2 14ANNUAL REPORT

UGANDA WOMEN’SEFFORT TO SAVE

ORPHANS

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Table of Contents

List of Acronyms 3 Message from the Chairperson National Executive Committee 4 Message from the Chief Executive Officer 5 2014 At a Glance 6 Our 2014 Achievements 7 1.0 Elimination Child labour 7 2.0 Enhance capacity of 18,000 Caregivers in child labor affected families to generate income to be able to meet the basic needs of the

OVC 12 3.0 Improving access to integrated financial services for Youth and other underserved population in Uganda. 13 4.0 Empowering youth employable and development skills 14 5.0 Enhancing Child protection and rehabilitation at MCV 14 6.0 Managing and coordinating provision of technical support to

Technical Support Organizations (TSOs) 187.0 Governance Achievements 198.0 Challenges 22

AYEDI African Youth Empowerment & Development Initiative

BEC Branch Executive Committee

BOC Banking on Change

CBSD Community Development Services Department

CBT Community Based Trainers

CCLCs Community Child Labor Committees

CDOs Community Development Officers

CSOs Civil Society Organizations

DCDO District Community Development Officers

ECLT Elimination of Child Labor in Tobacco growing areas

EEWs Economic Empowerment Workers

FFI Formal Financial Institutions

IHAA International HIV/AIDS Alliance

LGs Local Governments

LLGs Lower Local Governments

M&E Monitoring and Evaluation

MGLSD Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development

MIS Management Information System

AcronymsMSH Management Sciences for Health

NEC National Executive Committee

NIU National Implementation Unit

OVC Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children

SBEC Sub- Branch Executive Committee

SDS Strengthening Decentralization for Sustainability

SPM Selection, Planning and Management

SPWO Senior Probation and Social Welfare Officer

SS Support Supervision

SUNRISE Strengthening the Ugandan National Response for

Implementation of Services

TAs Technical Advisors

TSO Technical Support Organization

USAID United States Agency for International Development

UWESO Uganda Women Effort to Save Orphans

VSLA Village Savings & Loans Association

MCV Masulita Children’s Village

Message

ChairpersonNationalExecutiveCommittee

Dear Colleagues,I salute you all members of UWESO family!

It is with utmost respect and great pleasure to bring to your attention the highlights of the programs that were implemented in 2014 by UWESO across the country at the grass root level in Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Households, Zonal clusters, Sub county level sub branch executives, District level Branch Executives, Regions, the National Secretariat and the Board focusing on children.

Iam privileged to lead the National Executive Committee (UWESO Board) that is responsible for providing Strategic direction of UWESO work in Uganda. UWESO exists to promote the survival, development, participation and protection of the OVC in Uganda .In order to fulfill this mandate deliver a holistic package to the vulnerable children, UWESO is guided by the Strategic Plan (2011-2015) that expires in December 2015. A new Strategic Plan 2016-2020 will be designed to enable UWESO to reach more children in UGANDA tapping into Global Sustainable Development Goals..

The year 2014 was a remarkable one in the challenges that set in our work were reversed in to opportunities with the support of a committed National Board, Management and Staff which has enabled UWESO to be able to bring smiles to the faces of the vulnerable children and the achievements realized are a result of the contribution from all of you.A number of projects were implemented in UWESO that have indicating tremendous progress in our work to promoting the plight of Orphans and Vulnerable Children. These projects included Supporting National Response to OVC-SUNRISE OVC project that covered 80 districts in partnership with other development partners and Government of Uganda; REALIZE supporting elimination

o child labour in Hoima District, banking on Change in Tesosub region, AYEDI in Lango and Busoga sub regions , Koinonia support rescuing children from the street of Kampala city and providing them a new live hood at Masulita Children’s Village and later resettled back to their families in Karamoja. Other projects include upgrading projects Masulita Children’s Village to include Masulita Vocational training institute and Masulita intensive farm to boost the centre and numerous project funded and run by BECS across the country. Migyera UWESO Training Institute is another entity that provides both Secondary Education and Vocational training with a dual curriculum in the same institution.

Our development partners namely Government of Uganda, USAID, HIV Alliance, Elimination of Child Labour in Tobacco Foundation (ECLT), CARE, Koinonia, Bantwana/ WEI and a number of individuals have contributed to the work of UWESO have enabled UWESO to reach more children in delivering services to children.. Our networking partners and strategic alliances including UCRNN, NGO forum, UNASO, National Council for Children and many others have contributed to networking opportunities and building alliances for the sake of children.

