On April 24, 2023, the Uganda Youth and Adolescent Health Forum (UYAHF) team paid a monitoring visit to Amudat district to check on the progress of Every Hours Matters (EHM) campaign peer-led sessions on the provision of post-rape care services being led by the peer facilitators who were trained on the EHM youth engagement toolkit.

Last year (2022), over 30 youth advocates and gatekeepers across seven subregions of Uganda underwent a Training of Trainers (TOT) session on the EHM campaign youth engagement toolkit, which they would use to train other young people and community members on the critical need for the provision of and access to post-rape care services and information.

EHM is a global campaign spearheaded by Together for Girls. It aims to increase awareness about the critical importance of timely access to post-rape care services for survivors of rape, noting that time is of the essence because every hour matters. The campaign asserts that HIV can be prevented if survivors receive life-saving medication (PEP) within 72 hours, emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy if accessed within 120 hours, and medical help for physical trauma may be urgently needed depending on the situation.

During the visit, the UYAHF team led by project officer Joanne Lunkuse took part in one of the peer-led sessions held at Amudat Hospital that attracted 15 young people, including 7 males and 8 females.

The session commenced with Mr. Okello Patrick, the youth focal person at the hospital’s youth-friendly facility department, emphasizing the critical importance of the Every Hour Matters After Rape campaign. He shared that girls are often brought to the hospital for post-abortal care after attempted unsafe abortions, many of whom were victims of sexual abuse.

Loukotum James, a peer facilitator, then kicked off the engagement with a call to the participant to seek immediate help or support a survivor in case of a rape incident to minimize long-term physical, emotional, and psychological damage. He further took the participants through the critical window of the first 72 hours for accessing post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV/AIDS and the importance of emergency contraception within 120 hours to avoid unwanted pregnancies.

Adyeri Yasmin, another peer facilitator, led a session on the various ways to support rape survivors effectively. She emphasized the proper use of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) as an emergency treatment and the importance of not misusing the drugs.

The participants also engaged in role plays, which solidified the lessons by illustrating both good and bad ways to provide support. Participants were encouraged to accept survivors, treat them with respect, ensure confidentiality, and assist them in accessing necessary services and psychosocial support.

INSPIRING TESTIMONIALS:

Anastacia, a participant from Amudat Town Council (TC), expressed newfound hope for preventing HIV and unwanted pregnancies after rape.

Pundon Collins acknowledged a shift in perspective among male participants, realizing the prevalence of rape among young girls and the need for support and understanding. Their powerful testimonials demonstrated the impact and transformative potential of the session. The session not only empowered participants but also ignited a collective commitment to reach others.

YOUNG PEOPLE COMMIT

Otiang Samuel, a young person who resides in Kamwokya ghetto, a sexual abuse hot spot in the district, pledged to support at-risk young girls in the area by providing them with vital information on dealing with sexual violence. Participants also recognized the potential of radio stations, such as Kalya FM, to spread awareness effectively. Plans were made to organize a radio talk show facilitated by UYAHF, allowing for broader sensitization efforts within the Amudat.

The peer-led session proved to be a catalyst for change. Participants were equipped with essential knowledge, empowered to support survivors, and inspired to advocate for the eradication of rape and teenage pregnancies. The event showcased the immense potential of community-led initiatives to address pressing issues and bring about transformative social change.