Kampala, November 2024 – The LEAD Uganda project achieved a significant milestone with its Co-Creation workshop, held from November 4th to 8th at the Royal Suits Hotel in Kampala. This event brought together over 50 participants, including government representatives, refugee-led organisations, women-led organisations, implementing partners, and regional bodies, all united in a mission to empower refugees and host communities across Uganda.
A week of collaboration and vision
The five-day workshop focused on aligning project strategies with national and regional policy frameworks, strengthening capacities, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Interactive sessions covered critical topics such as policy alignment, gender inclusion, advocacy strategies, and capacity building. The event culminated in the signing of the Code of Cooperation, symbolising the collective commitment of all partners to the project’s success.
This workshop was made possible by the innovative and flexible funding approach of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Their emphasis on co-creation and locally led initiatives allows stakeholders to design projects that reflect the true needs and aspirations of communities on the ground. This bottom-up approach is a cornerstone of the LEAD Uganda project’s vision.
Key themes included:
- Policy alignment: Presentations from Uganda’s Office of the Prime Minister and the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) emphasised the importance of integrating national and international refugee policies.
- Gender inclusion: Gender disparities and structural barriers were highlighted, with actionable solutions proposed to empower women and vulnerable groups.
- Monitoring and evaluation: Partners were equipped with tools for digital data collection and indicator performance tracking, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Insights and innovations
The workshop showcased innovative strategies, such as the adoption of the Solstice App for real-time data reporting, which was warmly embraced by partners. Interactive group discussions explored synergies among implementing organizations, particularly in overlapping operational districts, to enhance resource efficiency and coordination.
“By collaborating closely, we can avoid duplication and maximise impact. This workshop has laid the foundation for stronger partnerships and innovative solutions,” noted Harriet Mbabazi, LEAD Uganda Project Manager.
Voices of unity
The event also highlighted the voices of refugee leaders and local actors. Jerry Lukendo Mparha of RELON emphasised the importance of inclusive policies and the resilience of refugee communities, while OXFAM’s Owino Geoffrey praised the workshop’s focus on localisation and women’s leadership.
Dutch Embassy representative Lizelotte underscored the value of sustainable approaches, stating, “This project exemplifies the strength of partnerships in fostering resilience and dignity among refugees and host communities.”
Looking ahead
The signing of the Code of Cooperation marked a defining moment, solidifying a shared vision for the future. Key next steps include:
- Formalising governance structures and finalising project frameworks.
- Strengthening gender-sensitive and locally driven interventions.
- Enhancing visibility and communication efforts through digital platforms and social media.
With the flexibility of MOFA’s funding model and the collaborative spirit of all partners, the Co-Creation workshop for the LEAD Uganda Project has set a strong foundation for transformative impact. Stay tuned as we share updates on the achievements that follow.
