UGANDA PIONEERS ASSOCIATION (UPA) YOUTH VOLUNTARY ORGANISATION FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION INTERNATIONAL WORKCAMP CALENDER 2018 "TOGETHER WE SHAPE THE FUTURE"
Introduction: Uganda Pioneers Association (UPA) is a youth voluntary organization working with community projects, workcamps and volunteer exchange. UPA was founded in 1989 by young Ugandans with the aim of mobilizing youth to contribute to community development through voluntary work. UPA has a national secretariat located in Kampala, Nansana and currently operates with 8 Branches in 5 districts in Uganda. UPA aim: To promote community based development, intercultural cooperation and youth participation through voluntary work. UPA objectives: To encourage the dynamic age group (youth) to take leading roles towards development. To promote and improve natural and acquired skills useful to the community. To promote and exchange cultures to create friendship and mutual understanding. To contribute to the development of community based social services. Workcamps have been used as means for building local communities. Volunteers from all over the world come together and through common efforts to contribute to community needs like setting up health centers, schools, and health units, small scale farming plots and much more has been constructed. We also engage in awareness creation through sensitizing communities on topical. Thematic issues including HIV/AIDS, Conflict management, Community sanitation, Reproductive health, Cultural heritage, environment conservation, Peace building to mention a few. Friendship across borders been created and barriers between people from different cultures broken down. Workcamps as a tool for development Through workcamps; the participants acquire skills, experience, get new ideas, explore or discover their potentials and are exposed to development issues especially through the exchange of good practices. The community benefits through; participation, education through awareness creation, hence social and economic empowerment. In 2018 UPA has planned a total of 8 workcamps. The projects are hosted by UPA branches and partner projects or community based institutions. The themes of the workcamps vary and these include; environment protection and conservation, sanitation and hygiene, Sustainable Development, construction, children, youth, human rights, agriculture, sports, cultural heritage and HIV/AIDS. You are most welcome to join UPA for these projects for the enrichment in all aspects of life. How to participate: Kindly contact the UPA secretariat on e-mail: uganda_pioneers22@hotmail.com or info@ugandapioneers.org or call +256 (0) 785 601 220 / +256 (0)754 902 036 (Sam) +256 (0) 782 335 322/ +256 (0) 704 136 523 (Sarah) / +256 774 438 870 (Claire)
Duration: 3 weeks workcamps. Participation fee: 250 Euros for International volunteers International participants are required to pay an extra fee of 250 Euros. The fee covers pick up from the airport or bus station/terminal upon arrival in Uganda, orientation at the UPA offices, local transport to and from the campsite, food and accommodation during the workcamp. The fee also contributes to the running of activities taking place during the workcamp and communication prior and other administrative costs to ensure that the workcamp is successfully done. Please note The fee does not cover airport drop off after the project. Volunteers that intend to have the drop off service consult UPA to identify the service provider. It will cost the volunteer an extra 25-28 Euros for this service. To allow the best preparations, participants are advised to arrive a day before the commencement of the workcamp applied for. Accommodation is basic. In most cases work campers will be sleeping in community halls or school classrooms. Work campers should bring with them a sleeping bag and a mosquito net and other personal requirements. Meals are prepared by the workcampers on charcoal stoves or open fire. In case of a special dietary preference due to health concerns, inform the host on time. For more information about the specific camps and activities, UPA provides an info sheet. Cancellation of participation Cancellation of participation before the project starts while in Uganda attracts a 50% refund only. In case a volunteer cancels his/her participation during the workcamp, it is not possible to refund any amount of the participation fee to them. This is due to the fact that expenses are already incurred on communication, airport pick up, orientation, prior preparations before the workcamp and other logistics. However if a volunteer cancels his/her participation before arriving in Uganda, he will be given back the entire fee if payments were made prior to their arrival in the country. About Uganda Uganda is a beautiful country gifted by nature. Volunteers may take time off during during weekends or after the workcamp to visit National parks (to see Lions, Elephants, Kobs and Buffalos and so many interesting features), Ssese Islands, go for rafting, visit/track the mountain gorillas and enjoy the Ugandan weather. For further information visit:www.visituganda.com.
