What we do

Through these areas, we combine service delivery, advocacy, capacity strengthening, and technology innovation to create lasting impact. In health and health rights, we implement the Integrated Community Health and Rights Program (ICHARP), which expands access to essential services including sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), maternal health, and community health education. We also operate a Mental Health and Peer Support Network that provides psychosocial support and strengthens community-based care systems, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable populations. Our health programming extends to refugee contexts, including targeted SRHR interventions in Kyegegwa District.Under our digital rights and innovation portfolio, we have developed and deployed the SpaceUG platform, a civic technology solution that enables early warning, threat reporting, and referral support for human rights defenders and civil society actors. This work is complemented by digital safety training and advocacy efforts that promote secure and inclusive digital participation, particularly in restrictive civic environments.

Our work in social inclusion and civic space is anchored in the Inclusive Civic Space and Participation Program (ICSP), a flagship initiative designed to strengthen democratic participation, protect civic space, and promote inclusion for marginalized and underrepresented communities. Through this program, we combine digital innovation, community engagement, and advocacy to create safe and enabling environments where individuals and civil society actors can actively participate in governance and decision-making processes. Through the SpaceUG platform, we monitor civic space threats, support early warning systems, and facilitate referral pathways for legal, psychosocial, and protection support. At the community level, we  facilitate inclusive participation through initiatives such as Inclusive Participatory Policymaking and Youth Voices for Peace, enabling dialogue, co-creation of solutions, and stronger accountability between citizens and local leaders. We also strengthen the participation and protection of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups through targeted interventions, awareness campaigns, and advocacy efforts that reduce barriers to participation and promote inclusive governance. In addition, we work with civil society organizations and networks, including the Kitara Civil Society Organisations Network (KCSON), to build capacity for advocacy, collaboration, and coordinated civic action.

In the area of renewable energy and climate resilience, we implement targeted interventions that address energy poverty and strengthen community adaptation to climate risks. Our SolarMCH initiative supports the electrification of rural health facilities, improving service delivery and maternal health outcomes. In addition, the Renewable Energy and Climate Initiative (RCETI) promotes sustainable energy solutions and climate-responsive practices in vulnerable communities, including in Buliisa District. Geographically, our work is anchored in the Bunyoro sub-region, where we deliver integrated, multi-program interventions across districts including Kibaale, Kagadi, Kakumiro, Hoima, Masindi, Kiryandongo, and Kikuube. In this region, our approach is comprehensive, combining multiple thematic areas to create deep, sustained impact. We are also expanding our programming into the Karamoja sub-region, where we are implementing ICHARP to improve access to essential health services in districts such as Kotido, Kaabong, Karenga, Abim, Moroto, and Nakapiripirit.

In addition to these regional efforts, we implement specialized and targeted interventions in selected districts based on emerging needs and strategic priorities. These include refugee-focused SRHR programming in Kyegegwa and climate-focused initiatives in Buliisa, demonstrating our ability to adapt and respond to diverse contexts. Our approach is guided by principles of community ownership, inclusivity, sustainability, and accountability. We work closely with local governments, civil society networks, and community leaders to ensure that our interventions are contextually relevant and aligned with local priorities. By integrating multiple sectors and leveraging innovation, we are able to deliver solutions that not only address immediate needs but also strengthen systems and build long-term resilience. Through this integrated model, Rural Smiles Foundation is building a scalable framework for inclusive development one that empowers communities, strengthens institutions, and contributes to a more equitable and sustainable future.