the republic of uganda national child participation strategy

National Child Participation Strategy2017/18 - 2021/22

The Republic of Uganda

Title: National Child Participation Strategy, 2017/18 - 2021/22Publication Year: 2017Publisher: Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social DevelopmentISBN: 978-9970-507-30-6

Copyright © 2017 All rights reserved.

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NationalChild Participation Strategy

2017/18 - 2021/22

The Republic of Uganda

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INTRODUCTION 11.1 Background 11.2 Situation analysis 21.3 The legal and policy framework 41.3.1 International and regional instruments 41.3.2 National legal and policy framework 71.4 Rationale for the child participation strategy 101.5 Guiding principles for child participation 11

IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK, 22 COORDINATION, MONITORING AND EVALUATION 3.1 Key stakeholders and actors 233.2 Monitoring and evaluation 25

INDICATIVE BUDGET 41

CONTENTS

Figure 1: UN Conventions key for child participation 5 Figure 2: Nine basic principles for child participation 13Figure 3: The strategy model 17Table 1: Key stakeholders and actors 24

Chapter 1

Figures & Tables

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Contents iiiAcronyms and abbreviations ivForeword viiAcknowledgments ixExecutive summary xi

THE STRATEGY 162.1 Vision 162.2 Mission 162.3 Goal 162.4 Strategic objectives 162.5 Expected outcomes 182.6 Perspectives on child participation 19

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ACRWC African Charter of the Rights and Welfare of the Child

BCC Behaviour Change Communication

CSOs Civil Society Organizations

CwD Children with Disability

DFID Department for International Development

DLGs District Local Governments

DPSWO District Probation and Social Welfare Officer

EAC East African Community

EU European Union

ICT Information and Communication Technology

IEC Information, Education and Communication

LC Local Council

MoE&S Ministry of Education and Science

MoFPED Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development

MoGLSD Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

MoH Ministry of Health

MoIA Ministry of Internal Affairs

MoJCA Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs

MoLG Ministry of Local Government

MSH Management Sciences for Health

NCA National Children Authority

NCDC National Curriculum Development Centre

NCPG National Child Participation Guide

NCPS National Child Participation Strategy

ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS

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ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS

NPA National Planning Authority

NSPPI National Strategic Programme Plan of Intervention for Orphans and Vulnerable Children

OAU Organization of African Unity

OVC Orphans and Vulnerable Children

OVCMIS Orphans and Vulnerable Children Management Information System

PPP Public Private Partnership

PPSWO Principal Probation Social Welfare Officer

PwDs Persons with Disability

TOTs Training of Trainers

UCC Uganda Communications Commission

UNCRC United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

UNCRPD United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

UNFPA United Nations Population Fund

UNICEF United Nations Children’s Fund

UPDF Uganda People’s Defense Force

UPF Uganda Police Force

UPE Universal Primary Education

UPR Universal Periodic Review

USE Universal Secondary Education

WASH Water Sanitation and Hygiene

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FOREWORD

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The Situation Analysis of Children in Uganda (2015) identifies the development of a National Child Participation Strategy (NCPS) as a key policy intervention. This intervention is within the framework of the

United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and aims to pave the way for child participation in decisions that affect them at national and local levels.

The formulation of this strategy has been highly participatory involving a widely representative cross-section of duty-bearers and rights-holders, who are children. More than 250 children, including refugee children living in Kampala, street children, orphans, children out of school, children from rural communities, children in remand centres and children with disabilities, were involved in consultative focus group sessions that informed this strategy.

The NCPS provides Uganda and all Ugandans with a historic opportunity to transform the role of children in our society.

In view of the above, I wish to extend my most sincere appreciation to all those who participated in this process especially the children, government ministries, agencies and departments, local authorities, the private sector, civil society and community organizations. In doing so, I encourage all stakeholders to support the effective implementation of this strategy.

I congratulate development partners notably UNICEF and Save the Children for the moral, financial and technical support given to the strategy development process.

For God and My Country,

Hon. Janat B. Mukwaya (Hajat) Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

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From the mountains of Moroto to Mount Rwenzori, from Lake Victoria to the crown of the Nile, from the streets of Kampala to Karamoja, your voices still echo in our ears and throughout this strategy.

A simple thank you does not seem enough for the time you spent sharing your insights, your hopes, your pain and your dreams. Your voices have reached corridors and arenas you never thought possible. This strategy is our way of walking together with you on our journey to make change happen.

Thank you to every child who contributed to the development of this strategy. Your voice is at its core and is our inspiration.

We would also like to thank each of the dedicated adult stakeholders who have guided the process and helped us to navigate the way ahead. Thank you for your insights, unity, passion and expertise.

The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development greatly applauds the support from our partners that made the development of this strategy possible.

Development of the strategy has been a long and participatory process. Special thanks to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Save the Children for their technical and financial support.

Pius Bigirimana Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

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Under the leadership of the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MoGLSD), the Government of Uganda has developed the National Child Participation Strategy, with the support of UNICEF and Save the Children. This strategy will set

Uganda on a transformative journey to break the silence and amplify the voices of children across all spheres of decision making that have an impact on their lives.

Within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the Situation Analysis of Children in Uganda 20151 identified the development of a National Child Participation Strategy as a critical policy recommendation. Children’s right to participate is clearly articulated in international instruments, to which Uganda is a signatory, and in several national legal frameworks and policy documents. However, the implementation of children’s right to participate faces many challenges, yet children represent 56% of Uganda’s population.

The National Child Participation Strategy is the first of its kind in Uganda, with significant contributions to its development from more than 250 children. Children have clearly communicated the changes they want to see and these are echoed throughout the strategy, which is based on three core principles that children should be valued, that they should be visible and that they should have a voice. The strategy also identifies key initiatives and priority activities to unite efforts and expertise across ministries, institutions and communities to help make change happen.

The National Child Participation Strategy is a very simple strategy with three main messages: • Value children - recognize them as critical stakeholders in our homes, communities and

country;

• Ensure that they are visible in our plans, service designs, programmes and policies; as well as in the data that inform our decisions and actions; and

• Make sure that their voice is heard and amplified across all spheres affecting children’s lives and wellbeing.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

“Why open up, express ourselves, and report things if nothing will be done, if no one will listen and take me seriously?”

Source: Child, focus group discussion, Uganda

1 Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and United Nations Children’s Fund, Situation Analysis of Children in Uganda, MoGLSD and UNICEF, Kampala, Uganda, 2015.

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Uganda ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the African Charter of the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), in 1990 and 1994, respectively. Both of these instruments provide for and accord children and young people the right to express their views freely in all matters affecting them. They also

provide for these views to be given due weight in accordance with the child’s age, level of maturity and evolving capacity.

Children’s participation is crucial to ensure that governance is fit for children; their rights are not violated, that all stakeholders at different levels are held accountable to children for the provision of services and that every child is loved, protected and safe.

