Barbra Apio Odongo joined the Freedom Fund in July 2026 as Program Manager for the Uganda hotspot, leading the work to prevent child and forced marriage in the Karamoja region through community-led partnerships, systems strengthening and survivor-centred approaches.
Barbra is a human rights and social protection specialist with over 14 years’ experience designing and leading program that improve the lives of children, women and young people across Uganda. Before joining the Freedom Fund, she served as Program Manager for Social Protection at Nascent Research and Development Organisation (NRDO), where she led integrated program across child protection, education, social protection and economic strengthening, working closely with government, civil society, development partners and the private sector.
With more than a decade of experience in Karamoja, Barbra brings deep expertise in program leadership, grant management, partnership development, policy advocacy and evidence-informed programming. She is passionate about strengthening frontline organisations, amplifying community voices and supporting locally led solutions that create lasting change for children and vulnerable communities.
Barbra holds a Bachelor’s degree in community psychology from Makerere University and is completing a Master’s degree in human rights at Uganda Martyrs University. Outside of work, Barbra is passionate about wellness, mentoring young people and using creative activities, including dance, to inspire confidence and resilience among young girls.
Key information
- Joined our team in
- July 2026
