Uganda takes a bold step towards strengthening social care and support systems.
“Social care and support services are not just a moral imperative; they are a fundamental human right.”
In a landmark event that marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey towards building a more inclusive and resilient society, the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (MGLSD) launched the Operational Framework for Social Care and Support System and the National Strategy for Strengthening the Social Service Workforce.
The event underscored the importance of a robust social care and support system in addressing the needs of Uganda’s most vulnerable populations, including children, older persons, persons with disabilities, and survivors of gender-based violence.
The event, held on Thursday, 30 January 2025 in Kampala, presided over by Aggrey Kibenge, the Permanent Secretary - Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, was attended by high-profile guests, including Dr. Robin Nandy, UNICEF Representative in Uganda, Professor Naraziath Asingwire, who delivered the keynote address, government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, academia, and other key stakeholders to celebrate this critical step forward in Uganda’s social protection agenda.
A vision for a dignified and productive society
The Operational Framework for Social Care and Support System is designed to operationalize Pillar two of Uganda’s National Social Protection Policy (NSPP). It envisions a comprehensive, integrated, and sustainable system that provides protective, preventive, and responsive services to vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. The framework emphasizes the need for a systems approach, recognizing the interconnected nature of social vulnerabilities and the importance of multi-sectoral coordination and quality service delivery.
In his remarks, Aggrey Kibenge, the Permanent Secretary - Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, highlighted the government’s commitment to social protection as a key driver of human capital development. “Social care and support services are not just a moral imperative; they are a fundamental human right. This framework and strategy are critical tools in our efforts to ensure that every Ugandan, especially the most vulnerable, can live a dignified and productive life,” he said.
Strengthening the social service workforce
The National Strategy for Strengthening the Social Service Workforce complements the operational framework by addressing the critical need for a skilled, well-supported, and adequately resourced workforce. The strategy outlines a roadmap for enhancing the capacity of social service workers, creating an enabling environment for their work, and institutionalizing systems that ensure sustainable impact.
Dr. Robin Nandy, UNICEF Representative in Uganda, emphasized the importance of investing in the social service workforce. “A skilled and well-supported workforce is the backbone of any effective child protection system. This strategy represents an investment not just in today’s workforce but in the future of Uganda’s children and communities,” he said.
Dr. Nandy also commended the dedication of para-social workers, who play a crucial role in protecting children and vulnerable populations at the community level and in most difficult circumstances
Addressing persistent challenges
Despite Uganda’s progress in social protection, significant challenges remain. Child poverty, teenage pregnancies, early marriages, and limited access to education and healthcare continue to affect the most vulnerable populations. The operational framework and national strategy aim to address these challenges by strengthening systems, improving coordination, and ensuring that services reach those most in need.
Professor Naraziath Asingwire, in his keynote address, highlighted the importance of community participation and the role of social care systems in dismantling the “deprivation trap” that keeps vulnerable populations in cycles of poverty and disadvantage.
“A well-organized social care system not only provides essential services but also empowers individuals and communities to participate in their own development,” he said.
A call to action
The launch of the operational framework and national strategy is a call to action for all stakeholders to work together in building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable social care and child protection system. The task ahead is immense, but the collective commitment of government, development partners, civil society, and communities offers hope for a brighter future.
As Uganda moves forward with the implementation of these strategies, The focus will be on ensuring that no one is left behind. The operational framework and national strategy provide a clear roadmap for achieving this vision, but their success will depend on a sustained momentum, adequate resources, effective leadership and strong partnerships.
UNICEF reaffirms unwavering commitment to support the Government of Uganda to deliver on its pledge at the First Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children in Bogotá. This reflects a shared vision to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, nurturing, and enabling environment. “Together, we can strengthen Uganda’s full potential and ensure a brighter future for every child,” said Dr. Nandy.
The launch of the Operational Framework for Social Care and Support System and the National Strategy for Strengthening the Social Service Workforce showcased Uganda’s commitment to building a society where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, can thrive. Social workers play a crucial role in preventing and responding to violence against children and other forms of abuse, neglect and exploitation. A resilient workforce builds stronger systems, ensuring every child grows up protected and empowered. It is a bold step towards a more inclusive and equitable future, and a reminder that the well-being of the most vulnerable is a shared and common responsibility.