Our staff at the Secretariat in Kampala, Regional offices and entities has made UWESO proud by exhibiting a spirit of team work, resilience and unwavering commitment in relation to

UWESO core values and staff code of conduct in handling UWESO business and beyond.

Our Regions, Branch Executive Committees (BEC) and Sub-branch Executive Committees (SBEC) have continued with tremendous work exemplified by feedback that is received in providing support supervision.

On behalf o f the National Executive Committee (NEC), I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Donors, Government of Uganda and other esteemed development partners that have worked with UWESO for the selfless support to improve the lives of children in Uganda.

I would like to convey my utmost thanks to all who have been touched by our interventions in the communities and specialized delivery point. May the Almighty God bless you with full life in your calling as you serve Uganda

We look forward to yet another successful year in 2015 as serve children for better results in social service delivery.

Mabel Kiggundu, Chairperson, National Executive Committee (NEC)-UWESO

As the Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO), I am delighted to pen down a few words appreciating all our stakeholders and especially those whose paths have crossed UWESO’s in

this journey of improving lives of the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC). This report provides highlights of our work in the past year ended 31st December 2014.

UWESO’ vision of contributing to a society where all children live a full life was thought out to influence the multitude of players in the areas of OVC support to address issues of vulnerability. Over time it is important to acknowledge that development partners, government of Uganda, private sector and other CSOs have partnered with UWESO in OVC service delivery. UWESO has been able to grow collaborative strategies and strengthen their grass root structures in supporting the OVC and caregivers and this has greatly contributed to the sustainability of their operations in the communities.

In the year 2014, remarkable progress was achieved both in terms of outreach and in numbers of OVC served. In addition to having physical presence in over 45 Districts clustered around 6 regional offices of Lira, Soroti, Mbale, Masaka, Hoima and Mbarara; programs were also introduced in the Districts of Kamuli, Iganga, Bugiri and Mayuge and in total additional 5,072 OVC were served through programs detailed in other sections of this report.

We also realized more stakeholder commitment in fighting vulnerability and a concerted effort in integrating psychosocial support and economic strengthening has been introduced in all our programs. This has enhanced our community based model of targeting the OVC through the caregivers and leveraged governments and

Message

Chief Executive Officer

other CSOs efforts to improve service delivery to OVC.Finally, a big thank you to all our supporters especially the development partners, the government of Uganda and other CSOs who continue to offer financial, material and technical support which enables UWESO implement their mandate. Without forgetting our Patron for planting the seed and continuous guidance, our Board for their oversight role and Branch Executive Structures who have continued spreading the message of supporting OVC in their communities and have made the integration of OVC fund in community based savings and credit models become a reality. We treasure these relationships and promise that in the coming year we will yet again do all we can to make the biggest possible difference for vulnerable children in this country.

Jennifer AgutiChief Executive Officer

2014 At a Glance

UWESO PROFILE:

1. About UWESO2. Core areas of operation

Ares of operation

By the end of 2014, UWESO had attained the key achievements. We are particularly grateful for having supported 4,213

children previously engaged in child labor to be enrolled back in school, sponsoring children in education and rehabilitating former street children. UWESO continued to support OVC and OVC households to increase their access to education, health, hygiene and sanitation services as well as working with Local Government to promote child protection programs. We are specifically proud of the two medical camps organized in Masulita Children’s Village and Boma Grounds in Ngora which enabled ordinary poor households to access free medical attention. Finally, Construction of a Vocational Block at Masulita Children’s Village and opening of a new office in Ngora district are some of the outstanding strategic achievements we realized this year. We are proud to share these achievements for 2014 highlighted in the sections that follow.

Our 2014 Achievements

Eliminating Child labour10

1.1 Children saved from child labour and enrolled back in schoolWith Financial and technical support from Elimination of Child Labour in Tobaco growing areas Foundation (ECLT) UWESO is implementing a project, Realizing Livelihood Improvement through Saving and education in Hoima district, 2013 - 2016. The project aim at reducing the number of children involved in tobacco growingIn 2014, a total number of 4,213 children targeted for primary education were identified and enrolled back in schools. UWESO worked with a number of stakeholders in the district to withdraw children from child labour. These included but not limited to, the local leaders, teachers and caregivers. The project also worked hand in hand with existing structures at different levels i.e. district, sub county and community such as the District Orphans and other Vulnerable Children Committee (DOVCC), Sub County Orphans and other Vulnerable Children Committee (SOVCC) and Child Labour Protection Committees.

