Since 2014, Oxfam has worked across refugee settlements in the greater North, South and Western regions of Uganda, implementing integrated WASH programs with Gender and Protection (including peace-building activities) and livelihood programmes.

Oxfam has served as the UNHCR WASH implementing partner in Adjumani (Ayilo I, Mirieyi, Alere, and Baratuku) and Rhino, as well as in Yumbe (Bidibidi), Arua (Imvepi), Lamwo (Palabek), and Kyaka II, Rwamwanja and Kyangwali. Oxfam has significantly contributed to the WASH sector, introducing new technologies and approaches that have improved the lives of 694, 334 of refugees in these settlements as well as the host community. Among the key approaches is the WASH in schools.

IMPACT AND TESTIMONIES

Pupils in some selected refugee schools have benefited from skills training in making reusable pads, an initiative that has enabled more girls to stay in school.
Thanks to support from Oxfam, water points have also been installed near the school premises for the learners and teachers as well as the host communities.

Under the programme, 3 improved drainable institutional latrines and 12 water points have been constructed in five schools, while the host community and refugee settlement got three water points.

Last year, Oxfam supported girls at Ofua 6 Community Primary School in Rhino Camp with soap, buckets, sanitary pads and towels, says Ruth Tumalu, a P.6 refugee pupil.

The learners were also clustered in groups where they and teachers are taught how to make reusable pads to manage their menstrual circles better. This helps the girls to remain in class and study while they are comfortable.

Download the journal about the Project Impact!