid-19 negatively impacted the fight against TB in Uganda, since a lot occurred in between.

As a result of all the restrictions put in place with Covid-19, we missed diagnosing 10,739 TB cases from January to December 2020, meaning these people are at large infecting others in the community.

Uganda and the rest of the world are preparing to celebrate world Tuberculosis Day (TB) on March 24, 2022, and Lira City has been selected to host the affair.

TB remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases in the world. Each day, more than 4100 people die from TB and over 28,000 people become ill with this preventable and curable disease. Approximately 66 million lives have been saved through global efforts to combat TB since 2000. Although decades of progress have been made in the fight against TB, the COVID-19 pandemic has reversed those gains. In 2020, TB deaths increased for the first time in over a decade.

 

Invest to End TB. Save Lives. World TB Day 2022 stresses increasing resources to fight TB and achieve the commitment made by global leaders in order to end TB. Ensure equitable access to prevention and care in line with WHO’s drive to attain Universal Health Coverage, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic that threatens the progress towards End TB.

Millions of more lives will be saved if more investment is made, accelerating the end of the TB epidemic.

According to World Health Organization, 66,000,000 lives saved since 2000 by global efforts to end TB. 9,900,000 people fell ill with TB in 2020 and 1,500,000 people died of TB in 20202.

Call for action.

  • Know the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures of TB.
  • Get tested, get treated, and follow your doctor’s advice if you think you have TB
  • Don’t believe in myths or misinformation
  • Stand up against TB stigma and discrimination
  • Invest in resources, support, care, and information to defeat TB.
  • Engage young people in TB advocacy.
  • Provide resources, advice, and support to TB patients in the community.
  • Promote the provision of high-quality essential TB services during the COVID pandemic;
  • Integrate TB into routine health interventions;
  • Provide compassionate care that respects human rights and is stigma-free;
  • Make sure you are trained and have the latest guidance on TB treatment and care available to you

 

 

World Water day; “GROUNDWATER, MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE”

 “GROUNDWATER, MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE”

Each year on 22 March, World Water Day draws attention to the importance of freshwater and argues for sustainable management of freshwater resources. This involves addressing the global water crisis in support of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030.

The chemical elements hydrogen and oxygen make up water, a substance that exists in gaseous, liquid, and solid states. Water is one of the most abundant and critical compounds on earth. As a tasteless and odorless liquid at room temperature, it has the remarkable property of dissolving many other substances. Living organisms depend on the versatility of water as a solvent. Living organisms rely on aqueous solutions, such as blood and digestive juices, for biological processes. Life is believed to have originated in the aqueous solutions of the world’s oceans.

Importance of water.

Water is very important in many fields in Uganda for example in Agriculture, to people, etc.

World Water day; “GROUNDWATER: MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE”

The health of people

  • Water boosts energy. It provides essential nutrients to all of our cells, including muscle cells, preventing muscle fatigue.
  • Water helps with weight loss. It keeps you full longer without adding any calories to your diet. Water and foods with a high water content can help you lose weight.
  • Water aids digestion. Constipation and other abdominal issues can be treated with water, especially for people suffering from IBS. Water aids digestion.
  • Water detoxifies. Moves toxins out of your system faster, and optimizes kidney function. Dehydration impairs kidney function.
  • Water hydrates skin. Water is the most effective way to prevent wrinkles and aging of the skin.

Agriculture.

According to the World bank “Water is a critical input for agricultural production and plays an important role in food security”. Water in Agriculture has the following uses

  • As of now, many people around the world are using irrigation methods to improve the quality of agricultural products hence leading to food security.
  • Spraying pests on the plants and insects on the animals.
 Water for Livestock
  • Drinking water for livestock. To maintain their feed intake, animals need access to a ready water supply that is uncontaminated.
  • Animals need water for their healthy development and growth. The quality of end products such as meat and milk depends on the quality of animal feed including water.

