Female Change Agents Driving Community Transformation in Kole District

Female change agents in Kole District are using their voices to bring about positive change in their communities, tackling social and economic challenges through grassroots advocacy.

This empowerment follows an initiative launched five years ago by Ama Cradle for Development (AMACOD) in partnership with Twaweza under the project “Sauti za Wanainchi,” aimed at enabling locals to demand economic development and improved services.

Jennifer Auma, a change agent from Abwal Village, Ootkwac Parish in Alito Subcounty, said the training they received from AMACOD and Twaweza has equipped them to advocate for unity, development, and change within their communities.

As a change agent, Auma’s role involves identifying issues affecting residents and working with LC1 chairpersons to escalate concerns to the subcounty leadership for resolution. If the subcounty leadership is unable to address an issue, they forward it to the district, with AMACOD assisting in pushing for further action.

Auma noted that through their intervention, domestic violence has significantly reduced in her village. The community introduced a fine of 50,000 UGX for anyone engaging in domestic violence, discouraging the vice.

Jennifer Auma

Caroline Adongo Oyet, a change agent from Amiabil Village, Lwala Parish in Okwerodot Subcounty, highlighted how the initiative has empowered locals to demand better services, leading to the construction of Lwala Health Center III last year. The facility has helped reduce childbirth complications caused by reliance on traditional birth attendants and has lowered medical costs by eliminating the need for long-distance travel.

Adongo also noted a shift in mindset, with community members now actively maintaining feeder roads and keeping water sources clean, recognizing that development is a shared responsibility rather than solely the government’s duty.

Caroline Adongo Oye

For Vicky Akello, a change agent from Akaidebe B Village, Akwirididi Ward in Aboke Town Council, crime rates among the youth have dropped significantly due to the awareness efforts led by AMACOD.

“In the past, theft was rampant among the youth, but through our advocacy, they have been encouraged to engage in income-generating activities like bricklaying and farming to improve their livelihoods,” Akello said.

Additionally, the community successfully lobbied for the construction of the Akaidebe B-Teilwa Road, which links Oyam and Kole Districts. The improved road infrastructure has boosted trade and transportation between the two districts, benefiting local businesses.

Recent statistics from Twaweza indicate that 17% of women in Northern Uganda experience domestic violence. The report also shows that 14% of women in the Lango subregion live without domestic issues, 26% fear domestic violence may occur, while 34% hear about it from others.

Through their advocacy efforts, female change agents in Kole District continue to champion community development, reduce social vices, and enhance service delivery, demonstrating the power of grassroots activism in driving meaningful change.