Masaka Religious Leaders Launch Campaign Against GBV

Religious leaders under Inter-Religious Council in Masaka Sub Region have teamed up to fight rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV).

The Church of Uganda in partnership with the local government on Friday released a report they compiled on GBV in the area. Rev Canon Gastor Nsereko of St. Paul Cathedral said the key factors leading to GBV include alcoholism, poverty, and power imbalances.

‘’Government should reconsider the time when bars should be opened and closed because alcohol has turned men into beasts and some no longer value their women and daughters,’’ Rev Canon Nsereko said.

The report found that in Lyantonde District alone, a total of 96 cases of incest were reported between 2020 and 2021. It further found that defilement cases were 1,377, teenage pregnancies were 1,138, and child labor 552.

Authorities are blaming the rise of child abuse cases in the region on corruption from some police officers who connive with offenders. These reportedly kill cases or compromise investigations.

Mr. Vincent Mayiga is a senior programs coordinator at Rural Action Based Organization. He said after separating from their partners, most men engage in farming. They then wait for harvesting seasons to remarry other women they want.

‘’Faith leaders are trusted partners and a strong voice in addressing the root cause of GBV. Deepening our commitment to mobilize and engage faith leaders to address GBV will see us go further in realizing our promise across the region,’’ Vincent said.

Stronger partnerships amongst religious leaders were emphasized by the West Buganda Diocesan Planner Rev Canon Fred Matovu.

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