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breaking
the silence

Symposium 2nd Edition

Theme: Beyond the Silence: Strengthening Support, Policy and Access to Infertility Care

22 Aug 2025
kampala sheraton hotel
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About The Symposium

About Breaking the silence

The Breaking the Silence Symposium, led by RHF, is a growing platform committed to transforming how infertility is perceived and addressed in Uganda. Now in its second year, the symposium serves as a catalyst for policy reform, strategic partnerships, and inclusive, stigma-free fertility care. This year’s event, taking place on August 22, 2025, at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, will deepen its focus on strengthening mental health support, expanding access to holistic fertility services, and advocating for inclusiveness as a core aspect of public health. By recognizing infertility as more than a medical issue, the symposium will address its emotional, social, and economic impacts—ultimately inspiring long-term institutional and societal change. 

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Speakers

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Thematic Areas

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Sponsors

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Event program

Schedule of the Day

  • Item 1

    11:00 - 11:10

    Opening Prayer

  • Item 2

    11:10 - 11:20

    Welcome address from Symposium chair

  • Item 3

    11:25 - 11:40

    Keynote Speaker

  • Item 4

    11:45 - 11:55

    Guest of Honor

  • Item 5

    11:55 - 12:00

    Break/ Promo Video

  • Item 6

    12:00 - 12:30

    Theme 1-Strengthening Support Systems for Individuals Facing Infertility.

  • Item 7

    12:35 - 13:00

    Theme 2-The Economic Impact of Infertility

  • Item 8

    13:00 - 14:00

    Networking Lunch

  • Item 9

    14:05 - 14:35

    "Endometriosis: The Hidden Burden Behind Reproductive Pain"

  • Item 10

    14:40 - 15:10

    More than hormones: PCOS and the fight for fertility

  • Item 11

    15:15 - 15:45

    Theme 3- Policy and Legal Frameworks for Fertility Care

  • Item 12

    15:50 - 16:10

    Theme 4 -The role of Media in Shaping Infertility Narratives

  • Item 13

    16:15 - 16:35

    Theme 5 -Addressing Research and Data Gaps in Infertility Care

    Q & A 
    Closing remarks

Thematic areas

Addressing Research and Data Gaps in Infertility Care.

A focused discussion on the critical need for reliable data to inform equitable policy, programming, and investment in fertility care. In Uganda and across much of Sub-Saharan Africa, infertility remains under-researched, poorly documented, and inconsistently prioritized in national health systems. Without robust data, policymakers and program designers are left to operate in the dark, resulting in underfunded services, unmet needs, and persistent stigma. This session will underscore the urgency of strengthening the infertility evidence base to drive impactful change.

The role of Media in Shaping Infertility Narratives.

A deep dive into how the media can act as a powerful tool for advocacy or perpetuate harmful myths. Media holds immense power in shaping public perceptions, cultural beliefs, and societal norms around infertility. Yet, in many contexts, this power is underutilized or misdirected, fueling stigma, silence, and misinformation. This session will explore how media platforms, from traditional outlets to digital spaces, can become informed allies in reshaping the infertility narrative with truth, dignity, and empathy.

Policy and Legal Frameworks for Fertility Care.

Despite the increasing demand for fertility care in Uganda, policy and legal frameworks remain fragmented or underdeveloped. This session brings together key stakeholders to critically examine the existing gaps in national legislation and explore bold, practical solutions for shaping an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable fertility care ecosystem.

The Economic Impact of Infertility.

Infertility carries a profound economic cost, not just for affected individuals and families, but also for national health systems and economies. This session will unpack the direct and hidden financial burdens of infertility, explore policy and insurance gaps.

Strengthening Support Systems for Individuals Facing Infertility.

This session explores holistic, inclusive approaches to building strong support structures for individuals and couples facing infertility. It will highlight the critical role of emotional, psychological, social, and workplace-based support in the infertility journey, emphasizing models that foster healing, dignity, and empowerment. The discussion will also underscore the power of community in breaking isolation and dismantling stigma.

The outcomes of Breaking the silence symposium 2024:

Extended Media Impact: As a direct outcome of the symposium, Nation Media Group committed to producing a follow-up series featuring fertility experts, mental health advocates, legal experts, policymakers, and lived experiences. This initiative will sustain the conversation, broaden awareness, and drive policy engagement beyond the event.

Medical workshop Invitation: RHF was invited to participate in a staff medical workshop at Stanbic Bank in October 2024 following the symposium.

Discounted IVF treatment: One fertility provider offered discounted IVF treatments (terms and conditions applied) benefiting 5 women who qualified and utilized the offer.

Financial support for treatment: A symposium attendee made and fulfilled a pledge of 10 million ugx to partially cover the cost of one full treatment cycle for a deserving couple.

Strategic relationship building: The symposium facilitated the establishment of key relationships that align with RHFs mission and will contribute to achieving its goals.

NGO collaboration: RHF has formed working relationships with grassroots NGOs of similar interest, enhancing community outreach and amplifying awareness efforts.

Volunteer engagement: Since the symposium, RHF has received applications from individuals interested in volunteering their services, particularly in counseling.

partner with us

While the conference is non-commercial, sponsor support is important to increase the outreach and impact of this new conference. By joining this first edition, you will also benefit from a privileged relationship and access for shaping the following editions.

Our Partners

the venue

Kampala Sheraton Hotel