 

Over the years world water day has been celebrated and themes have been created to create awareness all around the world. Below are some of the themes that have been used;

Years Theme
2014 Water and Energy
2015 Water and Sustainable Development
2016 Better Water, Better  Job
2017 Why Waste Water?
2018 Nature for water
2019 Leaving No One Behind
2020 Water and Climate Change
2021 Valuing Water
The theme of World Water day 2022

“Groundwater, Making the Invisible Visible” is the theme of world water day 2022. Groundwater is water found underground in aquifers which are a geological formation of rocks, sands, and gravels that hold substantial Quantities of water.

It feeds springs, rivers, lakes, and wetlands and leaks into oceans. In the same way, it is recharged mainly from rain and snowfall infiltrating the ground. Groundwater is the largest source of fresh water on earth. Despite it being stored underneath the surface it is often underlooked.

 International Groundwater Resources Assessment Centre (IGRAC) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) initiated a World Water Day exclusively focused on this resource.

World water day campaign is built around three main groundwater-related topics namely:

First the visible ingredient in the food.

Secondly, a resource without borders.

Thirdly, a finite supply.

In Uganda, 61% of the country’s water is from a groundwater source, accessed from springs and boreholes around Lake Victoria and south-western Uganda. The major water supply in the rural, semi-arid areas in Uganda is from the Groundwater.

Water problems aren’t just about water but it’s a problem of life, environment, and health. It’s about time we rethink how we value water.  Every drop matters. Don’t let the pandemic lead us to scarcity. Do the earth a favor and be a water saver this world water day.

Groundwater will become more and more significant as climate change worsens. To sustainably manage this precious resource, we must work together. Despite being out of sight, groundwater must not be forgotten.

 

 

IWD 2022 CAMPAIGN THEME: #BREAKTHEBIAS
Webmasters March 17, 2022 No Comments

IWD 2022 CAMPAIGN THEME: #BREAKTHEBIAS

IWD 2022 CAMPAIGN THEME: #BREAKTHEBIAS

Being a woman is like walking from one country to another. In a world where men think they have the power over everything including women and their bodies. We live in a society where women think they are met to just be given by men. And this makes them lazy not to work for themselves. A girl grows up being told that the result is to get married. So there is no reason for her to go to school. But all that has to stop today and now. Women can be anything like men or even more.

Women and men must question their conscious and subconscious views if they want to #BreakTheBias.

#BreakTheBias is the way to go. We have to make sure we break all the histories that put women down in all sectors and areas in our countries and societies. Men should learn how to handle women and vice versa.

According to research, by the age of 2-3 years old, children begin to grasp basic associations between objects and activities, including the relationship between gender and sex. Children’s choices of sports, school subjects, and attitudes begin to be influenced by these stereotypes as they enter primary school.

It is particularly common in societies that pressure children to conform to their gender. Such as those where boys are pressured to withhold their emotions to show strength, for children to learn that conformity will lead to positive treatment if they follow the norms.

We are prevented from truly being free because of our preconceived notions about others and ourselves. To #BreakTheBias, we need to understand that if we feel limited by our gender, it is probably due to bias rather than ability.

VISUALISE A WORLD WHERE GENDER IS EQUAL.

We envision a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Diversity should be valued and celebrated. Together, we will advance the equality of women. It’s time to #BreakTheBias collectively.

Throughout the day, we are all responsible for our rights and actions.

Together, we can eliminate bias from our communities.

Our workplaces can become more diverse.

We can eliminate bias in schools, colleges, and universities.

By working together, we can break the biases – on International Women’s Day (IWD) and beyond.

 

Volunteering in Uganda calls upon the global community to support women to realize their full potential as leaders in all professional spheres.

That said, be part of the call by volunteering with us.

