We are delighted to share the highlights of the 2024 Freddie Henry Kasozi Memorial Camp (FHK Camp), held from May 3rd to May 6th at Taibah International School Since its inception in 2006, the FHK Camp has honored the legacy of Freddie Henry Kasozi by promoting quality education for girls and empowering them through interactive and enriching experiences
The FHK Camp rests on three foundational pillars: fostering interaction among the girls, exposing them to new opportunities, and equipping them with essential life skills. These pillars create a relaxed and inclusive environment where Concern for the Girl Child (CGC) beneficiaries can build skills, teamwork, and networks. The camp provides experiences that contribute to the girls' holistic growth and development into wellrounded adults.
During the camp, the girls participated in different activities like MDD, and sports and did much learning to help them ignite their sparkle. They were able to interact with the “golden ladies” these imparted a lot of wisdom to them in a range of topics like relationships, work, school life, and culture We also welcomed the Senior One girls onto the Education Support Program.
The FHK Camp is crucial in ensuring girls stay in school by emphasizing life skills development. This year's camp, themed "Embrace Your Sparkle, Shine Bright," was a resounding success, featuring educational tours, workshops, mentorship sessions, sports, and various activities designed to empower the girls and encourage their personal growth
GRADUATION
We're thrilled to announce that nine of our girls have recently graduated from Kampala University. Among them is Nantongo Hajara who graduated with a Certificate in Nursing from Kampala University. This significant achievement highlights their dedication and hard work and underscores our commitment to empowering young women through education. Join us in celebrating their success and wishing them the very best in their culinary endeavors!
EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT
Naturinda Immaculate, who joined our Education Support Program this year, has truly surpassed all expectations with her remarkable performance in Senior 1. She has not only excelled academically but has also stood out among her peers, making us and her school incredibly proud Her dedication and hard work are a testament to what can be achieved with the right support and determination.
Let's celebrate Immaculate's outstanding achievements and continue to empower more students to reach their full potential!
CAREER GUIDANCE
We conducted impactful career guidance sessions at Mazzi and Kiwoko Secondary Schools, reaching 194 students These sessions encouraged students to seek mentors, explore career paths, and engage in volunteer opportunities to develop professional skills. Emphasis was placed on how career decisions influence mental health, offering a holistic view of their futures Interactive dialogues provided valuable insights and strategies for effective career navigation
CAREER GUIDANCE DURING THE FHK CAMP
At the FHK camp, we organized specialized career guidance for CGC girls, helping them explore career options, understand required skills, and develop clear career plans Motivational talks and individualized counseling during home visits allowed the girls to gain insights into their strengths and interests This approach equipped them with the confidence to make informed educational and career decisions, fostering a strong sense of direction and purpose
We are committed to supporting students through ongoing career guidance, helping them build bright futures Thank you for your continued support in making these programs possible.
Mentorship sessions
During the FHK camp, we conducted mentorship sessions for 96 continuing students, divided into 12 family groups. In these sessions, students engaged with their mentors within family groups to receive guidance, support, and encouragement. Each student was paired with a mentor from the CGC staff, who provided advice on academic, personal, spiritual, and careerrelated issues.
The mentorship program aimed to build confidence, provide role models, and help the girls navigate their educational journeys with the support of camp facilitators. The impact of these sessions was evident in the increased confidence and improved decision-making skills among the participants By fostering strong mentor-mentee relationships, we continue to support and empower our students to achieve their fullest potential.
UCRNN Children’s Advocacy Camp
We had 10 CGC girls and 2 chaperones (Assistant program officer and Counsellor) actively participate in the UCRNN Children’s Advocacy Camp that happened from 6th to 9th May 2024 in Mukono District at Seroma Christian High School. This event focused on empowering children from different parts of Uganda through advocacy and education about their rights on issues like Education, Climate change, and reproductive health rights with a theme “Nothing about us without us”.
The camp included interactive sessions on child rights, advocacy strategies, and the importance of public engagement The girls were able to learn from experts, engage in meaningful discussions, and develop skills in advocacy and leadership. This participation not only enhanced their knowledge but also empowered them to become advocates for their own rights and those of their peers
CHILD PROTECTION
Concern for the Girl Child (CGC) participated in two significant national events, celebrating both Women's Day with Luweero District
The Women's Day celebrations took place at Kasaala in Bututumula Sub-County, Luwero District, under the theme "Accelerating Gender Equality through Women Economic Empowerment."