The NCPS is no ordinary strategy; children and their voices are echoed throughout its foundation and core. The strategy supports the navigation of challenges presented by children and calls upon those with influence and power to be a catalyst of change to help shift mindsets and ensure the effective utilization of resources, support the coordination of services and build stronger collaborations across government ministries, departments, agencies, policy makers and service providers.

It provides a set of principles to govern our decisions, actions, and behaviour towards children so that they are recognized as valued members of our society with credible voices to influence decisions that impact their lives and outcomes.

This strategy will set Uganda on a transformative journey to break the silence and amplify the voices of children across all spheres of decision making that have an impact on their lives.

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

“Child participation is about children and young people having the opportunity to express their views, influence decision making and achieve change.”

Source: Adult, stakeholder session, Uganda

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In Uganda children constitute 56% of the population and yet are invisible in critical structures that affect their lives. They believe they are not valued by society and that they are seen as a burden rather than key stakeholders in their country and its future. This is illustrated by the way current cultures, systems and leadership are failing to include children, hear their views and be influenced by their experiences.

Child participation in Uganda is still characterized by fragmented and short-lived initiatives. While there might be varied forms of child participation at the family level, these are not well documented implying that there is need for more research in this area. There are a few formal initiatives where children can have their voice heard but these are limited in scope and their impact is equally not well documented.

The issue of power relations between adults and children in all settings remains a key barrier to the meaningful participation of children. Moreover, the girl child and children with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to exclusion and often denied their rights including the right to education as highlighted by children as well as in the State of the Ugandan child report2.

Participation of children as stated in the UNCRC is often seen as foreign, superficial and alien to the African and Ugandan culture. Whenever discussions on issues concerning children arise, it elicits political, cultural, social and emotional concerns. It is often challenged as elitist and interpreted as an intrusion into the jurisdiction of the family head and a threat to parental authority. However, it should be noted that child participation is, at times, practiced at the family level without proper realization of doing so, making it possible for children to access useful information and contribute to decisions within the home.

1.2 SITUATION ANALYSIS

2The State of the Uganda Child: An Analytical Overview, 2015.

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Child participation is often restricted because African family relationships are divided into classes and role expectations are clearly defined. In some communities, children are not allowed to speak among adults without permission and doing so can bring disgrace on the parents and is also punishable.

Although there are formally established structures within local governance structures that deliberate on issues of children such as the District OVC Coordination Committees and Child Protection Committees, children are hardly accorded the opportunity to share their views and no provisions are made to facilitate child representation on these committees. Instead it is at the discretion of such committees to seek the views of children and integrate them into their meeting agendas and decisions.

At local government levels, there are still perceptions that children are yet to acquire the necessary competences to deliberate in formal processes at that level. The commonly cited opportunity for children to participate in local governance was during the celebrations of official national days like the Day of the African Child, World Aids Day, Independence Day and other days with sectoral relevance. There was not a deliberate initiative that seeks to elicit children’s views in a systematic and sustainable manner.

Societies have long believed that children should be seen and not heard. Many adults feel they know what children want. Decisions believed to benefit children are solely led from an adult perspective with no or little consideration of the child’s insights and experience. This leaves the children to feel that their voice is not valued; their experience is irrelevant and their perceptions remain invisible across decision making structures.

However, there are some progressive examples of children’s participation at the institutional level such as education where there is active student participation in the governance of the school through student leadership structures. Furthermore, at the national level the Government’s effort to promote child participation includes: the national child help-line, child participation in the juvenile justice system, during commemorations at international and national levels, children’s and students’ councils, and co-curricular activities.

“If we speak out about issues we’re concerned about, we’ll get caned and beaten.”

“If your friend has been forced to get married, you can’t report it for fear of being chased from the community.”

“Some of our leaders are corrupt. They listen to our parents because our parents give them money.” Source: Children, focus group discussions, Uganda

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This section elaborates the positioning of children’s rights in the legal and policy framework in Uganda. It also acts as a basis to analyze how this legislation is translated in practice to enable the realization of children’s right to participation.

International instruments

1.3.1 INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL INSTRUMENTS

1.3 THE LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK

The concept of child participation is recognized as one of the broad categories of rights in the UNCRC. International legal and policy frameworks like the UNCRC to which Uganda is a signatory spell out the right of children to be involved in issues concerning them. The key instruments and relevant articles are highlighted below.

In the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, child participation was a right is interwoven with other rights. However, the main articles that emphasize the participation of children are articles 12, 13, 14, 15, 30 and 31 (Figure 1).

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Figure 1: UN Convention on the Rights of the Child key articles that emphasize participation of children

Article12

State parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of a child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child.

The child shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, or written or in print in the form of art, or through any other media of the child’s choice.

You have the right to choose your own religion and beliefs. Your parents should help you decide what is right and wrong and what is best for you.

You have the right to choose your own friends and join or set up groups, as long as it isn’t harmful to others.

You have the right to practice your own culture, language and religion - or any you choose. Minority and indigenous groups need special protection of this right.

You have the right to play and rest.

Article13

Article14

Article15

Article30

Article31

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According to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) Article 7(3) State parties shall ensure that children with disabilities have the right to express their views freely on all matters affecting them, their views being given due weight in accordance with their age and maturity on an equal basis with other children and to be provided with appropriate assistance to realize that right.

The UN Declaration on the Right to Development states that citizens have a right to participate in development.

Regional instruments

The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child was adopted by the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1990 to localize the provisions of the UNCRC in the African context. As in the UNCRC, the Charter recognizes child participation as a means to ensuring that all actions and decisions by individuals or authorities are taken in the best interests of the child. The main articles that provide for participation of children are 4 and 7. Other articles are 8, 9, 10 and 12.

Article 4 (2) provides that: In all judicial or administrative proceedings affecting a child who is capable of communicating his/her own views, an opportunity shall be provided for the views of the child to be heard either directly or indirectly through an impartial representative as a party to the proceedings, and those views shall be taken into consideration by the relevant authority in accordance with the provisions of appropriate laws.

Article 7 states that: Every child who is capable of communicating his or her views shall be assured the rights to express his opinions freely in all matters and to disseminate his opinions subject to such restrictions as are prescribed by laws.

The East African Community (EAC) Child Policy 2016 has a provision on promoting child participation in line with the age, disability and maturity of the child. The policy identified the following four broad strategies through which child participation shall be enforced:

a) Empower children with life and leadership competencies that promote self-expression.

b) Support children to establish their own organizations, networks, councils, exchange programmes and associations by providing them with information on their rights, facilitating their attendance in local, national, regional and global policy making forums.

c) Develop and implement age and disability appropriate child participation frameworks for the region.

d) Ensure that children participate in the development and monitoring of policies, legislations, and related regulatory frameworks and programmes that relate to them.

The East African Community Child Policy (2016)

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1.3.2 NATIONAL LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORK

In alignment with the constitutional provisions that grant citizens the right to participate in governance at different levels, Section 8 of the third schedule of the Local Government Act provides for the right of children to play an active role within their local communities. This includes participation in child-led initiatives and spaces created by adults for purposes of allowing children the opportunity to voice their views in decision making.

