Acholi chiefdom condemns gender based violence

7 March 2025, 9:35 PM

By Freeman Canogura

The Paramount Chief of Acholi, Rwot Onen David Acana II, has called on the Acholi community to uphold cultural values that regard the family as sacred and promote peaceful conflict resolution.

Speaking on a radio talk show at Radio Wang Ooh during his visit to Pader and Agago districts, Rwot Acana strongly condemned the rising cases of domestic violence, particularly against women, who are often the primary victims.

He warned that such violence has severe consequences for children and families.

Rwot Kasemiro Ongom, the cultural chief of Kal Pa Otongo chiefdom in Agago district, also appeared on the show. He shared a tragic case involving a 35-year-old woman from Adilang in Agago district, who was killed by her husband on Thursday, 6 March 2025, leaving behind three young children.

Rwot Kasemiro noted that many people are unaware of where to report cases of domestic violence, even in towns. He urged cultural leaders to teach young people positive values to ensure that children grow up in loving and peaceful homes.

He also praised the Acholi people for respecting and honouring women as mothers and life-givers, unlike other regions where harmful practices, such as female genital mutilation, still exist.

Rwot Acana’s warning comes at a time when cases of domestic violence are rising in the Acholi sub-region, with at least five women recently killed by their husbands due to marital conflicts.

The radio talk show took place on Friday, 7 March 2025.