In an ongoing effort to spotlight both the achievements and persistent challenges in the pursuit of gender justice in Uganda, Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU), in partnership with FIDA Uganda and the Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD), organized a youth summit in West Nile on August 16th as part of the Generation Gender (Gen G) Project.
Dubbed the GN Trybe Adjumani Youth Summit, the event was complemented by a cultural leaders’ dialogue held on August 20th in Pakele Sub-county, Adjumani District.
Both the youth summit and cultural dialogue were themed “Young, Bold, and Connected”, focusing on addressing cultural practices that hinder the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
According to the Generation Gender project—a five-year initiative (2021–2025) implemented by FIDA Uganda, CEHURD, and RAHU in six districts (Kapchorwa, Bukwo, Namutumba, Adjumani, Iganga, and Tororo)—several key challenges remain. These include the persistent social tolerance of certain forms of gender-based violence (GBV), limited survivor support services (especially safe shelters), policy implementation gaps, and inadequate economic empowerment opportunities for women.
These issues were echoed in the cultural dialogue discussions, where participants highlighted the prevalence of rape and defilement among young girls in refugee communities and those in and out of school, as well as early marriages.
These harmful practices, deeply rooted in traditional norms, continue to pose significant barriers to achieving gender justice.
Speaking at the event, Humphrey Nabimanya, CEO of Reach A Hand Uganda, emphasized the pivotal role of culture in societal transformation:
“Culture influences our identities, shapes our values, and guides our actions. It is through culture that we connect with our past, navigate our present, and envision the future we aspire to build. In an ever-changing world, the role of culture becomes even more crucial. Young people are the architects of tomorrow, and it is essential that we engage them in cultural innovation and preservation. By doing so, we empower them to carry our heritage forward with pride and purpose.”
The event was attended by several prominent cultural leaders from the region, including: Opi Zakari Beka – Paloro Chiefdom, Opi Suru Baru Simon – Pakile Chiefdom, Opi Andira – Panyanga Chiefdom, Moyo District, Opi Kanyaba Saverio – Metuli, Moyo District, Opi Tahiri – Parego Chiefdom, Obongi District
About Reach A Hand Uganda
Reach A Hand Uganda is a youth-led non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young people through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community engagement. The organization focuses on critical issues affecting youth, including sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), education, mental health, gender equality, and economic empowerment.
