By Alfred Opio
A fresh wave of hope has swept across Pallisa District following the official introduction of a youth-centered alcohol prevention project spearheaded by the Uganda Girl Guides Association.
The initiative, which has already kicked off, was unveiled during an inception meeting held at the district headquarters, bringing together district officials, youth leaders, and development partners committed to tackling the growing challenge of alcohol abuse among young people.
Speaking during the meeting,Cathy Nakaziwe , Project Coordinator at the Uganda Girl Guides Association, explained that the intervention is part of a broader exchange program aimed at empowering youth and communities.
❝ “This project has already started, and our coming here today is to engage district leaders and ensure that they understand its purpose and support its implementation. We are focusing on both schools and communities because alcohol abuse is not limited to one setting—it affects the entire social fabric.” ❞
— Cathy Nakaziwe
She revealed that the project is funded by SIDA through IOGT International and targets young people between the ages of 12 and 25 who are in school, and up to 35 years for those out of school.
Nakaziwe noted that the project is grounded in research identifying Pallisa,Kumi District ,Ruchinga District , Kabale District as areas with high rates of alcohol consumption, particularly among youth.
The initiative adopts a multi-faceted approach that includes awareness campaigns, leadership training, and skills development to address both the causes and effects of substance abuse.
According to Hellen Apio , the Young Leader Representative to the Board of the Uganda Girl Guides Association, the project will rely heavily on peer education and grassroots engagement.
❝ “Once young people understand the harmful effects of alcohol on their bodies and lives, they become more conscious of their choices. Awareness is the first step towards change, and through peer education, we believe the message will be more relatable and impactful.” ❞
— Helen Apio
Apio explained that young people and women will be trained to form Girl Guides clubs and committees at district and sub-county levels, which will act as platforms for peer educators to sensitize communities.
Beyond awareness, the project also seeks to address unemployment and idleness, which are key drivers of substance abuse. Youth will be equipped with entrepreneurial and life skills to enable them to pursue productive livelihoods.
❝ “When young people are engaged in productive activities, they are less likely to turn to alcohol. We want to give them skills that can help them earn a living and stay focused on their future.” ❞
— Helen Apio
Adding an international perspective,Mulumena Naume from the Zambia Girl Guides Association highlighted the benefits of the Youth Exchange South to South program, which involves participants from 12 countries.
❝ “This exchange allows us to learn from each other and adapt solutions that work in different contexts. Being in Uganda gives me the opportunity to contribute while also understanding the culture and challenges here.” ❞
— Mulumena Naume
She noted that the exchange promotes initiatives such as menstrual health education, environmental conservation, mental health awareness, and youth leadership development.
The project has received strong support from district authorities, with the District Education Officer, Ronald Omutujju , describing it as timely and necessary.
❝ “Alcohol abuse among young people is a serious concern in our district. This project comes at the right time to help us curb the problem. I urge parents to embrace it because it is for the good of our children and the future of our community.” ❞
— Ronald Omutujju
As the program rolls out across Pallisa, stakeholders remain optimistic that the combination of education, empowerment, and community engagement will yield positive results.
With strong leadership, international collaboration, and grassroots participation, the initiative is expected to drive a meaningful shift in attitudes and behaviors, offering a pathway toward healthier, more productive youth in Pallisa District.