It provides for consultative engagement of an elected Councilor with their electorate and shares the views from the electorate with the Council and provides feedback to the electorate on the general decisions the Council has taken to resolve problems

The Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995 (as amended)

There is no explicit provision in the Constitution referring to children’s right to participation. However, there are several provisions that promote the right of all citizens (children inclusive) to participate in various aspects of governance. For instance, the National Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy II provide that, “the State shall be based on democratic principles which empower and encourage the active participation of all citizens at all levels in their own governance”.

Further provisions in the Constitution that have a bearing on participation include the right to a fair hearing (includes the right to appear in court); the right to access to information; establishment of local governments to promote people’s participation in decision making; freedom of conscience, expression, movement, religion, assembly and association; and civic rights and activities such as the right to participate in peaceful activities to influence the policies of government through civic organizations.

The Children Act Cap.59 (as amended)

Despite being the most comprehensive piece of legislation on children’s issues, the Children’s Act does not expressly provide for the right to child participation. However, there are implied clauses that call for the respect of children’s views, wishes and feelings especially during adoption and judicial proceedings. Section 47 (5 and 6) provides for a requirement of the child that is the subject of adoption proceedings to give their consent to being adopted especially those aged 14 and above if they show that they have an understanding of the proceedings.

Similarly, during judicial proceedings, Section 95(3) provides that the court shall ensure that the child or their legal representative are aware of the contents of the reports from the Principal Probation Social Welfare Office (PPSWO) and the respective District Probation Social Welfare Office (DPSWO); while following detention, Section 98 of the Act provides that the PPSWO and the child discuss the period of aftercare.

The Local Government Act (Cap.243)

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raised by residents in the electoral area. Children though not part of the electorate are constituents who need to be listened to and have their needs addressed. Additionally, Councils are obliged to consult with their constituents and this should include children as well as adults. District councils and sub counties should provide feedback on what occurs in their sessions to adults and to children as well.

To ensure children’s needs are catered for, under the local government structure at every level, from Local Council (LC) I (Village) to LC V (District), a member of the executive committee is designated to be the Secretary for Children’s Affairs. This person handles all issues related to children.

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The National Child Participation Guide (2008) is a user-friendly tool that provides one with tips, tools and techniques for engaging children.

The National Parenting Guidelines (2016) provides guidelines for children participating in decisions that affect them together with the parents, guardians and care givers.

The Guidelines on Disability (2012) provide guiding principles for promotion of an enabling environment that ensures that children with disabilities are fully incorporated in family and community activities.

In summary, the review of the legal and policy framework highlights strategic opportunities as well as critical gaps for child participation in Uganda. It is important to note that where legislation supports child participation, the extent to which it has been operationalized and translated into meaningful child participation, remains largely equivocal. The NCPS provides an opportunity for transitioning towards systemic realization of child participation in Uganda.

The Education Act 2008

National guidelines

Besides the above Acts, other child participation related national policies and plans include:

• Vision 2040, the National Development Plan 11 and the Social Sector Development Plan provides opportunities for child participation, National Strategic Programme Plan of Intervention (NSPPI) 11, National Plan of Action against Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children, National Action Plan on Children with Disability (2016).

• The National Integrated Early Childhood Development Policy (2016)

• The National Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children Policy (2004)

• National Policy on Disability in Uganda (2006). Section 2.3 on principles of participation calls for participation and representation of Persons with Disability (PwDs) and their care givers in planning, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of their programmes.

• Uganda National Youth Policy (2017)

• The National Gender Based Violence Policy (2016)

• The Uganda Gender Policy (2007)

• The National Social Protection Policy (2016)

• Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE Policy

Children spend most of their time in the school settings and are involved in a number of activities. Article 30 of the Education Act 2008 provides for the establishment of students’ councils in secondary schools. These councils are to be run as per the constitution of the National Students Association.

Key national policies and plans related to child participation

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1.4 RATIONALE FOR THE CHILD PARTICIPATION STRATEGY

The Situation Analysis of Children in Uganda (2015) identifies the development of a National Child Participation Strategy as a key policy intervention to pave the way for children to participate in decisions that affect them at all levels.

Although Uganda has domesticated the provisions of the UNCRC in its various legislations, modest progress has been made in promoting children’s participation rights compared to the strides made towards the realization of other broad rights namely, survival, development and protection.

According to the study on the utilization of the National Child Participation Guide (2008) done by the National Council for Children, factors contributing to this slow progress include; attitudes about childhood and the position of children in society, inadequate understanding of the concept of child participation and its application as well as general skepticism about the notion of empowering children.

The strategy aims at guiding all stakeholders in ensuring effective child participation.

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1.5 GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR CHILD PARTICIPATION

In order for children’s participation to be effective, ethical, systematic and sustainable, it is essential that certain principles and standards are complied with. Without adherence to these standards, there is a danger that children will be manipulated, placed at risk, or denied any real opportunity to articulate their own views. The considerable body of experience that has been built up since the UNCRC has led to a broad consensus among global child actors on the basic requirements which have to be reached for effective, ethical and meaningful implementation of Article 123.

These requirements need to be incorporated into policy and practice at all levels and, wherever possible, to be reflected in any legislative framework. The basic standards for the implementation of Article 12 must be interpreted within the context of the following general principles derived from the UNCRC:

3 Article 12 of the UNCRC states that children have the right to participate in decision making processes that may be relevant in their lives and to influence decisions taken in their regard – within the family, the school or the community. Participation is incorporated in a number of other articles, along with basic principles such as non-discrimination, honouring the best interests of the child and dedication to realising all of the UNCRC provisions.

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• Measures should be put in place to encourage and facilitate children’s participation in accordance with their age and maturity.

• Participation should promote the best interest of the child and enhance the personal development of each child.

• All children have equal rights to participation without discrimination.

• All children have the right to be protected from manipulation, violence, abuse and exploitation.

In practice, this means that child participation must meet nine basic principles (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Nine basic principles for child participation

Child Participation

Transparent and Informative

Voluntary

Respectful

Relevant

Accountable

Safe and Sensitive

Supported by Training

Inclusive Child Friendly

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THE NINE BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR CHILD PARTICIPATION

1. Transparent and Informative Children must be provided with full, accessible, diversity-sensitive and

age-appropriate information about their right to express their views freely. Their views should be given due weight, and they should be informed about how this participation will take place, its scope, purpose and potential impact.

2. Voluntary Children should never be coerced into expressing views against their

wishes and they should be informed that they can cease involvement at any stage.

3. Respectful Children’s views have to be treated with respect and children should

be provided with opportunities to initiate ideas and activities. Adults working with children should acknowledge, respect and build on good examples of children’s participation, for instance, in their contributions to the family, school, culture and the work environment. They also need an understanding of the socio-economic, environmental and cultural context of children’s lives. Persons and Organizations working for and with children should also respect children’s views with regard to participation in public events.

4. Relevant Opportunities must be available for children to express their views on

issues of real relevance to their lives and enable them to draw on their knowledge, skills and abilities. Children’s participation should build on their personal knowledge – the information and insights that children have about their own lives, their communities and the issues that affect them.

