By KT Reporter
The Kabarole Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Jane Benuza, has appealed to district leaders and community stakeholders to intensify sensitization efforts in response to what she described as an alarming increase in domestic violence, including cases involving male victims.
Speaking at the Kabarole District end-of-year thanksgiving service held at the district headquarters in Kitumba, Fort Portal City, Benuza noted a rise in domestic violence incidents affecting men, a trend she called worrying and unacceptable. She highlighted that some men are being assaulted by their spouses and are no longer accorded the respect they deserve within their homes.
“We are seeing cases where men are being physically harmed and psychologically abused, which is deeply concerning,” she lamented. Benuza emphasized that domestic violence affects all members of society regardless of gender and urged local leaders, religious institutions, and cultural institutions to step up dialogues that challenge harmful behaviors and promote non-violent family relations. She also called for peaceful conflict resolution, mutual respect, and the importance of harmony within families.
According to the Uganda Police Force’s Annual Crime Report for 2024, domestic violence remains one of the top crimes reported nationwide. In 2024, a total of 14,073 domestic violence cases were recorded, with 3,161 male adults and 323 male juveniles among the victims. Women and girls continue to constitute the majority, with 10,276 female adults and 366 female juveniles recorded in the same period.
While national figures show a 4% drop in overall reported domestic violence cases compared to 2023, the number of male victims remains significant and reflects underlying social issues that often go unreported due to stigma and cultural expectations.
Reverend Robert Abigaba, Dean of St. John’s Cathedral, who led the thanksgiving ceremony, urged leaders to promote peace and stability in the run-up to the 2026 general elections. He called on leaders at all levels to safeguard harmony in their communities, noting that peace is critical for development and enables citizens to participate freely in democratic processes.
Richard Rwabuhinga, Kabarole District LCV Chairperson, emphasized the importance of leadership diligence and a smooth transition of power when new leaders assume office. He called on the current political leadership of the district to ensure a peaceful handover at the end of their term next year.
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