CSOs in Western Uganda Trained in Policy Advocacy
On the 14th June 2017, Uganda National NGO Forum organized a policy advocacy training for its Sub National partners in Western Uganda. Held at Mbarara Catholic Social Center, the training was attended by 30 CSO actors drawn from the districts of Mbarara, Bushenyi, Ntungamo, Rubirizi, Kiruhura, Sheema and Isingiro Districts.
The training aimed at building the advocacy capacity of participants and deepen their knowledge and skills in policy engagement, influencing and advocacy, share best strategies and approaches for required policy influencing in all stages of policy processes. The highly interactive and participatory workshop enhanced participants’ capacity in understanding what a policy is, policy process, policy makers, policy actors and stakeholders, power and policy, the steps of policy formulation as well as steps for policy analysis.
Speaking at the training, Mr. Ssewakiryanga Richard the Executive Director UNNGOF called upon CSO leaders in the region to strengthen research if their advocacy campaigns are to be fruitful. He challenged participants to understand how government operates so as to easily identify the entry points as they champion citizens’ aspirations.
The training generally built new insights into the process of planning an effective policy advocacy campaign. The training also increased participants’ understanding of the policy environment in Uganda. A participant noted “the training has helped me understand why government came up with the NGO Policy”. There was excitement amongst participants because of the training; for example One noted “today I have learnt and appreciated why policies are developed and how I can engage the duty bearers on the same”. Another said “I have learnt the importance of research in designing and producing a policy brief.”
Uganda National NGO Forum is committed to continuously build the capacity of its members and partners so that they can effectively participate and influence the development processes of this country.