5. Facilitated with child-friendly environments and working methods

The approaches to working with children should be adapted to their capacities. Adequate time and resources should be made available to ensure that children are adequately prepared and have the confidence and opportunity to contribute their views. Consideration needs to be given to the fact that children will need differing levels of support and forms of involvement according to their age and evolving capacities.

6. Inclusive Participation must be inclusive, avoid existing patterns of discrimination

and encourage opportunities for marginalized children, both girls and boys, to be involved. Children are not a homogeneous group and participation needs to provide for equality of opportunity for all, without

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discrimination on any grounds. Programmes also need to ensure that they are culturally sensitive to children from all communities.

7. Supported by Training Adults need preparation, skills and training support to facilitate

effective child participation. They need to be equipped with listening and collaborative skills that enable them to effectively engage and work jointly with children in accordance with their evolving capacities.

Children themselves can be involved as trainers and facilitators on how to promote effective participation. They require capacity-building to strengthen their skills ineffective awareness of their rights, training in organizing meetings, raising funds, dealing with the media, public speaking and advocacy.

8. Safe and Sensitive to Risk In certain situations, expression of views may involve risks. Adults

have a responsibility towards the children with whom they work and must take every precaution to minimise the risk of violence abuse and exploitation of children or any other negative consequence resulting from their participation.

Actions necessary to provide appropriate protection will include the development of a clear child protection strategy which recognizes the particular risks faced by some groups of children, and the extra barriers they face in obtaining help.

Children must be aware of their right to be protected from harm and know where to seek help if needed. Investment in working with families and communities is important in order to build understanding of the value and implications of participation and to minimise the risks to which children may otherwise be exposed.

9. Accountable A commitment to follow-up and evaluation is essential. For example,

in any research or consultative process, children must be informed as to how their views have been interpreted and used and, where necessary, they must be provided with the opportunity to challenge and influence the analysis of the findings. Children are also entitled to clear feedback on how their participation has influenced any outcomes. Wherever appropriate, children should be given the opportunity to participate in follow-up processes or activities. Monitoring and evaluation of children’s participation needs to be undertaken, where possible, with children themselves.

Source: Save the Children and United Nations Children’s Fund, Every Child’s Right to be Heard: A resource guide on the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child General Comment No.12, Save the Children and UNICEF, 2011.

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2.1 VISIONA Ugandan society where all children are valued, visible and have a voice.

2.2 MISSIONTo prioritize meaningful child participation at all levels.

2.3 GOALTo protect and advance all children’s right to be heard and express their opinions in all matters affecting them.

2.4 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVESThe strategy is based on three strategic objectives, that children are valued, visible and have a voice.

2 THE STRATEGY

Strategic Objective 1. Valued: To recognize children as key stakeholders and members of society.

Strategic Objective 2. Visible: To integrate children’s issues in local and national governance structures.

Strategic Objective 3. Voice: To promote respect for children’s voices at family, community and government levels.

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The model below (Figure 3) provides a strategic lens to guide the overall direction and focus of the child participation strategy.

Figure 3: Strategy Model

Molore et ver-

ore- strum voles conseni

Governance fit for Children

Non-discrimination

Effective and meaningful child participation should become a norm and is achievable through concerted and consistent application of each of the above three strategic objectives.

The call for action is at all levels, ranging from the household, community to institutions and service providers at both national and sub-national levels. At all levels, deliberate efforts and initiatives should be taken to ensure the effective and meaningful participation of all children.

The National Child Participation Strategy is based on the founding principle of non-discrimination. It is for all children with a particular focus on those who are poorest and most marginalized. The overarching commitment is to create governance fit for children, with strong leadership, greater coordination and responsive governance that is accountable to children.

The strategy is a framework for action, it will be complimented with audience specific guidelines to ease application and to enhance promotion of the concept.

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2.5 EXPECTED OUTCOMESThe National Child Participation Strategy provides a lens to focus our actions so that we shift from the current state to the desired state where: • Children are valued as key stakeholders and members of society.

• Children and children’s issues are visible in governance structures, legislation, policies, and decision making processes locally and nationally.

• Children’s voices are respected, powerful and heard by the family, community and government.

• Leaders are responsive to children’s concerns and recommendations and are accountable to children.

• Children are safe and protected from abuse and their wellbeing is improved.

• Children’s priorities are reflected in policies, plans of action, budgets, programmes and services that affect their lives.

• Service delivery for children is of the highest standard, including access to relevant and timely information.

• No child is discriminated against and the most vulnerable children are not side-lined, forgotten or left behind.

• Children and their issues are visible in data/national statistics.

• Duty bearers and all stakeholders work towards governance fit for children.

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The National Child Participation Strategy provides Uganda and all Ugandans with a historic opportunity to amplify the voices of children and transform their role in our society.

All children are valued

• Recognize the value of their voice, expertise and contribution.• Respect the views of others.• Be part of the solution and identify ways to improve the environment or situation.• Engage in local and national governance processes to improve children’s services including health, justice, protection and education. • Contribute to research and campaigns that help make sure children’s issues and ideas are valued.• Support the training and development of those who work with children including the police, teachers, health workers and community leaders to help them value children’s contributions and improve service delivery.• Contribute to the development of service standards that value children.• Raise awareness about the importance of this strategy amongst children, families and the community.

2.6 PERSPECTIVES ON CHILD PARTICIPATION

Children tell us they do not feel valued and that they are seen as a burden on society. They are told that they should be seen and not heard, and that they have no place when it comes to decisions about their wellbeing or lives:

“My mum doesn’t have enough money to pay for school books so I can’t go to school.”

“My drunkard father is abusing his children. Some have ended up on the streets. Others have escaped to relatives. Others have dropped out of school.” Source: Children, focus group discussions, Uganda

Valued

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• Access the services designed for children.• Access and use the mechanisms developed to help children report crimes, acts of

violence against children, abuse and other concerns.• Contribute to the monitoring of services for children ensuring they respect adequate

standards.• Advocate for an independent children’s authority supported by a children’s

ombudsperson.• Contribute to analysing existing children’s participation mechanisms to help improve their

effectiveness.• Develop campaigns with children and engage in the review of the national ban on

violence against children.• Use mechanisms to hold to account service providers, decision-makers and policy

officials.

• Engage or create opportunities to meet with other children and freely share your views.

Visible

“Parents should ask children about the problems they’re facing”.

“Structures that close their eyes and ears to children fall short of international obligations and standards. If we ignore the experience and expertise of children – who make up 56% of Uganda’s population –we’re not only failing individuals, we’re failing our entire country.”

“I don’t know where my parents are, I’m alone. I want to grow up and help children so they don’t feel alone and scared like me.”

