Child Protection

Over 20,000 young people across Uganda will now have easier access to accurate, confidential and life-saving sexual and reproductive health information.

This follows the launch of an innovative digital platform by ChildFund, VIAMO and the Ministry of Health.

The Digital Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) campaign, launched in Busia District in June this year, harnesses Interactive Voice Response (IVR) technology and a WhatsApp chatbot to deliver trusted Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights information directly to young people aged 15–34 years.

The initiative aims to reach at least 20,000 young people across Eastern and Central Uganda.

At a time when many adolescents and youth continue to face barriers such as stigma, misinformation, cultural taboos and limited access to trusted health information, the platform offers a discreet and accessible alternative.

Access via mobile phones 

Young people can dial 161 free of charge from any mobile phone to access information without requiring internet connectivity. Those with smartphones can also engage through a WhatsApp chatbot using minimal data.

To ensure inclusivity, the platform provides information in six widely spoken local languages: Luganda, Luo, Ateso, Lugbara, Runyankole/Rukiga and Kiswahili.

The digital content, developed by ChildFund and customized by VIAMO, was reviewed by technical experts from the Ministries of Health; Education and Sports; and Gender, Labour and Social Development to ensure accuracy and alignment with national policies and standards.

Users can access information on a broad range of health and wellbeing topics including menstrual health management, pregnancy and pregnancy-related risks, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV prevention and adolescent pregnancy care.

Other information includes; safe delivery, nutrition, postnatal care, mental health, psychosocial support, alcohol and substance abuse prevention, life skills development, adolescent growth and development and parent-child communication.

Bridging the information gap 

Speaking at the launch, ChildFund Uganda Country Director Titus Tumusiime described access to information as a fundamental right that supports young people to make informed decisions about their health and future.

“Every young person deserves access to reliable information that enables them to make informed choices, protect their health and realize their full potential,” he said.

Titus noted that digital technology provides an unprecedented opportunity to close information gaps and reach young people where they are.

According to Ivan Mugume, Senior Program Manager at VIAMO, the platform recorded remarkable engagement even before its official launch.

He emphasized that digital platforms complement existing health services by extending health information beyond clinics and directly into communities.

For Busia District, where teenage pregnancy, alcohol abuse and other adolescent health challenges remain prevalent, local leaders welcomed the initiative as a timely intervention.

Busia District Senior Health Educator Fredrick Ouma said many young people are reluctant to seek information through existing youth-friendly health facility corners due to concerns about privacy and social judgment.

“Many young people fear stigma or being judged when seeking sexual and reproductive health information. This platform offers a confidential and convenient alternative that can significantly improve knowledge and encourage positive health-seeking behaviour,” Fredrick said.

The district committed to supporting the campaign through stakeholder mobilization, community awareness efforts and promotion of the platform in schools, health facilities and community structures.

Youth voices

Hilda Achieng, a youth representative, said the platform will help young people become ambassadors of accurate information within their communities.

“This platform will make it easier for me to educate my peers using credible information. It will help young people make informed choices and challenge misconceptions about sexual and reproductive health.”

Fauzia Natocho, another participant, said the platform would enable young people to access information privately and confidently.

“In the past, I struggled to find accurate information about sexual and reproductive health. I am excited about this platform because it allows me to learn privately and access information whenever I need it. It will help many young people make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.”