SMART Africa-Uganda is a scale-up study in Uganda that utilizes an adapted version of the evidence-based Multiple Family Group (MFG) intervention. This intervention has 16 sessions that aim to address behavioral health challenges in children and adolescents. The team resumed the MFG delivery with session 7 (Responsibilities at Home) and session 8 (Family Relationships) in the eight treatment arm schools. Session attendance continues to do well with an average rate of 79% for session 8. The team completed the 8-week assessments for both guardians and children before continuing with the second half of the sessions (sessions 9-16). The team also conducted qualitative interviews with six MFG facilitators and two Headteachers following the completion of MFG sessions in four treatment arm schools last year. Transcription and translation for these qualitative interviews are in progress. The goal of these qualitative interviews is to examine the multilevel factors influencing the uptake and implementation of MFG. The team continues to collect data for the cost-effectiveness component of the study. Dr. Yesim Tozan, Assistant Professor, College of Global Public Health at New York University, and the Co-Investigator leading the cost-effectiveness component is in Masaka to monitor the progress. With this and additional field activities, it is surely going to be another busy year for the SMART Africa-Uganda team. Keep up the good work!
