Uganda’s teenage pregnancy rate remains alarmingly high, with deep-rooted impacts. Many pregnancies stem from school dropout, where isolated young girls facing limited support often end up conceiving at an early age. Pregnancy complications are a leading cause of death for girls aged 15–19, exposing young mothers to higher risks of obstructed labor, anaemia, sepsis and infant mortality. Beyond health risks, only 50% of teenage mothers globally graduate high school, creating generational poverty traps that limit income opportunities. Stigma often forces young mothers into early marriage or informal work, severing community ties and eroding self-worth. In Otwal and Barr Sub-counties in Oyam and Lira districts, Uganda where CFI focuses, these challenges intersect with disability inclusion and rural marginalization, compounding vulnerabilities.

CFI’s Socio-Economic Empowerment Program employs hands-on vocational training as a catalyst for change. The shoe design project exemplifies this approach. Participants master material selection, pattern design, stitching, and business skills like costing and marketing, with training aligned to Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) for startup capital access. Workshops accommodate young mothers through childcare spaces and flexible hours, while girls with disabilities receive adapted tools reflecting CFI’s cross-program synergy with its Assistive Technology unit. Local artisans co-teach alongside CFI’s social workers like Program Manager Ponsiano Coda, blending technical expertise with psychosocial support. Over 100 adolescent girls (aged 13–19), including teenage mothers, joined the 6-day training and mentorship. Graduates are expected to earn 2–3 times Uganda’s average daily wage from shoe sales, with GRiC funding critical materials, trainers, and childcare.

A Session On Shoe Design

GRiC’s support extends its legacy of investing in marginalized communities. Having secured a grant to expand tribal broadband access, GRiC understands how infrastructure whether digital or skills-based can catalyze opportunity. Their partnership with CFI reflects a shared vision of empowerment through self-reliance.

The LCI Chairpersons in the two areas provided critical backup support by actively facilitating marginalized girls’ participation in Savings Group formation, financial literacy, through participatory inclusion and capacity building. This duty bearer commitment transformed local attitudes, evident when institutionalized sustainable empowerment through skills, access, and dignity turned rights into tangible outcomes.

Local attitudes evolve as mothers contribute to household incomes. “They will call us ‘businesswomen’ now, not ‘burdens,’” laughs Esther.

CFI’s model proves holistic interventions unlock systemic impact. Trainees access CFI’s Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) education, reducing repeat pregnancy risks. Programs aligned to Alternative Basic Education (ABE) help girls re-enter formal schooling. Critically, 30% of participants with disabilities can access CFI’s customized assistive devices alongside shoemaking tools. As Ben Ocan, CFI’s Executive Director, asserts: “Empowerment isn’t charity. It’s equipping the excluded to write their own narratives.”

In Otwal and Barr sub-counties, adolescent girls are no longer defined by motherhood or marginalization. They are artisans, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. With every shoe crafted a pair sold at market, an order shipped to Kampala they walk taller into a future they designed themselves. Thanks to CFI and GRiC, resilience has a new name: made in Otwal and Barr, stitched with hope.

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The training was designed to equip girls with the foundational tools to navigate financial independence and entrepreneurial success. Over the course of the training, participants explored the importance of disciplined saving, sound business planning, and collaborative group management.

What stood out most was the group’s deep commitment and enthusiasm. With guidance from the CFI team, the girls co-developed a clear and well-structured constitution to govern their new savings group. This document will serve as the backbone of their operations ensuring transparency, trust, and shared leadership. Another key takeaway from the session was the emphasis on market research as a tool for sustainable entrepreneurship. The girls recognized that successful businesses are built on informed decisions, understanding what products or services their communities truly need, and how to meet those needs strategically.

At CFI, we believe in the power of grassroots action and the potential of young people especially girls to drive lasting change. The energy and determination displayed in Otwal and Barr are proof that when empowered with knowledge and support, young women become unstoppable forces for development.

As these girls return to their communities, they carry more than new ideas. They carry a vision a future where financial independence and entrepreneurship become pathways out of poverty and into purpose achieving CFI’s vision and mission of empowering people, changing lives.