We proudly supported 25 of our safe space girls who participated and exhibited their handmade items, showcasing their skills and entrepreneurial spirit. This event provided an excellent platform to highlight the importance of economic empowerment in achieving gender equality.
DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD
Concern for the Girl Child (CGC) actively participated in the National Organizing Committee (NOC) for the Day of the African Child (DAC), playing a significant role in both planning meetings and the final event held in Kiryandongo District CGC's involvement underscored its commitment to advocating for children's rights, as evidenced by its membership in the Child Participation Committee under UCRNN.
CGC's staff contributed actively to discussions that attracted international delegates, enhancing the organization's visibility and demonstrating its dedication to promoting child welfare through active engagement in national and international forums
MENSTRUAL & PUBERTY TALKS
Sanitation Week at Bugayo Primary School in Makulubita was a great success, with 150 participants joining the activities. Among them were 50 pupils from Bugayo and 100 community members The event aimed to raise awareness and promote hygiene and sanitation advocacy within the community, focusing on attitude and behavioral change A highlight of the week was the Health Officer's recognition and awarding of the best households with complete and wellmaintained sanitary facilities, celebrating their commitment to maintaining high hygiene standards
SANITATION
At Concern for the Girl Child, our commitment to improving lives is evident in a recent success story: during a follow-up visit to a beneficiary's home that initially lacked a proper toilet, we encouraged the construction of a permanent pit latrine We were thrilled to discover that the family not only built the latrine but also added an adjoining bathroom. This improvement significantly enhances the family’s health and hygiene, providing a safer, more dignified living environment, and serves as an inspiring example of the transformative power of communitydriven initiatives.
Donation Box Space
We successfully secured two spaces for donation boxes at Taibah International School, accommodating both the UNEB and Cambridge Curriculum sections. These donation boxes play a crucial role in our programs by generating funds to procure menstrual pads for girls every term
At CGC, our approach is holistic; in addition to covering school fees, we prioritize ensuring girls’ confidence in class, especially during menstruation, to prevent stigma and potential school dropouts. We deeply appreciate the support from our partners who provide space for these donation boxes.
Awards Received
Concern for the Girl Child (CGC) was honored to receive a Certificate of Appreciation from the Inner Wheel Club of Mengo, one of our esteemed partners. This recognition came in gratitude for CGC's integral support during our annual medical camp held in Mazzi The Inner Wheel Club of Mengo extended this acknowledgment during its presidential installation event, coinciding with the Rotary Club of Mengo; its president installation ceremony.
CGC's dedication, generosity, and expertise significantly addressed critical healthcare needs within the Mazzi community This partnership underscores CGC’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of community members through collaborative efforts with like-minded organizations The certificate serves as a testament to CGC’s ongoing mission to empower girls and improve community well-being through impactful initiatives and strategic partnerships
CGC Goodwill Ambassador extreme right with CGC Staff receive a certificate of Appreciation from Inner Wheel Club of Mengo
G& P Officer CGC (Right) placing a donation box at Taibah International School with the help of the Teacher
PARTNERSHIP WITH MTN
CGC recently partnered with MTN Uganda for their annual 21 Days of Yellow Campaign at Bishop Dunstan Nsubuga Memorial Secondary School in Kalangala District. During the event, CGC conducted menstrual hygiene education sessions for S 1 and S 2 students, focusing on hygiene practices, management techniques, and essential tips. Additionally, CGC distributed 94 sanitary kits to ensure the girls have the necessary resources for their menstrual hygiene needs. This collaboration underscores CGC's commitment to community service and education, aligning with MTN Foundation's efforts to make a meaningful impact in local communities through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
VOCATIONAL MICROSITES PROJECT PROJECT LAUNCH
We successfully launched our Vocational Microsites Project, a significant initiative aimed at empowering adolescent mothers and community members in Luweero and Nakasongola districts Recognized by the Girls Opportunity Alliance, we have embarked on a journey to skill 200 young mothers and 100 community members through vocational training. Beginning with inception meetings in Kakooge sub-county, Nakasongola, and Kamira Subcounty, Luweero, we engaged local leaders to outline our mission and seek collaborative strategies for project success. These discussions underscored our commitment to fostering sustainable development and enhancing community well-being
In addition to these crucial meetings, we conducted a comprehensive baseline survey to understand the unique challenges faced by the communities. The survey revealed pressing issues such as the lack of soft skills among young girls, including financial literacy and self-confidence.