Tourism opportunities UPA can assist in linking the volunteer to tour operators or individuals to enable them reach various tourist destinations in Uganda including Murchison Falls National Park), Queen Elizabeth National Park, Semliki National Park hot springs experience, nature walk, pigmy cultural dances as well as birds viewing. Kazinga Channel, Salt Lakes, Forest walks, and game viewing, Mountains Elgon and Rwenzori for hiking and climbing, Lake Mburo National Park for Boat trips, guided walking safaris, horse riding, Ssese Islands for Sun/sand bathing, forest walks, birds viewing and relaxation. The mighty Nile River Nile for, boat trips to the top of the river, bungee jumping, The City Tour including Kasubi Tombs, Bahai and Hindu Temples, Uganda Martyrs shrines, local markets, craft shops, Ndere centre, Uganda Museum, Monument sites, Uganda Parliament, factories and other explorations. These are estimated charges that are liable to change but UPA can help to link you up with a service provider. You are warmly welcome to the Pearl of Africa
Project Title International workcamp on Construction and Youth Participation Date 4 th - 23 rd June 2018 Duration 3 weeks Project Code UPA/01/18 Project Host UPA Bukomero Project Theme Improvement of Volunteer Accommodation and Engagement of Youth in Community Voluntary Work Project Location Kakunyu village, Bukomero Sub-county in Kiboga District is located in the central part of Uganda boardered by Luweero District in the north-east, Masindi in the north-west, Mubende district in the south and Kibaale district in the south-west. Kakunyu lies 85km on Kampala-Hoima road. Project Background Uganda Pioneers Association owns a piece of land that is approximately 10 acres at Kakunyu village, Bukomero Town Council. The place is used currently to accommodate volunteers during workcamps that are organized in the local communities of Bukomero. UPA wishes to upgrade the structures on this site and construct new ones to foster volunteer activities in this community. Through the volunteer efforts, a permanent structure was set up and it is currently used to accommodate volunteers. However, it needs renovation and due to the ever increasing number of local and international volunteers, space is at times not enough if a bigger group is to be hosted in this facility for example more than 30 volunteers yet UPA would be glad to work with such a big group on its local activities for visibility and impact creation. Project Objectives To renovate the volunteer house at the site for better living conditions To construct new structures for ample space for volunteer activities To promote volunteer activities in the local communities To enhance skills development and knowledge acquisition amongst the youth To promote inter-cultural learning and understanding To promote youth participation and instill a sense of community ownership Activities Digging up foundations for the new structures Brick setting/ laying Mixing sand Fetching water Preparing and participating in a local football match for leisure and edutainment Conducting community outreaches on health and hygiene awareness Visiting youth and women groups Expected Outcome Volunteer accommodation structures renovated Foundation laid for new volunteer activity hall Football match held Two Information sharing meetings held Two community outreaches conducted Cultural and educational visits Two youth and women groups visited in the local community Hiking at Kateera Hill Bukomero local market twice a month on Tuesdays is also an experience.
Note: Cultural Nights will be organized on different days for the different countries represented at the workcamp. Please carry along anything that can introduce your culture. Beneficiaries UPA members International workcamp participants Local community members Local volunteers Local leaders Participation The workcamp expects 15 participants maximum comprising both local and International volunteers. Participants work for 6 hours daily from Monday to Friday. Weekends are free unless the official camp programme has an activity. Who qualifies to Open minded, ready to interact with other people of different cultural participate background Willing to share his/her experiences Flexible to live/stay in simple life conditions Flexible to the taste of other foods (local) Ready to do manual work on the project No experience needed The Host Community The people in central Uganda are multi-tribal with the majority population being Baganda. And the major language spoken is Luganda with also a big percentage of people speaking basic English well. Like most regions in Uganda people in this community always welcome visitors and are interested in associating with people from other places. Volunteers on this project will have the opportunity to interact with mostly UPA members and the entire community. Accommodation shall be at a basic UPA structure/building Accommodation Participants will be required to carry own sleeping bags and mats The campsite has simple outside bathrooms with no showers The campsite has latrines not toilets A simple cooking shelter (kitchen) with energy saving fire-place Meals There are several local foods to choose from e.g. matooke, cassava, sweet potatoes, yams, pumpkin and also rice, spaghetti, ground nuts, beans, peas and different types green vegetables Fruits can also be easily bought from local markets, mangoes, sweet bananas, water melon, pineapples etc Participants will choose food to prepare depending on the availability. Participants will divide themselves in working groups to prepare own meals using charcoal and firewood on a fuel saving place. Extra/special for food have availed by individual at their own cost Health Services There is a health Centre in Bukomero trading centre for handling the general community health problems. Kiboga main referral hospital is located only 25km on Kampala- Hoima road. In case of serious cases it is 1 ½ hrs drive from Bukomero to Kampala to main national hospitals.
