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UCHD2023
Posted on Categories Article, Featured

CEHURD Media Fellows Shine at the 2024 Uganda National Journalism Awards

Congratulations to the CEHURD media fellows who excelled at the 2024 Uganda National Journalism Awards, presented by the African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME). The awards recognized outstanding journalistic contributions within the Ugandan media landscape, with CEHURD fellows taking home several prestigious accolades.

Sam Ssebuliba, a CEHURD fellow, won the award for Best Health Reporting. Daniel Lutaaya was recognized in the Public Accountability category, while Rhonet Atwiine placed second in Health Reporting. Julius Odeke, a runner-up for Traditional and Cultural Reporting from the New Vision, and Hafiz Bakhit from Arua One FM, a runner-up for Community Reporting, also demonstrated their excellence.

In an interview, Daniel Lutaaya, CEO of News 247 Uganda, attributed his success to the trainings provided by CEHURD on reporting about injustices in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). He stated,

❝Trainings by CEHURD on reporting about injustices in SRHR have spurred my interest in documenting poor public healthcare services, especially in rural communities. One of the winning stories was about a health centre in Terego, West Nile, where midwives were using phone lights and torches to deliver babies at night because the region isn’t connected to electricity. CEHURD has trained me on how best to seek out and tell the health angle of stories. This has become a vital skill for me in my reporting, and I believe it played a great part in winning this award.❞

Samuel Ssebuliba, a Spark TV journalist, expressed his gratitude to CEHURD for supporting him in producing a story that won him an award. He said,

❝The story that CEHURD supported me to do has won me an award. You have really impacted my journalism career. Through CEHURD’s media fellowship, I became aware of numerous under reported SRHR issues that silently impact people, particularly women in remote areas. For instance, in Bagwe Island on Lake Wamala in Kassanda district, where I conducted my story, mothers are dying during childbirth due to lack of access to hospitals.❞

Hafiz Bakhit, another CEHURD fellow, attributed his success to the support received from the organization. He stated,

❝The CEHURD-supported story titled ‘We got pregnant in search for food’ is among the four stories in the body of my submission that earned me this place. The other is also a health piece titled ‘tobacco companies reap trillions as unsuspecting consumers dig own graves,’ which was also inspired by CEHURD after the fellowship. Thank you so much CEHURD for the wake-up call, inspiration, and support.❞

These achievements showcase the positive impact of CEHURD’s efforts in empowering media practitioners and promoting impactful journalism in Uganda. Through the annual media fellowship program, CEHURD has played a crucial role in enhancing journalists’ understanding of reporting on health and human rights issues nationwide.

❝CEHURD’s media fellowship gave me a direction on story angles and pitching impactful stories that change behavioral patterns. The experiences during and after the training put me on a journey to enroll for a human rights course.❞ ~Esther Bridget Nakalya from the Daily Monitor.

The fellowship covers topics such as the Sexual & Reproductive Health & Rights (SRHR) of young people, mental health, Values Clarification & Attitude Transformation, human rights-based approach to SRHR, strategic communication, story pitching, and effective advocacy techniques.

Journalism is a powerful tool for creating change through raising awareness, sparking conversation, and inspiring action, ultimately contributing to a more informed and empathetic society. CEHURD’s media fellowship program continues to equip journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge to produce impactful stories that make a difference in the lives of Ugandans.

Compiled by CEHURD’s Communications Department.

Posted on Categories Article, Featured

Empowering Youth Through Health Advocacy

My name is Semanda Anthony, and I am 26 years old. In 2022, I got to know about CEHURD, where I learned about the right to health and advocacy for young people’s sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Initially, I was unaware of my health rights, but CEHURD clarified this by explaining the process of health service delivery using the triple AAA framework.

Before joining CEHURD, I lacked knowledge about sexual and reproductive health and rights, relevant laws, referral pathways, and advocacy for young people’s SRHR. CEHURD has empowered me by enhancing my skills as a peer educator, allowing me to confidently share information with my peers.

