By Our Reporter
Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU), a youth-led and youth serving organization has partnered with the National Youth Council (NYC), an umbrella organization of all Youth in Uganda to promote meaningful youth participation in the country’s development.
According to a 2020 report by UBOS, youth aged 18-30 comprise up to 30% of Uganda’s population. With many of these just starting out in life, they are therefore in need of information and direction.
“This partnership is a start in the direction of more safety and access to the much needed youth friendly information among young people in Uganda.” Said Jacob Eyeru, Chairperson of the National Youth Council.
National Youth Council is mandated to mobilize, organize and engage young people aged 18-30 years in development activities. This is complementary to RAHU’s approach which is hinged on youth empowerment programs with emphasis on Livelihoods & Skills Development, Behaviour Change Communication, Sexual Reproductive Health and HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.
“RAHU is an emerging centre of excellence for all young people in terms of health communications, programming, mobilisation and advocacy in Uganda. Working with the NYC in a formal way will increase opportunities for us to reach even more young people across the country and work together towards better health for our audience.” Said James K Tumusiime, Country Director – RAHU.
As two formidable youth organizations, RAHU and the NYC will galvanize youth empowerment efforts in Uganda by this partnership.
Furthermore, through this partnership, young people will have easy access to decision makers and their representatives through a bottom up approach.
“Putting Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights at the forefront of this five-year journey, we are answering to the pressing questions of many young people. As the NYC, we are certain of a productive journey with RAHU because it is tried and tested as an organisation that meets the needs of Uganda’s young people.” Jacob Eyeru added.
RAHU is currently carrying out activities in 45 districts in Uganda to move youth towards achieving personal growth and informed, healthy decision making, both in rural and urban areas.