The MARPs Network Development Project

Project challenge

The Kaospilots collaborated with the MARPs Network and the Danish Embassy in Uganda to strengthen MARPs’ (Most-At-Risk Populations)— capacity as a network organization. The project responded to challenges faced by MARPs particularly sex workers and sexual minorities—within the HIV/AIDS programme supported by the Danish Embassy.

The goal was to enhance MARPs’ effectiveness as a network through a structured, two-phase development process:

Phase 1: Building the Foundation

• Vision & Needs Mapping: Identifying key needs and setting a clear vision to guide the project.
• Network Mapping & Strategy: Analyzing stakeholders and developing a collaborative network model for better coordination and impact.
• Knowledge Mapping: Creating systems for governance, reporting, and knowledge sharing, including exploring IT solutions for real-time documentation.

Phase 2: Capacity Building & Advocacy

• Training Program: Designing and delivering a “train-the-trainers” program to build local capacity.
• Advocacy Development: Crafting a sustainable advocacy strategy aligned with project outcomes.

Workshops with MARPs members, stakeholders, and partners supported each phase, ensuring broad participation and ownership. The Kaospilot team also offered detailed reporting on processes and outcomes as needed.

Outcome:

• A new shared vision and clear goals, along with an updated business plan that sets priorities and includes a 5-year fundraising strategy.
• The MARPs network, with around 100 member organizations, has the potential to reach 3 million people at risk—a plan is now in place to make that happen.
• Recommendatiosn to build a stronger data systems, improved communication, and better capacity-building, and to set up an Advisory Board to provide expert guidance for the future.