In July 2008, representatives from GuluWalk lived in Padibe IDP camp, northern Uganda. At this time they found evidence that violence against women and young girls was a common factor throughout the community. However, there was nothing to be done and no one to turn to. Most girls kept quiet about attacks and to avoid abandonment from their families, many women remained silent and afraid.

Time and time again women in northern Uganda have been victims of domestic violence. This week, activists from northern Uganda and the Ugandan Women Parliamentary Association petitioned to strengthen the fight against gender-based violence. After receiving the petition, Speaker Edward Ssekandi stated, “it is clear that violence against women is a grave abuse of their rights. This is a continued gender inequality that Parliament is committed to address”.

This is a good step forward to address this continuing issue. Women and children are repeatedly left vulnerable during times of conflict and throughout northern Uganda the problem has only intensified. Read more about the petition by clicking here.