Over 12,771 defilement cases were reported in Uganda in 2023, yet only 5,564 of these were brought to court, highlighting significant gaps in addressing gender-based violence (GBV).
This was revealed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Moureen Atuhairwe during the Eastern and Southern African Youth Leaders Symposium on GBV Shelter Policy and Sustainability, held in Lubowa.
Addressing delegates, Atuhairwe stressed the urgency of collective efforts to combat GBV. “Gender-based violence is a pressing issue that requires a multi-stakeholder approach. Police, communities, and other actors must work together to create violence-free environments,” she said. The symposium coincided with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
The event, themed “Breaking Barriers: Integrating SRHR, GBV Care & Mental Health Services Access in ESA Shelters for Lasting Impact,” brought together youth leaders, policymakers, and civil society organizations to discuss the state of GBV shelters and propose solutions to enhance their effectiveness.
Faith Mairah, Chairperson of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Alumni Uganda, emphasized the importance of well-resourced shelters. “We are working with civil society organizations to ensure GBV shelters are safe havens for survivors. While progress has been made, there is still a lot to be done to improve access to resources and integrated services,” she noted.
Mairah also underscored the role of youth in championing GBV prevention and support. “Youth are at the forefront of change. Through initiatives like this symposium, we are amplifying their voices and driving policy discussions. Our position paper from this event will inform the African Union’s efforts to domesticate the Convention on Ending Discrimination Against Women and Girls.”
Dr. Bodo Bongomin, a World Health Organization representative, shared findings from a recent study indicating that three-quarters of adolescents in Uganda have experienced physical or emotional violence, often at the hands of relatives or step-parents. He commended YALI Uganda for addressing these issues and urged religious leaders to take an active role in combating GBV.
Hakim Kayonga from the African Network of SRHR Alliances echoed these sentiments, calling for more collaboration between stakeholders and the integration of mental health and reproductive health services in GBV shelters.
Youth from various organizations, including Busia Youth Entrepreneur Center, Tororo Youth Empowerment Center, and Mityana Youth Empowerment Center, shared their experiences and recommendations. They highlighted the need for accessible shelters
In her remarks, Sarah Kintu, CEO of Action for Health Uganda, emphasized the importance of collective action. “Let’s continue to amplify the voices of survivors and work towards a world free from violence,” she urged.
Atuhairwe concluded with a call to action: “We all have a role to play. Men, women, and youth must come together to create safe communities. Violence affects everyone, and it is our duty to support survivors and ensure justice is served.”
The symposium served as a platform to foster collaboration, raise awareness, and develop strategies to strengthen GBV shelters and support systems in the Eastern and Southern African region.
