This initiative aims to address critical issues such as gender-based violence (GBV), child protection, and access to education, ensuring a safer and more inclusive environment for all individuals, particularly women and children.

The program is structured into three key areas: GBV prevention and response, community-based protection, and education. In the realm of GBV, the expected outcomes include fostering positive attitudes and behaviors that advance gender equality and contribute to the prevention of GBV. Activities will encompass case management, community awareness to promote positive social norms, and efforts to enhance access to safety and justice. Partners will be responsible for implementing initiatives that address the root causes of GBV, such as gender inequality, harmful social norms, and economic disempowerment. Engaging men and boys alongside women and girls to dismantle unequal power relations is also a critical component.

In terms of community-based protection, the program aims to enhance refugee and host community participation in decision-making processes, fostering peaceful coexistence and ensuring equitable access to resources and services. This will involve strengthening the Refugee Engagement Forum (REF) and training Refugee-led Organizations (RLOs) to access sustainable funding and expand their roles. Community-led initiatives will be implemented to promote social cohesion, and efforts to prevent and respond to sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) will be strengthened through training humanitarian aid workers and increasing awareness on how to report abuse or misconduct.

The education component focuses on providing quality education to refugee children and youth, ensuring they have access to learning opportunities that equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary for a better future. This includes establishing safe learning environments, providing educational materials, and supporting teachers and educational staff through training and capacity-building initiatives.

UNHCR invites organizations to apply for one, two, or all three areas of focus under this project. Prospective partners must be fully registered in Uganda according to Ugandan National law with the National Government NGO Board. A question-and-answer information session is scheduled for Wednesday, 20 August 2025, to clarify pertinent information regarding this Call for Expression of Interest.

This initiative represents a significant opportunity for organizations committed to humanitarian principles to collaborate with UNHCR in enhancing the protection and well-being of refugees and host communities in Uganda's Western region.

For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.

https://www.unpartnerportal.org/landing/opportunities/