Water Source Participants use a bicycle and wheel barrows to collect water from a borehole 1km away or collect water from nearby wells around the project. Weather During this period, temperatures will be ranging between 25 degrees to 35 degrees Celsius. It is sunny and dry with a few intervals of rain. Therefore, volunteers should carry along with them strong boots, rain coats and umbrellas. What to bring Bring a sleeping bag, Mat, Mosquito Net, sun/mosquito creams/replants, working gloves, boots/shoes is advisable. Light working clothes during working hours and warm clothes at night, as it may turn out to be cold; Musical instrument {optional}; Torch or flash light; Water purifiers {optional}; Personal effects {i.e. soap, toothpaste-if you use a specific type, toiletries}; National flag, common art facts of your country; Meals/local recipes you may wish to prepare to be shared among the participants during the cultural nights from your country and above all a happy and positive attitude. NB: Very short (Hot pants); skirts and dresses will not be culturally welcome especially for female. Smoking in public is illegal while engagement in drug/harsh carries a life prison sentence. Project Title International workcamp on construction and playscheme with children of Kikooba Infant school Project Date 25 th June 14 th July 2018 Duration Project Code Project Host Project Theme Project Location Project background 3 weeks UPA/02/18 Kikooba UPA Branch Promoting Intercultural exchange through games and work The project is situated in Kikooba village, 74 km on Kampala - Hoima road North west of Kampala City The project is located in Kiboga District boarded by Nakaseke District in the northeast, Masindi in the northwest, Hoima in the west, Mubende district in the south and Kibale district in the south west. Kikooba is one of the oldest branches of Uganda Pioneers Association started in 1990 with majority members being old women and men. This is one of the interesting UPA projects that has highly motivated old members joining a workcamp project. The workcamp project participants will also engage in construction/renovation of classrooms. The workcampers shall engage with the children of the community school (Kikooba Infant School) that has about 100 pupils with games, art and lessons. Project objectives To Set up a pit latrine for Kikooba Infant and Primary school To promote intercultural learning and understanding To promote literacy amongst the community children through reading and
writing lessons To engage in games and sports with children To promote the spirit of voluntarism amongst community members Activities Brick laying Mixing sand and cement Collecting bricks and water. Cleaning the compound Playing with children Organizing games and sports Conducting lessons in and out of class for art, painting, Maths and English Expected outcomes New school pit latrine constructed Children engaged in games and sports Increased literacy and numeracy levels amongst children Volunteering spirit promoted in the local community Inter-cultural learning and understanding developed Cultural and Educational Visits Climbing Kikooba hill will also be an interesting activity. A local market is also on Tuesday at Bukomero every two weeks. A cultural night will be organized and participants will display items, songs and dances from their home countries and traditions. Beneficiaries Kikooba UPA members Kikooba community members Medium Term volunteers to Kikooba branch Participation Who qualifies to participate The host community The project expects 15 participants maximum with a composition of people from other regions of Uganda and International volunteers. Participants will work 6 hours daily from Monday to Friday. Weekends are for social interaction and/or excursions unless the official camp programme has an activity. Open minded, ready to interact with other people of different cultural background Willing to share his/her experiences Flexible to live/stay in simple life conditions Flexible to the taste of local and basic foods Ready to work on the projects No experience needed The project location is in a predominently Buganda women population, speaking Luganda with a very little number with limited English knowledge. Most of the interaction shall be with these women. They are active women with a zeal to work for their project. Volunteers on this project will have the opportunity to interact with mostly UPA branch members and those from the community Accommodation Accommodation will be in simple rooms at the school Participants will be required to carry own mats and sleeping bags and mosquito nets.
The campsite has simple bathrooms and pit latrines no showers A simple cooking shelter (Kitchen) Meals The food is basic and simple. Be ready to take the same dish for some days in a row. Fruits can at times be availed for the campers from local market and UPA members depending on the availability Participants will chose food to prepare depending on the availability. Workcampers will use charcoal or firewood to prepare the meals. If you need more fruits/extra meals/special diet you can get it at your own cost. Health services Water source Bukomero Health Centre IV located 5 km away is the nearest medical facility. It can only provide basichealth services. Kiboga referral hospital is also located 25kms on Kampala Hoima road. For major health issues participants shall have to bemoved to Kampala main hospitals. The journeytakes 1-1 ½ hours Water is fetched in jerricans by particpants from the the nearby borehole and some local open wells.the borehole is located appromately 600 metres from the campsite. Weather During this period, temperatures will be ranging between 25 degrees to 35 degrees Celsius. It is sunny and dry with a few intervals of rain. Therefore, volunteers should carry along with them strong boots, rain coats and umbrellas What to bring? Participants shall be required to bring own sleeping bag, mat, mosquito net, suncreams, mosquito repellents, working gloves and boots/shoes. Light working clothes during working hours and warm clothes at night, as it may turn out to be chilly or cold; Musical instruments (optional); torch or flash light; water purifiers (optional); Personal effects (i.e. soap, toothpaste, toiletries) It would be nice if you can bring your national flag, common art facts of your country, stories, games, pictures and local recipes. It would be helpful for the cultural presentations about your country and for any social interactions. Above all do not forget a happy and positive attitude. NB: Shorts, dresses and skirts should reach knee length for cultural consideration. Smoking in public is illegal while engagement in drug/harsh carries a life prison sentence.