I conduct training sessions for young people in various suburbs of Kampala, such as Namuwongo and Mbuya. I teach life skills, including how to be assertive, how to create healthy social and sexual relationships, and the use of different contraceptive options. Additionally, I have provided survival skills through joint savings initiatives.

I proudly advocate for condom use, educating young people on proper usage and disposal. Bravery, a value instilled in me by CEHURD, is something I hold dear. Currently, I serve as the youth chairman in my village of Nsambya, where I raise young people’s issues with relevant stakeholders.

Thanks to CEHURD’s support, I have taken on leadership roles, including my position as a coach with TACKLE Africa, where I share SRHR information with young people through football.

I am grateful to CEHURD for creating opportunities that have enhanced my social capital and positively influenced my career path. I am now working as a peer educator and football coach.

Lastly, I urge all stakeholders to empower boys as much as girls, ensuring that initiatives aimed at the girl child are equally extended to the boy child.

Posted on Categories Article, Featured

Fighting a Monster that Guards My Community’s Gate

A story of a GBV male champion Samuel Muhumuza from Hoima District, Uganda trained under Promise II project (DFPA).

“Of course, I’m a man. How can I be seen cooking or doing any home chores meant for women?” – Sam

Samuel Muhumuza is a Gender-Based Violence male champion from Kigorobya Northern Ward, Hoima District. His passion of being a Gender-Based Violence champion is derived from his personal experience and the trainings he has numerously had with Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD). In my interview with Sam, he passionately shares how he finds it prestigious to do the kind of work he does and how he never wishes to go back to his previous life of being a politician.

“I knew I was a man. Certain gender roles weren’t for me however much they were affecting me. How could I be seen cooking? I would rather die of hunger than cook for myself or for my children even in the absence of their mum. But this narrative changed”. Says Sam

When change knocked Sam’s door, he embraced it and he’s now impacting his community. In Sam’s home, gender roles are shared amongst individuals be it male or female, and he does this openly so that his community can be able to pick a leaf from him.

“I have cows at home, with no herds man. My wife and I share this role. I also collect water for my family, and I have never lost my hands since I started doing so”. Says Sam

As a Gender-Based Violence champion, Sam has had to go head-to-head with some of his notorious cultural norms that spark of Gender-Based Violence. Much as he does his best to change his fellow men’s mindsets in his community, at times he’s looked at as a person trying to erode away his culture. Among the Alurs where Sam grew up from, women are not supposed to eat with men, they instead serve them, sit down and await on them as they eat until when they get done. After the man has gone, then a woman can eat after. Furthermore, a woman has no right to say no to sex if a man requests, regardless of her health condition. Cultural norms in Sam’s community are highly respected and this is something Sam has to deal with each and every day. He fights a monster that happens to safe guards his community.

Sam comes from a community where some people still believe that Gender-Based Violence cases happen in homes because of sorcery, woman’s delay to open the door for the man returning home past midnight is a sign of disrespect and all these can spark-off a fight. But as a champion who has gone through trainings, he clarifies to his community the major causes of Gender-Based Violence and breaks the myths and misconceptions around it.

In spite the criticism towards Sam’s work, he never stops what he does because it gives him a lot of joy. One of the things he proudly delights in is being able to reconcile breaking families through mediations. He even goes further to offer himself as a surety to suspected fellow men of Gender-Based Violence, with hope that when they’re out, he will talk to them and they change. This is a bold move, right? And surely, at least the two men he has stood for have not disappointed him.

“Much as fighting Gender-Based Violence is tedious and resolving its conflicts take a while, it is a worthwhile experience and this gives me pride and joy” – Sam says.

Sam therefore calls upon cultural leaders to join the mantle of putting an end to Gender-Based Violence and the government to be intentional on sensitizing communities on the dangers of Gender-Based Violence, since illiteracy and cultural norms happen to be the leading causes of Gender-Based Violence. He also urges other fellow men who have embraced change to be extemporary to others as he has been to his community.

