Yearly Archives: 2025

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 […]

Beyond the Classroom: Enhancing BARO’s Artisan Program through Graduate Feedback

Beyond the Classroom: Enhancing BARO’s Artisan Program through Graduate Feedback

A recent visit to a group of artisan graduates from BARO’s training program revealed a remarkable display of innovation, resourcefulness, and dedication to their craft. As we strive to continuously improve our training programs, the feedback and insights gained from this visit have been invaluable. One of the standout observations from the visit was the graduates’ emphasis on uniformity of product, a key principle stressed during their training. Despite limited resources, they have found creative ways to achieve consistency in their products, using everyday objects such as Fanta bottles and plastic bottles to roll out dough and create holes in donuts. This resourcefulness is a testament to the graduates’ ability […]

A Story of Innovation and Perseverance

A Story of Innovation and Perseverance

In a heartening display of entrepreneurship and collective spirit, a group of four women in Uganda have transformed their lives and livelihoods through a snack-making and baking business. This remarkable journey began with a training course at Bridge Africa Research Organisation (BARO), where they acquired the skills and confidence to launch their venture. Recently, we visited these women to assess their progress and identify areas where they might need further support. What we found was truly inspiring. Not only had they established a thriving business, but they had also expanded their operations by recruiting two new members. This bold move was driven by their desire to meet the growing demand […]

Agroecological Practices: A Sustainable Path to Food Security?

Agroecological Practices: A Sustainable Path to Food Security?

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, food insecurity, and environmental degradation, agroecology offers a promising approach to sustainable food systems. This holistic method prioritizes natural processes and local resources to promote ecological balance and conserve biodiversity. As Masanobu Fukuoka, a pioneer of natural farming, once said, “The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings.” Agroecology is built on the principles of diversification, soil conservation, and minimal external inputs. By adopting these practices, farmers can reduce their reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, mitigate climate change, and improve crop yields. As the African proverb goes, “A […]