These structures were instrumental in identification of children affected by child labour; supported children to access and be retained in schools through counseling and guidance; ensured data collection and reporting on child labour issues at all levels; and shared information with the community on issues affecting children such as child neglect, child abuse, child trafficking among others.

Selection criteria for identifying the above children included: children in child labour, children in worst forms of child labour, children with siblings in child labour, children in proximity to child labour hotspots, child headed households, children

affected by HIV/AIDS, children from low income households, children staying with the elderly and children affected by disability.

1.2 Improved access to education, health services, water and sanitation facilities to the 2,700 children withdrawn from tobacco farms.

Various stakeholders who included teachers, local leaders, VSLA leaders and UWESO staff were proactively involved to ensure that children access essential services such as education, water and sanitation. Key achievements were registered under this result area as highlighted below:

1.2.1 Increased access to Water Hygiene and Sanitation Services in schools: With support from Elimination of Child labour in tobacco growing areas

Foundation (ECLT), UWESO constructed 3 stance pit latrine at Iguru primary school which serve over 1,200 children in the school. In addition to pit latrines, rehabiliated boreholes and sanitation facilities provided in 14 participating schools and 3 communities. In addition, UWESO worked closely with the Hoima District Water Engineer to conduct an assessment of the boreholes in 14 participating schools whose report was shared. It’s expected that upon completion of the borehole repairs, access to safe and clean water will be increased for population

in and around schools will improve hence creating a better environment for children to study. This will also reduce on the length of time and distances trekked by children to fetch water for domestic use.1.2.2 Integrating children from Tobacco farms back into schools:In the period under review, 5,700 children withdrawn from child labour were provided with scholastic materials and financial support as part of to support their access to and retention in school.  In addition, to ensure children enrolment and retention in schools, different community structures including VSLAs groups and caregivers were involved in supporting children

by identifying and referring children involved or at risk of child labor to UWESO for support, health centers for treatment and or primary schools for educational support.

UWESO is also glad to report that 14 Children’s clubs were formed with a purpose of integrating children withdrawn from child labour into normal school life and these were continuously monitored throughout the year. Apart from integrating child labour issues into children’s clubs, UWESO provided musical instruments in 2014 to promote music, dance and drama activities in schools. Through monitoring of children clubs, UWESO noted that, teachers are integrating

child labour messages in the children clubs. This increased children participation in elimination of child labour and influenced those involved in child labour positively to get out of child labour. The children who acquire knowledge at school on child labour pass on this information to the community where they stay and ultimately help parents and caregivers appreciate the dangers involved in worst forms of child labour. Furthermore, through community dialogue meetings, all VSLA groups, child protection committees were strengthened or formed at village level to ensure caregivers give priority to the needs of their children.

1.2.3 Supporting children to access education: in 2014, UWESO altogether supported 4,213 children to access Primary, Secondary, Vocation and Apprenticeship education in various institutions. In 2014, 132 of the 3,873 children being supported in primary school, completed their primary level education and will be joining secondary school in 2015. In addition, 813 of these received school uniforms. At Secondary school level, 7 out of the 100 students completed their O’Level education (Uganda Certificate of Education) and to date we await their results which will determine their next course of action in pursuit of their educational career. Under Vocation Education, 60 artisans completed their vocational skills development at Nile Vocational Training (NVI) Center based Hoima District successfully.

4 of 14participating schools had selected infrastructure constructed or renovated

4,213 Number of children that accessed Primary, Secondary, Vocation and Apprenticeship education

Some of the graduates are already employed in the carpentry workshops and hairdressing saloons. 180 children were identified and enrolled for artisan apprenticeship training and are expected to complete training in 2015. Of these, 120 children were enrolled at Migyera UWESO Training Institute (MUTI) in Nakasongola District while 60 children were attached to local master artisans within the community in Hoima District. All the trainees were be provided with startup tool kits after completion of training. 1.2.4 Constructing Classrooms: By 2014, selected infrastructure in 4 out of 14 participating schools were constructed or renovated to decongest classes and create a child-friendly school environment. These schools included  Tontema, Kigomba, Mbarara and Buhanika. Thus, bringing together a total of 10 schools with completed school works. Classroom renovations created a conducive and healthy environment for children to study.