“The clan leaders need to come up with by-laws to regulate alcohol consumption to stop my father beating my mother. Tell the government leader to see us and hear us, we are not from this country, we have lost everything.” Source: Children, focus group discussions, Uganda

Children and their issues are visible

21


Children have a voice• Respect the opinions of others including parents, children and community leaders.• Freely ask for information.• Speak without fear or reprise.• Freely voice your concerns and views.• Engage with other children to meet, share and express your views, concerns and recommendations.• Engage in dialogue with parents and communities on matters of concern.• Participate in dialogs, debates and decision making processes at the national level as well as community level including community based service departments.• Express yourself with confidence when speaking to decision-makers and children service officials.• Access the mechanisms established to ensure your voice is visible, heard and influential in the home, community and nationally.• Use the media and technology to amplify your voice.• Influence the plans for and delivery of the East African Regional Children’s gathering to help bring the voices of children from your region together.• Steer decisions, monitor, and report on the delivery of the National Child Participation Strategy.• Speak out to help break the silence and ensure children are heard and their voices are influential in matters affecting their lives.

Voice

“Our voice is not heard by people with power.”

“Children’s participation has everything to do with power. A strategy that fails to consider power dynamics in its design falls short of its potential.”

“If we speak out about issues we’re concerned about we’ll get caned and beaten.”

“If your friend has been forced to get married you can’t report it for fear of being chased from the community.”

“Some of our leaders are corrupt. They listen to our parents because our parents give them money.”

“Our leaders don’t listen to us.”

“It’s essential to have accessible structures in place in the fabric of any society seeking to optimize its potential and that of its citizens, and it is necessary to ensure children have a voice that is influential, powerful and heard.” Source: Children, focus group discussions, Uganda

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3 IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK, COORDINATION, MONITORING AND EVALUATION

The implementation of the strategy will support the shift in mindsets to ensure stakeholders value children’s views and provide space for their participation. This process will involve strengthening mechanisms for the effective utilization of resources

and coordination of services in collaboration with a cross-section of government ministries, institutions, development partners and service providers.

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3 IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK, COORDINATION, MONITORING AND EVALUATION

3.1 KEY STAKEHOLDERS AND ACTORSEffective implementation of the National Child Participation Strategy requires the engagement of multiple actors. This requires effective, efficient and well-coordinated institutional mechanisms that run from national to lower local government level with the active engagement of all stakeholders including line ministries, i.e., Ministry of Education and Science (MoE&S), Ministry of Health (MoH), Ministry of Internal Affairs (MoIA), Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA), Ministry of Local Government (MoLG); and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MoGLSD). MoGLSD takes the lead role alongside the National Children Authority (NCA).

The strategy targets national and local government administration sector officials, technical teams and committees, development partners, civil society organizations and the local communities of men and women, girls and boys.

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Table 1: Roles and Responsibilities of Key Stakeholders and Actors

STAKEHOLDERS AND ACTORS

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

MoGLSD This is the main coordinating agency for implementation of the NCPS. It will provide overall leadership coordination, monitoring and evaluation.

MoE&S, MoIA, MoH and MoJCA

The role of these ministries is to work in partnership with MoGLSD to implement sector specific interventions.

MoFPED To ensure child participation issues receive sufficient resources in the national budget - especially the key sectors of education, health and social development.

Decentralized Local Government Administrations

The delivery of policies and action plans will take place in local governments with the gender focal point persons and other technical officers taking the lead role. Local government will offer the primary structures for the implementation of the strategy.

NCACarrying out independent research on child participation issues in terms of its meaningfulness.

Creating awareness on the right of the child to engage in meaningful participation.

Independent advocacy and monitoring the implementation of laws on children (particularly regarding child participation); and advising Government and other stakeholders on relevant measures for effective implementation of the strategy.

Development partners, including United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Department for International Development (DFID) and the European Union (EU)

These will largely provide financial, material and technical resources for the implementation of the strategy. In addition, they will play a key monitoring role.

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

These shall be operational partners to implement the strategy as well as support children, duty bearers and service providers to account in relation to progress and the outcomes of the strategy.

Community members: men, women, cultural and religious leaders

The community consists of key gatekeepers of social norms and practices. They will be the major implementers, advocates and monitors of the progress with respect to the changing of norms and practices that promote child participation.

Children: girls and boys Children are both key actors of change and beneficiaries of the strategy. They will be engaged at all levels in all activities while ensuring meaningful participation. They will also be instrumental in holding to account those responsible for the implementation of the strategy.

The different roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders targeted in the implementation of the NCPS are shown in Table 1 below.

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Children as actors of changeThe strategy recognizes children as actors of change and as beneficiaries of the strategy. It is important to note that children’s’ rights are not contingent on their responsibilities. Whether children undertake these actions/responsibilities or not, does not affect the fact that they are rights holders as declared in international, regional and national instruments. The state, as the duty bearer, must justify and be accountable for its actions in relation to upholding and protecting children’s rights. It is important to understand these concepts in order to accurately safeguard the fundamental principles in relation to rights and responsibilities underpinning human rights.

3.2 MONITORING AND EVALUATION FRAMEWORKThe National Child Participation Strategy is a broad and comprehensive framework designed to guide all state and non-state actors to ensure effective and meaningful child participation. It is a shared responsibility of all ministries, departments and agencies, CSOs, the private sector, religious and cultural institutions; and development partners.

The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and the respective departments at the lower local government level serve as the overall coordinator.

Strategic Objective 1: To recognize children as key stakeholders and members of society

Expected Outcomes:

1. Children and children’s issues are visible in local and national governance structures, legislation, policies, budgets, services, programmes and

decision-making processes.

2. Service delivery for children is of the highest standard, including access to relevant and timely information.

3. Children and their issues are visible in data and national statistics.

4. Duty bearers and all stakeholders work towards governance fit for children.

No. Strategic interventions

Priority activities Outputs Targets/Indicators Time frame

Key actors

1.1 Accelerate the operationalization of the NCA

1. Support the NCA in the development of a strategic plan with a special focus on child participation

Child participation mainstreamed in the NCA strategic plan

Outcomes that reflect visibility of children issues in the strategic plan

x MoGLSD,MoFPED, MoE&S, MoLG, Public Private Partnership (PPP) sector, NCA, development partners and CSOs

2. Support the NCA to develop operational guidelines

NCA operational guidelines developed

No. of child participation activities mainstreamed in NCA operational guidelines

x

x

3. Advocate and lobby for the functionality of the NCA

Specialized committee on child development and participation in place and functional

A specialized committee on child development and participation formed and functional

x

x

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Valued



Key actors

1.2 Develop a child-friendly version of the Children Act (Cap 59) as amended with clear auditing guidelines for children

1. Develop, design and print a child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59)

Child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59) and materials developed

No. of child-friendly versions on the Children Amendment Act (59) developed

Copies of materials produced/ developed

Media release on launched child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59) activity

No. of copies disseminated and used

x x x MoGLSD, MoFPED, MoJCA, development partners, CSOs and the media

2. Launch the child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59)

Child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59) launched

3. Disseminate the child-friendly version countrywide

Child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59) disseminated

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National Child Participation Strategy 2017/18 - 2021/22


Priority activities Outputs Targets/Indicators Time frame Key actors

1.3 Ensure inclusive child participation in reviewing progress related to addressing issues affecting children e.g. violence against children, early marriages, education , WASH, and gender

1. Create processes and mechanisms to facilitate children, family and community participation in the monitoring of the national ban on violence against children in schools, Management Sciences for Health (MSH), midday meals in schools etc.

