The USAID-funded Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) North East Activity has launched of the Mbale District Action Center (DAC) by providing essential equipment worth over 7.6 million UGX. The equipment includes a desktop computer, printer, router, desk, chairs, and a landline to boost the capacity of the District Probation and Child Welfare Office in responding to cases of Violence against Children (VAC).
The DAC will play a crucial role in reporting and coordinating follow-ups on VAC cases using the national child helpline, SAUTI 116 to ensure swift action in protecting vulnerable children in Mbale District. The DAC was configured to the National call centre by Mr. Tony Kujaganya, IT personnel from the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (MGLSD).
The launch event was held at the Mbale District Headquarters and was attended by the district leadership and key stakeholders, including a representative of the Local Council V Vice-Chairperson and Secretary for Children’s affairs, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), District Community Development Officer (DCDO), Senior Probation and Welfare Officer (SPWO) and other government officials. Representatives from the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (MGLSD), USAID-funded OVC North East Activity, and various implementing partners were also in attendance.
Ms. Nabifo Immaculate, the Senior Probation and Welfare Officer, expressed gratitude for the support, calling the launch a “great milestone” in the district’s efforts to create a violence-free environment for children. She emphasized the importance of strengthening community reporting mechanisms and enhancing coordination between government bodies and civil society to protect children.
The representative of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) echoed this sentiment, thanking USAID and its implementing partners for their unwavering support in protecting the most vulnerable, especially children. “This partnership exemplifies what we can achieve when we work together to address critical challenges such as Violence against Children and other forms of abuse,” the CAO representative remarked.
In his speech, Dr. Edson Muhwezi, the Chief of Party for the USAID-funded OVC North East Activity, highlighted the Activity’s close collaboration with local governments to strengthen systems that prevent and respond to VAC. This includes supporting the functionality of Child Well-being Committees and District Action Centers (DACs) at both the district and lower local government levels.
The establishment of the DAC in Mbale is a key contribution towards achieving the Activity’s overall goal of preventing new HIV infections and reducing vulnerability among Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC), Adolescent Girls, Young Women (AGYW), and Youth in Mbale and beyond.
If a child near you is experiencing any form of violence, report anonymously, Call 116.
