Kabarole Research and Resource Centre-Uganda (KRC-Uganda) is a well-established NGO operating countrywide in different regions of Uganda. Founded in 1996, with a research mission and a long-term commitment to understanding the measures and drivers of poverty and its solutions, KRC-Uganda has …
Our Programs
Food Security & Agribusiness
This program plays a vital role in bolstering the efforts of farmers’ organizations by providing comprehensive support across various critical areas of agricultural development.
Information Research & Communications
Since its founding in 1996, KRC has stood by the philosophy that meaningful actionable data is the driver of successful and impactful development programs.
Environment & Energy
As our population grows, so does the pressure on our use of natural resources. Our programs are aligned to sustainable green economic development with the full participation of our communities and stakeholders.
Governance & Policy Advocacy
KRC facilitate spaces for citizens to make their voices heard and exercise their democratic and civic rights. We work with governance structures with the aim of enhancing
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ENHANCING NUTRITION AND FOOD SAFETY OUTCOMES THROUGH INTEGRATING NUTRITION PROGRAMMING IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN FORT PORTAL CITY AND KABAROLE DISTRICT
In an effort to improve nutrition and food safety outcomes, Fort Portal City and Kabarole District have integrated nutrition programming into primary schools. This initiative addresses a critical issue—four in every ten children in the Tooro region are stunted. Contributing factors include limited knowledge about nutrition, inadequate dietary diversity, and insufficient care for mothers and children. Moreover, food safety concerns need urgent attention. Pupils of Karambi primary school nutrition club pose for a photo with KRC-Uganda, IDP, JESE, RCA and political and technical leaders from Fort Portal City and Kabarole district during one of the school monitoring exercises Primary schools have become pivotal in promoting sustainable food systems by educating students on proper nutrition practices and safe food production and consumption. Schools play a crucial role in developing children’s behaviours, as they are part of a larger social network that shapes eating patterns and attitudes. Children learn not only from their peers and teachers but also from their families, communities, and media. Schools are, therefore, natural hubs for nutrition education. KRC-Uganda, through the Mpanga Super Farmers Program (MSFP) and in partnership with Iles de Paix (IDP) and the Hivos Healthy Food Africa project, supports nutrition clubs in five primary schools: Karambi, Kasisi, Kahunga-Bunyonyi, Njara, and Kinyamasika. These clubs serve as a platform for disseminating vital nutrition and food safety information. The program also involves training for headteachers, club patrons, and cooks on nutrition and safe food handling practices, including the use of clean planting materials and bio-rations to manage pests and diseases. Pupils of Karambi primary school perform an educative skit on nutrition Karambi P/S nutrition club has held the flag high in disseminating nutrition and food safety messages and practices to the rest of the pupils and communities. The school has a dedicated nutrition club patron, headteacher and teachers who have integrated basic nutrition and food safety information in their science and agriculture classes. The nutrition club has reached most children through internally organized debates, drama skits and poems on nutrition during assemblies on a regular basis. The school has provided opportunities to practice healthy eating and food safety in their school feeding program, and through the sale of food on their premises. There has been “spread the effect” by involving families in their children’s nutrition education. Silver, one of the male pupils in primary five described how he is contributing to decision in the composition of meals to be consumed in their household utilizing the nutrition knowledge from Karambi primary school. Pupils of Kinyamasika primary school in one of their school gardens The nutrition clubs have also established school gardens to provide hands-on learning experiences, with a focus on diversifying crops and incorporating pest-repellent plants. These efforts aim to strengthen agroecological practices and promote sustainable farming methods in school farms. Through these programs, KRC-Uganda is empowering young students with the knowledge and tools to make healthier food choices, improve food safety, and contribute to their households and communities. By integrating nutrition education into the school environment, these initiatives are fostering long-term change and helping to combat malnutrition in the Tooro region. By: Eric Oteba Food systems and Nutrition Manager-KRC-Uganda
25. Aug 2024
Gender Discrimination against Women and Girls
Gender discrimination occurs when one sex is favoured over the other, leading to disadvantages for the opposite gender. In our society, we frequently encounter such discriminatory situations between women/girls and men/boys. Globally, it is estimated that 736 million women—nearly one in three—have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner or non-partner at least once in their lives, with 30% of women aged 15 and older affected (UN Women, 2023). In the same report, most violence against women is perpetrated by current and or former or intimate partners. More than 640 million or 26 % of women aged 15 years and older have been subjected to intimate partner violence. Of those who have been in a relationship, almost one in four adolescent girls aged 15-19 years (24%) have experienced physical and or sexual violence from an intimate partner or husband. While 16% of young women aged 15-24 years have experienced this violence in the past 12 months. It’s important to note that, 56% of married women aged 15-49 years reported suffering physical and sexual violence by a husband (UBOS, 2021). Saddening to note is that, our communities have held in high esteem some traditional beliefs and practices that seem to discriminate against a girl child. Unconsciously or consciously families, workplaces, leaderships, communities, and societies have promoted discrimination