RICKY EAST AFRICAN FOUNDATION
Table of Contents
Organization Prole
About REAF
Target Population, Vision, Mission and Core Value
Basic Information
Our Staff
The Team
Program areas
Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)
Empowerment
Our Projects
Projects Executed
Organizational Structure
Board Members
Collaboration & Parternship
ABOUT US:
RickyEastAfricanFoundation(REAF) is a youth led and youth serving organization which, was established in September 2020, by a group of passionate young people with an aim to address the health and socio –economic challenges faced by young people in Uganda with a specific focus on advancing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights and empowerment programs through advocacy, research and documentation, capacity strengthening and institutional development. REAF works in all the four regions of Uganda; Central, Eastern, Northern and Western Uganda. REAF is a fully registered Non-profit organization incorporated in Uganda under the laws of Uganda; it is a duly registered and recognized NGO by the National Bureau for Non-Governmental Organizations in Uganda.
VISION MISSION
An informed and empowered society of young people in their diversity that appreciates and promotes their health and wellbeing.
ABSTRACT:
We exist to promote the health and wellbeing of young people in their diversity through SRHR, empowerment programs, Community interventions, advocacy, capacity strengthening, Research and documentation
CORE VALUES TARGET
REAF directly works with Young people in their diversity through promoting and respecting their gender, race, religions, families, sexuality, and nationality among others Team work Transparency
Confidentiality
Respect Integrity
Sustainability Equality
Our journey began with a vision for a brighter, more equitable East Africa. We have made a substantial impact from raising health awareness to empowering vulnerable communities.
Our Impact
Since Inception.
Communities taking lead fighting and spreading awarenes on HIV/AIDS WORLDAIDSDAY
Goal
To empower young people with the knowledge and resources to lead healthy and self-sufficient lives.
Objectives:
To improve quality, equity and dignity in delivery of Reproductive Health services and empowerment programs in the country.
To create demand, access and utilization of SRHR and empowerment services among young people.
To have a sustainable, informed and empowered society of young people in their diversity.
To build the economic capacity of young people in their diversity.
To create an Eco friendly environment.
CommunitiesofPractice
Communities of Practice are sessions convened and led by our partners to exchange insights on successful approaches, lessons learned, and outcomes achieved through their projects and program interventions.
KATUNGYEDERRICK. Founder and Executive director of
Ricky East African Foundation.
As we reflect on our journey, I am struck by the incredible progress by the entire team. When we started out in 2020, we had big ambitions and a vision of creating an informed and empowered society of young people in their diversity that appreciates and promotes their health and wellbeing in the four regions of Uganda. Today that dream continues to become a reality thanks to our partners and team's hard work and passion.
We hope to transform Uganda as a whole through our systematic approach that emphasizes efficiency and effectiveness with well-rounded individuals who can make lasting changes in their communities. This work happens in tandem with our incredible partners across the world, without whom none of this would be possible.
As an organization, we have remained true to our cause despite the circumstances, the resilience of our team remains unmatched
OurStaff:
REAF recognizes that the ability to develop and implement solutions to complex health and social-economic problems often requires the collaboration of specialists/professionals. For each project, we assemble an experienced team of professionals with experience and expertise in disciplines necessary to address the specific challenges of the project at hand. Our in-house resources include professional Public health specialist, HIV/AIDS Sexual Health Counsellor, Peer Educators, Sociologists, Safety Officers, and qualified nurses. REAF Associates, who are respected professionals in their own fields, also join specific REAF project teams on a contractual basis. We have an experienced technical team in all aspects of applicable, relevant and appropriate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), quality assurance protocols, and chain of custody documentation procedures
MEET THE TEAM.
Nabasa Hillary
Tumwebaze Shadrack
Country Director of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
Co-founder of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
spearheading efforts to address health and socio-economic challenges among Uganda's youth. With a background in sociology and ongoing studies in Project Planning and Management, Nabasa leads REAF's initiatives in Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Child Protection, Gender Based Violence (GBV), and HIV services.