GENDER EQUALITY TODAY FOR A SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW. INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2022
Webmasters March 8, 2022 No Comments

GENDER EQUALITY TODAY FOR A SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW. INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2022

Every year, International Women’s Day falls on 8 March. In it, ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities can reflect on their progress, demand change, and celebrate their acts of courage and determination.

HISTORY OF THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY.

On February 28, 1909, the Socialist Party of America organized the first National Women’s Day in New York. Labor activist Theresa Malkiel suggested this and it commemorated protests against garment workers in the city. Later in 1910, German delegates took inspiration from socialists in the United States and proposed a day for women, although no specific date was declared.

Women’s Day was celebrated by the United Nations in 1975, and the UN General Assembly proclaimed March 8 International Women’s Day for women’s rights and world peace in 1977. The UN has been celebrating the day every year with a different theme.

In addition to celebrating women’s achievements on this day, it also raises awareness about women’s equality and accelerates gender parity, as well as raises funds for various female-focused charities.

The women’s day comes at a time when the women’s and girl’s rights clock is going backward in most of the countries for example Uganda due to the pandemic. COVID-19 pandemic has kept girls and women out of schools and workplaces opening them up to poverty and rising violence. Women are the most unpaid workers. Also, women are targets of violence and abuse, just because of their gender. Women are outrageously under-represented in halls of power and the boardrooms of business.

Uganda

In Uganda, women suffer from many rights issues, such as domestic violence and sexual abuse. Approximately half of all women have experienced some form of domestic violence from their husbands or partner. In addition, many women live in poverty and have limited opportunities to get an education.

Although some government efforts have been made to improve the status of women in Uganda, many say that these efforts have not yet made a significant impact.

 

 

International women’s day 2022 theme.

This year’s theme “Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow” is to remind us that women bear the brunt of climate change and environmental degradation.

Among the greatest global challenges of the 21st century is advancing gender equality within the context of the climate crisis and disaster risk reduction.

Climate change is increasingly recognized as having a greater impact on women than on men. This is because women make up the majority of the world’s poor and depend on the natural resources that climate change threatens the most.

Moreover, women and girls are powerful and effective change-makers for climate adaptation and mitigation. Globally, they are engaged in sustainability initiatives and their participation and leadership result in more effective climate action.

Impact of climate change and inequality

The Climate Crisis is not gender-neutral. The greatest impacts of climate change affect women and girls. This amplifies existing gender inequalities and poses unique threats to their livelihoods, health, and safety.

Around the world, women rely more on yet have less access to, natural resources. Food, water, and fuel are disproportionately sourced by women in many regions. In low- and lower-middle-income countries, women are disproportionately employed in agriculture; during times of drought and erratic rainfall, they work harder for the survival of their families.

Women and girls across the globe are becoming more vulnerable to gender-based violence as climate change fuels conflict, including conflict-related sexual violence, human trafficking, child marriage, and other forms of violence.

Due to long-standing gender inequalities that create disparities in information, mobility, decision-making, and access to resources and training, women are less likely to survive a disaster and are more likely to be injured. After a disaster, women, and girls have a harder time accessing relief and assistance. In turn, this creates a vicious circle of vulnerability to future disasters, further eroding their livelihoods, wellbeing, and recovery.

By limiting access to services and health care, climate change and disasters threaten the health of women and girls. It also increases risks related to maternal and child health. Research indicates that extreme heat increases stillbirth rates, and climate change is increasing the spread of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus, which cause worse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

MESSAGE FROM THE UN CHIEF ON THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY.

He says “it’s time to turn the clock forward for every woman and girl” and this will be through;

First, by guaranteeing quality education for every girl, so that they can build the lives they want and help make the world a better place for us all.

Secondly, this can be through massive investments in women’s training and decent work.

Next through effective action to end gender-based violence.

Then through bold action to protect our planet.

Through universal care that is fully integrated into social protection systems.

And through targeted measures like gender quotas so we can all benefit from women’s ideas, experience, and leadership everywhere decisions are made.

