Uganda Embassy in Denmark Celebrates WAY Programme

The Uganda Embassy in Denmark celebrated the “Women, Adolescents, Youth Rights and Empowerment Programme” WAY on Monday, October 23, 2023. The programme, funded by Denmark, was implemented in 11 West Nile and Northern Uganda districts among the Refugees and host communities.

The Embassy extended its pleasure and thanked its partners for their successful contributions in implementing the WAY Programme.

WAY utilised national organisations and community-based structures, including women mentors, role model men and boys, and peer educators to address the harmful social norms and practices that hinder access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) information and services.

The WAY programme provided beneficiaries with SRHR services such as adolescent health services, menstrual health, maternal health, sexuality education, and gender-based violence support.

With a grant of DKK 109 million (approximately UGX 58 billion), more than 1.15 million people were reached with integrated SRHR services, 201 health facilities were supported, 873 health workers were trained, 103 sub-counties were served, 24 settlements were impacted, 46 women safe spaces helped, and 461 schools received SRHR services and information.

Oscar and Finlay Green are some of the beneficiaries and change agents of the programme. They were delighted to be part of the young men and boys on a mission to challenge harmful traditional norms while advocating for the rights of women and girls.

The Uganda Embassy in Denmark was also pleasured and thanked its partners for their efforts. They shared that through this programme, Young people are gaining confidence in discussing crucial SRHR topics like menstruation and contraception and accessing youth-friendly services and outreaches.

The inspiring story of Oscar and Finlay Green exemplifies some of WAY’s successes in norm change in underserved communities.

The Embassy extends its heartfelt appreciation to UNFPA, the implementing partners, namely – CARE International, Reach A Hand Uganda, Outbox, Marie Stopes Uganda, and the Strategic partners – Ministries of Health, Gender and Education for the successful implementation of the WAY Programme.

“Together, we can make a difference and create a more inclusive, empowered future for all,” the Embassy asserted.