Adjumani Leaders Strategize on Gender-Transformative Approach to Adolescent Reproductive Health

Key stakeholders in Adjumani District have convened a two-day leadership conference in Gulu City to develop a gender-transformative and rights-based approach to improving adolescent reproductive health, with a particular focus on girls and young women.

District leaders acknowledged that deep-rooted social norms continue to promote negative behaviours and attitudes, limiting opportunities for adolescents—both nationals and those in host communities—to reach their full potential.

Adjumani District Local Council Five Chairperson, Ben Anyama, highlighted the persistent challenges young people face, including high school dropout rates, teenage pregnancies, and poor academic performance.

“We have witnessed overwhelming challenges facing adolescents. The time to act is now—these young people are our future leaders,” Anyama stated.

Adjumani Resident District Commissioner, Taban Peter Data, underscored the importance of sustained stakeholder engagement in tackling these issues, particularly those affecting girls and young women.

“When adolescent girls receive proper reproductive health education, they are more likely to stay in school and delay marriage, leading to stronger economic growth in their communities,” Data said.

Titus Tumusiime, Country Director of Right To Play Uganda, pointed out that Adjumani and Buyende districts bear a high burden of adolescent-related challenges, including early marriages, teenage pregnancies, and school dropouts.

“We are optimistic that through these comprehensive interventions, the SHARE project will create an environment where adolescents and young people can access the information and services they need to lead healthy and empowered lives,” Tumusiime noted.

In Adjumani and Buyende districts, a consortium of partners—including Right To Play, FAWE Uganda Chapter, FHI 360, and WaterAid—is implementing the five-year Sexual Health and Reproductive Education (SHARE) project.

Funded by Global Affairs Canada, the initiative aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources to improve their reproductive health outcomes.