tendencies in the name of protecting, disciplining, nurturing, and preserving the dignity of a woman or girl-child. There are still many cases of battering, sexual harassment & exploitation/trade, defilement, rape and teenager pregnancies, early marriages, denial of provision & basic needs of life, denial of expression, limited or no control and power over family resources, limited decision- making and manipulation, micro representation, denial on succession opportunities and assaults/insults. Women/girls have been left homeless, with many ending up in refugee camps, broken marriage relationships and sometimes with disability. The rate of depression, anxiety disorders, unplanned pregnancies, Sexually Transmitted Infections(STIs), and HIV is high in women who have experienced violence compared to those who haven’t. Most of the affected women/girls have never recovered from such a brutal, cruel, unkind, self-seeking vindictive, and arrogant mentality. They have suffered everlasting effects like; traumas, grief, hatred, revenge, isolation, sadness, suicide attempts, bed wetting, and sleeping disorders, Despite the numerous interventions and investment of resources by activists in advocacy work to highlight the status of women/girls. Gender-Based Violence(GBV) 42% are women and 41% men and on average 42 gender-based violence rank as the top women’s -rights issue that Ugandans want Government and Society to address (Afrobarometer Dispatch n. 792, April, 2024). In the four Sub Counties of Kabonero & Rwimi (Bunyangabu District) and Kasenda & Harugongo (Kabarole District) respectively, the situation is no different! During the Men- Engage training of 40 model men about ‘Gender Equality in Decision Making among Women and Girls, in June 2024 organized & funded by KRC- Uganda and facilitated by Rwenzori Women’s Forum (RWOF), domestic violence was ranked the highest community issues that needs attention. School dropouts & low levels of education, high consumption of alcohol, non-joint money savings, and imbalances in handling domestic chores among men and women spouses. Among the actions, awareness of the communities was considered important across the two Districts to raise awareness within the communities of farmers as championed by the Model Men under the Men-Engage Approach taking the lead in influencing mindset change among men in their communities. We have all, at some point, contributed to acts of discrimination against women and girls, whether in the workplace (such as in leadership or management roles and among peers), at home, in schools, marriages, businesses, or religious institutions. Therefore, it is crucial to reflect on the impact of the pain we have caused, whether intentionally or unintentionally, through our actions and attitudes. It is our collective responsibility to stand up for gender justice! By: Murungi Jackline MpakaGender Focal Person KRC-Uganda & Coordinator RWOF
21. Aug 2024
DISABILITY INCLUSION IN NUTRITION INTERVENTIONS IN REFUGEE SETTLEMENTS
Refugee settlements are often scenes of severe hardship, where basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare are scarce. In these challenging environments, the needs of people with disabilities are frequently overlooked. Refugee populations often have higher rates of disability due to conflict, violence, and poor living conditions. Disabilities can range from physical impairments to sensory and cognitive, each requiring specific accommodations and considerations. People with disabilities are at a higher risk of malnutrition. Mobility impairments, for example, may limit their to access food distribution points. Sensory disabilities might make it difficult to communicate needs or navigate unfamiliar environments. Cognitive disabilities can complicate understanding of nutrition information and self-care practices. Malnutrition exacerbates existing disabilities and can lead to new health problems, creating a vicious cycle of declining health. Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining physical strength, supporting immune function, and enhancing quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Figure 1: Humanity and Inclusion staff and partners pose for a photo after one of the Leave No One Behind (LNOB) phase 1 and 2 evaluation workshops Disability inclusion in nutrition interventions is not only a matter of equity but also a necessity for the health and well-being of refugees with disabilities. By addressing the unique barriers, they face and implementing inclusive practices, we can ensure that everyone in refugee settlements has access to the nutrition they need to survive and thrive. It is imperative to note and address the barriers specific to each type of disability such as Physical Barriers (uneven terrain, long distances to food distribution points, lack of mobility aids preventing people with disabilities from accessing necessary nutrition services, Attitudinal Barriers (Stigmatization and discrimination against people with disabilities can lead to neglect and exclusion from community resources including nutrition programs and lastly Communication Barriers where nutrition information is often not provided in accessible formats, such as braille, sign language, or easy-to-read materials. This limits the ability of people with disabilities to make informed decisions about their diet and health. Nutrition actors such as KRC-Uganda can therefore employ various strategies to ensure disability inclusion (Leaving No One Behind). Conducting comprehensive assessments to understand the specific needs of people with disabilities within the refugee population including identifying the types of disabilities present and the unique barriers each group faces in accessing nutrition. Training and Capacity Building of staff on disability awareness and inclusion including the appropriate communication methods, and strategies for making nutrition services accessible but also the general Infrastructure and Accessibility component. Furthermore, providing nutrition education and information in accessible formats is also considered crucial (using multiple communication methods) including visual aids, sign language interpreters to ensure everyone can understand and benefit from the information provided. Last but not least, organizational efforts in developing and implementing Inclusive Policies at programing