1.3 Improved awareness and action against child labor in tobacco growing areas amongst Leaders and communities.Under this result areas, a number of interventions were carried out. Specifically, UWESO developed a communication strategy to guide dissemination of information and advocacy interventions against child labour. Messages like "No to Child Labor, Yes to

Education" and STOP Child Labour! Parents Support Children's Education” among others were disseminated through Flyers, T-shirts, Calendars in  order to raise awareness about the REALISE project and dangers of child labour and how it affects education of children. In addition, UWESO supported child labour advocate groups to participate in district celebration to mark public events such as the World Day against Child Labour, and Day of the African Child that were held at Bugambe  Primary School in Bugambe Sub County. On these Days, School children from Bujungu and Bugambe primary schools participated. This was through music, dance and drama. Others who participated were the out-of-school children club of Bugambe Sub County.

Another awareness raising intervention UWESO embarked on was painting 18 murals were painted on strategic walls in 14 primary schools and 4 trading centers/public places. The murals aimed at informing the public about danger of child labour are strategically located in schools, especially along the main access ways or roads so that both the school and community can access the information on the murals. Four other places within district were painted as well. The message on the mural is “End child labour in tobacco growing” Let’s us make a better life for children.

As part capacity strengthening for districts to deliver on elimination of child labour, UWESO in partnership with

the district supported the development of a 5 year District Action Plan for the elimination of the worst forms of child labour. This plan was modeled along the lines of the Nation Action Plan to ensure that the district response fits into the overall national framework. The plan contains a database of service providers who can be approached to accommodate and rehabilitate the child laborers before they are settled back into their original homes. In addition, stakeholders at district and lower levels were trained on the National Child Labour Policy and other areas related to eliminating worst forms of child labour. 1.4 Strengthening capacity of District and Sub County OVC Coordination Committees to plan and coordinate Child Labour interventions in the districtIn 2014, UWESO focused on strengthening the coordination mechanism for Orphans and other Vulnerable Children at district level through coordination meetings chaired by the Chief Administrative Officer, Departmental Heads, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), religious organizations and private sector. Among key outcomes of these meetings included; All NGOs working in the district to sign MOUs with the district to avoid counterfeit CSOs operating in the district; the District Action Plan (DAP) on Elimination of worst forms Child Labour was to be disseminated at lower levels based on availability of funds; and popularization of the toll free child helpline (116). At national level, UWESO worked with the National Steering committee (NSC) on Elimination of Worst forms of Child labour based at National level. The committee which met quarterly, is comprised of Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Internal affairs, CSOs, ILO, Federation of Uganda Employers, Teachers union, Workers union and Private sector.

The process of disseminating the policy started in 2013 and continued through 2014. Different stakeholders including the district, sub county and civil society fully participated in the dissemination. The dissemination process was facilitated by the National Coordinator of ILO/IPEC Kampala.

Enhance Capacity of 18,000 caregiversin child labor affected families to generate income to be able to meet the basic needs of the OVC

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To date, 261 VSLA groups were established in Hoima, 35 in Kitoba Sub County, 60 in Bugambe Sub County, 54 in Buhanika Sub County, 55 in Kyangwali Sub County and 57 in Kigorobya Sub County. The VSLAs were instrumental towards enabling the active poor to initiate and manage small businesses thus improving their daily incomes. Consequently, vulnerable households have been empowered to meet the needs of children under their care. Households affected by child labour were trained in business skills i.e. business identification, selection and management. The training enabled the VSLA groups to identify income generating activities, including crop production, Poultry,

600 functional VSLAs were in place with 18,000 members participating in saving and borrowing cash for self-improvement. By end of quarter 4 2014, 261 functional cumulative VSLAs were in place reaching out to 8,830 caregivers.

dairy, maize milling, beekeeping and pineapple growing as enterprises they could operate and generate income. With the skills acquired, groups are now able to borrow funds and initiate businesses or improve their businesses. This helped to reduce dormant funds in the VSLA groups because group members were able to utilize the loan funds from VSLA more productively. This has not only improved their businesses but also motivated group members to save more money and earn more interest on funds saved through VSLA groups.

Improving access to Integrated financial servicesfor youth and other underserved population in Uganda.