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The session began with reflections on the previous week’s topic family planning. Many of the young mothers shared how access to contraception and reproductive health education has helped them make informed choices about their futures. 

A key highlight was the discussion on “Rediscovering Yourself as a Young Mother.” Motherhood at a young age often comes with societal pressures and personal struggles, leaving many teenage mothers feeling like they’ve lost their sense of self. 

“Before I had my baby, I was focused on school and my dreams. Now, I sometimes feel like just a mother and nothing else,” shared one participant. 

The facilitator encouraged the group to explore ways to pursue their passions, continue education, and maintain social connections while embracing their roles as caregivers. Strategies discussed included: 

– Time management – Setting aside moments for self-care and personal growth. 

– Community support – Leaning on peer groups, mentors, and family. 

– Goal-setting – Creating short-term and long-term plans for education and career. 

Beyond personal development, the session emphasized child health and well-being. With malaria remaining a leading cause of illness among children in many communities, the SAIC Project urged mothers to take their children for malaria vaccinations at nearby health facilities. 

“Your child’s health is your priority. Vaccination is a simple step that can save lives,” emphasized one of the health workers present. 

The discussion also touched on myths and fears around vaccinations, with facilitators providing factual information to dispel misconceptions. 

The SAIC Project doesn’t just stop at motherhood support it also advocates for comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) education. Many teenage pregnancies result from lack of access to SRH information and services. The project aims to (not the overall objective): 

– Educate adolescents on safe sex, contraception, and bodily autonomy. 

– Reduce stigma around teenage pregnancy by fostering supportive communities. 

– Connect young mothers with healthcare services, including postnatal care and family planning. 

By addressing both immediate needs and long-term empowerment, the SAIC Project is helping teenage mothers reclaim their futures while raising healthy children. 

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The dental camp provided a range of services, including routine cleanings to complex procedures. Here’s a breakdown of the services provided:

• Cleanings:
  • Simple: 4
  • Moderate: 10
  • Deep: 40
• Extractions: 1,375 (addressing severe cases of dental decay and infections)
• Fillings:
  • Composite Fillings: 13
  • Glass Ionomer (GI) Fillings: 27
  • Intermediate Restorative Material (IRM) Fillings: 16
• Root Canal Therapy:
  • RCT Started: 5
  • RCT Completed: 2

The high number of extractions highlights the urgent need for preventive dental education and treatment accessibility. However, the camp not only addressed immediate concerns but also provided fillings, root canal treatments, and deep cleanings to save and restore teeth wherever possible.

In addition to dental procedures, the camp emphasized oral health education, teaching proper hygiene practices to prevent future dental complications. Patients were advised on brushing techniques, diet choices, and the importance of regular check-ups.

Community Focus International in partnership with HopeSmiles remains committed to expanding its outreach and continuing to serve vulnerable populations in Uganda. This initiative would not have been possible without the dedicated team of dental professionals, volunteers, and community partners who contributed their time and expertise.

The HopeSmiles Dental Camp has brought hope and relief to the communities in Oyam District. As we continue to serve and support these communities, we remain committed to our mission of providing access to quality dental care and promoting oral health education.

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Cerebral palsy affects movement and muscle coordination, making everyday tasks a challenge. Limited access to assistive devices exacerbates the struggle for independence and inclusion. The donation of these customized wheelchairs marks a significant step towards addressing these challenges.

Speaking at the event, CFI’s Program Manager, Ponsiano Coda, expressed gratitude to World Vision for their unwavering support. “This partnership and donation are not just about mobility; it’s about restoring dignity, independence, and hope for many families. These wheelchairs will enable beneficiaries to move freely, attend school, and participate in daily activities without excessive strain on caregivers.”

World Vision’s representative, Caroline Nabasirye, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting people with disabilities. “At World Vision, we believe in a world where no one is left behind. We are proud to partner with Community Focus International in ensuring that children with cerebral palsy receive the necessary support to thrive. Access to mobility is a fundamental right, and we will continue working towards inclusive communities.”