Gender inequality is essentially a question of power, in a male-dominated world and a male-dominated culture. And power relations must be reversed. We need more women in environment ministers, business leaders and presidents, and prime ministers. Efforts should be made to believe in women that they can push countries to address the climate crisis, develop green jobs, and build a more just and sustainable world.

We cannot emerge from the pandemic with the clock spinning backward on gender equality. There is a need to turn the clock forward on women’s rights. The time is now.

 

Message from Volunteering in Uganda on International women’s day.

Volunteering in Uganda joins the world to celebrate women’s day. We believe that women can do what men can do or even be better. They just need a chance, power, and platform to exercise their rights and become the better version of themselves.

#ClimateAction systematically ignores the rights, priorities, and needs of women and girls, who are uniquely affected by climate change. Climate response efforts must include those most affected by climate change.

Volunteer with us to create awareness and strengthen women to take up their positions.

Stand out. Follow your dreams.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HIV/AIDS AND POVERTY
Webmasters February 16, 2022 No Comments

HIV/AIDS AND POVERTY

HIV/AIDS and poverty have strong bi-directional connections in resource-poor settings. The HIV/AIDS epidemic is both a manifestation of poverty conditions, taking hold where livelihoods are unsustainable, and the result of the epidemic’s overwhelming impact on social and economic conditions. HIV/AIDS is both a cause and an outcome of poverty, and poverty is both a cause and an outcome of HIV/AIDS.

HIV/AIDS and poverty move hand in hand here in Uganda and Africa. Where there is poverty there is HIV and where there are HIV/AIDS poverty lives.

DEFINITIONS

HIV in full is Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. HIV leads to AIDS. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome is AIDS in full.

Amartya Sen defines poverty as a failure to achieve certain minimum capabilities and according to him, the lack of capabilities is absolute. There are two types of poverty namely; Absolute and relative poverty.

Absolute poverty is defined as a condition characterized by severe deprivation of basic human needs. Including food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, health, shelter, education, and information. It depends not only on income but also on access to social services. However, capabilities are fixed over time or in societies.

NUMBERS

In Uganda, 41% of people live in poverty, and almost have of Uganda’s population is under the age of the youngest population in the world. Uganda hosts a number the largest refugee population in Africa.

At this time, about 1.5 million Ugandans have HIV infection. About 10% acquired HIV infection via the mother-child transmission route and studies show that the rate reached 26%. 400,000- 450,000 Uganda have died from HIV/AIDS. And many get HIV from heterosexual transmission.

  • Up to 20% of the continent’s population is disabled, including half of its children.
  • Malnutrition challenges are causing an ever-increasing number of children to grow up stunted.
  • HIV/AIDS leaves children orphaned and in charge of their households at very young ages. According to estimates, there are 32 million orphans in Africa.

 

In its most extreme form, poverty is destitution. The struggle to survive without necessities like food, water, and shelter. This is the reality for almost half of the population of sub-Saharan Africa. Without the most basic needs met, African children cannot imagine a way out of poverty – and the cycle continues.

Sustainable Development Goals

In the sustainable development goals, the issue of poverty is talked about as followers.

  • First No Poverty, end poverty in all its forms everywhere.
  • Second Zero Hunger, end hunger, achieve food security and improve nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.
  • Third Good Health and Well-being, ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
How does HIV/AIDS lead to poverty?

Working-age adults in poverty are left impoverished when they become ill and need treatment. And care due to the loss of income when the earners can no longer work and the increase in expenses due to medical expenses.

Labor force losses are a significant factor in slowing the pace of economic growth at the national level as a result of the epidemic. . Locking some populations, especially in the poorest and least developed countries, into poverty and making them more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.

HIV-affected households face multiple disadvantages when it comes to school access for children. Several factors may lead to children leaving school early. If a household experiences catastrophic medical expenses or loses income, school fees become too expensive. This forces the child to take on domestic or agricultural duties. They have to take care of the sick adults. To replace lost income, the child enters the labor market prematurely. Even to be the sole breadwinner and head of a household of orphans.

