From Despair to Dignity: Kalangala Girls Stitch a Safer Future.

Photo: Sheena, having received counseling after a life threatening event is now able to smile and looks forward to a better and healthier future as she takes on tailoring as her income generation skill. Credit: E-Pictures Media

In a small tailoring classroom in Kalangala District, the steady rhythm of sewing machines signals skill-building and a glimmer of freedom.

For many girls in this island district, poverty, early pregnancy, and gender-based violence once defined their futures. Through the Heroes for Gender Transformative Action Program, supported by Amref Health Africa in Uganda, MIFUMI and Cordaid, survivors and at-risk young women are now gaining vocational skills alongside life-saving Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) education.

“I used to feel trapped,” shares Sheena. “Now I earn my own income and I know where to seek help if I face violence. I promise to put the skills I am learning to good use for betterment of my life and more so my health.”  She added.

The tailoring initiative integrates economic empowerment with SGBV referral pathways. Participants receive training in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and SRHR awareness ,including information on contraception, safe motherhood, and reporting violence. Each cohort is linked to local protection committees and the toll-free SGBV helpline.

Ms. Immaculate Akello, staff at Mifumi shared that “Economic vulnerability keeps many girls in abusive situations. By investing in skills and SRHR knowledge, we are investing in social justice and long-term safety.”

The chairperson LC1 for Kasekulo adds: “These girls are no longer seen as victims. They are business owners and role models.”

In 2026, as the world marks International Women’s Day under the theme “Give to Gain,” these sewing machines represent structural change. Ending violence requires more than awareness it requires economic power, access to services, and community accountability.

In Kalangala, dignity is being stitched back one girl at a time.

Photo credits: E-Pictures Media

By Communications at Amref Uganda

Amref Health Africa

Amref Health Africa teams up with African communities to create lasting health change.