Policy_Development_Assignment-Nyini George.pdf

Include both the problem and objective trees diagrammatically

1. Policy Development Assignment

Introduction
This assignment aims to identify a leading health-related challenge in Uganda using Health
Needs Assessment (HNA) and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) techniques, and then
design a public policy to address it. The findings show that poverty is the most pressing
challenge, acting as a root cause of malnutrition, maternal and child mortality, preventable
diseases, and limited healthcare access.
Part A: Problem Identification and Analysis
Identified Health Challenges in Uganda
Using PRA techniques such as Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews
(KIIs), Venn diagrams, and seasonal health calendars, as well as HNA from secondary data
(UBOS, DHS), the following challenges were identified:
- Malaria
- HIV/AIDS
- Maternal and child mortality
- Malnutrition
- Poverty
Prioritization of Problems
Frequency counts and pairwise ranking were applied to prioritize the problems. Poverty
was mentioned in over 80% of PRA sessions, and ranked above malaria, HIV, and
malnutrition because it was seen as the underlying driver of these health problems. Thus,
poverty was selected as the main health-related challenge.
Problem Tree (Analysis)
Core Problem: High poverty levels in Uganda

Causes:
- Unemployment and limited livelihood opportunities
- Low agricultural productivity
- Limited access to quality education
- Gender inequality and cultural barriers
- Corruption and weak governance

Effects:

2. - Malnutrition and hunger
- High maternal and child mortality
- High prevalence of preventable diseases
- School dropouts, especially among girls
- Intergenerational poverty cycle
Objective Tree (Tailored Response)
Core Objective: Reduction of poverty levels in Uganda

Responses to Causes (Objectives):
- Create employment opportunities, especially for youth and women
- Increase agricultural productivity and market access for farmers
- Expand access to quality education for all
- Promote gender equality and empower women economically
- Strengthen governance and reduce corruption in service delivery

Responses to Effects (Outcomes):
- Reduced malnutrition and improved food security
- Reduced maternal and child mortality
- Increased prevention and treatment of communicable diseases
- Improved school retention and completion rates
- Breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty
Part B: Policy Document
Uganda National Poverty Reduction and Health Equity Policy (2025–2030)
Introduction
Poverty remains Uganda’s most pressing socio-economic and health-related challenge. It
directly undermines health outcomes, including nutrition, maternal and child survival, and
disease prevention. Tackling poverty is therefore central to achieving national development
goals and improving public health.
Problem Statement
Around 30% of Ugandans live below the poverty line. Poverty is strongly correlated with
poor health outcomes, and without addressing it, investments in the health sector cannot
deliver sustainable impact.
Principles
- Equity and inclusion
- Rights-based approach
- Community participation

3. - Accountability and transparency
- Gender sensitivity
Vision
A Uganda free from extreme poverty, where all citizens enjoy equitable access to health,
education, and social protection.
Mission
To reduce poverty and its health impacts through multi-sectoral strategies promoting social
protection, livelihoods, and equitable services.
Goal
To reduce the national poverty rate from 30% to 20% by 2030, thereby improving health
outcomes.
Objectives and Strategies
Objective 1: Strengthen Social Protection Systems
- Expand cash transfers for vulnerable households
- Establish community-based health insurance

Objective 2: Enhance Livelihood Opportunities
- Implement youth employment initiatives
- Support small-scale farmers with training, inputs, and markets

Objective 3: Improve Access to Health and Education Services
- Subsidize healthcare for the poor
- Ensure universal access to primary and secondary education

Objective 4: Promote Good Governance and Accountability
- Strengthen anti-corruption measures in poverty-alleviation programs
- Decentralize resources to communities
Expected Outputs
- 70% of vulnerable households covered by social protection
- 50% increase in youth employment
- 80% of health facilities providing pro-poor services
Expected Outcomes
- Declining poverty levels
- Increased access to healthcare for the poor
- Reduced malnutrition and maternal mortality

4. Expected Impact
- A healthier, more productive population
- Contribution to Uganda Vision 2040 and NDPIII/IV
- Alignment with SDGs (1: No Poverty, 3: Good Health, 10: Reduced Inequalities)