ENVIRONMENT HEALTH AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SINCE 2004

BY 

MR. MUTEBI EDDIE, 

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,

UNION OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT VOLUNTEERS (UCDV)

Introduction

An estimated 2 million people die every year due to diarrheal diseases; most of them are children less than 5 years of age (WHO 2011). One of the Millennium Development Goals is to reduce by half the proportion of people living without access to improved sanitation by 2015 (WHO/UNICEF 2008). UCDV was founded in 2004 to promote volunteerism for sustainable development with emphasis on the neediest and most vulnerable groups in Uganda.

UCDV Guiding Theory:

Environment Health for Poverty Alleviation –leading to Sustainable Development

UCDV Goal Implementation Strategy:

Partnership and Networking Programme

UCDV is a member of the Uganda Water and Sanitation Network, but open to collaboration with organizations and individuals with a shared vision. Through partnership with the Uganda Aids Information in Rakai, Masaka, Bukomansimbi, and Kampala, 25 workshops were organized and a total of 1,000 youths attended.

Water and Sanitation Programme

Over 100,000 community members have benefitted directly from this project,

and trained 1,000 water user committees (WUCs) under the Participatory Hygiene

 and Sanitation Training Programme.

	200 spring wells built since 2004

Environment Conservation

Over 50,000 trees have planted in Masaka, Mpigi, Wakiso, and Rakai Districts, and conducted environment education workshops in 30 different communities.

Evidence of Impact

"The impact here is there for all to see! The raised huge black reservoir has already greatly improved on the hygiene of the school and pupils.” John Vianney Lutaaya, Director –Bugolo Junior School, Nakivubo-Kampala.

Vocation Training Programme

40 out of school youths were trained in carpentry, repair of electrical appliances, knitting, brick laying, and computer applications.

Orphans Support Programme

60 orphans have benefitted from the orphan support programme in Kampala, Masaka and Bukomansimbi.

Achievement

Each of the programme has employed on average 15 youths on a part-time basis.

Opportunities

In 4 years time UCDV will have build 1 technical school and orphanage center, and create over 10 permanent jobs for the youths.

Conclusion

Together we can change the world for good