Where we come in.

Focusing on reaching out to people prone to HIV/AIDs and poverty.  Volunteering in Uganda trails to reach out. This is through counseling and guidance and encouraging all people to go for HIV testing to know their status.

VIU takes in orphans at the orphanage where we provide them with the basic needs of life. For those in extreme poverty, we lay a hand to them by providing monthly basic needs in our external program.

It won’t be possible to eradicate poverty through anti-poverty programs alone, but rather through democratic participation. And restructuring of economic structures that ensure access to resources, opportunities, and public services for all.

Volunteer with Us in our programs, for example, the Education program, orphanage program, and health program.

Sponsor a child at LUF by following the link https://loveugandafoundation.org/sponsor-a-child-in-uganda/

Donate to us to help those affected with HIV/AIDS and poverty through the link https://www.stewardship.org.uk/partners/20224362

#wearevolunteeringinUganda.

 

 

EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT
Webmasters February 8, 2022 No Comments

EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT

Every child has a right everywhere in the world. Every country’s constitution in the world has children’s rights listed. The Constitution of the Republic of Uganda defines a child as one below the age of eighteen years. So is it with the National Union of the convention on the Rights of Children? Love Uganda Foundation aims at protecting the rights and well-being of children in everything it does.

The Constitution of the Republic of Uganda recognizes the rights of the child. And provides for children’s right to health, right to education, and right to protection from exploitation.  Therefore the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda in chapter 4 section 34  has children’s rights listed.  Furthermore, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of children highlights that children need special care and protection including appropriate legal protection before as well as after birth.

The Declaration of Rights of Children lays down ten principles:

  1. The right to equality, without distinction on account of race, religion, or national origin.
  2. The right to special protection for the child’s physical, mental and social development.
  3.  Right to a name and nationality.
  4. Child’s right to adequate nutrition, housing, and medical services.
  5. The right to special education and treatment when a child is physically or mentally handicapped.
  6. The right to understanding and love by parents and society.
  7. Right to recreational activities and free education.
  8. The right to be among the first to receive relief in all circumstances.
  9. Right to protection against all forms of neglect, cruelty, and exploitation.
  10.  In a spirit of understanding, tolerance, friendship among peoples, and universal brotherhood is a right.

Rights in Uganda.

In the same way, the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda observes the same laws that govern children’s rights.

EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT

Love Uganda Foundation promotes child rights

First, Subject to laws enacted in their best interests, children shall have the right to know. And their parents or those entitled by law to bring them up should care for them. Love Uganda Foundation puts this right at work by becoming parents to the orphans and vulnerable children. We care about them and make them feel like they are with their parents hence promoting their rights.

 

 

 

 

EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT

Education is a right

Secondly,

The responsibility of the State and the parents of the child is to see that they have basic education. Love Uganda Foundation under its campaign “Keep an Orphan in School”. This focuses on making sure that every orphan has access to quality education. This is made possible through donations and sponsorships of orphans.

 

 

 

 

EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT

A child’s health is our priority

Thirdly, Reasons of religion or other beliefs shall not deprive children of medical treatment, education, or any other social or economic benefit. Love Uganda Foundation orphanage provides medical care to all orphans.  Our children go to church on Sunday and have bible studies, music, dance, and drama.

 

EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT

child labor

 

Furthermore,

children are entitled to be protected from social and economic exploitation and shall not be employed in jobs that are dangerous or that interfere with their education. Or adversely impact their health or physical, mental, spiritual, moral, or social development.  Love Uganda Foundation does not support child labor.  So many orphans join the labor market because there is no one to take care of them except themselves. This is where LUF comes in to help these orphans and vulnerable children. By providing them with a home and other basic needs in life.

