“When young people lead, communities listen.”
On September 12, 2025, Action 4 Health Uganda (A4HU) organized a powerful community dialogue on teenage pregnancies at Mulambaalo Let There Be Light Church in Namungo Subcounty, Mityana District. The event, held under the TeamUp Uganda program, was led by trained Youth Champions and brought together more than 60 participants—including parents, health workers, police officers, religious and cultural leaders, and local government officials. Through this dialogue, A4HU reinforced its commitment to empowering young people and fostering community-driven action to address the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies.
Youth Voices Drive the Conversation
The dialogue, facilitated entirely by Youth Champions, focused on unpacking the root causes of teenage pregnancies and co-creating practical community-led solutions. With support from Youth Farmer Field School Facilitators and Change Agents, the discussions highlighted the power of young people in leading advocacy, influencing services, and inspiring collective responsibility for adolescent health.
Alarming Data Calls for Urgent Action
According to the Adolescent Focal Person from Namungo Health Centre III, the area recorded 54 new teenage pregnancies and 4 attempted abortions between April and June 2025. In 2024 alone, 454 cases were documented, with Namungo’s teenage pregnancy rate standing at 21%, the highest in Mityana District alongside Sekanyonyi Subcounty. Participants called for stronger adolescent-friendly services, including the establishment of a Youth Friendly Corner at Namungo Health Centre III.
Community Unites Around Shared Priorities
Stakeholders agreed on key actions: increasing funding for adolescent SRHR outreach, strengthening parent–youth communication, and creating youth-friendly spaces at health centers. They also emphasized the importance of integrating health data into advocacy and ensuring access to safe, confidential, and supportive SRHR services.
Collaboration for Lasting Change
The dialogue showcased strong collaboration among youth, health workers, and community leaders. Participants proposed developing community action plans and holding regular review meetings to sustain momentum and accountability.
Paving the Way Forward
The Namungo dialogue laid a strong foundation for sustained youth-led advocacy and community engagement. TeamUp Uganda will continue supporting these efforts by strengthening youth structures, facilitating follow-ups, and aligning activities with the priorities set during the dialogue.
Together, the community is building a roadmap toward healthier futures—where every young person is informed, supported, and empowered to thrive.