Project Title International work-camp on Orphans Care and Support Project Dates 9 th 28 th July 2018 Duration 3 weeks Project Code UPA/03/18 Project Host Bamusuuta Children s Home Project Theme Building Hope for the less disadvantaged through improved accommodation and palliative care Project Location Bamusuuta Children s home is found in Kiyuni village, Kalagi parish, Mulagi sub-county, Kiboga District-Uganda. Kiboga is 78kms along Kampala Hoima Rd and Kiyuni lies approximately 1km off Kiboga Town. Project Background Bamusuuta children s home started as an initiative way back in 1988 after realizing that a number of orphans were increasing at a fast rate as a result of the concluded 1980-1985 guerrilla war and the high prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS. The orphanage originated from UWESO group Kiboga, which was a group of women and men who are still members of the organization up to now. The initial number of children was 40. Presently, the scope of service has been extended to cover 100 orphans who stay with their guardians/parents in different homes. The construction of the accommodation structure at this place has been partially done as an extension for the orphanage and we are very optimistic that it will be accomplished accomplishment through the workcamp in 2018. Project Objectives To improve the living conditions of orphans To restore hope and dignity for orphans so as to become responsible citizens To promote community participation in voluntary work Activities Mixing sand and cement Fetching water Playing with children Plastering of the building Fixing windows and doors Home visits to HIV/AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children Expected Outcome Residential home for orphans and other vulnerable accomplished Improved adherence to HIV/AIDS medication (Anti-Retroviral Treatment) Intercultural exchange experience gained Cultural and Hiking at Kateera hills educational visits Community walks Community talks through home visits Note: Cultural Nights will be organized on different days for the different countries represented at the workcamp. Please carry along anything that can introduce your culture Beneficiaries Orphans, vulnerable children, Parents/guardians Local community Participation The project expects 15 participants maximum with a composition of people
Who qualifies to participate The host community from other regions of Uganda and International volunteers. Participants will work 6 hours daily from Monday to Friday. Weekends are for social interaction and/ or excursions unless the official camp program has an activity. Open minded, ready to interact with other people of different cultural background Willing to share his/her experiences Flexible to live/stay in simple life conditions Flexible to the taste of local and basic foods Ready to work on the projects No experience needed The project location is in a predominantly Buganda population, speaking Luganda with a number fluent in English. Accommodation Accommodation will be in simple rooms. Participants will be required to carry own mat and sleeping bag and a mosquito net. The camp site has simple bathrooms and pit latrines no showers A simple cooking shelter (Kitchen) Meals The food is basic and simple. Be ready to take the same dish for some days in a row. Fruits can at times be availed for the campers from local markets. Participants will chose food to prepare depending on the availability. Work campers will use charcoal or firewood to prepare the meals. If you need more fruits/extra meals/special diet you can get at your own cost. Health services Kiboga district hospital is 2 km away from the campsite, and a number of private medical clinics and drug shops are accessible near the campsite. Water source Water is accessible, protected and clean 500 meters from the campsite Weather During this period, temperatures will be ranging between 25 degrees to 35 degrees Celsius. It is sunny with a few intervals of rain. Therefore, volunteers should carry along strong boots, rain coats and umbrellas What to bring Participants shall be required to bring own sleeping bag, mat, pillow, mosquito net, sun cream, mosquito repellent, working gloves and boots/shoes. Light working clothes during working hours and warm clothes at night, as it may turn out to be chilly or cold; Musical instrument (optional); torch or flash light; water purifiers (optional); Personal effects (i.e. soap, toothpaste, toiletries) It would be nice if you can bring your national flag, common art facts of your country, stories, games, pictures and local recipes. It would be helpful for the cultural presentations about your country and for any social interactions. Above all do not forget a happy and positive attitude. NB: Shorts, dresses and skirts should reach knee length for cultural consideration. Smoking in public is illegal while engagement in drug/harsh carries a life prison sentence.
Project title Youth efforts towards HIV/AIDS through prevention, Care and Support Date 16 th July - 3 rd August 2018 Duration 3 weeks Project code UPA/04/18 Project Host UPA Pakwach Branch Project Theme Promoting Positive Behavioral Change Amongst the Youth. Project Location The work camp will take place at UPA Pakwach Branch. PRUDEPMA Former ACORD House. Pakwach Town council is in Nebbi District West Nile region. Pakwach branch is located 420km (6 7) hours drive from Kampala Project Background Pakwach branch was established 2000 with the aim of helping the youth in Jonam county to participate in community development work through voluntary service. The branch is located in Jonam county, Nebbi district, North Western Uganda. Jonam is a semi-arid area with very unfavourable conditions for basic agriculture. The communities mainly live on the scarce natural resources that are strained hence rampant environmental degradation. Food supplies are dependent on imports from neighbouring districts. It is situated on the business transit route to Southern Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Pakwach town is exposed to high HIV/AIDS infection rates due to the traffic and people who stop by for night(s) on their way to their destinations. UPA Pakwach branch has for a while been engaged in initiatives that address the HIV/AIDS challenges and is committed to designing new approaches. The international workcamp is therefore designed to scale up the sensitization efforts through the use of Forum theatre. Project Objectives To equip 30 local and international youth with skills in Forum theatre for mobilization and sensitization on HIV/AIDS. To mobilize and sensitize 500 people in Jonam county on HIV/AIDS Prevention and care. To advocate for youth friendly approaches in handling HIV/AIDS Increase level of awareness of HIV/AIDS effects in youth in Jonam County. Activities Open discussions and debates. Holding workshops on HIV/AIDS Prevention and care. Lectures on HIV/AIDS counseling and care for parents/children. Visit Post Test AIDS clubs. Performing forum theatre on HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Conducting interactive sports with local communities. One-day public dialogue. Cultural and educational visits Visit local communities in the fishing villages for forum theatre presentations. Visit to hospital where HIV/AIDS testing is done. Visit historical sites i.e. Wanglei Puvungu NOTE: There are other available opportunities to visit tourist places like Murchison falls, Hot and Cool Amor pii (Panyimur) for those who can pay for themselves.
