Where we work

AWYAD operates in various districts across Uganda, each characterized by unique challenges that underscore the need for AWYAD’s focused humanitarian and development interventions. These districts span Central Uganda, Northern Uganda, Eastern Uganda, Western Uganda, South West Uganda, West Nile, and Karamoja.

In Central Uganda, AWYAD works in the districts of Kampala, Wakiso, Mubende, and Mukono. These districts face substantial urban and peri-urban pressures. Protection challenges, including GBV, child exploitation, abuse and neglect, are rampant due to socio-economic stresses. Education is often disrupted by high dropout rates, especially among girls, who face early marriages and pregnancies. The youth struggle with a lack of skills and employment opportunities, leading to high levels of unemployment and poverty. Mental health issues are exacerbated by urban stressors, and access to sexual and reproductive health services is often inadequate. Poor hygiene and sanitation conditions in crowded urban areas contribute to the spread of diseases, disproportionately affecting children. AWYAD’s work here focuses on empowering women, children and youth especially urban refugees, providing them with skills and livelihood opportunities as well as protection services and enhancing their access to SRHR and MHPSS services. 

AWYAD also works in Northern Uganda, covering the districts like Lamwo, Kitgum, Pader, Agago, Gulu, and Palabek Refugee Settlement. This region has a history of conflict that has left deep scars on its communities. Gender inequality is severe, with women often bearing the brunt of conflict-related sexual violence and discrimination. Protection challenges are significant, with many children facing neglect and exploitation. The education system is still recovering, with schools lacking resources and trained teachers. Youth in these areas suffer from a lack of skills and employment opportunities, exacerbating poverty and unemployment. Mental health and psychosocial issues are prevalent due to the trauma of past conflicts. Access to sexual and reproductive health services is limited, and hygiene and sanitation facilities are often inadequate, leading to health problems. AWYAD works in this region to address these multifaceted challenges through holistic programs that include trauma healing, education, skills training, and livelihood empowerment.

In Eastern Uganda, districts such as Mbale, Bududa, Kamuli, Iganga, and Mayuge face unique environmental challenges, including landslides and floods that exacerbate vulnerabilities. Gender inequality is marked by traditional practices that limit women’s roles in society. Protection challenges include child labor and trafficking. Education is frequently disrupted by natural disasters, and schools often lack adequate facilities. Youth face high unemployment due to a lack of skills and opportunities. Poverty is widespread, further limiting access to mental health support and sexual and reproductive health services. Hygiene and sanitation issues are critical, especially following environmental disasters. AWYAD’s interventions here focus on gender empowerment, disaster resilience, education, economic empowerment, and SRHR services.

Western Uganda, including Kyegegwa, Kamwenge, Kikuube, Kasese, Bundibujjo, Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, and Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, faces challenges related to the influx of refugees and ethnic tensions. Gender inequality is pronounced, with refugee women and girls particularly vulnerable to exploitation and violence. Protection issues include child marriage and gender-based violence. Education systems are strained by the refugee influx, and youth lack skills and employment opportunities. High unemployment and limited livelihoods contribute to poverty. Mental health issues are prevalent due to the trauma of displacement. Access to sexual and reproductive health services is limited, and poor hygiene and sanitation conditions in refugee settlements pose significant health risks. AWYAD’s work in this region aims to support refugees and host communities through education, protection services, and economic empowerment and environmental protection.

South West Uganda, including Isingiro and Nakivale Refugee Settlement, faces challenges similar to Western Uganda, with additional pressures from agricultural stress and environmental degradation. Gender inequality affects women’s access to resources and decision-making. Protection challenges include violence and exploitation of refugees. Education is hampered by overcrowded schools. Youth unemployment is high, and livelihoods are threatened by environmental issues. Mental health and psychosocial support are critical needs, exacerbated by displacement and poverty. Sexual and reproductive health services are often inadequate. AWYAD’s interventions here focus on integrated support for education, livelihoods, health, and protection.

West Nile, including Moyo, Obongi, and Palorinya Refugee Settlement, is another region heavily impacted by the refugee crisis. Gender inequality and protection challenges are acute, with many women and children facing violence and exploitation. Education systems are overwhelmed, and youth lack opportunities for skills development and employment. High unemployment rates contribute to poverty, and mental health issues are widespread due to the trauma of conflict and displacement. Access to sexual and reproductive health services is limited, and hygiene and sanitation conditions in refugee settlements are poor. AWYAD’s programs in West Nile aim to provide comprehensive support, including education, protection, economic empowerment, and MHPSS services.

Karamoja, including Napak, Kotido, Abim, and Moroto, is one of Uganda’s most marginalized regions, characterized by extreme poverty and underdevelopment. Gender inequality is entrenched, with women and girls facing significant barriers to education and economic participation. Protection challenges include child marriage and gender-based violence. Education systems are under-resourced, and youth have limited opportunities for skills development and employment. Mental health issues are often overlooked. Hygiene and sanitation conditions are poor, leading to frequent disease outbreaks. AWYAD’s focus in Karamoja is on breaking the cycle of poverty through education, economic empowerment, sanitation and hygiene and sanitation improvement, and protection initiatives.