Armed with this valuable insight, our Vocational Microsites Project aims not only to impart practical skills but also to address these fundamental challenges, thereby empowering adolescent mothers to define and achieve their aspirations. This quarter marks a pivotal step towards creating lasting positive change in Luweero and Nakasongola, guided by our unwavering dedication to nurturing inclusive growth and opportunity for all
Executive Director -CGC addressing the local and District leaders in Kakooge during the entry meeting in Nakasongola District
On June 27, 2024, Concern for the Girl Child (CGC) attended a meeting organized by our partner Global Learning for Sustainability at Eureka Hotel The meeting, themed "Achievements Registered and Challenges for Redress: Innovating Strategies to Address Gender Inequalities in Education," brought together 23 organizations, including the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Gender, Parliament Association, and several others. The agenda focused on reviewing the Gender in Education Policy 2016, discussing achievements and existing gaps, and innovating strategies to address these gaps Keynote speaker Dr. Angella Nakafeero highlighted significant achievements such as increased girls' enrollment and the reentry of teenage mothers into schools, but also pointed out challenges like poverty, gender-based violence, and poor hygiene in schools. The meeting concluded with a plenary discussion and a call for annual meetings to continue addressing these issues
DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD 2024
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CGC under the Uganda Child Rights NGO Network was a part of the Continental DAC celebrations at Kiryandongo District Local Government Headquarters under the theme ‘’Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now” On June 15th, the Network (UCRNN) held a children’s engagement with representatives of children from various countries of Africa, including; Uganda, Gambia, Lesotho, South Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda, Egypt, and Cameroon to formulate a paper with views about the state of Education in Africa
The paper was presented to the African Committee of Experts on The Rights of Children by the children when they came to Uganda on June 16th, 2024. The statement included challenges like poverty, inability to access school and absence of teachers in schools
The children did not only stop at citing problems, they included some recommendations; to the African Union, they recommended improved budget allocations to education across all African States, and they recommended to the African Children’s committee to encourage member states to put education first in all member states The children also recommended that parents create time to understand what and how their children are learning Concern is proud to be a member of the Network and will continue to advocate and protect the rights of children
CGC supporting group discussions during the continental commemoration of DAC
The Minister receiving the Statement of the Children together with the Chairperson of the Committee of Expperts
SUPPORT FOR LEADERSHIP TRANSITION IN GIRLS NOT BRIDES - UGANDA NATIONAL ALLIANCE
We were delighted to be part of the Girls Not Brides - Uganda National Alliance National Steering Committee meeting as they prepare for the leadership transition in July. The current team has initiated the process, and we're thrilled to support this movementbuilding journey. Ensuring a smooth and impactful transition is crucial for the continued success of the Alliance in its mission to end child marriage. Together, we are committed to strengthening advocacy leadership and investing in movement building to create lasting change.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
We are thrilled to announce that Namubiru Rose, our exceptional Programs Officer for Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), has been named Employee of the First Quarter! Rose's remarkable dedication and innovative spirit have set a new standard within our organization. In the past quarter, she has consistently surpassed her goals, developed creative approaches to SRH education for primary school students, and secured vital partnerships, all despite limited resources Her contributions have not only enhanced our programs but also inspired her colleagues to strive for excellence. Rose's dedication, ingenuity, and resourcefulness embody the values we hold dear Please join us in congratulating Namubiru Rose for her outstanding achievements and for setting a shining example for all of us. We are incredibly proud to have her on our team!
CGC was among the 22 African NGOs featured in a blog by an online blogger (David Bernard) who highlighted the significance of the Day of the African Child and the work we do to address issues around the African Child.
Our Empowering Voices podcasts are back with empowering conversations from the girls. Do not miss out on these discussions on our YouTube channel
OPINIONS:
What does “Education for all:
The time is now mean to you, and how do you think we can achieve this goal?
“It means every child in Uganda and Africa is supposed to receive education in all ways possible. It takes all parents, organizations, and people of goodwill to ensure that every kid in Africa goes to Africa because Education is the only way to elevate the children in life” says Irene Margaret Nabbumba
“ It means that every child should be able to access education regardless of their situation and circumstances.” - Namukose Catherine, S1, Kalinabiri Secondary School
Upcoming Events
of the Haven Project - Scaling Safe Space Girls with support from BarefootLaw
