Bridging borders and barriers: Insights from an international reproductive health conference in post-conflict Northern Uganda

Pebalo F. Pebolo, Anna G. Auma, Edward Kumakech, Madeleine Mukeshimana, Biruk Abebe, Ella August, Andrea Mahieu, Rachel Gray, Tamrat Endale, Yolanda R. Smith, Julie M. Buser

Abstract

This short report examines the organization and impact of a reproductive health conference in post-conflict Northern Uganda, convened by the Center for International Reproductive Health Training at the University of Michigan, along with Gulu and Lira Universities. The conference aimed to foster collaboration among researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and community leaders, and to address sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) challenges exacerbated by conflict and resource limitations. Methods included stakeholder engagement, targeted capacity strengthening, inclusive programming, and logistical innovations tailored to rural settings. The conference brought together 691 participants from 20 countries, bolstered technical and organizational capacity at partner universities, enhanced networking, and elevated local voices in health research. Major findings indicated high participant satisfaction, improved local infrastructure, and new collaborative initiatives. In conclusion, the event demonstrated that context-sensitive and inclusive conferences in remote, post-conflict regions can drive scientific progress, support local recovery, and promote equity in global SRHR research.

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References

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