Domestic Violence Cases Drop by Four Percent in Uganda

Uganda has witnessed a modest yet significant decline in reported domestic violence cases. According to the latest annual police crime report, 14,073 cases were documented in 2024, marking a 4% decrease from the 14,681 cases reported in 2023. While this reduction offers a glimmer of hope, it also underscores the persistent and pervasive nature of domestic violence, particularly against women and girls, in Ugandan society.

The gravity of the situation is further highlighted by the fact that, in 2024, a total of 14,126 individuals were victims of domestic violence. Among them, 10,276 were adult women, 3,161 were adult men, 366 were female juveniles, and 323 were male juveniles. These figures reveal a disproportionate impact on women and girls, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect and empower this vulnerable demographic.Domestic violence in Uganda manifests in various forms, including physical assault, sexual abuse, emotional and psychological torment, and economic deprivation. Cultural norms and deeply entrenched patriarchal attitudes often perpetuate these abuses, making it challenging for victims to seek help or escape their circumstances. The stigma associated with reporting domestic violence, coupled with fears of retribution, further silences many women, leaving them trapped in cycles of abuse.The economic ramifications of domestic violence are profound.

A study by the Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE) revealed that Uganda loses an estimated Shs 31 trillion annually due to the socio-economic impacts of violence against women and girls. These losses stem from decreased productivity, increased healthcare costs, and the long-term effects of trauma on survivors. Such staggering figures highlight the pressing need for comprehensive strategies to address and prevent domestic violence.Efforts to combat domestic violence have been multifaceted. The Ugandan government, in collaboration with international partners, has implemented initiatives like the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, aiming to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls. This program focuses on increasing access to sexual and reproductive health services, strengthening legal frameworks, and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of gender-based violence.Community-based approaches have also shown promise. The Center for Domestic Violence Prevention (CEDOVIP) pioneered the SASA! approach, a community mobilization strategy designed to change social norms and behaviors that perpetuate violence against women.

By engaging local leaders, men, and women in dialogues about power dynamics and gender equality, SASA! has fostered positive changes in attitudes and reduced instances of domestic violence in participating communities.Moreover, innovative solutions are emerging to support survivors and prevent further abuse. For instance, the development of SafeBangle, a wearable technology that allows women to send immediate alerts when in danger, exemplifies how technology can be harnessed to enhance personal safety and expedite responses to incidents of violence.Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Funding gaps, especially in community mobilization and mindset change programs, hinder the full implementation of protective laws and policies.

Additionally, the need for continuous training of law enforcement and judicial personnel is paramount to ensure that survivors receive the support and justice they deserve.As Uganda moves forward, it is imperative to sustain and amplify these efforts. This includes allocating adequate resources, fostering collaborations between governmental and non-governmental organizations, and empowering communities to take a stand against domestic violence.

By addressing the root causes and supporting survivors, Uganda can aspire to create a society where women and girls live free from fear and violence, contributing to the nation’s overall development and prosperity.