In 2023, we saw positive results from collaborative work, impactful project activities in the communities we serve, events, research and feasibility studies, surveys and situational analysis conducted to better comprehend the needs of young people and provide support and solutions to promote their health and wellbeing and attain gender equality a well in Uganda.
Nabasa's dedication to fostering a healthier and more empowered community is reflected in REAF's impactful programs and initiatives nationwide.
This year, we are dedicated to constantly participate in, adapt, and fuse into the ever-changing conditions of the society around us.
Nabasa Hillary
Country Director of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
spearheading efforts to address health and socio-economic challenges among Uganda's youth. With a background in sociology and ongoing studies in Project Planning and Management, Nabasa leads REAF's initiatives in Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Child Protection, Gender Based Violence (GBV), and HIV services.
efforts to address health and socio-economic challenges among Uganda's youth. With a in sociology and ongoing studies in Project Planning and Management, Nabasa leads REAF's initiatives in Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Child Protection, Gender Based Violence (GBV), and HIV services.
Nabasa's dedication to fostering a healthier and more empowered community is reflected in REAF's impactful programs and initiatives nationwide.
Mellinah Kangume
Admin and Finance at Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
In my journey, I have demonstrated proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring the fiscal health of the organization. My experience in reconciling accounts, managing payables and receivables, and streamlining financial processes has consistently contributed to operational efficiency.
I am passionate about optimizing financial strategies to support business objectives and am eager to contribute my expertise to drive growth and success for our organization.
MEET THE TEAM.
Hope Zainab Natukunda
Capacity Building and Community Mobiliser
Hope works with REAF in the struggle to end/reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS. Very passionate about Child and Women Rights. With the platform and Opportunity given by REAF, Hope has managed to deliver information about the Prevention of HIV/AIDS, child labour and SGBV. She has worked with REAF for a period of one year.
She is finalizing her Masters in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies form Makerere University
Praise Akampurira
Programs Officer at Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
Praise Akampurira is a dedicated Programs Officer at Ricky East African Foundation (REAF), bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Public Administration studies. With a passion for social change and community development, Praise plays a pivotal role in designing and implementing impactful programs aimed at addressing pressing health and socio-economic challenges faced by young people in Uganda.
With her background in Public Administration and her passion for social impact, Praise Akampurira plays a vital role in driving REAF's mission forward, making a lasting difference in the communities it serves.
Gideon Akandwanaho
Communications Officer at Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
At REAF, Gideon plays a pivotal role in communication efforts aimed at reaching and engaging with the youth population. He leverages his skills and enthusiasm to amplify REAF's endeavors, contributing to the organization's success in making a positive difference in the lives of young people across Uganda.
Gideon is a young man driven by passion and dedication towards youth development, aligning perfectly with REAF's mission to empower and uplift the youth of Uganda through impactful initiatives.
Nabulya Charity Judith
Nurse of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
She provides consultancy services focused on the provision of COVID-19/ Ebola interventions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and stakeholder engagements. Additionally, she is involved in HIV/AIDS services and gender awareness campaigns aimed at construction workers and affected communities on construction works for selected infrastructure sub-projects in Masaka City under the USMID-AF Infrastructure Investment Program Cluster 5-Batch II, specifically Lot 1 and Lot 2.
She actively promotes health awareness, disease prevention, and gender sensitivity among workers and community members.
Racheal Nabaweesi
Nurse of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
Racheal Nabaweesi is currently pursuing a diploma in Nursing at the Indian Institute. She serves as a nurse at REAF, where she provides consultancy services in HIV/AIDS awareness and mitigation programs, manages other viral illnesses, and oversees the maintenance and operation of first aid clinic services on Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP-LOT 1). Racheal Nabaweesi values her role at REAF, where she actively contributes to community health and well-being through her dedicated service and expertise.
EDITH MIREMBE
Registered Nurse of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
Edith Mirembe is a registered nurse known for her exceptional teamwork skills. She has been instrumental in the efforts of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF) to combat COVID-19, Ebola, and raise awareness about HIV. Edith's dedication to public health and her collaborative approach have significantly contributed to REAF's initiatives aimed at eradicating infectious diseases and promoting health education.
