The United States Mission in Uganda is pleased to announce the launch of a $12.8 million Civil Society Strengthening Activity (CSSA) in Uganda, to support the contribution of Ugandan civil society organizations (CSOs) to development outcomes across four areas: health; education, youth, and child development; agriculture; and democracy, rights, and governance.
“Advancing human rights and democratic values, fighting corruption, and stemming the tide of democratic backsliding worldwide are top priorities for the United States,” said U.S. Ambassador Natalie E. Brown at the launch of CSSA in Uganda April 14. “Successful democratic states recognize the need for civil society and its role in contributing to inclusive and sustainable development. … Civil society is a fundamental actor, serving as a critical interlocutor between the state and society, one that enhances the legitimacy of the public sector and helps link citizens with their government.”
The five-year project, administered through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to strengthen the capacity of civil society to contribute to national and local development. To achieve this, USAID’s Civil Society Strengthening Activity will help Ugandans be more civically engaged and equip CSOs with the knowledge, skills, systems, and tools needed to fulfill their critical role in society. It will work to foster stronger bonds of mutual respect between CSOs and the government, and also promote an environment where civil society organizations can learn from each other, exchange experiences, and coordinate.
The activity will be implemented by the East-West Management Institute, Inc. in partnership with Uganda’s Development Network of Indigenous Voluntary Associations, the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law, and Common Ground Consulting.
The USAID/CSSA project will provide grants and technical support to CSOs and government institutions to expand alliances among multiple stakeholders and promote an enabling environment in which civil society in Uganda may thrive. The project seeks to support local development ownership by strengthening the capacity of CSOs and investing in their sustainability.
The United States partners with Uganda to create a healthy and vibrant society where all citizens have opportunities to achieve their full potential.