USAID ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN KAMPALA ACTIVITY
Psychotherapy for Groups (IPT-G) to Enhance Mental Health Support for Vulnerable Populations
Reach Out Mbuya integrated mental health support into her programming to address challenges like depression among vulnerable populations. This initiative was advanced by a five-day Training of Trainers (TOT) on Mental Health Integration in Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) activities, targeting social workers and case management specialists.
The training emphasized Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Groups (IPT-G), which aims to improve treatment adherence and viral load suppression among children and adolescents living with HIV. IPT-G focuses on the significant impact of healthy interpersonal relationships on mental well-being, helping participants address symptoms of depression and develop better interpersonal skills.
Given the ongoing mental health concerns intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, this training was timely. Participants committed to addressing mental health within vulnerable populations, recognizing that it was a continuous process requiring sustained effort and dedication.
Collaboration for Conflict Resolution in Vulnerable Communities
In partnership with Fidelis Leadership Institute (FLI), the USAID/OVC Kampala Activity held a Conflict Management & Dispute Resolution Training on 16th-17th September 2024 at Rivonia Suites Hotel, Mbuya. This event brought together Para Social Workers and duty-bearers eager to learn effective conflict resolution strategies for their communities. Through hands-on sessions, participants explored tools for conflict detection, communication, mediation, and trust-building to promote peace and foster harmony, particularly for marginalized populations. As the training unfolded, it became clear that the knowledge shared would have a lasting impact.
“This has enlightened us on resolving household conflicts without involving the police. We’ve learned strategies like negotiation and compromise to help families get back on track. I believe this will lead to more fairness in parenting and greater accountability within households.” Moses Nkolo, a para-social worker explained.
“Conflicts are a natural part of life due to differing interests and ideas. The community is encouraged to resolve conflicts at the grassroots level.” ASP Kwagala Annet, Division of Child and Family Protection Unit, Jinja Road Police.
The second integrated Pause and Reflect Meeting Drives Collaborative Strategies for FY25
The integrated Pause and Reflect meeting enabled the sharing of updates on the OVC Kampala Activity’s progress and challenges among clinical partners, health facilities, and division health teams. Stakeholders engaged in constructive discussions, providing valuable feedback that informed FY25 planning and implementation strategies. The meeting also reviewed annual performance against targets and reporting indicators, allowing participants to collaboratively assess outcomes and develop informed strategies for the upcoming financial year. Discussions included strategies for improving documentation and improving Viral Load Suppression from 92% among others.
