Uganda faces a critical challenge with teenage pregnancy and school dropout among girls. According to the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) 2022, 25% of girls aged 15–19 are either pregnant or have already given birth. In districts like Buyende,Kabarole,Kasese and Adjumani, rates of teenage pregnancy reach up to 24%, with some girls as young as 12 becoming mothers. These pregnancies contribute to 28% of maternal deaths and 20% of infant deaths annually.

School dropout rates are alarmingly high. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics reports that 28% of girls in rural areas drop out of school due to poverty, early marriage, and lack of access to sanitary facilities. In 2021 alone, 35,000 schoolgirls dropped out due to pregnancy. Stigma, financial hardship, and lack of childcare support are major barriers to re-entry into education4.

PLANE’s Empowerment Strategy

PLATFORM for the NEEDY (PLANE) has developed a holistic Teenage Mothers Empowerment Program to restore dignity, hope, and opportunity to young mothers. The program mobilizes teenage girls from vulnerable communities and equips them with practical skills, knowledge, and psychosocial support to rebuild their lives.

Teenage mothers are trained in income-generating activities such as tailoring, craft making, vegetable growing, and basic entrepreneurship. These skills enable them to earn a living and support their children. Nutrition education is provided to help mothers care for their infants and ensure healthy development.

The program also includes comprehensive sensitization on family planning and reproductive health, helping young mothers make informed decisions and prevent repeat pregnancies. Through workshops and peer-led sessions, participants learn about menstrual hygiene, contraceptive options, and maternal health services.

PLANE creates safe spaces for dialogue, mentorship, and healing. Teenage mothers are supported to re-enter school or pursue vocational training, and community leaders are engaged to reduce stigma and promote inclusion.

Program Goals

• Reduce teenage pregnancy and school dropout rates.
• Equip young mothers with sustainable livelihood skills.
• Improve maternal and child health outcomes.
• Promote reproductive health awareness and family planning.
• Foster community acceptance and reintegration of young mothers.

This program is a lifeline for girls whose futures were derailed by early motherhood. Through empowerment, education, and compassion, PLANE is helping them reclaim their dreams and build resilient families.