The Executive Director of the Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET), Rita Aciro has challenged stakeholders to use the figures outlined in the Annual Police Crime Report on Gender Based Violence to show the urgency of addressing violence against girls and women in Uganda.

She made the remarks on Monday morning at the ongoing national dialogue to conclude the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence organized by UWONET in Kampala.

Aciro noted that the figures, though alarming, represent only a fraction of the reality as many survivors suffer in silence, trapped by stigma, fear and limited access to justice.

She emphasized that violence against women and girls not only undermines their safety and dignity but also perpetuates cycles of illiteracy, poverty and health which affects sustainable development in the country.

According to the 2023, Annual Police Crime Report, domestic violence cases reached 14,681, rape was reported at 1,577 cases and defilement registered 8,925 cases.

By Olivia Nabaggala

9 Dec 2024

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