University of Calgary

Purpose

The project aims to address gaps of un-met comprehensive sexual and reproductive health systems, services and education in three districts in South West Uganda. The project scales up a successful and innovative model, the Mama Toto implementation model, which focuses on strengthening existing government and civil society structures, and district and community leadership. This project aims to strengthen the capacity of local health facilities to deliver sexual and reproductive health services to the local population, as well as strengthen the capacity of community and local leaders to promote sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and education. Project activities include: (1) aligning SRHR education and awareness messages with local priorities, national guidelines and best evidence; (2) establishing SRHR 'champions'; (3) identifying and addressing SRHR-related health system gaps; (4) providing SRHR-focused training; (5) providing minor upgrades and equipment for health facilities; and (6) improving quality of sexual and reproductive health services especially for post-abortion care, family planning, gender-based violence and HIV/STD management. This project is expected to promote and deliver SRHR services and education to 4,352 women and 2,102 men, including community health workers, other community agents, youth champions, health facility clinicians, governance committee members and district leaders. The project is expected to indirectly benefit 950,000 people (490,000 women and 460,000 men) comprised of the populations in the targeted districts and communities.