Cultural Nights will be organized on different days for the different countries represented at the workcamp. Please carry along anything that can introduce your culture. Expected outcomes 1 Workshop conducted on HIV/AIDS prevention and care. 1 Voluntary counseling and testing session organized. 500 people to be sensitized on HIV/AIDS prevention and care in Jonam County. Forum theatre presentation to communities. Beneficiaries HIV/AIDS infected and affected families. People in the fishing communities. Work camp participants. Participation The project expects 15 participants maximum with a composition of people from other regions of Uganda and International volunteer. Participants will work for 6 hours daily from Monday to Friday. Weekends are for social interaction and/ or excursions unless the official camp program has an activity. Who qualifies to One with positive attitude, willing to interact with a diversity of culture. participate One with ambition to learn about HIV/AIDS and understand how to prevent it. Ability to adopt and enjoy living in simple conditions. The Host Community Willing to taste a variety of local foods and rural accommodation. The Project is situated in Lubiri. A. zone 100 metres from Pakwach Town Council office. The workcamp shall be hosted by community members of UPA Pakwach branch and affiliated groups. The project is in a predominantly Jonam population speaking Jonam. Accommodation The accommodation shall be providing within Abongo Women s Group premises. Participants shall be required to carry along own clothing, boots, sleeping mats, bags and mosquito nets. The campsite shall have simple bathing shelters with no showers. The campsite shall have pit latrines not toilets. A simple cooking shelter (Kitchen) Meals There are several local foods to choose from e.g, cassava, sweet potatoes, yams, pumpkin and also rice, spaghetti, ground nuts, beans, peas and different types green vegetables Health services Water source Climate/Weather Fruits can also be easily bought from local markets Participants will choose food to prepare depending on the availability. Participants will divide themselves in working groups to prepare own meals using charcoal and firewood on a fuel saving place. Note: If you need more fruits/extra meals/special diet you can get it at your own cost. Pakwach health Centre IV is only ½ km away from the site and there are other private health service providers; while Nebbi hospital is about 50 km away from the site on Arua Road. The project site has easy access to tap water, a bore hole and River Nile for water During this period, temperatures will be ranging between 25 degrees to 35 degrees
What to bring Celsius. It is sunny and dry with less intervals of rain. Therefore, volunteers should carry along with them strong boots, rain coats and umbrellas Participants shall be required to bring own sleeping bag, mat, pillow, mosquito net, sun cream, mosquito repellent, working gloves and boots/shoes. Light working clothes during working hours and warm clothes at night, as it may turn out to be chilly or cold; Musical instrument (optional); torch or flash light; water purifiers (optional); Personal effects (i.e. soap, toothpaste, toiletries) It would be nice if you can bring your national flag, common art facts of your country, stories, games, pictures and local recipes. It would be helpful for the cultural presentations about your country and for any social interactions. Above all do not forget a happy and positive attitude. NB: Shorts, dresses and skirts should reach knee length for cultural consideration. Smoking in public is illegal while engagement in drug/harsh carries. Project Title International Workcamp on Agro forestry and Environment Conservation Project Date 6 th 25 th August 2018 Duration 3 Weeks Project Code UPA/05/18 Project Theme Enhancing women and civil society involvement in sustainable environment management and conservation for food security Project Host UPA Terego Branch Project Location Ocea Village Odupi Sub-county in Arua District. Arua District is located in the West Nile region part of Uganda boarded by Southern Sudan and Congo. Project Background Ocea Disabled Women s Association owns a 12 acre piece of land at Ocea Village, Odupi Sub-county on which it has for long tested several Projects. Effective 2009. The members decided to start a campaign to put more than half of this land under tree cover. Since 2009 several trees have been planted. In 2017 Ocea Disabled Women s Association shall be committed to address the main challenges of environmental sustainability focusing on reversing of alarming distinction of trees as an environmental resource in order to contribute to a sustainable living and reverse the escalating weather challenges. Food security also remains a concern for ODWA and therefore it is planned to intercrop the trees with other food crops. It is expected that the weeding of these trees will be easier if at the same time weeding food crops. Its ODWA Members hope that this Project will become a demonstration project for Ocea Disabled Women s Association in future and will become a distribution centre for tree seeding for the whole Odupi Sub-County Community. Project Objective To promote environment conservation through tree planting. To promote the use of organic manure for improved agriculture and increased production. To promote Agro Forestry through inter-cropping commercial trees. Activities Environment conservation Planting 3 acres of different species of trees. Preparation of 5 Tree Nursery Beds. Tree Potting
