The guns in Northern Uganda have largely fallen silent and today, with the support of partners like GWED-G, communities are working towards rebuilding their homes and starting new lives. These developments are in the backdrop of ongoing human rights violations witnessed at return sites, harassment of women, and property grabbing, especially of land. All of these violations are occurring in the face of limited access to justice. Gender-based violence (GBV) is one of the most profound violations and are among the most frequent cases documented. The Prevention and Response to Gender Based Violence Among Returning Communities of Northern Uganda (Ber Bedo Project) is being implemented by GWED-G with the support of the American Refugee Council (ARC) – Gulu sub office.
Trends in GBV in Northern Uganda also tend to follow the seasonal changes in agricultural livelihoods. In the 20 community dialogues conducted in 2011, the meetings focused on why there is an increase in the number of physical assault cases reported during the harvest period as compared to the planting period.
Activities in this program are being implemented in Awach and Palaro sub-counties in Gulu District. These include:
- Community Dialogues with men, women, and local leaders
- Training of staff and community activists on the SASA methods of prevention of GBV:
- Consequences of violence
- Facts and myths about HIV/AIDS
- Link between VAW and HIV/AIDS
- Nature of domestic power relations in the community
- Community sensitizations and awareness raising campaigns led by community activists
- Distribution of IEC materials to all stakeholders in the District, Sub-counties, and Parishes. Materials include posters, stickers, key holders, and charts.
GWED-G also provides personnel for rapid response to GBV in Awach sub-county. Clients are supported with counseling, medical services, and transport refunds.