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UWESO with support from Barclays Bank UK through CARE International in Uganda worked with venerable households in Eastern Uganda to improve access to integrated financial services for vulnerable households in Eastern Uganda and to contribute to improvement in financial inclusion for Youth and other underserved population in Uganda. We are proud to note the following achievements 240 youth groups have been formed and 41 of these have achieved expected target on youth group formation at 100% by November 2014. To date the cumulative total of youth groups formed is 240 against the target of 233. Owing to outstanding performance, UWESO was rated the best CARE Partner out of 7 across the country in the year 2014. UWESO trained 1,731 VSLA members in Selection, Planning & Management (SPM) of IGAs representing accumulative total of 50 Youth groups have completed the first cycle and resumed the second cycle. In addition, 15,143 OVC have been supported to improve household level incomes and these have to date saved worth UGX 275,778,300 and UGX 6,069,500 mobilized for emergency cases. The group has a 71.6% of group’s portfolio outstanding as loans was worth UGX 228,614,115 and has registered annual Returns on Deposits is 43.3%. In future, UWESO Plans to Roll out Business Management and Financial Literacy Education, promote Group Bank rating and linking to Formal Financial Institutions (FFIs) as well as strengthen Local structures to sustain VSLA and other activities in the communities.

Empowering youth with Employable and Development skills

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UWESO in 2014, with support from the World Education Inc. (WEI)/ Bantwana Initiative, in partnership with the Government of Uganda and Straight Talk Foundation (STF), started working together to support 4,277 vulnerable youth (15-18 years) develop marketable skills to secure decent work opportunities and serve as civic leaders in their communities through prevention or withdrawal from hazardous labor. By end of 2014, a baseline had been accomplished to ascertain the benchmarks against which UWESO will gauge its performance. We had also commenced on the process of club formation and community mobilization.

Enhancing Child Protection and Rehabilitation at MCV

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5.1 New Vocational Training Institute for Masulita Children’s Village (MCV) In the period under review, UWESO was proud to host the Founder & Patron of UWESO, The First Lady and Minister for Karamoja Affairs Hon. Mrs. Janet Museveni and the First Lady of Sri-Lanka, Shiranthi W. Rajapaksa, at Masulita Chidlren’s Village to lay a foundation stone and unveil the plan for the construction of a vocation training institute at UWESO Children’s Village in Masulita, Wakiso District. The Institute worth UGX 3 billion was donated by the Government of Sri-Lanka and once completed will aim at skilling and transforming lives of children within and outside MCV. In addition to the vocational institute, Sri-Lanka’s First Lady handed over medical equipment worth UGX 20 Million donated to the institute. The equipment included an ESG machine, blood pressure apparatus, nebulizers and wheel chairs, sports equipment, plus medicines worth UGX 15 Million. She also announced a donation of an ambulance and a tractor to the institute (health unit) and mechanized farming in the home respectively. The ceremony was graced with Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, Wakiso District political & technical

leadership, religious, Cultural and opinion leaders, UWESO NEC and BEC members, management and staff of UWESO and the entire Masulita community. Construction work covers a 2-storied Administration Block and a 3-storied Classroom Block. A satisfactory progress has been achieved to date. 65% of the work on the Administration Block is completed and finishing works are ongoing. While 40% of the works on the classroom block are completed. UWESO is highly indebted to the Government of Sri-Lanka for the enormous support. We applaud the First Lady of Uganda for enabling this project become a reality. We also extend our sincere gratitude to SASA Architects and Project Managers (Consulting Firm) and VSHydro (Contractor) for the supervisory and technical role played during the implementation of the project.

5.2 2500 Masulita residents benefit from Medical Camp Prior to the ground breaking ceremony, UWESO organized a two-day medical camp manned by a team of nine Sri-Lankan health personnel and their Ugandan counterparts. The medical camp which was organized in conjunction with Ministry of Health and the Office of the First Lady, offered a range of comprehensive health services not limited to; HIV/AIDS screening, malaria, Tuberculosis and nutritional deficiency screening. Others included eye, dental and gynecology screening, reproductive health, maternal and general treatment. Over 2,500 people benefited from a range

Selected pictures showing Masulita Medical Camp in Progress

of free medical services. UWESO expresses gratitude to all medical service providers that is; Red Cross Uganda, Baylor Uganda, TASO, Reproductive Health Uganda, Uganda Cares, etc. who made the Masulita Medical camp a success.