Rising of Tree Nursery Shades. Agriculture Making composite manure pits. Planting food crops and vegetables in the trees. Weeding Educational/ cultural Visit Mt. Owati historical stones /Trees; Visits Siripi Local market twice a month on Thursdays is also an experience. Note: Cultural Nights will be organized on different days for the different countries represented at the workcamp. Please carry along anything that can introduce your culture. Expected Out It is expected after the work camp: Come 1500 trees will be planted; 1000 trees seedlings potted 5 Nursery beds set up 2 acres of food crops planted 3 manure composite pits prepared Beneficiaries ODWA Members International work camp participants. Local community. Local volunteers Participation The project expects a maximum of 15 participants both international and local, participants will work 5 days a week. Weekends are for social interaction unless official camp programme has scheduled an activity. Qualification To Open minded participants Participate Ready to interact with other people of different cultural background. Positive attitude Willing to share his / her experiences Flexible to live / stay in simple living conditions Flexible to eat local food No experience needed The Host Community The people found in Arua District West Nile Region Uganda are Multi tribal with the majority population being Lugbara and the major Language spoken is Lugbara with also a big percentage of people speaking English well. Volunteers on this Project will have the opportunity to interact with mostly ODWA and UPA members and those from the host Community Accommodation Accommodation will be on the farms site, Participants will be required to carry own sleeping bags, nets and mosquito nets The campsites has Latrines not toilets, A simple cooking shelter (Kitchen) Health Services There is a Health Centre at Siripi away from Arua main referral hospital is located 30 km on Kampala Arua Road in case of serious cases it is 1 hour drive from Siripi to Arua for main Hospital. Meals 3 meals a day will be provided at the campsite Participants will prepare meals together in working groups using Charcoal
and fire wood from energy saving fire places and stoves If you need more fruits/extra meals/special diet; you can get it at your own cost. Water Source Participants use Jerricans and wheel barrows to collect water from a borehole 300metres away or collect water from nearby wells around the Project. Climate / Weather During this period, temperatures will be ranging between 25 degrees to 35 degrees Celsius. It is sunny with a few intervals of rain. Therefore, volunteers should carry along strong boots, rain coats and umbrellas What To Bring Sleeping bag, Mat, Mosquito Net, sun/mosquito creams/repellents, working gloves and boots/shoes. Light working clothes during working hours and warm clothes at night, as it may at times be chilly or cold; Musical instruments {optional}; Torch or flash light; Water purifiers {optional}; Personal effects {i.e. soap, toothpaste, toiletries. Your national flag, common artifacts of your country; stories, games, picture and local recipes for cultural presentations Anything that you feel can well introduce you and your culture to make it enjoyable. Above all, a happy and positive attitude and energy. NB: Very short (Hot pants); skirts and dresses will not be culturally welcome especially for female. Smoking in public is illegal while engagement in drugs carries a life prison sentence Project title International workcamp on Climate Change Adaptation in West Nile Region. Date 13 th 31 st August 2018 Duration 3 weeks Project Code UPA/06/2018 Project hosts UPA Arua Branch Project theme Youth Action Against Climate Change Be the Change You want to see Project location The project will take place at UPA Arua Branch, Ezoova Village, Driwala Parish Pajulu Sub county 3kms from Arua Town. The administrative and commercial headquarter of the district is 520Km away from Kampala, Ugandan Capital City. Project Background Climate change; a Global issue, is also affecting local communities and it impacts in different ways in like severe heat and prolonged droughts, disease outbreaks that threat life. The changes in agricultural seasons has great affected the local communities hence a need to act. In Arua District and West Nile region, like in other parts of Uganda, climate change has been strongly felt by the majority population who derive their lively hoods from agriculture. As a measure to promote conservation, the district has put a ban on charcoal burning activities and bush burning by the communities and is promoting alternative source energy saving stoves that uses less fuel in form of fire wood.
It is against such background that UPA Arua branch is embarking on this project to create awareness on the effects of climate change through community involvement and participation. UPA shall be committed to address the main challenges of Environmental Sustainability focusing on Reversing of alarming destruction of the environment in order to contribute to sustainable lifestyles and reverse the escalating weather challenges. Many communities where UPA works remain at a high risk due to food insecurity as a result of seasonal changes. Project objectives To promote environment conservation through tree planting and Sensitization. To promote the use of organic manure for improved agriculture and increased yields and production. To promote the 3R (Re-use, Recycle, ) Activities Environment conservation Planting 1000 eucalyptus trees in schools and community Preparation of 2 tree nursery beds Conducting community workshops Conducting outreaches in local primary and secondary schools (Debates) Workshops with workcamp participants on recycling and eco friendly projects Meeting with the environment and natural resources officer Agriculture Making composite manure pits Carrying organic manure to plants/gardens Planting food crops and vegetables Weeding of tree seedlings in Nursery beds Expected output 2 workshops held Visit environmental clubs in schools Community out reaches conducted Discussion with district environment and forest officer Debate, Games and sports conducted in nearby schools Distribution of seedlings to schools Trees planted in schools and communities Cultural and educational Note: Community Nursery seed bed established Visit historical sites, i.e. Wanglei Puvungu and Emin pasha s Tomb solar eclipse monument in WADELAI, Visit to Nearby South Sudanese Refugee camps in Siripi, Rhino camp etc There opportunities to visit tourist places like Murchison falls, hot and cool Amor pii ( Panyimur) Lendu forest, Aguu hill at own cost Who Qualifies to participate Cultural Nights will be organized on different days for the different countries represented at the workcamp. Please carry along anything that can introduce your culture. Open minded, ready to interact with other people of different cultural background Willing to share his/her experiences