Nanyombi Christine Juliet
Registered Nurse of Ricky East African Foundation (REAF)
Nanyombi Christine Juliet, a registered nurse, has showcased remarkable teamwork skills and specialized expertise in HIV counseling through her involvement in consultancy services for the provision of HIV/AIDS services and gender awareness among construction workers and affected communities on construction works for selected infrastructure sub-projects in Mubende Municipal Council under the USMID-AF Infrastructure Investment Program Cluster 5-Batch II, specifically Lot 1 and Lot 2.
PROGRAMME AREAS
SEXUALREPRODUCTIVEHEALTHANDRIGHTS(SRHR)
EarlymarriagesandTeenagepregnancies
GOAL:
Creating opportunities for girls through addressing actions, which deny Adolescent girls and Young women (AG/YW) proper access to education.
OBJECTIVE:
To fuel the end of injustices among AG/YW in communities through championing education as a priority for the girl child to realize their full potential in life
HarmReduction
GOAL:
Enabling young people to reduce addictions and over dose in the country.
OBJECTIVE:
To mitigate the effects of drug abuse among young people and control addiction.
HIV/AIDS
GOAL:
Reduction in new HIV infections, access to improved HIV prevention, Treatment and care services in the country for young people.
OBJECTIVE:
To empower young people towards responding to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in order to reduce vulnerabilities to new HIV infections.
MenstrualHealthmanagement
GOAL:
To create sustainable solutions to girl’s menstrual health, hygiene and management in Uganda.
OBJECTIVE:
Confronting period poverty and stigma in schools and communities.
Increased demand, access, utilization and availability of youth friendly SRHR services, policies and platforms for young people.
Youth Empowerment, SRHR for Young People HIV/AIDS Awareness & Prevention, Behavioral Change Communication, Livelihood and Skull Empowerment Ricky East African Foundation designs programs, activities and campaigns that put young people at the forefront of their growth and societal change
PROGRAMME AREAS
EMPOWERMENT
SocialEmpowerment
GOAL:
A strengthened chain of information and life skills to young people as a process to build their confidence and self-esteem in order for them to change the society narratives.
OBJECTIVE:
To create an informed transformed generation of young people who can get up and speak out.
EconomicEmpowerment
GOAL:
Empowered and self-reliant young people through entrepreneurship and life skills development.
OBJECTIVE:
To empower young people with entrepreneurship and life skills for self sustenance.
Environmentalconservation
GOAL:
Empowered young people who will later promote environmental conservation
OBJECTIVE:
Confronting period poverty and stigma in schools and communities.
OUT COME OBJECTIVE
Enhanced social, financial and capacity sustainability of young people.
Mental health management
An environment that supports the realization of young people’s mental health wellbeing.
OBJECTIVE: To create awareness on the young people’s mental health management and wellbeing.
OUR PROJECTS
REAF has undertaken a number of projects, which we have completed successfully. Some of these projects include the following;
Sensitization of young people in schools around Kampala metropolitan area in SRHR, HIV/AIDS awareness, management and mitigation strategies
Sensitization of communities affected by construction of road projects
Community Engagements
Provision of HCT Services in communities
HIV Testing with the Contractor’s Workforce
Provision Of Hiv/Aids Services
Consultancy Services For Provision Of Hiv/Aids Awareness And Mitigation Programme, Management Of Other Viruses And Maintenance & Operation Of First Aid Clinic Services
OBJECTIVE: Implementation of HIV/AIDS Awareness wellbeing.
BoardMembers
The work we do is paramount because it is centered on creating awareness about infectious diseases and HIV/AIDS through educational campaigns thus equipping communities with knowledge to promote their health and wellbeing, and empowering communities for economic prosperity by providing sustainable solutions to eradicate poverty empowers individuals and communities at large to thrive, creating a promising, sustainable and equitable future.
