Thirty community members have successfully completed the Isenkati Oraha! training program in Hoima District, preparing them to serve as cultural mentors for youth in their communities.
What is Isenkati?
"Isenkati" refers to the paternal aunt in Bunyoro culture - traditionally responsible for guiding children, especially during puberty. The program revives this important cultural role.
Training Curriculum
The new mentors learned: - Traditional roles and responsibilities of Isenkati - How to discuss reproductive health with youth - Addressing teenage pregnancy and early marriage - Cultural values and etiquette - Effective mentorship techniques
Community Impact
These trained mentors will now return to their villages to: - Conduct youth guidance sessions - Support families in child upbringing - Reduce teenage pregnancies through education - Preserve and transmit cultural values
Expansion Plans
ODF plans to train more Isenkati mentors across all 8 districts of Bunyoro, creating a network of cultural educators throughout the kingdom.