Flexible to live/stay in simple life conditions Flexible to the taste of local and basic foods Ready to work on the projects No experience needed. Health services The regional referral Hospital is 3kms from the site and there are other private Health services nearer the site e.g. Star Medical Clinic St. Francis Clinic in Nsambya, Ediofe, and St. Aasunta Health Centre. The host community The project is situated at Ezoova Village, 3km from Arua Town. The Camp shall be hosted by community members of UPA Arua Branch and affiliate groups. The project is predominately Lugbara, Alur speaking people but with majority being fluent in English Participation The project expects 15 participants maximum with a composition of people from other regions of Uganda and International volunteers. Participants will work 6 hours daily from Monday to Friday. Weekends are for social interaction and/ or excursions unless the official camp program has an activity. Water sources Participants use wheel barrows and carry Jerricans by hands and on head from the nearby wells, protected spring water and boreholes from campsites The water source is 300 meters away from the camp site. Weather / climate During this period, temperatures will be ranging between 25 degrees to 35 degrees Celsius. It is sunny with a few intervals of rain. Therefore, volunteers should carry along strong boots, rain coats and umbrellas Meals The food is basic and simple. Be ready to take the same dish for some days in a row. Fruits can at times be availed for the campers from local markets. Participants will chose food to prepare depending on the availability. Work campers will use charcoal or firewood to prepare the meals. If you need more fruits/extra meals/special diet you can get it on your own cost. Accommodation Accommodation will be in simple rooms. Participants will be required to carry own mat and sleeping bag. The camp site has simple bathrooms and pit latrines no showers A simple cooking shelter (Kitchen) Participants are requested to bring with them mosquito nets. What to bring Participants are required to bring own sleeping bag, mat, pillow, mosquito net, sun cream, mosquito repellent, working gloves and boots/shoes. Light working clothes during working hours and warm clothes at night, as it may turn out to be chilly or cold; Musical instrument (optional); torch or flash light; water purifiers (optional); Personal effects (i.e. soap, toothpaste, toiletries) It would be nice if you can bring your national flag, common art facts of your country, stories, games, pictures and local recipes. It would be helpful for the cultural presentations about your country and for any social interactions. Above all do not forget a happy and positive attitude. NB: Shorts, dresses and skirts should reach knee length for cultural consideration. Smoking in public is illegal while engagement in drug/harsh carries a life prison sentence
Project Title International Workcamp on Cultural Development in Traditional Music, Dance, Drama. Project Dates 3 rd 22 nd September 2018 Duration 3 weeks Project Code UPA/07/18 Project Host Uganda Pioneers Association Cultural Troupe (UPACT) Project Theme Inter-cultural Learning and Sharing Entertainment Project Location Kakunyu village, Bukomero Sub-county in Kiboga District is located in the central part of Uganda boardered by Luweero District in the North-east, Masindi in the north-west, Mubende district in the south and Kibaale district in the south-west. Kakunyu lies 85km on Kampala-Hoima road Project Background UPA Cultural troupe is committed to promote community sensitization and awareness through music, dance and drama. The Cultural troupe started in 1994 as a pilot project of UPA. The troupe was started mainly to be used for promoting cultures, running awareness campaigns, fundraising and marketing UPA and her activities. Project Objectives To promote intercultural cooperation among youth and the community To enhance Educational awareness through Art and craft making, music, dance and drama. To enhance knowledge and skills sharing through music, dance and drama. Activities Traditional Dance: traditional dance lessons carried out by a trained instructor. Modern Dance: Learn basics of a modern dance (Hip-Hop, Break-dance, Dancehall ) Drama Workshop: There is the possibility to develop small scenes, depending on the skills of the participants. Performances in traditional and modern dance at ( Bukomero local market street performance and Jam session in Kampala) Filming and capturing pictures and videos for the production of the troupe. Expected Outcome A song recorded audio and video Intercultural exchange on skills in music, dance and drama. Participants performing on stage the dances and plays learnt and practiced during the workcamp Cultural and educational visits During the workcamp period the participants will visit the following places: Visit the community market in Bukomero Climbing the Kateera Hills Note: Other visits on the weekend, could include Kampala (Ghaddafi Mosque, Kasubi Tombs etc) or Entebbe (Wildlife in the National parks, Botanical garden or beaches) at the cost of interested volunteers. Cultural Nights will be organized on different days for the different countries represented at the workcamp. Please carry along anything that can introduce your culture.
