This is a new thematic/programmatic area that now brings all the work related to capacity building of HRAPF’s target groups together. Its objective is to enhance the capacity of rights holders and duty bearers to effectively advocate for and protect the rights of marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations groups in Uganda. The goal is to see Marginalised Persons, Most at Risk Populations and Duty Bearers participating effectively in respecting and promoting human rights of marginalised groups.

The program evolved and adapted our human rights capacity development concept to suit different issues and categories of people including: marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations groups, police officers, media, judicial officers (specifically magistrates), parents, local leaders and health providers. It develops curricula and tailor training material for each target group. The curriculum incorporate aspects as well as modules on: human rights, sexual and reproductive health and rights, transformative leadership, social movement building, regional and international human rights instruments, equality and justice, organisational development, among others.

It provides deeper public legal education and awareness at community level so as to enhance rights awareness that facilitates human rights observance for marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations. It empowers and promotes dialogue between marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations communities and key stakeholders on their rights as well as strengthening the capacity of marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations groups, and advocates to lead advocacy efforts and initiatives. This in the end is intended to build a critical mass of marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations groups for transformative leadership, legislative engagement and policy influence. Our major target groups for this capacity enhancement are: marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations communities (LGBTI persons; sex workers; women, girls and service providers in conflict with abortion laws; drug users; people living with HIV and; poor men/women/elderly land and property rights. Our capacity building interventions also focus on creating cross-movement collaborations to effectively champion human rights advocacy.

It also targets building the capacity of duty bearers in promoting rights of marginalised groups. Priority duty bearers that the program targets include: law enforcement, judicial officers, LC1s, health workers and communities. The program also works with the media to engage on rights of marginalised groups.

The program employs the following strategies:

  • Human Rights Workshops / Trainings for Duty Bearers
  • Institutional Support for Marginalised persons and Most at Risk Populations Groups’ organisations
  • Community Paralegal Training Program
  • Community Engagement