5.3 Rehabilitating and Street Children Rehabilitation at MCV

In 2014, 66 children (23 boys and 43 girls) were transferred from Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Center to Masulita

Children’s Village in Wakiso District. This was made possible with financial support extended by KOINONIA Ministries a Non-Governmental Organization based in Belgium. The children a former street children. Future plans are that, after rehabilitation, these children will be resettled back in their communities. Through medical screening most of these children were malnutrition & underweight especially among children with below 5 years of age, many had malaria, skin and scalp infections, abdominal worms, persistent cough, septic wounds and one HIV positive case. To date most of these conditions have been treated. Also, In order to address skin and scalp infections, personal hygiene and sanitation practices there is ongoing mentoring and nurturing of these children. To address malnutrition and underweight among younger children, children were fed on highly nutritious and immunity boosting foods. This was made possible because MCV undertakes crop and animal farming within the home so as to supplement on the feeding program of children while in the home. At the time of reception, most of children behaviour was characterized with withdrawals, outbursts, unusual fright, shyness, and use of abusive language, violence amongst themselves, poor hygiene practices. However, with continuous guidance and mentorship the children gradually responded to the

Children taking part in vegetable growing at the Farm (MCV)

psychosocial support interventions. Also, using games, sports and other recreation activities, values and skills such as being cooperative, open, sociable, assertive, confident, hospitable, team players, have been passed unto the children by the Psychosocial support staff.

These children were enrolled back into basic education and are now in position to move on with education alongside their peers upon being resettled back in Karamoja. To date, MCV takes pride in having contributed to the rehabilitation and transformation of lives of these children. UWESO extends deep appreciation to Koinonia Ministries for the financial and technical support offered to MCV towards restoring hope of and securing a bright future for such disadvantaged children.

5.4 Education child sponsorship at MCV

UWESO through HILTOP Academy sponsorship has continued to support 12 total orphans with education and residential care at MCV. Some of these children have totally depended and lived at UWESO MCV since their early childhood. 3 of these children were enrolled at Nile Vocational Institute Njeru in Jinja District to pursue courses in Plumbing, Electrical Engineering and Motor Mechanics and Driving after completion of UAEC (2) and UEC (1). 3 other were enrolled in Migyera UWESO Technical Institute (MUTI) for Hair dressing & Welding and Metal fabrication after completion of Senior Four. While two are in Secondary school (S.6) at Masulita Secondary School and at St. Pius Kiziba Senior Secondary Masulita (S.4).

Of the twelve, three (3) children (two girls) and (one boy) have failed to continue with education despite availability of the support and continuous counseling services. These children absconded at the level of S.3, S.4 and P.7 respectively. Efforts to encourage them pursue vocational training have been futile. Currently, these children are staying with their relatives with no interest to pursue further studies. On the other hand, Ruth Kyomuhendo is a girl with disability as all her limbs are crippled and has almost been in MCV all her life from tender age. She has continuously benefited from all the services offered at MCV.Ruth Kyomuhendo’s Photo attending Class

The children that are still in UWESO’s reach have continued to directly benefit from UWESO in terms of being educated, provided with basic school requirements, psychosocial support, nutritional feeding and medical care. Some of the children who are living with HIV, UWESO has continuously supported them to access ART and any other related services from specialized service providers. Most of the above mentioned children’s life journey has not been rosy given that they are total orphans. However, their long term dream is to complete their education, get employed and become better people in the future. We highly applaud HILLTOP ACADEMY for the gesture of kindness and generosity extended to UWESO and particularly the aforementioned children towards their educational support.

Managing & Coordinating provision of Technical Support to TSOs (Technical Support Organizations)

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UWESO in 2014, ended implementation of the Five Year (2010-2015) Strengthening the National Response for Implementation of Services (SUNRISE) OVC Project where it’s played an effective role for coordinating and strengthening technical assistance to TSOs. This was jointly implanted by UWESO and International HIV/AIDS Alliance (IHAA). The project was effectively implemented and all the expected results realized. The strengthened local government and community systems to improve access, utilization, coverage and quality of comprehensive services for vulnerable children.

UWESO built strong partnership between TSOs, the central and local governments in a bid to strengthen the role of government and CSOs to effectively play their complementary roles for improved service delivery to OVC. Specifically, UWESO through its management of TSOs improved their performance through its active participation in the planning and facilitation. UWESO also effectively coordinated the training of trainers exercise for TSO and other selected staff to ensure that they collect reliable, valid and accurate OVC data during the LQAS exercise.

