RUBAGA Division, Kampala: The Uganda Youth and Adolescents Health Forum (UYAHF), in partnership with tiKO Uganda, is calling for an increased budget to support the implementation of laws and policies aimed at addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
This appeal was made by Joyce Nakato from UYAHF during a fireside chat held in Rubaga Division. The event, organized jointly by UYAHF and tiKO Uganda, sought to raise awareness on SGBV during the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
Nakato noted that gender-based violence continues to rise due to parental ignorance, power imbalances, and poverty—factors that leave girls from disadvantaged backgrounds particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.
She emphasized the importance of active parental involvement in children’s upbringing as a key measure to prevent sexual harassment.
“Parents need to listen, be attentive, and consider the ideas shared by others across different divisions. By learning from one another, communities can adopt effective strategies to combat SGBV.
We must all take responsibility as parents to fight sexual and gender-based violence in all its forms, including digital violence. Parents should be caring, attentive, and avoid judging their children, especially girls,” Nakato said.
She added that efforts to prevent SGBV must involve boys and men to foster gender equality, peaceful coexistence, and safer communities.
Rubaga Area Defence Officer Siraje Bbosa also pointed out that prostitution remains a major contributor to SGBV and insecurity in the community, often drawing in young boys and bodaboda riders.
Bbosa further noted that corruption fuels violence, as some offenders bribe police officers to secure their release, undermining the justice system and perpetuating cycles of abuse.
He urged young people to stay away from harmful behaviors such as substance abuse, theft, and engaging with sex workers. According to him, responsible behavior among youth is essential for building a safer and more stable community.