This year, we are dedicated to constantly participate in, adapt, and fuse into the ever-changing conditions of the society around us.This work happens in tandem with our incredible partners across the world, without whom none of this would be possible.
We are proud of what we've accomplished and look forward to continuing this journey with all of you.
TESTMONIALS
I was born with HIV, and growing up, I always felt ashamed and afraid to reveal my status or take my medication, especially around my friends at school. I would hide and cover up my health needs, fearing judgment and rejection from others.However, everything changed when REAF visited our primary school and conducted sessions on HIV awareness and stigma reduction The counselors from REAF shared stories of resilience and empowerment, inspiring me to take charge of my health without fear
Ricky East Africa Foundation (REAF) has transformed my life by helping me overcome HIV stigma and embrace my health journey confidently
My name is Praise, and I want to share how Ricky East Africa Foundation (REAF) has profoundly impacted my life through their Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) program Growing up as a young woman in a bustling urban environment, I often felt overwhelmed by societal expectations and the lack of open dialogue surrounding sexual and reproductive health. However, everything changed when I d i s c o v e r e d R E A F a n d t h e i r S R H R program.REAF provided me with a safe and welcoming space to ask questions and seek guidance on topics that are often considered taboo in our society
Ricky East Africa Foundation (REAF) has transformed Through their interactive workshops and one-on-one counseling sessions, I gained a deeper understanding of menstrual hygiene, contraception, and safe sexual practices.
COLLABORATION & PARTNERSHIPS
As the fight against HIV and AIDS shifts from an emergency response to a long-term response, the role of civil society organizations (CSOs), including community-based, non-governmental and faith-based organizations in HIV and AIDS prevention, care and support efforts becomes even more important. Civil society plays a critical role in HIV and AIDS advocacy and service delivery. Without civil society, fewer services would be available to key populations, people in remote areas would have to travel further for services and many of the gains made in treatment because of civil society advocacy would not existing.
We are in Collaboration with Community Based Organizations (CBOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), like: Uganda Network of AIDS Service Organizations (UNASO) UNASO acts as the secretariat of the SCE-National NGOs and for Civil Society Inter-Coordination Committee which is the forum for the 8 civil society related SCEs UNASO coordinates the national NGOs and link them with government, development partners and private sector in order to ensure that appropriate policies, programmes, strategies and guidelines are in place and adequate resources are allocated, utilized and accounted for appropriately at both national and district levels. We have been able to implement the appropriate policies, and programmes in the fight against HIVAIDS in almost all the places we operate around the country, courtesy of UNASO’s Inter Coordination capacity. Then we have worked with the Uganda Aids Commission (UAC) and we have been able to provide tools for promoting, sharing of information, and learning from HIV/AIDS related experiences as well as information on status and trends of the epidemic in the country. With UAC on board, we have been able to highlight challenges and proposals for the way forward to monitoring and evaluation of the HIV/AIDS related activities in the country in order to harmonize response to HIV/AIDS and its effects
We shall continue to work closely with UAC, because we expect it to provide strategic leadership by ensuring effective harmonization of the HIV/AIDS related activities of the various players within the agreed policy and programme parameters AIDS Information Centre is another Community Based Organization that we have worked with and are still working with. With AIC on board, we have been able to streamline the concept of Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) among couples/the youth, as well as carrying out serious campaigns with a message, “Get off the Sexual Network and live a Good Life, “Effective ART Adherence”, Go Together, Know Together, Test for HIV/AIDS”, Use a Condom Correctly and Consistently” , Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Drug Abuse” , and many more community based/related messages as far as HIV/AIDS awareness is concerned. Palliative Care, Treatment of opportunistic infections and working closely with Hospitals, Uganda Health Marketing Group (UHMG), The Aids Support Organization (TASO), Health Centre IVs, Health Centre IIIs has been greatly achieved through our collaboration with AIC, thus continuing to work with AICwillgiveusthemomentumweneedtocurbdowntherapidspreadofthisepidemic,intheconstrucrion industry.
COLLABORATION & PARTNERSHIPS
