Monthly Archives: March 2025

World TB Day 2025: BARO Reaffirms Commitment to Combat Tuberculosis

World TB Day 2025: BARO Reaffirms Commitment to Combat Tuberculosis

As the world observes World TB Day 2025, BARO joins the global community in reaffirming its commitment to combat tuberculosis (TB), a disease that continues to pose significant health challenges, particularly in the communities we serve. The theme of this year’s observance, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” serves as a powerful reminder of the collective action required to eradicate this disease. Today, March 24th, marks a pivotal moment in the history of TB. On this day in 1882, Dr. Robert Koch discovered the bacterium that causes TB, a groundbreaking finding that paved the way for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention efforts. As the World Health Organization (WHO) reaffirms […]

Empowering Women: A Misconception Debunked

Empowering Women: A Misconception Debunked

The notion that upraising women means undermining men is a pervasive misconception that has persisted for far too long. This misguided thinking has led to a misguided narrative, where the advancement of women is seen as a threat to the status quo, rather than a necessary step towards a more equitable society. As the African proverb goes, “When you empower a woman, you empower a nation.” This wisdom highlights the transformative impact that women’s empowerment can have on communities and societies. The Zero-Sum Game Fallacy At the heart of this misconception lies the zero-sum game fallacy. This flawed logic assumes that the empowerment of women must necessarily come at the […]

Empowering Local Traders: A Catalyst for Regional Economic Growth

Empowering Local Traders: A Catalyst for Regional Economic Growth

In a concerted effort to foster regional trade and business expansion, the Uganda National Traders Alliance (UNATA) has joined forces with the Fort Portal City Smart Traders Association (FOCSTA) to equip local traders with essential advocacy skills and knowledge. This strategic partnership seeks to bridge the gap between traders and policymakers, ultimately strengthening the regional economy. On March 21st, 2025, the two organizations convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at Reinah Hotel in Fort Portal Tourism City, under the theme “Strengthening Regional Trade and Business Growth.” The event brought together key stakeholders, including traders, policymakers, and business leaders, to identify and address the pressing challenges faced by traders in the region. […]

A Call to Action Against Racism

A Call to Action Against Racism

March 21st marks the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, a day designated by the United Nations to commemorate the tragic events of March 21, 1960, in Sharpeville, South Africa. On this day, police opened fire on a peaceful anti-apartheid protest, killing 69 people and injuring many more. This event sparked international outrage and solidarity, leading to the UN’s designation of this day as a call to action against racism. Racism is a pervasive and persistent problem that affects individuals, communities, and societies worldwide. It is a form of discrimination that is based on the false notion that certain groups of people are inherently superior or inferior to […]

Empowering Women in the Digital Age

Empowering Women in the Digital Age

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the significant strides women have made in various fields, from science and technology to arts and entrepreneurship. However, despite these advancements, women continue to face unique challenges, particularly in the digital realm. The internet has revolutionized the way we live, work, and interact. It has opened up new opportunities for women to connect, learn, and thrive. However, it has also created new barriers and risks, including online harassment, cyberbullying, and digital exclusion. According to a recent report, women are more likely to experience online harassment than men, with 53% of women reporting online abuse. This can have serious consequences, including anxiety, depression, […]

Empowering Incarcerated Women: A New Path to Rehabilitation through knitting

Empowering Incarcerated Women: A New Path to Rehabilitation through knitting

In a groundbreaking initiative, Penal Reform International (PRI) has partnered with Bridge Africa Research Organisation (BARO) to provide vocational training to women incarcerated at the Katojo Women’s Prison in Uganda. The innovative program focuses on teaching the women the art of knitting, with the goal of equipping them with a valuable skill to support their reintegration into society upon release. The program has already shown promising results, with the women producing an impressive array of handmade items, including sweaters, scarves, and other clothing accessories. Beyond the tangible products, however, lies a more profound impact: the empowerment of incarcerated women through skill-building and economic independence. Breaking the Cycle of Poverty and […]

Accelerating Action: Unleashing the Power of Women for a More Equitable World

Accelerating Action: Unleashing the Power of Women for a More Equitable World

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, it’s essential to acknowledge the significant progress made towards achieving gender equality. However, despite this progress, women and girls continue to face numerous challenges and barriers that hinder their ability to reach their full potential. The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, “Accelerating Action,” is a call to action to speed up progress towards achieving gender equality. It’s a recognition that the pace of change must be accelerated to ensure that women and girls have equal opportunities to thrive. A Range of Actions Accelerating action towards achieving gender equality requires a multifaceted approach. It involves a range of actions across various spectrums, […]

Promoting Online Safety and Empowerment for Women: A Collective Responsibility

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, we are reminded of the significance of promoting online safety and empowerment for women. The internet has revolutionized the way we live, work, and interact, but it also poses unique challenges, particularly for women. Online harassment, cyberbullying, and digital exclusion are just a few of the obstacles that women face in the digital realm. According to recent statistics, women are more likely to experience online abuse than men, with devastating consequences for their mental health, well-being, and economic empowerment. However, we believe that together, we can create a safer internet for all. By promoting online safety and empowerment for women, we can unlock their […]

Embracing Diversity in Farming Practices: A Comparative Analysis of Indigenous, Organic, and Agroecological Farming

Embracing Diversity in Farming Practices: A Comparative Analysis of Indigenous, Organic, and Agroecological Farming

Yesterday, my friends and I had an argument about the difference between indigenous farming practices, organic farming, and agroecological farming. I had to dig deep to brush up on the nuances of each approach, and I’m excited to share what I learned. At its core, indigenous farming practices are rooted in the traditional knowledge and customs of native communities. These practices are deeply connected to the land, its rhythms, and the cultural heritage of the people. As Chief Dan George, a Canadian indigenous leader, once said, “The earth has music for those who listen.” Indigenous farming practices prioritize living in harmony with nature, using techniques passed down through generations to […]

The Indispensable Role of Women in the Home: A Pillar of Strength and Stability

The Indispensable Role of Women in the Home: A Pillar of Strength and Stability

The importance of women in the home cannot be overstated. For centuries, women have played a vital role in maintaining the harmony and balance of family life. Their presence is a cornerstone of stability, love, and care, providing a nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive. Emotional Support and Caregiving Women are often the emotional backbone of the family, providing love, care, and support to their loved ones. They are typically the primary caregivers, dedicating countless hours to ensuring the well-being and happiness of their family members. This selfless devotion has a profound impact on the emotional and psychological development of children, shaping their values, and instilling a sense […]