As part of establishing the performance Progress of TSOs, UWESO coordinated the TSO performance assessment exercise of all regional TSOs towards realization of the project goals and objectives. Results from the assessment were shared with the various stakeholders at regional and national levels and utilized to inform the project focus. On a regular

basis, we coordinated the planning and implementation of the TSO Joint Support Supervision exercises in all the 8 regional TSOs. For learning and replication purposes among implementing partners, UWESO held the TSOs and District knowledge and experience sharing conference that was attended by over 100 participants from all project Districts, MGLSD and representatives from the partner organizations. It was a platform where participating TSOs and Local Governments shared experiences and lessons learnt about the best programming and implementation approaches for knowledge sharing and learning purposes.

UWESO also conducted two Local government performance and readiness assessment exercises aimed at establishing the extent to which Local Governments were ready to effectively manage, coordinate and sustain the project supported child protection activities after the end of the project. TSO Region that were found to have many non-ready Districts were prioritized for additional/gaps focused technical assistance through regular support supervision and monthly performance planning and review meetings. In conclusion, UWESO as an OVC centered organization with support from IHAA SUNRISE Project management and implementation teams for job well done and specifically recognizes the appreciates the efforts of the CoP and deputy Chief of Party, the technical Advisors and the TSO technical staff for working tirelessly to realize the results registered.

Governance Achievements70

Guest of Honor Hon. Mary Karooro Okurut Officially opening UWESO Offices

7.1 UWESO Extends Services to Ngora DistrictIn the bid to reach out to more vulnerable children, UWESO on the 17th November 2014, officially launched its presence in Ngora District under the theme “Investment in Children through Accelerated Community Empowerment”. The launch was an aftermath of increased community demand ensuing members’ establishment of fully fledged governance structures at both Sub County and District level, mobilization of grass root members into 40 Village Savings and Loan Associations with over 1,200 membership. The launch was a joint venture between UWESO and Ngora District Local Government.

Key to the event was the extension of an Office space to UWESO by Ngora District Local Government. The District leadership also pledged to secure land where UWESO could construct its permanent offices.

7.2 Two-Day Medical CampPrior to the launch, UWESO in partnership with Baylor Uganda and Ngora District Local Government medical team organized a 2-day free medical camp manned by the District Health Officer, Ngora District. At least, 1,500 local community members in Ngora and neighboring districts benefited from health education while 650 members benefited from specialized medical services such as Hepatitis B screening, VCT, General Treatment, Immunization, De-worming, Mother To Child Health services, Antenatal/Postnatal Services, Family Planning, Dental services, Voluntary HIV Testing, Screening of Cervical Cancer, Screening for Diabetes and High Blood Pressure, Health Education, and Safe Male Circumcision (SMC). We acclaim Baylor College Uganda and the District Health Department for successfully executing the camp and facilitating access to health services and education to over 1,500 people and children.

Community members receiving services the medical camp Guest Honor & other delegates during inspection of the medical camp

7.3 UWESO Launch at District Boma GroundsAt the peak of a 3-day activity, was an official launch of UWESO operations in an occasion attended by diverse stakeholders such as the District political and technical leaders within Teso Region, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), non-State Development Actors, UWESO NEC, BECs, members and the community. The Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development- Hon. Mary Karooro Okurut graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor. The Minister applauded UWESO for her long standing impact in addressing the most critical needs of the vulnerable children both locally and nationally. The Minister pledged full Government support towards UWESO and officiated the handing over 5 wheel chairs to children with disabilities

donated by the Sri-Lankan Government in order to facilitate them live to their full potential. Among other items offered were scholastic materials (books, pens and mathematical sets) to 40 school-going children as seen in photos below.

The Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Aguti Jennifer, commended Government and various development partners for their unwavering support to and partnership with UWESO. She beckoned all stakeholders to take an active role in addressing the plight of Orphans and other Vulnerable Children in Uganda. The UWESO NEC Chairperson, Mrs. Kiggundu Mabel, equally emphasized on the need for concerted effort by all duty bearers in government, private sector, civil society and the community in order to realize sustainable impact on the wellbeing of children in Uganda.