 

By Faith Nabunya

Communications Officer,

Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD)

Posted on Categories Article, Featured

Embracing Women’s Health, Navigating Menopause in the Workplace

In Uganda, the pursuit of gender equality has seen significant strides in recent years through several initiatives aimed at empowering women in various aspects of life. Initiatives such as the Gender and Equity Certification Program and the National Gender Policy underscore the commitment to addressing gender disparities. However, it is noteworthy that there is a gap in policies explicitly targeting menopause as a workplace challenge.

It is thus essential to shed light on the often-overlooked journey of women in the workplace, especially as they navigate the unique challenges posed by menopause. Contrary to common belief, menopause isn’t exclusively an issue for older women, it can impact women below the age of 40 (pre-mature menopause), significantly affecting their professional and personal lives. This silent transition demands understanding, support, and an inclusive workplace environment to empower women during this critical phase. 

The Hidden Struggles: Menopause brings forth a myriad of challenges that can impact a woman’s physical and mental well-being, potentially influencing her overall job satisfaction and performance. Common symptoms include hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and cognitive changes. These challenges not only undermine a woman’s confidence but also disrupt concentration and impact her ability to handle stress effectively. 

The Working Woman’s Dilemma: The workplace, traditionally structured without considering the specific needs of women experiencing menopause, can inadvertently amplify these challenges. Despite the prevalence of menopause among women, it remains a topic often shrouded in silence and stigma. Many women feel hesitant to openly discuss their experiences, fearing judgment or discrimination in the workplace. This lack of awareness and support perpetuates a culture of silence, hindering women from seeking the help and accommodation they need. As women increasingly play multifaceted roles, balancing career aspirations with societal expectations, the impact of menopause on their professional lives becomes a pertinent aspect to consider.  

Efforts to promote gender equality should expand to encompass policies that address the specific needs of women navigating menopause in the workplace. Recognizing and accommodating the challenges posed by menopause aligns with the broader goal of creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where women can thrive across various life stages, ultimately contributing to a more equitable society. Incorporating menopause considerations into existing gender equality policies can further enhance the overall well-being and empowerment of women in Uganda. 

Special Message to Women: let us celebrate not just our achievements but also acknowledge the unique journey many of us navigate through menopause. It’s a phase that may bring physical and emotional changes, impacting both personal and professional spheres. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Embrace open communication, seek support, and prioritize self-care. Recognize your strength and resilience as you navigate these changes at the workplace. Advocate for your needs, and let’s work collectively to foster understanding, empathy, and positive change. You are valued, empowered, and deserving of a workplace where your well-being is prioritized.  

Examples of Workplace Neglect 

Temperature Control and Comfort: Many workplaces are not designed with consideration for temperature control, comfortable seating, or adequate lighting. This oversight exacerbates symptoms like hot flashes and fatigue. It is important that employers invest in creating a comfortable and supportive workplace environment. This includes adjustable temperature controls, ergonomic seating, and adequate lighting to accommodate women experiencing symptoms like hot flashes and fatigue. 

Flexible Work Arrangements: Some employers fail to provide flexible work hours or remote work options, making it challenging for women to accommodate varying energy levels and the need for extra rest during challenging times. Employers are encouraged to introduce flexible work hours or remote work options to allow women to manage their workloads effectively while dealing with fluctuating energy levels. 

Limited Education and Awareness about menopause: Many workplaces lack educational programs about menopause. This absence of understanding among colleagues and supervisors contributes to a lack of empathy and support for women experiencing these challenges. Workplaces may consider prioritizing implementing educational programs about menopause. This not only raises awareness but also fosters understanding among colleagues and supervisors, encouraging empathy and support. 

Limited Wellness Programs: Some workplaces lack comprehensive wellness initiatives addressing the physical and mental well-being of women going through menopause. This includes insufficient access to counseling, support groups, and fitness programs. Companies should incorporate comprehensive wellness initiatives addressing the physical and mental well-being of women experiencing menopause. This includes providing access to counseling, support groups, and fitness programs. 