Monitoring tools and guidelines developed and used

Quarterly/bi-annual monitoring activities on child participation to include visits, meetings follow ups, and mentor-ship spot-checks

Bi annual regional and national review and planning meetings

No. of monitoring tools and guidelines developed

x x MoGLSD, MoFPED, MoJCA, MoEST& S, MoLG, Uganda Police Force (UPF), Uganda Peoples Defense Force (UPDF), MoH, Ministry of Water and Environment

NCA

Development partners, CSOs and the media

No. of annual monitoring activities held

x x x x

No. of review meetings held

x x x x x

Proportion of discussions that reflect children’s views

x x x x x

No. of girls and boys who report a positive change in the behaviour of their parents with regard to issues affecting them

x x x x

2. Review and plan meetings with the stakeholders on inclusive child participation to address issues affecting children

No. of reports that reflect the views of children and how the tools were applied

No. of schools, communities and districts playing an active and informed role in assessing child participation issues and identifying strategies to address them

x x x x

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Key actors

1.4 Strengthen community-based service departments to implement, monitor policies and programmes aimed at increasing child participation

1. Conduct a national baseline study to assess the capacity of community-based service departments with children and families

Baseline study conducted Report x MoGLSD, NCA, Line ministries, Development partners, CSOs and children

2. Develop guides and tools to facilitate community and child participation

Implementation guidelines developed

Guidelines developed x x

3. Strengthen the Joint stakeholders’ meetings at different levels

Facilitator’s tool kit developed A tool kit

4. Conduct capacity-building for the different stakeholders to ensure effective implementation

Joint stakeholder and review meetings held

Report x x x x x

5. Draw an improvement plan to fill in the gaps e.g. strengthening collaborations across sectors

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Key actors

1.5 Develop a plan for the integration of child-friendly health services

1. Review and integrate standards of health care services with children and families

Child-friendly health care standards developed

No. of child-friendly health care plans developed with input from children

x x MoH, MoGLSD,

Development partners and CSOs

2. Develop treatment plans and feedback mechanisms

3. Create monitoring mechanisms of health care delivery to ensure the children voices and experiences influence clinical practice learning and quality improvement

No. of girls and boys who report a positive change in treatment given at the health care facilities

x x x x

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Key actors

1.6 Review existing national surveys and data collection processes

1. Conduct survey, impact assessment on progress made

Best practices developed, documented and disseminated through videos, books, and social media

Impact assessment survey conducted

Cost effective survey conducted

Evidence-based research on how children’s intelligence influences effective decision making on issues affecting their wellbeing

Increased use of the body of evidence generated by academia, CSOs, and Government with regard to child participation

No. of best practices books, Videos, developed, documented and disseminated

x x MoGLSD, Line ministries, Development partners, CSOs

2. Document best practices through videos and books

No. of publications/ comments/ tweets/ followers on child participation published

x x x x

No. of social accountability structures including community barazas formed and functional

x x

No. of improvements to child participation bi-laws, ordinances at parish and district level

x x

3. Document evidence to demonstrate that intelligence from national surveys influences effective decision making affecting children’s lives and well being

No. of documented evidence-based research relating to child participation developed by academia, CSOs and Government; disseminated and popularized to inform policy and practice

x x x x x

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Strategic Objective 2: To integrate Children’s issues in Local and National Governance Structures

Expected Outcomes:1. Children’s voices are respected and heard by the family, community and government.2. Leaders are responsive to children’s concerns and recommendations, and are accountable to children.



Key actors

2.1 Develop and reinforce child participation structures at all levels to promote and amplify children’s voices

1. Review and update National Child Participation Guide (NCPG) for Uganda to facilitate active meaningful participation for children in and out of school

Reviewed version of the NCPG

Revised NCPG published x National Child Participation Committee

2. Establish regional, national and district stakeholders’ coordination platforms on child participation

National, regional and district child participation coordination platforms established

No. of coordination platforms established and functional

x MoGLSD, NCA and CSOs

3. Train a pool of Trainers of Trainers (ToTs) on child participation at all levels

ToTs empowered with knowledge and skills in meaningful child participation

No. of ToTs trained x x x x x MoGLSD, NCA, teachers and CSOs

4. Conduct advocacy activities on meaningful child participation through the media and technology

Duty bearers and rights holders engaged and empowered in meaningful child participation

No. of people reached x x x x x MoGLSD, NCA, CSOs, religious and cultural institutions

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Visible



Key actors

2.1 5. Conduct community theatre and Barazas on meaningful child participation

Public engaged and empowered on meaningful child participation

No. of people reached x x x x x District Local Governments (DLGs), CSOs, religious and cultural institutions

6. Develop plans with children to establish a national child voice platform to ensure children’s continued participation in the delivery of this strategy, including governance, monitoring and accountability

Action plan for establishing the national child participation forum developed with children

National action plan developed

x x x x MoGLSD, DLGs, CSOs and children

7. Establish the national child voice platform, linking into local structures and reaching out to international arenas

National child participation structures with linkages at various levels established in consultation with children

Child participation structures functional


8. Develop action plans, including guidance and communications materials, for the East African regional children’s and other engagements

Action plans, guidance and communication materials with children, CSOs, private sector, public sector and other stakeholders to strengthen child participation developed

No. of plans, guidance and communication materials developed


9. Facilitate participation in the East African regional children’s gathering, including sessions with community leaders/elders, faith leaders and ministers

Children’s participation in the East African regional gathering facilitated

No. of children in attendance

x x x x x MoGLSD, DLGs, CSOs and children

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Priority activities Outputs Targets/IndicatorsTime frame

Key actors

2.2 Promote and strengthen children’s meaningful participation in government decisions

1. Develop pilot studies to strengthen child participation mechanisms that reach the poorest and most marginalised children. Test documentation, access, codes of conduct, reporting procedures and handling of cases

Pilot study models strengthening child participation mechanisms developed

No of pilot studies conducted

No of children, mostly deprived, marginalised and Children with Disability(CwD), involved in pilot studies

x x x MoGLSD DLGs, CSOs and children

2. Integrate child participation into existing or new audits/ inspections/ monitoring processes

Child participation integrated in audit/ inspection/ monitoring processes

Reports x x x x x

3. Monitor and evaluate the functionality of child participation structures

Child participation structures assessed and recommendations generated

Reports x x x x x

4. Create opportunities for children to participate in the review, scrutiny and development of standards for services affecting their lives, including codes of conduct for professionals working with children across public services

Children’s participation and voices in the review process heard and valued

Scrutiny and development of standards for services affecting their lives

Reports x x x x x MoGLSD, NCA, Line ministries, Development partners, CSOs and children

