“While our struggles may differ, our fight for dignity and safety is universal,” Daisy Mulamuzi, on 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence(GBV)

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The 2024 16 Days of Activism against GBV are here for us to reflect on violence against women as one of the major human rights concerns across the World.  From 25th November – 10th December 2024, the World has been discussing and generating ways of preventing GBV and protecting the victims. The Global theme this year is: Towards 30 years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: Unite to end violence against women.

We had a conversation with our Board Member Ms. Daisy Mulamuzi Kasujja– a seasoned lawyer and gender activist on her reflection about this day and what it means for many women in Uganda.

  1. Tell us about yourself?

My name is Daisy Mulamuzi Kasujja. I am a dynamic professional with a multifaceted career as a lawyer, communication and partnership strategist and entrepreneur who has a deep passion to advocate for justice, building impactful brands and fostering positive relationships across diverse media landscapes. I hold a Master’s degree in Business Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Law as well as various Certifications in leadership and alternative dispute resolution. I am also a Christian, a devoted mother and wife, embodying dedication to both my family and community.  My work and activism for the vulnerable are underpinned by a strong belief in justice, equality, and the transformative power of community to create positive societal change. I serve in various capacities including serving a Board Member of the Development Eye Initiative. In my free time, I hang out with my friends and family but I also love to listen to soul music.

  • What do the 16 Days of Activism against GBV mean to you as a woman?

As a woman who has worked in the GBV space, this campaign is an embodiment of hope. It reinforces the importance of speaking out against violence that often thrives in silence. It reminds me of the collective strength in women coming together and sharing stories, exposing injustices, and refusing to normalize abuse. During this period, I am always reminded that while our struggles may differ, our fight for dignity and safety is universal.

  • What are the most common forms of violence against women you have had to deal with as a lawyer and gender mainstreaming activist?

The most common has been domestic violence which is also one of the most prevalent forms, often manifesting as physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse within intimate relationships. Many survivors face societal pressure to stay silent due to stigma, cultural norms, or economic dependence on their abuser.

The victims are always patronized and often don’t think they have a way out. I have dealt with cases of prominent women who look empowered but are suffering in silence because of shame and fear for the outcome. Other forms include sexual Violence and workplace Harassment among others.

  • Are you satisfied with the existing legal framework in Uganda in dealing with GBV?

The Legal framework in Uganda is predominantly not the problem, Uganda has several Laws aimed at addressing GBV, including: The Domestic Violence Act, 2010, The Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2009,The Penal Code Act, and The Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act, 2010.The existing legal framework in Uganda provides some important tools for addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV), but there are significant gaps in implementation and enforcement that hinder its effectiveness.

So my answer is NO. I am not satisfied if the Laws which are well crafted but cannot resolve the problem for which they were created.

  • What more can be done to prevent the high cases of GBV and risk factors?

Preventing the high incidences of GBV requires a holistic approach that addresses its root causes and mitigates risk factors.  This involves not only strengthening existing legal frameworks but also promoting societal change through education, sensitization, empowerment, and community engagement. We can only achieve so much if the survivors themselves do not know that they are being abused and that they can be helped. Sensitization should be not just for the women but for the men as well. The youth and children in schools should understand what GBV means.  Everyone from policymakers and community leaders to educators and individuals has a role to play in creating a safer and more equitable society for all.

  • There has been a discussion on men facing GBV and this not taken seriously by the activists, what’s your take on this matter?

There is a level of truth to this statement. Gender Based Violence activism must evolve to address the needs of all survivors, irrespective of gender, while maintaining its focus on addressing systemic violence against women. By broadening the scope of activism, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable approach to ending violence. As activists, our role is to uphold justice and support all survivors of violence, irrespective of their gender. The goal is a society free of violence against anyone.

  • This year’s theme is calling for uniting to end violence against women, how can we make this possible in Uganda?

In Uganda, achieving this requires the active participation of Government, civil society, community leaders, and individuals. The different entities need understand the threat GBV presents to the community and combat it collectively. Some of the ways include: promoting economic empowerment for women, engaging men and boys to actively join the campaign, enforce accountability and strengthening multi -sectoral collaboration.

  • Your parting shots to the victims of GBV?

To all GBV survivors, my message has always been a prayer for strength, hope, and courage; may the Lord grant you the strength to heal and eventually fight against this deadly vice.

Interview held by Elone N. Ainebyoona- Co-Founder DEI

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