The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has called on the Government of Uganda and development partners to increase investment in adolescent health, education, and empowerment to unlock the country’s demographic dividend.
Speaking at the launch of the National Adolescent Health Costed Implementation Plan (CIP) 2025/26–2029/30, Kristine Blokhus, the UNFPA Country Representative, said Uganda’s youthful population presents both a tremendous opportunity and a serious challenge if not properly supported.
“Uganda’s adolescents and young people are the architects of change,” Blokhus said. “But to realize their potential, we must invest in their health, education, and economic inclusion. This is the smartest investment Uganda can make to shape its future.”
The five-year plan, developed by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development in partnership with 13 UN agencies, aims to strengthen systems for adolescent empowerment, participation, and well-being.
It focuses on ending teenage pregnancy, promoting gender-responsive parenting, addressing mental health and substance abuse, and improving access to reproductive health services.
Blokhus emphasized that Uganda must translate policy commitments into sustained financing at both the national and district levels. “We need to move from promises to budgets,” she said. “Adolescent well-being is not only a health issue — it is a developmental and economic priority.”
She also urged line ministries, cultural and religious institutions, and community leaders to dismantle harmful social norms that continue to affect young girls.
According to national statistics, 24 percent of girls aged 15 to 19 have begun childbearing, while 33 percent of women aged 20 to 24 were married before the age of 18.
UNFPA reaffirmed its commitment to support government efforts, highlighting ongoing collaborations such as the Teenage Pregnancy Surveillance and Response Platform and the rollout of Adolescent Health Quality of Care Standards with the Ministry of Health.
“The energy and passion of Uganda’s young people are undeniable,” Blokhus said. “Together, with government, partners, and the youth themselves, we can build a future where every adolescent is healthy, empowered, and safe.”
The new plan aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV and seeks to strengthen coordination, accountability, and financing for adolescent health interventions across all sectors.