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Key actors

2.3 Facilitate processes to ensure children’s voices continue to be included in national reporting on the UNCRC, African Charter and Universal Periodic Review

1. Convene consultative workshops at all levels involving children and other stakeholders

Pertinent issues and recommendations concerning children documented

Reports x x x x x MoGLSD, NCA, Line ministries, Development partners, CSOs and children2. Conduct desk reviews

3. Convene a validation workshop at national levels

2.4 To promote meaningful child participation at family and community levels

1. Conduct research on negative socio-cultural and religious practices that hinder meaningful child participation

Practices hindering child participation documented

Reports x x x x x MoGLSD, NCA, Line ministries, Development partners, CSOs and children2. Create awareness about

meaningful child participation at family and community levels

Stakeholders engaged in awareness creation

Media briefs

Reports

x x x x x

3. Involve cultural/traditional, religious leaders and other key stakeholders to conduct community outreaches on meaningful child participation

Community outreaches on meaningful child participation conducted

No. of community outreaches conducted

x x x x

4. Convene experience sharing workshops to generate evidence that child participation leads to improvement in service delivery, standards, and accountability

Evidence on child participation documented

Reports x x x x x

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Key actors

2.5 Develop and implement inclusive child-sensitive social protection programmes

1. Design accessible information and awareness-raising materials with children to ensure child-sensitive social protection policies are adopted by duty bearers

IEC materials developed in conjunction with children

No. of IEC materials

x x x x x MoGLSD, Development partners, CSOs and children

2. Facilitate child participation structures to understand the child’s perspective and experience on how effective social assistance monitoring processes are accessible to children, functional, and reaching the poorest and most marginalised children

Functional feedback mechanisms on existing social assistance programmes involving children established

Reports

x x x x x

2.6 Research and document good practices in meaningful child participation to inform policy and planning for informed decision making

1. Conduct national surveys on meaningful child participation

Survey report produced and disseminated

Reports x

2. Mainstream meaningful child participation data in existing Management Information System for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children (OVCMIS)

Information on child participation integrated in OVCMIS

Reports x x x x

3. Develop case studies on child participation to inform UNCRC, African Charter, UPR and other human rights reporting instruments

Case studies produced to inform reporting instruments

No. of case studies developed

x x x x x

4. Produce a documentary on meaningful child participation

Child participation documentary produced

No. of documentaries x x x x x

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Strategic Objective 3: To promote respect for children’s voices at family, community and government levels

Expected Outcomes: 1. Children are safe, protected from abuse and their wellbeing is improved.

2. No child is discriminated against, sidelined, forgotten or left behind – including those who are most vulnerable.

3. Children’s priorities are reflected in policies, budgets, plans, programmes and services that affect their lives.



Key actors

3.1 Harmonize child participation tools and codes of conduct on engaging with children

1. Review of existing child participation tools and models in reference to global standards on child participation

Child participation tools and models reviewed

Report reviewed

No. of child participation tools and models reviewed

x MoGLSD/Department of youth and children, National Children’s Authority (NCA)

2. Organize a consultation meeting on child participation tools

National consultative meeting held

A national consultative meeting

x MoGLSD, NCA, line ministries, development partners and CSOs

3. Develop standardized package of child participation tools and code of conduct

Standardized package of child participation tools and code of conduct developed

A standardized package x x MoGLSD, NCA, Line ministries, Development partners, CSOs and children

4. Disseminate the approved tools

Approved tools disseminated National dissemination meeting

Dissemination meetings

x MoGLSD, NCA, line ministries, development partners, CSOs, local governments and MoLG

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Voice


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Key actors

3.2 Develop and implement capacity-building and awareness-raising programmes on child participation

1. Design communication materials for public and private sector

Information, Education and Communication (IEC) and Behavioural Change Communication (BCC) materials developed

No. of IEC and BCC materials developed

x MoGLSD, UCC, Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), development partners, NCA, children representatives, local governments, National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), MoGLSD, line ministries, development partners

2. Develop capacity-building training programmes and curriculum packages

Capacity-building training programmes and curriculum packages developed

No. of training programmes and curriculum packages developed

x x

3. Disseminate awareness materials at all levels

Awareness materials disseminated

No. of stakeholders reached.

No. of dissemination meetings conducted

x NCA, MoGLSD, local governments, line ministries, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), children

4. Roll out standardized child participation tools

Standardized child participation tools rolled-out

No. of trainings conducted

No. of participants reached

x NCDC, MoGLSD, line ministries, development partners

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Key actors

3.3 Strengthen in and out of school child participation programmes

1. Design inclusive and age appropriate activities in collaboration with civil society, children and the public sector

Inclusive and age appropriate activities developed

No. of activities developed

x NCDC, MoGLSD, line ministries, development partners

2. Develop and implement pilot programmes on inclusive child participation to test the standardized tools across the country

Pilot programmes on inclusive child participation developed and implemented

No. of pilot programmes developed and implemented

No. of districts covered by pilot programmes

x MoGLSD, line ministries, development partners, National Planning Authority (NPA), NCA, children

3.4 Adopt innovative monitoring processes to ensure that child participation mechanisms are child-friendly responsive and accessible to children even those in remote and rural areas

1. Develop monitoring indicators and mechanisms to capture children’s voices across social service delivery

Monitoring indicators and mechanisms of social service delivery on children voices developed

No. of indicators developed

x MoGLSD, line ministries, development partners, NCA, NPA, children

2. Evaluate pilot programmes to inform scale-up

Pilot programmes evaluated No. of reviews conducted x x

3. Support child-led monitoring activities including monitoring violence against children at all levels

Child-led monitoring activities supported

No. of child-led monitoring activities supported

x x x

4. Support multi-sectoral monitoring committee on child participation

Multi-sectoral monitoring committee on child participation supported

No. of monitoring visits conducted

x x x X

x X


4 INDICATIVE BUDGET The tables below provide details on the indicative budget in Uganda shillings for each of the three strategic objectives and the corresponding interventions and priority activities.

Summary of indicative budgetStrategic Objective 1: To recognize children as key stakeholders and members of society 6,988,571,000

Strategic Objective 2: To integrate children’s issues in local and national governance structures 21,854,856,000

Strategic Objective 3: To promote respect for children’s voices at family, community and government levels 8,721,136,000

Grand total (UGX) 37,564,563,000

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Strategic Objective 1: To recognize children as key stakeholders and members of society

No. Strategic interventions Priority activities Estimated budget

1.1 Accelerate the operationalization of the NCA

1. Support the NCA in the development of a Strategic plan with a special focus on child participation

17,200,000

2. Support the NCA to develop operational guidelines 70,400,000

3. Advocate and lobby for the functionality of the NCA 18,075,0001.2 Develop a child-friendly version

of the Children Act (Cap 59) as amended with clear auditing guidelines for children

1. Develop, design and print a child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59)

326,500,000

2. Launching the child-friendly version of the Children Amendment Act (59)

31,5500,000

3. Disseminate the child-friendly version countrywide 267,008,000

1.3 Ensure inclusive child participation in reviewing progress related to addressing issues affecting children e.g. violence against children, early marriages, education, Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), and gender

1. Create processes and mechanisms to facilitate children’s families and community’s participation in the monitoring of the national ban on violence against children in schools, MSH, midday meals in schools etc.

