The Right Here Right Now (RHRN) project has officially concluded its five-year implementation in the Sebei and Bugisu sub-regions, leaving a strong legacy in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and the promotion of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), particularly among young people.
Implemented by a consortium of civil society organizations—Reproductive Health Uganda (RHU), the Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD), and Hope Mbale—the project was launched in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It focused on expanding access to SRHR services, strengthening youth participation in governance, and building adolescents’ life skills.
Speaking during the closure event in Kapchorwa on August 29, Jackson Chekweko, Executive Director of RHU, said the project had played a pivotal role in raising awareness and reducing cases of SGBV. “We are proud that through this project, we reached thousands of young people with accurate information, services, and life skills. Communities are now more aware, and cases of abuse have declined due to increased vigilance and empowerment,” Chekweko said.
Edith Sifuna, a CEHURD project officer, added that the initiative equipped adolescents with practical knowledge to make informed choices. “We have trained both girls and boys to appreciate their rights, speak out against violence, and make informed decisions. The results are visible in schools, health facilities, and community structures where youth are now actively engaged,” she noted.
Local leaders praised the project for strengthening protection and service delivery structures. Tina Cheptoek, the Kapchorwa District Probation Officer, commended the partners for supporting vulnerable children and youth. “We’ve seen an increase in the reporting of abuse cases and better coordination among service providers. I urge partners not to walk away entirely but to explore ways to sustain the support,” she said.
In the health sector, the project supported the establishment of Health Unit Management Committees and youth clubs. Alfred Mwanga, Deputy District Health Officer of Kapchorwa, said these structures had improved access and responsiveness. “Health workers are now more youth-friendly, and safe spaces have been created for young people to learn and express themselves,” Mwanga explained.
Law enforcement also acknowledged the project’s impact. Fredmark Chesang, Sipi Region Police Spokesperson, reported a decline in SGBV-related cases over the past five years. “This project has helped us a lot. People now know where to report, and many cases that would have gone unreported are now being addressed. We commit to working with other stakeholders to continue this work,” he said.
At the governance level, Anthony Dominic Chepsikor, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer of Kapchorwa, urged districts to integrate SRHR programs into their budgets. “We cannot rely on NGOs alone. As districts, we must plan and budget for such interventions to sustain the gains made,” he said. Martin Sakajja, Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Kapchorwa, encouraged young beneficiaries to pass on the skills and knowledge gained.
“Those who have benefited from this program should pass on the knowledge and skills to others. That’s how we build stronger, informed communities,” he said. The RHRN project formed part of a global initiative to amplify young people’s voices in advocating for SRHR services, policies, and funding.
As it winds up in Sebei and Bugisu, stakeholders remain optimistic that the structures, skills, and systems developed will sustain the momentum in protecting rights and improving the well-being of adolescents and youth across the region.
