Two EADEN staff attended a capacity building training on Policy regulation on Land and Extractives on 12^th & 13^th July 2023 in Soroti City at Eneku Village Hotel. A total of 26 participants, of which 4 were female and 22 were male attended the training. The training brought together a diverse ensemble, including representatives from organizations such as Caritas Moroto, EADEN, Community Integrated Development Initiatives (CIDI), Mukujju Multipurpose Cooperative Society (MUMUCOS), Nawandala Area Cooperative Enterprise (NACE), farmers from Nakapiripirit, miners’ Associations, cultural leaders from Soroti, and the dedicated team from PELUM Uganda. This eclectic mix of backgrounds and experiences added richness to the discussions. Together, they delved deep into the realms of policy regulations on extractives and environmental justice. As the training sessions unfolded, participants embarked on a journey of understanding and mapping the intricacies of extractive industries. They unravelled the complex web of the legal framework governing extractives in Uganda, ensuring they were equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate this crucial sector effectively.

One of the pivotal aspects of the training revolved around the role of gender in extractive industries. Participants delved deep into discussions about how gender dynamics intersect with the sector, recognizing the need for inclusive and equitable practices. Simultaneously, they explored the concept of environmental justice, understanding the vital importance of preserving the environment in the face of extractive activities. In their quest to become advocates for change, participants also equipped themselves with monitoring tools tailored to the extractive industry. These tools would empower them to scrutinize and hold stakeholders accountable, ensuring that the sector operates responsibly and ethically.

The two days spent at Eneku Village Hotel were not just a training; they were a transformative experience. As the participants left Soroti on the 13th of July 2023, they carried with them a newfound understanding of extractive industries and a commitment to advocate for policies and practices that promote environmental justice, gender equality, and sustainable development. This gathering was not just about capacity-building; it was about forging a path towards a brighter and more equitable future for all