4,327,528,000

2. Review and planning meetings with the stakeholders on the Inclusive child participation to address issues affecting children

128,360,000

3. Review existing policies and laws to identify advocacy issues (this will require, venue, consultancy, dissemination meetings, transport refund, stationary and reporter services)

90,000,000

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Valued


1.4 Strengthen community-based service departments to implement, monitor policies and programmes aimed at increasing child participation

1. Conduct a national baseline study to assess the capacity of community-based service departments with children and families

500,000,000

2. Develop guides and tools to facilitate community and child participation

3. Strengthen the Joint stakeholders’ meetings at different levels

4. Conduct capacity-building for the different stakeholders to ensure effective implementation

5. Draw an improvement plan to fill in the gaps e.g. strengthening collaborations across sectors

1.5 Develop a plan for the integration of child-friendly health services

1. Review and integrate standards of health care services with children and families

95,000,000

2. Develop treatment plans and feedback mechanisms.

3. Create monitoring mechanisms of health care delivery to ensure the children voices and experiences influence clinical practice learning and quality improvement

1.6 Review existing national surveys and data collection processes

1. Conduct survey, impact assessment on progress made 75,000,000

2. Document best practices through videos and books 250,000,000

3. Document evidence to demonstrate that intelligence from national surveys influences effective decision making affecting children’s lives and wellbeing

508,000,000

Sub-total 6,988,571,000

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Strategic Objective 2: To integrate Children’s issues in Local and National Governance Structures


2.1 Develop and reinforce child participation structures at all levels to promote and amplify children’s voices

1. Review and update the National Child Participation Guide for Uganda to facilitate active meaningful participation for children in and out of school

54,300,000

2. Establish regional, national and district stakeholder’s coordination platforms on child participation

274,976,000

3. Train a pool of ToTs on child participation at all levels 190,040,000

4. Conduct advocacy activities on meaningful child participation through the media and technology.

688,128,000

5. Conduct community theatre and barazas on meaningful child participation

17,472,000,000

6. Create opportunities for children to participate in the review, scrutiny and development of standards for services affecting their lives, including; developing plans, policy review and codes of conduct for professionals working with children across public services

419,328,000

7. Establish the national child voice platform, linking into local structures and reaching out to international arenas

6,598,296,000

8. Develop action plans, including guidance and communication materials, for the East African regional children’s and other engagements.

611,952,000

9. Facilitate participation in the East African regional children’s gathering, including sessions with community leaders/elders, faith leaders and ministers

97,000,000

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Visible


2.2 Promote and strengthen children’s meaningful participation in government decisions

1. Develop pilot studies to strengthen child participation mechanisms including reaching the poorest and most marginalised children, and in the testing of documentation, access, codes of conduct, reporting procedures and handling of cases

926,400,000

2. Integrate child participation into existing or new audits/inspections/monitoring processes

16,000,000

3. Monitor and evaluate the functionality of child participation structures

2.3 Facilitate processes to ensure children’s voices continue to be included in national reporting on the UNCRC, UNCRPD, African Charter and Universal Periodic Review

1. Convene consultative workshops at all levels involving children and other stakeholders

128,624,000

2. Conduct desk reviews

3. Convene a validation workshop at national levels

2.4 To promote meaningful child participation at family and community levels

1. Conduct research on negative socio-cultural and religious practices that hinder meaningful child participation

54,300,000

2. Create awareness about meaningful child participation at family and community levels

6,208,000,000

3. Involve cultural/traditional, religious leaders and other key stakeholders to conduct community outreaches on meaningful child participation.

6,208,000,000

4. Convene experience-sharing workshops to generate evidence that child participation leads to improvement in service delivery, standards, and accountability

39,240,000

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2.5 Develop and implement inclusive Child-sensitive social protection programmes

1. Design accessible information and awareness-raising materials with children to ensure that child-sensitive social protection policies are adopted by duty bearers

84,140,000

2. Facilitate child participation structures to understand the child’s perspective and experience on how effective social assistance monitoring processes are accessible to children, functional, and reaching the poorest and most marginalised children

2..6 Research and document good practices in meaningful child participation to inform policy and planning for informed decision making

1. Conduct national surveys on meaningful child participation 56,300,000

2. Mainstream meaningful child participation data in existing OVCMIS 61,300,000

3. Develop case studies on child participation to inform UNCRC, Afri-can Charter, UPR and other human rights reporting instruments.

305,976,000

4. Produce a documentary on meaningful child participation 40,000,000

Sub-total 21,854,856,000

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VALUEDVISIBLEVOICE

Strategic Objective 3: To promote respect for children’s voices at family, community and government levels


3.1 Harmonise child participation tools and codes of conduct on engaging with children

1. Review existing child participation tools and models in reference to global standards on child participation

74,220,000

2. Organize a consultation meeting on child participation tools 102,624,000 3. Develop standardized package of child participation tools and code

of conduct 141,520,000

4. Disseminate the approved tools 144,624,000

3.2 Develop and implement capacity-building and awareness-raising programmes on child participation

1. Design communication materials for public and private sector 65,600,000

2. Develop capacity-building training programmes and curriculum packages

110,000,000

3. Disseminate awareness materials at all levels 17,700,000

4. Roll out standardized child participation tools 262,544,000

5. Training of children councils in pilot districts on child participation, roles and responsibilities

1,279,040,000

6. Strengthen the capacity of parliamentarians on child participation 498,520,000

7. Dialogue / Engagement meetings with cultural institutions to create community champions on child participation

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Voice



3.3 Strengthen in and out of school child participation programmes

1. Design inclusive and age appropriate activities in collaboration with civil society, children and the public sector

105,000,000

2. Develop and Implement pilot programmes on inclusive child participation to test the standardized tools across the country

562,800,000

3. Train and equip children with participation skills to enhance participation in all the 4 categories of rights.

2,137,728,000

4. Support institutions, develop child participation policies e.g. all CSOs, schools etc.

-

3.4 Adopt innovative monitoring processes to ensure that child participation mechanisms are child-friendly, responsive and accessible to children even those in remote and rural areas

1. Develop monitoring indicators and mechanisms to capture children’s voices across social service delivery e.g. on disability, gender, age etc.

49,080,000

2. Evaluate pilot programmes to inform scale up 212,040,000

3. Support child-led monitoring activities including monitoring violence against children at all levels

2,639,184,000

4. Support multi-sectoral monitoring committee on child participation 318,912,000

Sub-total 8,721,136,000

VALUEDVISIBLEVOICE

48

CHILD PARTICIPATION

Children are valued, visible and have a voice.

Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

Plot 2, Simbamanyo House

P. O. Box 7136

Kampala, Uganda 97 899705 07306

ISBN: 978-9970-507-30-6

the republic of uganda national child participation strategy

Documents