Word from Uganda Parliamentary Forum for Children

Members of the 7th Parliament, the people’s Elected representatives, initiated the Uganda Parliamentary Forum for Children (UPFC) to create an avenue through which the status of Ugandan Children, especially those in difficult circumstances could be addressed.

The UPFC was conceived in the understanding that there is a need for care and protection of children by adults at this formative stage given their disadvantaged position in our society.

It is a reality that children can neither vote nor be heard in the decision making processes of the nation.

As a forum, UPFC conducts its work within the framework of the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child, the AU Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, the Constitution and the Children Act of 1996 of the republic of Uganda.

The UPFC is a non-partisan group in the Ugandan Parliament constituting of more than 140 MPs from different political parties.

Despite the fact that our party membership and background differ, we share the same belief: a strong conviction that we, as the elected representatives of the people, are obliged to protect the interests of the children.

We have a responsibility to work together as MPs to enhance children’s rights.

Vision A Uganda where children’s rights and responsibilities are promoted and respected.

Mission To advocate for the welfare and rights of children through influencing
laws, policies, budgets and programmes at both central and local government levels.

Core Values
Children First. Children are, and will always be, our first priority.
Excellence and accountability to our stakeholders, especially the children.
Flexibility and responsiveness when handling issues of child protection.
Commitment to act in the best interests of the child.
Adopting a non-partisan approach to all issues concerning children’s rights.

Goals
To in_ uence legislation, policies and programmes for the wellbeing of children.
To in_ uence budgets and mobilise resources for the wellbeing of children.
To promote institutional accountability for the welfare of children both at national and local levels.
To promote the institutional development of the UPFC Secretariat.

What we are advocating for
The Children’s Act Amendment bill to be passed by Parliament since the draft is already before the cabinet.
The review of the Birth and Death
Registration Act No 28 of 1970 since registration of Births is a human Right that every one must enjoy.
FOR US IT IS ‘‘CHILDREN FIRST’’