Driving Change Together

At Rural Smiles Foundation, we believe that transformative change is only possible through strong partnerships. Our work in promoting health, digital rights, economic empowerment, and social inclusion is strengthened by the support, collaboration, and solidarity of partners who share our vision for a just and inclusive society.

This page celebrates the diverse organizations and institutions that stand with us in advancing the rights and well-being of rural and marginalized communities in Uganda.

🌍 International Partners

CIVICUS – World Alliance for Citizen Participation

We are grateful for the support from CIVICUS through the Crisis Response Fund, which enabled us to implement the Strengthening Civic Space and Resilience in Uganda project. Through this partnership, we provide support to human rights defenders, promote freedom of association, and run public awareness campaigns like #ProtectCivicSpaceUganda.

Het Actiefonds (The Netherlands)

Het Actiefonds has been a key supporter of our grassroots advocacy efforts. Their grants have funded initiatives including the Justice for Widows’ Rights campaign and the Promoting Inclusivity and Safety for Vulnerable Communities project, helping us safeguard rural activists and marginalized groups.

URBIS Foundation (Germany)

URBIS Foundation is supporting our Integrated Community Health and Rights Program (ICHARP) by funding the installation of solar power systems at rural health centres in Kibaale District, improving maternal and child health services through sustainable energy.

National and Local Partnerships

Kibaale District Local Government (KDLG)

We signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding with KDLG in October 2024 to ensure alignment with district priorities. This partnership supports joint planning, service delivery, and community mobilization across all our projects in the district.

Kitara Civil Society Organisations Network (KCSON)

As a member of KCSON, we collaborate with over 100 CSOs in the Bunyoro sub-region to strengthen regional advocacy, coordinate community-based initiatives, and build institutional capacity for inclusive development.

Nurturelink Financial Services Ltd

Nurturelink serves as the financial empowerment arm of the Rural Smiles Foundation, offering low-interest loans and financial literacy training to vulnerable women and youth in rural areas.

🧩 Strategic Collaborations and Memberships

• Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) – Global advocacy and learning network for rural women
• Youth Democracy Cohort (YDC) – Global platform promoting youth civic participation
• Cook Medical – Partner in our community-based cancer awareness and screening campaigns
• Alert Fund for Youth – Supporter of SRHR and youth-led advocacy projects
• INROADS – Partner in advancing sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) in refugee communities

Why Partnerships Matter

🧭 Shared Vision – We align with partners who believe in equity, justice, and community-led solutions.

🤝 Collaboration Over Competition – Together, we bring more expertise, voices, and reach to our impact.

📈 Sustainable Impact – Strategic partnerships help us scale our work and ensure long-term change.