Dokolo, Uganda – Joseph Jones Ogwal, an aspiring Member of Parliament for Dokolo North County, has on Sunday January 19, 2025, unveiled a comprehensive plan to support adolescent girls with sanitary pads and empower teen mothers through skill training.
Speaking at the conclusion of the annual football tournament for Bata Subcounty held at Alapita Primary School, Ogwal emphasized his commitment to addressing the challenges faced by young girls, including limited access to menstrual hygiene products and opportunities for economic independence.
Ogwal pledged to distribute sanitary pads to schoolgirls, with Alapita Primary School set to benefit next, and to establish skill development programs targeting teen mothers who dropped out of school due to early pregnancies.
“These initiatives will restore dignity and hope for our young girls, ensuring they stay healthy, confident, and equipped to face the future,” Ogwal stated.
The annual football tournament, organized by Ogwal, served as a platform to foster unity and develop talent among youth in Dokolo North.
The tournament brought together parishes from across Bata Subcounty, including Alapita, Barlela, Bardege, Atabu, Ocero, and Apenyo, to foster unity and develop talent among the youth.
This year’s event final saw Alapita Parish crowned champions after a thrilling penalty shootout against Barlela Parish, winning UGX 170,000, medals, and new jerseys.
Women’s teams also participated, highlighting Ogwal’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and gender equality through sports.
Ogwal awarded UGX 100,000 to two women’s groups for their participation and reiterated his vision of using sports as a platform to bring the community together with love and happiness.
Acio Judith of Barlela Rock Women’s FC expressed gratitude for the sanitary pad program, noting its importance in improving menstrual health and hygiene.
Amolo Oliver, a student at Gulu High School on a sports bursary, emphasized the transformative impact of sports and Ogwal’s efforts to improve girls’ personal hygiene and well-being.
Jasper Enyamu, team captain for Barlela Parish, lauded Ogwal for using sports to unite the community and divert youth from harmful activities such as robbery, theft, among others.
Ogwal’s efforts come as he prepares to battle for the Dokolo North MP seat in 2026 against the incumbent Moses Ogwal Goli and other aspirants like Fr. Alfred Okello, among others.
Ogwal has already set himself apart through his hands-on approach and initiatives that resonate with the community.
Odur Geoffrey, LCIII Chairperson of Amwoma Subcounty, urged the community to support Ogwal in the elections, describing him as a visionary leader committed to youth and community development.
He emphasized that Ogwal’s leadership could bring even greater opportunities for the constituency.
Ogwal reassured the crowd of his dedication to their welfare, promising to continue initiatives that empower and unite the people of Dokolo North.