Then, for clause (4) of this article, children shall be persons under the age of sixteen years. Love Uganda Foundation takes care of orphans and vulnerable children as young as 1 year at the orphanage home.

A child offender who is kept in lawful custody or detention shall be kept separately from adult offenders. Furthermore, LUF’s advocate that children’s cells should be used. This is to prevent them from learning other vises that are not of their age.

Lastly, the law shall accord special protection to orphans and other vulnerable children. LUF follows everything that is written in the National Orphans and Other Vulnerable children policy under the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development. This makes it easy for us to implement and care for orphans and vulnerable children.

 

In brief,

LUF calls upon everyone in your status to join us in creating awareness. And promoting child rights in our communities and country at large. You can join us by sponsoring a child so that she/he can attend school. Donations also do help for example scholastic materials, clothes, and any other thing.

 

 

Close the Care Gap World Cancer Day
Webmasters February 4, 2022 No Comments

CLOSE THE CARE GAP. WORLD CANCER DAY 2022-2024 THEME.

The 4th of February is World Cancer Day all over the world. The theme this year is “Close the Care Gap”. It is aimed at raising awareness of the equity gap that affects almost everyone, in high as well as low and middle-income countries and is costing lives. It is led by the Union for International Cancer Control (ULCC). Certainly, it is aimed to raise awareness, improve education g personal catalyzing, collective and government action.

ABOUT CANCER

Cancer refers to a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Cancer can begin from anywhere in the human body which is made up of trillions of cells.

There are several types of cancer around the world that develop in people. Additionally, the types of cancer are named for the organs where the cancers form. For example, lung cancer starts in the lungs, and brain cancer starts in the brain.

According to the World Health Organization, says that cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020. As a consequence of tobacco use, high body mass index, alcohol consumption, low fruit, and vegetable intake, and lack of physical activity.

NEW CASES OF CANCER.

First breast cancer 2.26million cases

Second lung cancer 2.21 million cases

Third colon and rectum cancer 1.98 million cases

Fourth is prostate cancer 1.41 million

Followed by skin cancer (non-melanoma) 1.20 million cases

And lastly, stomach cancer were1.09 cases.

The most common causes of cancer deaths in 2020 were

  • Lung cancer 1.80 million deaths
  • Colon and rectum 916 000 deaths
  • Liver cancer 830,000 deaths
  • Stomach 769,000 deaths
  • And lastly breast cancer 685,000 deaths

The Close the Care Gap theme of 2022 is a three-year campaign for impact. This will go on from 2022 to 2024.

IN 2022 IT IS ALL ABOUT REALIZING THE PROBLEM

This first year of the “Close the Care Gap” is about understanding and recognizing the inequities in cancer care around the globe. We have to open up our minds, look for the hard facts and the challenging conventions.

Some of the hard facts that those who have cancer and those who treat them.

The inequity in cancer care costs lives in a way that is visible and invisible. So many people die because the costs for treatment are high, the hospitals don’t have doctors or health workers that are meant to work on those affected.

Factors of income, education, location, and discrimination based on ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, and lifestyle negatively affect care

This is the year to help reduce the stigma and provide a listing ear to the perspectives of the people living with cancer and their communities and let those surviving involvements guide our thoughts and actions. Having a world of healthier people and better access to health and cancer services in the future, no matter where they are born, grow, age, work, or live.

CALL FOR ACTION

It doesn’t matter how big or how small your contribution is. Taking action together will make a significant difference in reducing cancer’s global impact. Young and old, rich and poor, black and white, male and female, trans and non-binary, east and west, followers, leaders, believers, and non-believers. There are far more things that unite us than divide us. Therefore, let’s agree that to close the gap in cancer care, we need to make the world aware that it exists.

Love Uganda Foundation today joins the world to celebrate World Cancer day under the theme “Close the Care Gap”. We come together in raising awareness and educate people on the causes of cancer and its effects on day-to-day living. We stand together today to show support to the fighters, admiring the survivors and honoring the taken.

