Report on fighting violence against women and girls

 Date: 1st June 2025. 

1. Introduction 

Violence against women and girls remains a critical issue in Uganda and beyond, affecting the dignity, safety, and well-being of millions. At Girl Impact Dynamic Africa (GID Africa), we are committed to fighting all forms of harassment and violence against women and girls through advocacy, education, and community interventions. This report highlights our efforts, challenges, and recommendations in combating gender-based violence (GBV) and creating a safe environment for women and girls. 

2. Understanding the Problem 

Violence against women and girls takes many forms, including: 

Physical violence (domestic abuse, assault) 

Sexual harassment and abuse (rape, molestation, exploitation) 

Psychological abuse (verbal threats, coercion, cyberbullying) 

Economic violence (denial of financial support, property grabbing) 

Harmful traditional practices (child marriage, female genital mutilation) 

These forms of violence have devastating effects on survivors, leading to school dropouts, teenage pregnancies, trauma, poverty, and even death. 

3. GID Africa’s Interventions 

To combat violence against women and girls, GID Africa has implemented several strategies: 

a) Community Awareness Campaigns 

We conduct community dialogues, radio talk shows, and sensitization meetings to educate people about GBV, its effects, and the importance of reporting cases. 

b) Menstrual Health and Education 

By addressing period poverty, we empower girls to stay in school and reduce their vulnerability to sexual exploitation and early marriages. 

c) Child Safety and Legal Awareness 

We educate girls and their families about their rights, self-defense, and how to seek legal action against perpetrators. 

d) Psychosocial and Legal Support 

We partner with counselors and legal experts to offer emotional and legal assistance to survivors of GBV. 

e) Skill Development and Economic Empowerment 

By equipping girls and women with skills in vocational training, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, we reduce economic dependency, which often leads to exploitation and abuse. 

4. Challenges Faced 

Despite our efforts, we encounter several obstacles: 

Cultural Norms and Stigma: Many cases go unreported due to fear of social judgment and cultural beliefs. 

Limited Resources: Inadequate funding limits our ability to expand our programs. 

Weak Law Enforcement: Many perpetrators go unpunished due to corruption or lack of evidence. 

Lack of Safe Spaces: Survivors need shelters and rehabilitation centers, which are scarce. 

5. Recommendations 

To strengthen the fight against GBV, we recommend: 

Stronger legal enforcement and community policing to protect victims. 

Increased funding and partnerships to support GBV prevention programs. 

Establishing safe shelters for abused women and girls. 

More community engagement to change harmful cultural norms. 

Integration of GBV awareness in school curriculums. 

6. Conclusion 

Fighting violence against women and girls requires a collective effort from individuals, communities, and policymakers. GID Africa remains committed to empowering women and girls to live free from violence and harassment. We call upon stakeholders to support our cause in creating a safer, more inclusive society for all. 

For more information, support, or partnership opportunities, visit our website at www.gidafrica.org or contact us directly. Info@gidafrica.org. 

Prepared by: 

Kawalya Sharifu 

Director GID Africa