Women find difficulties to decide over their own bodies

7 September 2024, 2:43 pm

By Regina Nassanga

The refusal by men to use condoms to prevent HIV/AIDS and unwanted pregnancies is one of the challenges faced by women, often leading to violence against them.

This issue was raised by some survivors of domestic violence while speaking to journalists during a training session organised by the Uganda Media Women’s Association (UMWA) in collaboration with the Austrian Development Cooperation.

The training focused on improving reporting on gender equality and social inclusion, particularly in stories related to violence against women and girls. A study conducted by UMWA found that media coverage of gender-based violence is limited compared to other topics.

The training was attended by police officers, journalists, survivors of violence, health service providers, and members of civil society organisations.

Margaret Nalunga and Joelia Nabatanzi, a survivor of gender-based violence, shared her experience, stating that some men refuse to use condoms, even when they know they are HIV-positive. This contributes to the spread of the disease and violates women’s rights.