Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has launched the CONNECT project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving communication on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) between caregivers and adolescents in Uganda’s refugee and host communities. The project was unveiled on June 19, 2025, at the Isingiro District Resource Centre.
Titled Caregiver-Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Communication among Refugee and Host Communities in Southwestern and Northern Uganda (CONNECT), the three-year project is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Global Affairs Canada, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research under the ANeSRA initiative.
MUST is spearheading the project in partnership with the University of Windsor (Canada), Uganda Red Cross Society, Ministry of Health, and Soar Research Foundation.
Addressing Urgent Needs in Vulnerable Communities
CONNECT targets two major refugee settlements—Nakivale and Bidibidi—and their host districts of Isingiro and Yumbe, where more than 1.7 million refugees live, half of whom are under 18. The project aims to strengthen parent-adolescent SRHR communication in these areas through a context-specific, evidence-based intervention.
During the launch, Isingiro Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Benard Ahimbisibwe welcomed the initiative, stressing its importance in combating early marriages and teenage pregnancies. “The gap between parents and children on sexual and reproductive health matters is wide,” he said. “This project will empower caregivers with the skills needed to guide adolescents effectively.”
Mr. Betunga Henry, LCII Chairperson for Rwebishekye Parish in Mbarara District, shared personal involvement in earlier phases of the project, emphasizing the importance of family unity and open communication.
Strong National and Local Support
Dr. Irene Munyango, Acting Assistant Commissioner for Adolescent and School Health at the Ministry of Health, commended the project’s timing and relevance. “This is an exciting initiative that supports the Ministry’s efforts in evidence-based SRHR interventions,” she noted. “While schools and churches help, the parent lays the foundation.”
The Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Isingiro applauded the diverse partners, emphasizing the government’s full support in ensuring the project’s success.
A Vision for Scalable Impact
Dr. Viola Nilah Nyakato, a lead researcher in the project, outlined CONNECT’s objectives. These include adapting a proven SRHR communication model to the refugee context, conducting longitudinal studies on caregiver-adolescent interactions, and applying gender-transformative approaches to assess and reshape societal norms.
The project will also establish Community Advisory Boards (CABs) to guide implementation and ensure community ownership. A key output will be the development of a policy advocacy framework to influence national SRHR strategies and produce accessible learning materials for communities.
Broad Reach and Lasting Influence
The CONNECT project is set to impact over 300,000 refugees and more than one million residents in the host districts. Its focus on research, gender equity, and community engagement positions it as a model for sustainable, scalable SRHR interventions in Uganda and beyond.
“This project is a beacon of hope,” said Dr. Daniel Atwiine, Director of Soar Research Foundation. “It will strengthen family bonds and build a healthier, more informed generation.”
Mbarara University of Science and Technology reaffirmed its commitment to lead research that drives transformative change in Uganda’s health and education sectors. With the CONNECT project, MUST is not only addressing critical gaps in SRHR communication but also demonstrating the power of cross-sector partnerships to shape healthier futures.
