EMPOWERING YOUTH AND COMMUNITY VOICES: A WEEK OF ADVOCACY IN KALANGALA ISLAND

In a bold and strategic shift, PTY youth advocates in Kalangala District redirected their focus from local leaders to national legislators and the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), urging them to use their positions of influence to catalyze real change that address the health gaps in the district. They presented a powerful call for action and accountability, emphasizing that empty promises are no longer acceptable.

The youth further encouraged community members to exercise their voting rights wisely in the upcoming elections urging them to elect leaders who are committed to long-term, sustainable solutions to community and young people’s health issues, and youth empowerment among the key service deliverable indicators over short-term political interests.

This bold call was made during a community dialogue, part of a week-long series of community and school outreach activities across the Ssese and Bukasa Islands in Kalangala District. The initiative under the Power to youth programs (PTY) under the consortium partnership of @RHUganda, @uyahf1, and @EASSIGender, and ran from 26th April to 1st May 2025. It was attended by two Members of Parliament: Hon. Moses Kabusu (representative for Kyamuswa County) and Hon. Hellen Nakimuli (Woman MP for Kalangala District).

These integrated activities aimed to amplify youth voices and mobilse community to advocate for improved sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes in the islands and it featured several impactful engagements, including Male Engagement Forums, traditional ‘Ekyoto’ sessions, school outreach programs, and concluded with a vibrant Community Dialogue that brought together a wide array of stakeholders.

Addressing the Youth: Hon. Moses Kabusu and Hon. Hellen Nakimuli Lead the Way.

Throughout the week, the community was honored by the presence of two key policymakers: Hon. Moses Kabusu, Member of Parliament for Kyamuswa County, and Hon. Hellen Nakimuli, Woman MP for Kalangala. Both leaders actively engaged with students at Serwanga Lwanga SSS and Kyamuswa SS, where they delivered motivational sessions on career guidance, the prevention of child marriage, and tackling teenage pregnancy. These sessions proved to be a source of inspiration, with students benefiting from real-life experiences and practical advice that directly addressed their concerns.

Male Engagement Forum: Challenging Harmful Masculinities

A key highlight of the week was the Male Engagement Forum, which aimed to address the pressing issue of harmful masculinity. Discussions focused on the negative impacts of toxic masculinity, which contributes significantly to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). The forum promoted the role of men as allies in the fight for gender equality, encouraging them to become active participants in changing societal norms and supporting women and girls in their journey toward equality.

Ekyoto: A Cultural Approach to Child Protection

In parallel, the traditional ‘Ekyoto’ sessions were held, emphasizing the role of parents in the upbringing and protection of their children. These community gatherings aimed to foster a culture of responsibility, with a particular focus on preventing teenage pregnancies. Local elders and parents were encouraged to actively participate in nurturing safe and supportive environments for girls, ensuring their right to education and protection from early pregnancies.

Community Dialogue: Youth Demands Action

The week culminated in the Community Dialogue, which saw over 100 community members, including young people, local leaders, and policymakers, gather to discuss pressing health and SRH challenges. This dialogue was an essential platform for young people to voice their concerns and demand solutions for issues that have long been overlooked.

 Mugamba Pius, speaking on behalf of the advocates, spoke passionately about the ongoing challenges facing the youth, particularly in the realm of health service delivery. Drawing on data from a recent community scorecard exercise, he highlighted persistent issues such as persistent shortages of health supplies, the absence of youth-friendly SRH services, and a general lack of accountability from local leadership. Despite repeated attempts to engage with local authorities, these issues have remained largely unaddressed.

The success of the week’s activities demonstrates the growing power of youth-led advocacy and the urgency of addressing SRH issues in underserved communities. As the election season approaches, the voices of young people in Kalangala are being heard louder than ever before, calling for lasting change and responsible leadership.