Beneficiaries Participation Who qualify to participate The Community Host The beneficiaries are the UPACT members, workcamp participants and the community. The project expects 15 participants maximum with a composition of people from other regions of Uganda and International volunteer. Participants will work 6 hours daily from Monday to Friday. Weekends are for social interaction and/or excursions unless if the official camp programme has an activity. Open minded, ready to interact with other people of different cultural background Willing to share his/her experiences Flexible to live/stay in simple life conditions Flexible to the taste of local and basic foods Ready to work on the projects No experience needed The people in this part of Uganda are multi-tribal with the majority population being Baganda. And the major language spoken is Luganda also a big percentage of people speaking English well. The major foods eaten in this region are matooke, cassava, sweet potatoes, rice, beans, ground nuts, yams etc. Like most regions in Uganda people in this community always welcome visitors and always interested to talk/work with people from other cultural backgrounds Accommodation Accommodation will be in simple rooms. Participants will be required to carry own mat and sleeping bag. The camp site has simple bathrooms and pit latrines no showers A simple cooking shelter (Kitchen) Participants are requested to bring with them mosquito nets. Meals The food is basic and simple. Be ready to take the same dish for some days in a row. Fruits can at times be availed for the campers from local markets. Participants will chose food to prepare depending on the availability. Workcampers will use charcoal or firewood to prepare the meals. If you need more fruits/extra meals/special diet you can get it on your own cost. Health Services There is a Health Centre at Bukomero 5Km away. Kiboga main referral hospital is located only 25km on Kampala- Hoima road. In case of serious cases it is 1 ½ hrs drive from Bukomero to Kampala for main hospitals. Water Source Participants use a bicycle and wheel barrows to collect water from a borehole 3kms away or collect water from nearby wells around the project. Weather What to Bring September is the first month in the beginning of the long rain. It is usually wet and muddy. It is advisable to bring with you strong boots, warm clothes, and umbrella. The temperatures are warm between 23-30 degrees Celsius and the evenings are at times cold. Participants shall be required to bring own sleeping bag, mat, mosquito net, sun cream, mosquito repellent, working gloves and boots/shoes. Light working clothes during working hours and warm clothes at night, as it may turn out to be chilly or cold; Musical instrument (optional); torch or flash light; water purifiers (optional);
Personal effects (i.e. soap, toothpaste, toiletries) It would be nice if you can bring your national flag, common art facts of your country, stories, games, pictures and local recipes. It would be helpful for the cultural presentations about your country and for any social interactions. Above all do not forget a happy and positive attitude. NB: Shorts, dresses and skirts should reach knee length for cultural consideration. Smoking in public is illegal while engagement in drug/harsh carries Project Title International work camp on farming and life skill training in Gulu District Project Dates 10 th -29 th September 2018 Duration Project Code Project Host Project Theme Project Location 3 weeks UPA/08/18 UPA Gulu Branch Providing alternatives/mechanisms to address Poverty Gulu Branch is located in the Northern District of Gulu bordered by Kitgum District in the East, Pader in the Northeast, and Lira District in the southeast and Murchison s falls national park in the Southwest. The work camp participants will be hosted in a location within Gulu municipality 1 Km from the town centre. UPA Gulu Branch collaborates with various institutions in the area like World Vision, Action Aid, Gulu NGO forum, Gulu Youth center, Diocese of Northern Uganda, schools and many others to assist the youth affected by the war. Project Background The communities live in Gulu municipality one of the towns positioned to acquire city status. During the Northern Uganda Insurgency Gulu town hosted large number of Internally Displaced Persons. While others have returned there remained a large population of urban dwellers who have not yet returned or are unable to return to their original homestead and now live in decertified parts of the town. These are the ones who are prone to climate change related hazards. UPA Gulu branch together with other voluntarily organization has for a while been engaged in voluntary initiatives to address the issue affecting the communities especially the youths ranging from sanitation and hygiene, livelihoods, climate change, psychosocial support, water and sanitation The international work camp is therefore designed to enhance the preparedness and mitigation activities of urban poor in GMC, It highlights, responsibility, leadership, and practical initiatives for local councils, communities, and citizens.
Project Objectives To sensitize the communities i.e. schools, church goers on good practice of farming and the life skills to youth. To train the communities on modern farming and life skills Together with the communities work on demonstration plot in one place. Activities Participate in farming and life skill improvement in communal areas within villages. Sensitizing the communities on good farming and life skill for youth to address level of poverty. Planting crops in school farms, church farms and UPA farms. Participate in training on how modern farming to members Visit by participants to big farmers in the district and share with them their experiences. A mini seminar will be organized in 2 places in community and participants share their own experience about modern farming and life skill training in their respective regions /countries. Expected Outcome Communities sensitized on importance of enough food in the family At least 4 school & 2 community and 2churches farms open. 06 gardens opened for UPA Gulu Crops planted in some farms and selected school farms. Cultural and educational visits: Former internally displaced people s camps and resettlement sites to have a discussion on their coping mechanism. Visiting fort Baker and former slave trade route and collection centers, Kabalega Hide out during the British invasion in the late 18 th century. Visiting various recreation centre and places of interest in and around Gulu. Who qualify to participate NB: Cultural Nights will be organized on different days for the different countries represented at the workcamp. Please carry along anything that can introduce your culture. Some places to be visited may be at a small fee for interested participants. One with Positive attitude, willing to interact with a diversity of cultures Ambition to learn about the climate change and its effects in Uganda. Ability to Adopt and enjoy living in simple conditions. Willing to taste a variety of local foods and rural accommodation NB: No special expertise/skills required The Host Community The project location is in a predominantly Acholi population speaking Luo with a good number of people fluent in English.