One of the key recommendations from CTCA’s just concluded Annual Performance review is the strong need to leverage partnerships. It is against this background that CTCA has developed a collaborative strategy with the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids ( CTFK).
The two organizations have agreed to strategically complement each other specifically with regard to supporting the Tobacco control legislation process in Uganda. The resolutions were agreed upon following two separate meetings held between CTCA’s Manager Dr. Possy Mugyenyi and Mr. Joshua Kyallo, Director of Africa Programs, and another session between CTCA staff, MOH, WHO and Civil Society members.
It was agreed that CTFK will specifically work towards strengthening Civil Society in Uganda, provide legal expertise for the Bill and create demand for the bill through advocacy and public awareness campaigns. CTCA will on the other hand work with the government of Uganda to ensure that the policy and bill are passed and also sensitize the policy makers and government officials.
In another meeting held with CTFK’s Enó Isong , Associate Director, International Communications, it was agreed that the two communications departments facilitate the establishment of the Tobacco Control Communication Technical Working Group which will, among other things, develop/ adapt generic key communication messages that can be used by partners. CTFK will also facilitate partners to carry out a series of communication advocacy programs including training of media personnel and facilitating monthly media dialog sessions.
This will be done in conjunction with CTCA’s Consortium Partner, Uganda health Communication Alliance ( UHCA) while Uganda National Tobacco Control Association( UNTCA)will be supported to train a pool of tobacco control advocates in communication and advocacy skills. All these activities will culminate into an intensive communication and advocacy campaign that is expected to enhance the policy and legislation process in Uganda.