UWESO Secretariat recognizes and applauds the district political and technical leadership for the technical guidance and support and with whom we worked tirelessly to make this event successful. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Guest of Honor; Hon. Mary Karoro Okurut, the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development for officiating the event. We also thank Hon. Christine Amongin, the Minister for Teso Affairs and Hon. Amongin Jacqueline, the Woman Member of Parliament (Ngora District) for their valuable time and support towards the event. UWESO Secretariat extends deep felt appreciation to the Ngora BEC Chairperson, Ms. Jane Emulai and the entire committee members for their servant-hood leadership and devotion to UWESO and the community for the enthusiasm and sheer commitment with which they embraced UWESO and the entire UWESO fraternity for having fully participated in the event.

7.4 Tribute to Departed UWESO Members On a sad note, UWESO regrets the loss of Hajat Nalongo Nasimbwa, the BEC Chairperson, Lyantonde District and Mrs. Jolly Kamugisha, the BEC Chairperson, Rukungiri District who passed on during the course of the year. We concede and appreciate the deceased for their allegiance and long-time service to UWESO and more particularly towards uplifting vulnerable children to wellness. May the God Almighty unceasingly strengthen their bereaved families and rest the departed souls in eternal peace.

Challenges80

High expectations by the community that the project cannot meet. However with regular meetings and dialogues, the project mandate and scope of work was shared. It’s anticipated that with continuous sharing of information about the project mandate, the community will gain better understanding of the interventions hence reduced expectations.

Poverty is still a major factor in some households. Low incomes continue to drive children to work in order to earn money and supplement on family income. However, with the onset of VSLAs established in the community, such vulnerable households were continuously encouraged to join VSLAs so as learn to save, borrow and be trained in business skills.

STAFF MEMBERS.1 Aguti Jennifer Chief Executive Officer

2 Tuyamwjuka Silvanus Bob Head of Programs

3 Yiga Gladys Head of Operations

4 Kansiime Collins Internal Auditor

5 Twesigye Gordon Technical Advisor-TSO

6 Epila Bosco Resource Mobilization Manager

7 Wambewo Edrisa Child Protection Manager

8 Nabwire Robinah Project Officer-TSO

9 Ijangolet Hellen Florence Accountant- Management

10 Kabyanga Imelda Accounts Assistant

11 Kizito Damalie Executive Assistant to CEO

12 Twesigye Edson Driver-Head office

13 Nsimbe Abdul Driver-Head office

14 Aisu Paul Jordan Guard Head office

15 Siliman Jophes Guard-Head office

16 Azabo Fahima Office Attendant

17 Nalumansi Milly Office Attendant

18 Nankwanga Deborah Receptionist - Head office

19 Naigaga Zalika Data entrant

20 Kagumya Steven ICT Administration Officer

21 Mwambu Hellen Human Resource Officer

22 Nnannozi Agnes Accounts assistant - MCV

23 Alituha Mary Projects manager ECLT

24 Wafula John Accountant-ECLT

25 Senyondo Richard Project Officer-ECLT

26 Bigabwa Duncan Data Clerk ECLT

27 Wobusobozi Moses Driver ECLT

28 Otim Herbert Field Coordinator BOC II

29 Okello Emmanuel Pius Project Officer BOC II

30 Angole Evaline Project Officer BOC II

31 Akello Esther M&E Assistant BOC II

32 Okae Edmond Driver-BOC II

33 Egato Jonathan Linkage banking Officer BOC II

34 Opejo Seth Sen Linkage Banking Officer BOC II

35 Byamukama Brian Vol. Office Care taker -Eastern

36 Mujuni Peter Vol. Project Officer-Western

37 Katerega Janet Vol. Accounts Assistant-Southern

38 Karekyezi Patrick Manager-MCV

39 Koriang Martin Pscho Social Support Officer

40 Lowanyang Alfred Pscho Social Support Officer

41 Apoo Margaret Nurse

42 Lokiduk Moses House Father

43 Mutoni Ruth House Mother

44 Jumba Living stone Gardener

45 Namatovu Betty Gardener

46 Munyuka Tom Security Guard

47 Bakole Habeeb Security Guard

48 Wakowu Stephen Cook

49 Sekyanzi Christopher cook

50 Kato Frank Herdsman-MCV

51 Acen Miriam Sarah Accountant –AYEDI

UGANDA WOMEN’SEFFORT TO SAVE

ORPHANS

Plot 2, Tagore Crescent, Kamwokya, P.O. Box 8419 Kampala, Tel: 0392-777448 / 0414-532395, Email: uweso@uweso.org

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