Communication Barriers: In workplaces where open conversations about menopause are discouraged or not facilitated, women may feel isolated and unable to express their needs and concerns without fear of judgment. Encouraging open conversations about menopause is crucial. Creating a platform for women to express their needs and concerns without fear of judgment fosters a supportive and inclusive workplace culture. 

Creating a supportive environment for women experiencing menopause is not just an empathetic gesture; it is a workplace necessity. Advocacy for policy changes and the implementation of supportive measures is crucial to ensure that women can navigate this phase without compromising their professional growth. 

Together, let’s embrace women’s health and create a workplace where every woman feels valued, understood, and empowered to succeed.  

With solidarity,

Compiled by Nakalembe Judith Suzan, Community Empowerment Programme, CEHURD. 

 

Posted on Categories Article, Featured, General News

Healing Words: Expressing the Inexpressible Pain of Cancer Loss

By Sarah Akampurira

As we commemorate World Cancer Day 2024, my heart is burdened as I reflect on the loss of a dear one to cancer last year. I implore the government, private sector, and individuals to prioritize the creation of a supportive environment that ensures equitable access to treatment, information, and dignified care for all. The days of perceiving cancer as a distant concern are behind us; it now lives with us, impacting the very fabric of families and our social networks.

In recent times, cases of cancer have increasingly become common regardless of age, sex or any other demographics. In November 2015, Uganda rolled out free Human Papilloma Virus (PHV) vaccination for adolescent girls 10–14 years in its’ immunization schedule across all districts as a primary preventive measure for cervical cancer. Unfortunately, the uptake of HPV vaccination has been low across Uganda which may be due to limited knowledge and unverified information that spreads like wildfire on various media platforms causing fear and resentment among the users. As parents, let us embrace the HPV vaccination programme to ensure that our daughters aged 9 to 14 years are fully vaccinated before becoming sexually active to reduce their chances of getting Cervical cancer.

The 2024 World Cancer Day theme “Together, we challenge those in power” is a call to action for everyone stretching from Global leaders to double our efforts and deliberately work towards investment in cancer prevention and care to prevent early avoidable deaths due to loss of hope, and frustration related to cancer treatment. It is our responsibility to live healthy lives, exercise, eat right, and undergo routine medical check-ups to minimize the chances of cancer and once one is diagnosed, they should be facilitated to enroll in care for proper management.

The pain of seeing your loved one who has always been in charge of everything and everyone around her live in a situation of dependency for years, miss church sessions, work and always weak calls for support beyond the medical needs. When a parent is battling with cancer, family roles change, the other partner and children have to pick up those duties. The children start to act like adults and this becomes overwhelming at times balancing school, friends as well as taking on caregiver roles.

Witnessing a loved one, who has always been a pillar of strength, succumb to a prolonged state of dependency due to cancer is a distressing experience. Beyond the obvious medical requirements, there emerges a call for support that extends to the emotional and practical aspects of life. During the cancer battle, family dynamics undergo a profound shift, necessitating the redistribution of responsibilities among the partner and children. The children, forced into premature roles as caregivers, find themselves grappling with the challenge of juggling academic pursuits, social lives, and the weight of newfound responsibilities. The burden becomes overwhelming, highlighting the multifaceted impact of cancer on the intricate balance of family life. Psycho-social support remains a critical component in cancer care and management that should not only be limited to already identified clients but also the family members who in most cases shoulder the burden of care and support, live in a state of despair engulfed with fears of losing a loved one to the deadly cancer.

“Every single person has the ability to make a difference in the fight against cancer. Together, we challenge those in power to prioritise cancer management and neutralisation and ensure equitable access to cancer care for all.”

Under the leadership of the Ministry of Health- Uganda, deliberate efforts should be invested in creating awareness, through various channels not forgetting media platforms right from the local communities to facilitate behavior change. It’s no longer business as usual. Let us normalize talking about cancer in its entirety during health education talks like any other disease this helps to minimize the fears and also helps the patients to open up and embrace help from friends, health professionals, counselors, and family members even though it may not be easy.

The writer is a Programme Coordinator for Community Empowerment at the Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD).

 

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