JFCU presented a position paper to the joint parliamentary committees responsible for gender, labour, social development, legal and parliamentary affairs. The submission called for stronger protection from gender-based violence, alignment with Uganda’s international obligations and a minimum marriage age of 18.
From Joy for Children Uganda
Welcome to the March 2025 edition. This issue highlights JFCU advocacy, education, health financing, community engagement and work with women and girls.
Advocacy for the Sexual Offences Bill and Marriage Bill
Protecting HIV and AIDS financing
Engagement with Parliament’s Committee on Health highlighted the need to safeguard HIV services amid external funding constraints. Recommendations included a supplementary budget, a revitalised AIDS Trust Fund, stronger prevention and viral-load monitoring, reliable district treatment services and wider collaboration with community, faith and private-sector partners.
Back-to-school community campaigns
Community engagements in Kyegegwa, Kamwenge, Ntoroko, Kikuube and Hoima promoted enrolment and retention, addressed violence against children and gender-based violence, identified learners who need support, and helped parents and community leaders understand referral pathways.
Education and child-protection media campaigns
Radio programmes on Spice FM, Kyaka FM and Voice of Kamwenge encouraged children to return to school and opened discussion about child protection, school safety, financial barriers and support for young mothers. Education officers, probation staff and JFCU programme teams took questions from listeners and shared practical guidance.
International Women’s Day with teenage mothers
JFCU met teenage mothers in Acutukum community, Ayami Subcounty, Lira District, to discuss children’s education, delaying pregnancy and marriage, income-generating opportunities and menstrual health. Menstrual products were distributed with support from Afripads and Friends of Girls.
Research and public advocacy
The edition also points readers to JFCU publications on the local consequences of USAID funding withdrawal and the urgent need to respond to rising suicide cases among students.