Beneficiaries and their families shared their joy and appreciation during the event. Prossy Akullu, a mother of one of the recipients, described how the wheelchair would transform her child’s life. “Before this, carrying my daughter everywhere was exhausting, and she often missed school because of it. Now, she can move more easily, and I can focus on my tailoring project. We are truly grateful.”

Local leaders and government representatives praised the collaboration between CFI and World Vision, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing social challenges. Nicholas Opio, LC 3 chairperson of Iceme Sub-county, commended the efforts and encouraged more organizations to follow this example.

The distribution of these wheelchair is part of CFI’s broader commitment to advocating for persons with disabilities, ensuring they have access to essential services and opportunities. Moving forward, the organization aims to expand such programs, advocating for better healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

As the event concluded, the smiles on the faces of the recipients and their families were a powerful reminder of the impact of collective action. With continued support from partners like World Vision, CFI remains dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of the most vulnerable members of society.

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In rural areas, accessing books has long been a challenge due to limited funds and resources. However, Community Focus International (CFI) has partnered with Read to Learn (NGO) to launch the innovative “Literacy on Wheels project”. This groundbreaking initiative brings mobile libraries, staffed by trained Literacy Champions, directly into communities, fostering a love for reading among children and their families.

The Literacy on Wheels project has already started making waves in Barapwo primary school and Omito primary school (Lira city), and Otwal P.7 and Anyomolyec Primary school (Oyam district). By integrating this project into CFI’s Alternative Basic Education (ABE) program, the aim is to create a holistic approach to education, focusing on foundational skills, life skills, and early childhood development.

The success of past projects has shown that community-centered education, with continuous support from families and local leaders, is key to sustainable learning environments. By engaging parents, teachers, and community volunteers, CFI can promote confident, capable learners within supportive communities.

With Literacy on Wheels, the possibilities are endless. It’s time to put the wheels in motion and bring the joy of reading to every child, no matter where they live.

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Teaching at the Right Level is a transformative, evidence-based approach designed to help educators tailor their teaching strategies to meet the diverse learning needs of students. This model ensures that every child, regardless of their starting point, has the opportunity to succeed. Rather than focusing solely on grade level, TaRL emphasizes teaching students according to their individual learning levels.

The model specifically addresses the issue of grade-level learning gaps, especially in early education. By focusing on mastery of foundational skills before advancing to more complex concepts, TaRL helps students build the strong educational foundation they need for future success.

Teachers from Abunga Primary School, Otwal Primary School, and Abilinino Primary School (Lango) as well as Ombaci Primary School and Ozuu Primary School (Arua City) participated in the three-day workshop. The training empowered 27 teachers (21 female, 9 male) to implement targeted instruction that accommodates each learner’s unique learning journey.

The TaRL method encourages a shift away from traditional, one-size-fits-all teaching practices and promotes personalized learning. This approach leads to improved student understanding, higher engagement, and better long-term academic outcomes. As the TaRL model gains traction in more schools, it is expected to foster greater educational equity, empowering learners at every stage of their development.

What is Teaching at the Right Level?

Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) is an evidence-based educational model designed to address grade-level learning gaps, particularly in early education. The approach emphasizes assessing each student’s current learning level and providing targeted instruction based on their individual needs, rather than adhering strictly to their chronological grade level.

By helping learners master foundational skills before moving on to more complex concepts, TaRL ensures that learners progress at their own pace. This personalized learning model not only boosts understanding and engagement but also promotes long-term academic success. As more schools adopt TaRL, the potential for positive, community-wide educational transformation is vast, contributing to greater equity and better outcomes for students across the board.

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Oyam – In Uganda’s Oyam District, a transformative program aimed at improving financial inclusion and empowering rural communities is gaining momentum. The Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) model is creating opportunities for economic growth, reducing poverty, and fostering self-reliance among local groups. VSLAs are helping empower marginalized communities by providing access to savings, credit, and financial education in areas where formal banking services are scarce.

