By KT Reporters
Kasese District is grappling with a concerning 34% prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) against women and girls, according to Queen Gonda Asiimwe, the District Senior Community Development Officer.
Records indicate that physical and sexual violence, particularly in the sub-counties of Bwesumbu, Maliba, Munkunyu, and Nyamwamba Division, are the most reported cases. However, many more incidents are believed to go unreported.
Asiimwe emphasizes the urgency of addressing GBV, which predominantly manifests as physical and sexual violence. She urges schools to integrate discussions on GBV and sexual reproductive health into their daily curriculum.
She attributed the high rates of GBV in the district to deeply entrenched cultural norms, economic dependency, and limited knowledge of women’s rights. Asiimwe also calls on parents to educate their children about GBV issues and instill moral values to prevent violence.
Juliet Best Bakoko, the Minister for Gender, Rehabilitation, and Disability Affairs at Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu, highlighted that the cultural institution, in partnership with clan leaders, political leaders, and other stakeholders, has launched a community awareness campaign to combat GBV.
Mustafa Kikusa, the Kasese District Principal Assistant Secretary at the Chief Administrative Officer’s Office, stressed the importance of community engagement in tackling GBV across the district. Kasese District is currently observing the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign running from November 25 to December 10.
This year’s theme, “Unite! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” encourages collective action at all levels of society to combat violence and support survivors-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
