1. Purpose

The purpose of this Policy and Advocacy Policy is to guide Real Health Uganda (RHU) in its efforts to influence health policies, advocate for equitable healthcare access, and promote health and wellness at local, national, and international levels. This policy outlines the principles, objectives, strategies, and responsibilities for effective advocacy and policy engagement.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all RHU staff, partners, volunteers, and stakeholders involved in advocacy and policy activities. It covers the organization’s approach to policy development, advocacy strategies, stakeholder engagement, and monitoring and evaluation of advocacy efforts.

3. Objectives

  • Influence Health Policy: Advocate for policies that improve health outcomes, reduce health disparities, and ensure equitable access to healthcare services.
  • Promote Health Equity: Work towards the elimination of health inequities and promote social justice in health.
  • Enhance Community Participation: Engage communities in policy discussions and decision-making processes to ensure their voices are heard.
  • Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with other organizations, government agencies, and international bodies to strengthen advocacy efforts and achieve common goals.

4. Advocacy Principles

  • Evidence-Based: Ensure that all advocacy efforts are grounded in robust evidence and research to support policy recommendations.
  • Inclusivity: Promote inclusive and participatory approaches that consider the needs and perspectives of diverse communities.
  • Transparency: Maintain transparency in advocacy activities, including clear communication of goals, strategies, and outcomes.
  • Ethical Standards: Adhere to ethical standards in all advocacy efforts, avoiding conflicts of interest and ensuring honesty and integrity.

5. Advocacy Strategies

5.1. Policy Development

  • Research and Analysis: Conduct research and analysis to identify key health policy issues, gaps, and opportunities for advocacy.
  • Policy Recommendations: Develop and advocate for evidence-based policy recommendations that address identified issues and promote health equity.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with policymakers, government officials, and other stakeholders to advocate for the adoption of recommended policies.

5.2. Community Engagement

  • Awareness Campaigns: Launch awareness campaigns to educate communities about health issues and policy changes.
  • Public Forums: Organize public forums, town hall meetings, and community dialogues to discuss health policies and gather feedback.
  • Capacity Building: Provide training and support to community members and local organizations to enhance their advocacy skills and capacity.

5.3. Coalition Building

  • Partnerships: Build partnerships with other NGOs, community-based organizations, and advocacy groups to strengthen collective advocacy efforts.
  • Networks: Participate in national and international health networks and alliances to share experiences, strategies, and resources.

5.4. Media and Communication

  • Media Advocacy: Utilize media platforms to raise awareness about health issues, advocate for policy changes, and highlight RHU’s advocacy efforts.
  • Public Relations: Develop and maintain positive relationships with journalists, media outlets, and influencers to support advocacy goals.

5.5. Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Track Progress: Monitor and evaluate the impact of advocacy activities and policy changes, using metrics and indicators to assess effectiveness.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Implement feedback mechanisms to gather input from stakeholders and communities, and adjust strategies as needed.
  • Reporting: Regularly report on advocacy activities, outcomes, and lessons learned to stakeholders and the public.

6. Responsibilities

6.1. Advocacy Team

  • Lead Advocacy Efforts: Develop and implement advocacy strategies, coordinate activities, and ensure alignment with RHU’s mission and objectives.
  • Research and Analysis: Conduct research, analyze policy issues, and develop evidence-based recommendations.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with policymakers, partners, and communities to advance advocacy goals.

6.2. RHU Staff

  • Support Advocacy Activities: Contribute to advocacy efforts by providing expertise, participating in events, and supporting community engagement.
  • Adhere to Policy: Follow RHU’s policy on advocacy and ensure that all activities comply with ethical and legal standards.

6.3. Partners and Volunteers

  • Collaborate: Work with RHU to support advocacy initiatives, participate in campaigns, and contribute to policy discussions.
  • Promote Advocacy Goals: Advocate for RHU’s health policy objectives within their networks and communities.

7. Review and Revision

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. Feedback from stakeholders and the evaluation of advocacy efforts will inform policy revisions.

8. Contact Information

For more information about this policy or to get involved in advocacy efforts, please contact:

Real Health Uganda

  • Address: 305E Mbogo Rd Najjeera
  • Phone: +256 41 467 1109
  • Email: info@realhealthuganda.org
  • Website: www.realhealthuganda.org