level including budgeting for disability specific activities but also accommodation fees. Organizations can incorporate the universal design principles to ensure that nutrition programs are accessible to everyone, not only people with disabilities but also people with special needs such pregnant women, little children and so on. Lastly local partnerships are paramount to building the capacity and leveraging the local disability organizations’ expertise in designing and implementing inclusive interventions. In conclusion, streamlining disability inclusion in nutrition interventions in refugee settlements is crucial for ensuring that all individuals have equitable access to essential resources and by adopting a comprehensive and inclusive approach that addresses the specific needs of people with disabilities, refugee settlements can create a more supportive and equitable environment for all. Continuous monitoring, community involvement, and capacity building are key components of successful disability inclusion efforts and through these strategies, we can make significant strides toward a more inclusive and just humanitarian response. M&E Officer presenting on behalf of KRC-Uganda on the progress of disability inclusion in the nutrition interventions during the LNOB phase 1 and 2 evaluation workshop in Kyaka. Participants during the Leave No One Behind Phase 3 workshop, attended by the M&E officer, Fort portal. By: BALINDA IRENE M&E Officer- TSFP/MCHN project- Kyaka II Refugee Settlement
20. Aug 2024
Kickstarting a New Project at Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement: A Journey of Collaboration
We delve into the intricacies of kickstarting a new project in a refugee settlement—Rhino Camp. Rhino Camp spans the two districts of Terego and Madi Okollo in the West Nile Region of Uganda. Spanning two districts Rhino camp is one of the largest refugee settlements in the region. With diverse cultural backgrounds and significant needs, it is essential to approach project implementation with sensitivity and a deep understanding of the local context. KRC-Uganda’s new project titled Sustainable Transition to Locally led Emergency and Protection Services (STEPS) – in Uganda aims to enable local and national actors to effectively provide sustainable, locally-led emergency protection response in Uganda. The project emphasizes capacity enhancement, response to GBV and Child Protection risks, and effective response to Mental Health and psychosocial support needs among new arrivals. Embarking on a new project at Rhino Camp refugee settlement is both an exciting and challenging endeavour. This settlement, home to thousands of resilient individuals, offers a unique landscape for impactful community work. As the project team leader, I’ve had the privilege to engage with various stakeholders, each contributing their invaluable perspectives and support. Here’s a glimpse into the process of navigating and kickstarting a new project in this dynamic environment. Engaging with Stakeholders and partner organizations My colleagues and I began our journey with a series of meetings with leaders including the Settlement Commandant, RWCs, district officials, Block leaders and other implementing partners whose insights are pivotal for successful project implementation. During one of our initial discussions, a community leader remarked: “We are eager to see initiatives that respond to real live challenges of our people, especially our women and children. Your project has the potential to make a real difference here.” remarked the RWC3 of Omugo 7. This sentiment underscored the importance of aligning our project goals with the community’s aspirations. KRC-Uganda staff during consultations with OPM and partner organizations Partnering with other with other implementing partners like the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), Uganda Refugee and Disaster Management Council (URDMC), Save The Children International was crucial for leveraging existing networks and resources. During the meeting a representative from the Danish Refugee Council- the protection lead in Rhino Refugee Settlement, emphasized; “Our collaboration can amplify the impact of your project. By working together, we can ensure that no one falls through the cracks.” This collaboration fosters a more cohesive approach, ensuring that our efforts are well-coordinated and comprehensive. Discussions with UNHCR Understanding the lived experiences of refugees is essential. KRC-Uganda sought to understand this through the eyes of UNHCR. In a meeting with a UNHCR representative, one participant shared: “We have faced many challenges, but we remain hopeful. We need projects that not only address our immediate needs but also build our capacity for the future.” The resilience and optimism are a driving force behind KRC-Uganda’s project’s design and implementation. Overall, in kickstarting a new project in any location, there is need for continuous stakeholder engagement. This is because maintaining ongoing dialogue with stakeholders ensures that the project remains relevant and responsive to emerging needs. Regular meetings and updates help build trust and collaboration. KRC-Uganda STEPS Team Leader during consultations with other actors As we embark on this journey, it is clear that the success of our project hinges on the strength of our partnerships and the resilience of the community. By working hand in hand with stakeholders, we can create sustainable, impactful change. The road ahead is challenging, but with collaboration, dedication, and a deep commitment to the community, we are confident that our project will make a meaningful difference. By: Francis Opio Peace Building Manager/STEPS Team leader-KRC-Uganda
15. Aug 2024
Kabarole Research and Resource Center – Uganda
KRC-UGANDA, established in 1996, is a dedicated research, advocacy, and community development organization. At the heart of our mission lies the steadfast belief that meaningful, actionable data serves as the cornerstone for driving impactful development programs. With a proven commitment to fostering positive change and progress within communities, we strive to provide valuable insights that empower informed decision-making, ensuring sustainable and effective development initiatives. Join us in our journey towards a brighter future for Uganda and beyond.
