STANDING IN SOLIDARITY AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE

This week we joined CEDOVIP and partners at the press release as we launched the #16DaysOfActivism against Gender Based Violence. This was a powerful moment where different organizations, community leaders and media houses came together to speak with one voice: violence must end, and it starts with each one of us. CEDOVIP, the main convener of the event, reminded us that this campaign is more than just wearing orange or posting messages online, it is a serious call to action. 

The 16 Days of Activism is a time for the whole country to reflect on the pain caused by gender-based violence and to commit to real action that brings safety and dignity to women, girls, men and boys. During the press release, different speakers shared powerful messages. Our team leader Ms Hope Nankunda explained that civil society organizations have a big role to play. She called for unity and teamwork between different groups working on human rights, health, education, digital safety, women’s rights and community development. She said that if we stand together and support each other, our impact will be bigger and stronger.

The Domestic Violence Act Coalition also encouraged CSOs to make sure that the voices of grassroots women and girls are heard. They insisted that resources, services and support should not only remain in big towns but also reach local, rural and marginalized communities, where many survivors stay silent because they lack information or help. They reminded everyone that ending violence must begin from the community level, where change is most needed. Another strong message from the event was about engaging men and boys. Speakers said that men should not only be seen as part of the problem but also part of the solution. By teaching boys respect, equality and healthy behaviour, we can slowly break down harmful cultural beliefs that encourage violence. True change will happen when men stand up and say “enough” with us.

The press release also highlighted one of the biggest problems today: online and digital violence. Many women and children are being abused on social media, through cyberbullying, threats, sharing of private pictures and online sexual exploitation. The press was a reminder that digital violence is real violence and the emotional damage it causes is just as serious. Participants called for stronger laws, awareness campaigns and more support for victims who face this kind of harm.

Throughout the event, one message was repeated over and over: ending GBV is everyone’s responsibility. It is not only for organizations, leaders or activists, it starts with the choices we make in our homes, workplaces and communities. It starts with teaching children kindness, respecting women, supporting survivors and reporting abuse when we see it.

CEDOVIP thanked all partners for their continued work but also reminded everyone that Uganda still has a long way to go. Many survivors do not get justice, many cases are not reported and harmful norms still exist. That is why the 16 Days of Activism campaign is important. It helps us remember that violence should never be accepted, excused or ignored.

The press release ended with a strong unifying statement: “Together we rise, together we resist, together we build a future where every woman and every girl lives free, safe and empowered.” These words represent hope, courage and strength. They remind us that when we work together, change becomes possible.

As we move through these 16days and beyond, The Domestic Violence Act Coalition calls on communities, schools, government leaders, faith leaders, youth groups, media and families to join this fight. Let us continue raising our voices, supporting survivors and challenging harmful behaviours. Ending gender-based violence is not a dream, it can happen but only if we stand together, speak out and act every day, not just during this campaign.

Compiled By Mbabazi Pillar