TACKLING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN NAMISINDWA DISTRICT:

TACKLING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN NAMISINDWA DISTRICT:

Causes, Impact, and Response.

Gender Based Violence (GBV) remains one of the most pressing social challenges in Namisindwa District, Eastern Uganda. For Bantu Defend Dignity Uganda, a human rights organization committed to promoting dignity, equality, and justice. GBV is not just a women’s issue – it is a community development issue that undermines families, livelihoods, and the district’s progress.

The Current situation in Namisindwa

District data shows GBV is still widespread. In the FY 2023/24 budget framework, Namisindwa District recorded 205 GBV cases and set a target to reduce cases to zero through psychosocial support and community interventions.

Quarterly performance reports for FY 2025/26 show 30 GBV cases were reported in Q2 alone. The Community Based Services department handles about 100 cases annually relating to OVC and GBV, with 50 home visits and social inquiries conducted for affected households.

Regionally, the Elgon area including Namisindwa registered 70 domestic violence cases and 4 domestic violence related murders between January and June 2023. One tragic case in Bukhabusi Subcounty involved a pastor being arrested for allegedly killing his pregnant wife during a domestic dispute.

What’s driving GBV in Namisindwa?

Research supported by Bantu Defend Dignity Uganda in Bumbo Town Council identified key drivers:

1. Social-Cultural Norms: 54% said norms prioritize boys’ education over girls. 61% noted cultural norms position women as passive in decision-making.

2. Economic Inequality: 56% said GBV limits women’s employment, earnings, and access to financial resources.

3. Harmful Practices & Substance Abuse: Crude alcohol consumption, infidelity, and marital conflict continue to fuel violence. The district has moved to regulate alcohol through local ordinances in response.

The Impact

GBV directly blocks development. The Bumbo study found GBV significantly reduces women’s participation in income generating and community activities. It also contributes to family breakups and increases vulnerability to HIV and poor health outcomes.

Response Efforts

Bantu Defend Dignity Uganda, working with the district and partners, is supporting interventions under the Human Capital Development Programme:

 Psychosocial support for GBV victims

 Community sensitization on gender mainstreaming, women empowerment, and GBV prevention.

 Legal Aid and Follow-up through CDOs and probation Officers.

 Mobilization against harmful cultural practices and dissemination of IEC materials.

 Policy Advocacy: Supporting the district to develop and enforce ordinances on alcohol abuse and GBV, similar to initiatives supported by UNFPA and EU Spotlight initiative.

The district has also prioritized training duty bearers on parenting and family protection.

A call to Action by Bantu Defend Dignity Uganda

To achieve the district’s target of zero GBV cases, Bantu Defend Dignity Uganda recommends:

1. Prevent: Shift norms through barazas, school dialogues, and male engagement campaigns.

2. Protect: Strengthen reporting, referral pathways, and enforcement of GBV laws.

3. Empower: Increase women’s access to economic opportunities to reduce dependency.

4. Partner: Work with local leaders, cultural institutions, and health facilities for coordinated response.

“Ending GBV in Namisindwa requires us to defend dignity at the household level. When women and girls are safe, the whole community develops,” says Bantu Defend Dignity Uganda.