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The study focused on assessing reproductive health and gender-based violence knowledge, attitudes and practices among adolescent girls and boys (ages 13-19) and youths (ages 20-24) in Palorinya Refugee Settlement and host communities in Obongi district, West Nile, Uganda. The assessment revealed that most participants were adolescent females under 15, with limited reproductive health knowledge, high early marriage and pregnancy rates, widespread misconceptions, low contraceptive use, and significant prevalence and underreporting of sexual and gender-based violence

This assessment evaluated the impact and sustainability of a youth and women-focused livelihoods project using digital tools and interviews with 206 respondents. Key findings showed significant income improvements among teen mothers, youth and women rising from as low as $18 to as high as $590 and 97% of participants established income-generating activities, mainly in animal and poultry rearing.

This evaluation report provides insights into the impact of the three-year Resilience Livelihoods Project (2020–2023) implemented by ChildFund, Lango Child and Community Development Federation and Partners for Children Worldwide in northeastern Uganda, revealing increased household incomes for 65% of 8,471 farmers due to improved agricultural practices and enhanced self-employment among 400 vocationally trained youth, despite challenges such as limited capital, market access and livestock diseases.

ChildFund supports youth through a range of models that promote skills development, voice, and meaningful participation. The Artisan Model connects youth with skilled local artisans for hands-on training and mentorship, while the Institutional Model supports those eligible for formal training in accredited institutions. The Space, Skills and Voice Model equips youth to identify challenges, develop solutions and engage duty-bearers, ensuring their voices are heard. The Youth-Adult Partnership Model fosters collaboration between young people and adults, blending youth energy with adult guidance to drive inclusive community development and recognize youth as equal partners in progress.

When young people are not active participants in the decision-making processes that affect their lives, they—and their communities—often suffer worse outcomes. Too often, decisions that will affect young people’s lives are made solely by parents, local and religious leaders, teachers, governments and others without the input of youth themselves. Young people who are in marginalized communities, living with disabilities, or facing unfair gender disparities face even tougher development barriers to having their voices heard. By focusing on youth agency and positive youth development, ChildFund supports the principle that young people are empowered to reach their full potential through skill-building, fostering healthy relationships, strengthening families and communities, and transforming systems.