On 13^th December 2024, Community Focus International (CFI) team conducted a monitoring visit to four Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) groups in Oyam District including; Atek Ilwak in Amukugu parish, Ogwalo Note in Pii Yic parish, Par Pi Diki (Wanglobo parish and Obanga Twero in Bario parish. These VSLAs are inclusive groups formed by CFI specifically for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

In recent years, CFI has been instrumental in setting up these groups to create opportunities for PWDs to overcome economic barriers. The support from CFI, including revolving funds and knowledge sharing, helps these individuals to become financially independent and active participants in their communities. The groups meet on a weekly basis, and this report provides an overview of their activities, savings progress, and the impact of the financial assistance provided.

The total savings across the four groups reflect strong financial growth for the year 2024, with notable amounts saved in each group. These savings are critical for the groups’ financial sustainability and provide a significant foundation for future borrowing and lending activities for all the groups.

In the year 2024, all the four groups demonstrated strong participation with an average attendance rate of 75%, which reflects the commitment of members to the group activities. Notably, Par Pi Diki and Obanga Twero groups achieved a higher attendance rate of 85%, showcasing greater member engagement in these locations and also when critically observed these two groups have the highest rate of saving compared to other groups.

Successfully, the groups have managed their revolving funds, with none of the groups reporting any defaulters, an aspect seen to maintain trust, and financial discipline within the different groups.

Despite the milestone, there is a need to embrace digital channels of handling and keeping record for future references and proper accountability while recommending continued monitoring to ensure the sustainability of the groups. Additionally, regular training on financial management and leadership are further required to boost the strength and existence of the groups.

In conclusion, with active participation across all the group members and significant progress in savings accumulation. The support provided by CFI, through revolving funds, has helped boost the groups’ borrowing while the absence of defaulters in all groups is a clear indicator of the success of the financial management strategies employed by the members.

These VSLAs are not just about saving and borrowing, they are a vital resource for members to improve their lives and the lives of their families. The ability to repair mobility devices ensures greater independence, while the funds for sending children to school help create a brighter future for the next generation. Furthermore, the ability to access loans for food and other needs directly contributes to better health and well-being for these families.

What you need to know

1. Atek Ilwak VSLA – Location: Amukugu Parish – Number of Members: 50

2. Ogwalo Note VSLA – Location: Pii Yic Parish – Number of Members: 27

3. Par Pi Diki VSLA – Location: Wanlobo Parish – Number of Members: 30

4. Obanga Twero VSLA – Location: Bario Parish – Number of Members: 22

THE END

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Customized just for You

A Community Focus International and Plan International Uganda Initiative.

Community Focus International, in partnership with Plan International Uganda, is implementing the Safe and Inclusive Cities project, which aims to promote gender equality and prevent sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in public transport systems. As part of this project, we recently organized an innovative activity that brought together male figures to sensitize them on SGBV, Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH), and SGBV in public transport systems.

The “Male Champions for Safe Cities” activity was designed to engage men as allies in the fight against SGBV and promote their role in creating safer and more inclusive public spaces. The event brought together over 8 male participants, including community leaders, transport operators, and local authorities.

Through interactive discussions, role-plays, and presentations, the male participants were sensitized on the following key issues:

• The impact of SGBV on individuals, families, and communities.
• The importance of SRH services and information for all.
• The role of men in preventing SGBV and supporting survivors.
• The need for safe and inclusive public transport systems.

The activity provided a platform for the male participants to share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions on how to address SGBV and promote gender equality in their communities.

The outcomes of the activity were remarkable, with many participants committing to become champions for change in their respective spheres of influence. Some of the key outcomes included:

• Increased awareness and understanding of SGBV and SRH issues among male participants.
• Improved attitudes and commitment to support survivors of SGBV.
• Identification of potential male champions to support the project’s activities and advocacy efforts.
• Strengthened partnerships with local authorities and transport operators to promote safe and inclusive public transport systems

As Community Focus International and Plan International Uganda, we believe that engaging men and boys is crucial in preventing SGBV and promoting gender equality. This activity demonstrated the potential for male figures to become powerful allies in creating safe and inclusive cities for all.

We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing our work with male champions to promote gender equality and prevent SGBV in public transport systems.

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