16 days of activism: work on GBV alarming statistics, UWONET

9 December 2024, 4:11 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET) has marked the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by emphasising the urgent need for renewed efforts to combat violence against women and girls.

During a national dialogue hosted by UWONET, alarming statistics on GBV were presented. According to the Uganda Police Report of 2023, 14,681 cases of domestic violence, 1,577 rapes, and 8,925 defilement cases were reported, underscoring the severity of the issue.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Moreen Atuhaire, head of the Child and Family Protection Department of the Uganda Police, highlighted the pressing need for increased efforts to prevent and address GBV. She called for greater collaboration between law enforcement and the public.

Rita Aciro, Executive Director of UWONET, noted that GBV destabilises families, communities, and the nation, perpetuating cycles of poverty, illiteracy, and poor health. “Its eradication is essential for sustainable development,” she stressed.

Aciro also pointed out that despite strong laws such as the Domestic Violence Act (2010) and the Succession Act (2022), implementation remains weak due to underfunding, inadequate enforcement, and persistent harmful cultural norms.

The Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET) has called for a renewed commitment to translating laws into actionable outcomes, emphasising the need to redefine development to prioritise human development alongside economic progress.

As part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, UWONET hosted a national dialogue on Monday, 9 December 2024, at the Four Points Hotel in Kololo. This year’s campaign theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BDPA).

The event aimed to reflect on Uganda’s 30-year journey in preventing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAW/G), examining progress, challenges, and strategies to combat the evolving nature of violence. UWONET has invited stakeholders to engage in this critical discussion and contribute to efforts to end GBV in Uganda.