The sad thing is that we more often hear this word these days and the good thing is that we will end it one day.

 

THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION

THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION.

Education is a right for every child all around the world and it’s for the public good. In 2022, the theme of the international day of education will be “Changing Course, Transforming Education”. It is celebrated on the 24th of January every year. The United Nations General Assembly in 2018 adopted a resolution declaring January 24th as an International Day of Education. This was to mark the importance of education in peace and development.  To reinforce transformative actions for equitable, inclusive, and quality education for all as it was co-authored by Nigeria and other member states. In addition, it is also an opportunity to endorse the role of education for all.   Indeed, it’s the fourth year of celebrations since the first-ever in 2019.

The objectives of International Day of Education 2022 are listed below.

  • Reassure commitments and follow-up on measures taken to protect education through increased inclusion and reduced drop-out.
  • Celebrate steps in the right direction taken by educators, governments, and organizations from grassroots to global efforts. This includes partnerships and associations demonstrating the possibility to refurnish education to the principles of equity and relevance.
  • Highlight effective law practices and equitable finance policies for education that effectively target the most disadvantaged section via PEER, a tool featured on UNESCO’S Global Education Monitoring Report Website.
  • Give a voice to the pandemic generation to help them express their aspirations and concerns in the face of tomorrow decided by the economic recession and climate.
Numbers

For example, around the world, 285,000,000 children don’t attend school, and 617,000,000, can’t read nor do basic math. In the sub-Saharan region, 40% of girls are unable to complete lower secondary school. And 4 million children and refugees are out of school.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused chaos in education worldwide. About 1.6 billion school and college-going students had their studies interrupted at the peak of the pandemic and it’s not over yet. The regular closing of schools, exacerbating exacerbates the global learning crisis-affected over 31 million students. Now is the time to talk action.  Increase from 53 to 70 percent in developing countries among children who are unable to read.

The confusion in education extends beyond issues of access and inequality. With the rapid development of technology, the world is changing at a dizzying pace. Even, there is a climate emergency and a widespread loss of trust between people. And institutions, along with unprecedented changes in the world of work. Education systems struggle to provide us with the knowledge, skills. And valves we need for a greener, safer, and better future.

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

It is a crucial enabler for the entire 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Education is SDG4 “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” So now is the right time to renew our commitment to education. We must invest in comprehensive plans for helping students recover from learning losses. We must place education at the center of broader recovery efforts aimed at transforming economics and societies and accelerating progress on sustainable development.

it means building financial solidarity with developing countries and undertaking a process of reflection and analysis. The goal is to identify how national systems can evolve and transform between now and 2030. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged everyone to unite around education as a public good and a top political priority for recovery and beyond.

According to UNESCO, the purpose of the International Day of Education is to showcase the most significant changes that need to be nurtured. We must do this to ensure that everyone has access to education. We will discuss how to strengthen education as a public good and for the common good. Steering the digital transformation, supporting teachers, safeguarding the planet, and unlocking every person’s potential to contribute to collective well-being and our shared home.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION

WHY DO WE NEED EDUCATION?

Education will help in reducing the inequalities among people and improve health standards around the world.

We need education to eradicate poverty in developing countries.  Improvement in the standards of living through creating jobs.

To achieve gender equality, there must be quality education for all boys and girls

Improved human rights. Thus a solution to early marriages and early pregnancies.

Education will empower children to achieve their goals and lifetime success.

OUR CALL TO ACTION

Volunteering in Uganda calls upon everyone around the world to create awareness of the importance of education. Communities need to understand how far one can go after receiving an education. Volunteering in Uganda strives to ensure orphans and vulnerable children receive a quality education, with the help of sponsorships and donations. Through our volunteering programs for example education programs and Orphanage programs. Through our community outreaches, we create awareness. In the same way,  as empowering women in societies to become skilled and ultimately breaking the poverty circle.