When Obed inadvertently took a good photo that demonstrates good photography – covering all the three grounds – foreground, middle-ground and background.

Obed is among assistants of the expert media training team, led by Mr. Luswata Philip, that is conducting our CPAR Youth Media Training – training of the first cohort is currently ongoing in Lira City.

For Obed, the photo he took, which he titled: “bicycle woman,” was to demonstrate his incredulity at women riding bicycles!

A snap shot of Obote Avenue in Lira City. Evidence that CPAR Youth Media Change Agents in training practiced photography on the streets of Lira City.

Obed is of a culture, Buganda, the largest first nation of Uganda, in which a woman riding a bicycle is taboo. Whereas, in Lango sub-region, among Langi and the wider Atekerin people, women riding bicycles is the norm.

To familiarize with the diverse first nations of Uganda we recommend two blog posts: “First Nations of Uganda” and “Uganda’s Indigenous Communities as at 1st February 1926 and 2024 Population.”

“This is a good picture showing the three grounds – in the fore is the woman pushing her bicycle, in the middle is a man riding a bicycle and in the back are interesting fixtures on the city landscape.”

Mr. Luswata praised the photo. Whereas, it was not exactly the intention of Obed when he took the photo, he did provide a good example for the class; demonstrating the trainer’s tip to the trainees of the importance of being intentional while taking photos.

Photography TIP: Pay attention to the three grounds. CLICK HERE to learn more.

Be that as it may, that the photo Obed took is technically good, for those attuned to the political scene of Lira City, it is also a great photo, one which captures the political contest many are referring to as a “battle.”

Two female ministers in the current cabinet of President Museveni – one belonging to the Uganda People’s Congress, an ‘opposition party’ and the other to the ruling National Resistance Movement, are contesting to be elected in 2026 as Woman Member of Parliament, representing Lira City.

Yes, indeed, Obed’s photo can also be titled something along the lines of the “Battle for Lira City Woman MP: Betty Among Vs Dr, Ruth Aceng.”

Fascinating how good photography skills and or photos can be an effective tool for behavioral change communicators, we are learning.

We are grateful to kin of the late Dr. Paul Hargrave for the legacy grant via Canadian Physicians for Aid and Relief, without which we would not be able to positively impact the lives of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds of greater northern Uganda. CLICK HERE to learn more.