Reach A Hand Uganda has launched the inaugural Koi Koi Fireside Conversations, a new platform designed to foster cross-generational dialogue under the theme “Stories of 18–30-year-olds in the 1990s.”
The event formed part of Threads of Legacy, an initiative that uses innovative and interactive approaches to bring together people from different generations to share experiences, knowledge, and life lessons. The programme seeks to preserve cultural values while addressing critical issues such as sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) among young adults.
“Young people would not be who they are without the leadership of parents, guardians, and grandparents who support them as they grow. This is why Threads of Legacy is necessary now,” said Linda Musiime, Head of Strategy at Reach A Hand Uganda.
The event attracted several prominent personalities, including Sam Bagenda, Halima Namakula, Benon Kibuuka, Fauziah Nakiboneka, Charles Ssekubunge, and Alysious Joy Matovu, among others.
During the fireside conversations, participants reflected on how earlier generations navigated sensitive topics such as hygiene, menstruation, puberty, and relationships—often in environments where open discussion was limited. Organisers noted that positive engagement of young people helps reduce stigma, silence, and misinformation that continue to hinder access to accurate SRHR information and services.
The discussions also highlighted contrasts between how senior citizens addressed SRHR-related issues in the past and how such matters are approached today.
“Back in the day, everything concerning SRHR was never discussed openly with young people, despite the fact that we had limited information about our reproductive health,” said musician Halima Namakula.
Ashiraf Kanunu emphasized the importance of educating young people about sexual and reproductive health, warning that withholding information can be counterproductive. “When we protect young people from SRHR information out of fear that they will make mistakes, it only makes them more curious to find out what is being hidden,” Kanunu said.
Speakers also pointed out that urbanisation has widened the generational knowledge gap, especially in Kampala, where many young people live away from their grandparents who often reside in rural areas. As a result, young people increasingly turn to peers and social media for guidance, sometimes exposing them to misinformation, misconceptions, and stigma.
Senior citizens who attended the event welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely effort to promote meaningful intergenerational dialogue.
“It is an important step in empowering young people, sharing knowledge, and building stronger, informed communities,” said veteran broadcaster Sam Bagenda.
