From addiction to empowerment in Uganda

Success story - 2024-12-20
Alcohol abuse is a widespread problem in Uganda, significantly affecting the Teso region. The consequences of alcohol consumption here are devastating, ranging from families suffering from hunger to children being forced to drop out of school. The IOGT-NTO Movement and the Uganda Girl Guides Association are collaborating to empower young people and combat the harmful effects of alcohol.

Sustainable development at the grassroots level

The partnership is built on mutual understanding and transparency. Together, the organizations have worked to educate and mobilise communities. By engaging young leaders—known as peer-to-peer educators—the project has reached the grassroots level with messages about the dangers of alcohol. These educators have raised awareness among both adults and children while mobilising local communities to develop solutions.

Increased awareness and tangible results

The project has led to concrete improvements. Local alcohol laws have been introduced in the districts of Komi and Soroti, regulating how, where, and when alcohol can be sold. These measures have contributed to safer communities where more children can attend school and families have better opportunities to support themselves. Food production has increased, and parents have better understood their responsibilities toward their children's futures.

Capacity-building initiatives for sustainable communities

Beyond combating alcohol abuse, the project has also strengthened the Uganda Girl Guides Association as an organization. With support from the IOGT-NTO Movement, they have improved financial management, developed reporting systems, and built capacity for monitoring and evaluation. This has better equipped them to address more community challenges in the long term.

Individuals transforming their lives

The project has had a profound impact on individuals. Beatrice shares how support from the Uganda Girl Guides Association helped her change her life, secure employment, and start dreaming of establishing her own business. Her story demonstrates that individual initiatives can create ripples of change, contributing to the development of the entire community.

An inspiring partnership

The collaboration between the IOGT-NTO Movement and the Uganda Girl Guides Association is an example of how civil society organizations can achieve lasting change. By combining local engagement with international support, the project has not only raised awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol but also created tangible changes that strengthen the community’s future.

About the Swedish Partnership Programme

Through the Swedish Partnership Program, Swedish organizations, together with one or more local partner organizations, can apply for grants from with the aim of building partnerships and working together for effective and fair development work.

ForumCiv has supported civil society organizations that mobilize people and people's movements in over 70 countries for almost three decades.

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