Women and girls have been urged to embrace responsible use of social media as a strategy to curb digital violence and protect themselves online.
The call was made on Tuesday during the International Human Rights Day celebrations, which marked the climax of the global 16 Days of Activism — a period dedicated to violence prevention, response, and care. The event, held in partnership with Reach Out Mbuya Community Health Initiative (ROM), Empowered At Dusk Women’s Association (EADWA), the African Women’s Development Fund, Makerere University, the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), WomanKind Worldwide, and others, began with a march led by the ROM Brass Band.
Ms Joweria Sadiq, a counsellor at Kawaala HCIV, encouraged girls to be intentional and cautious while using digital platforms, warning that irresponsible online activity has cost many Ugandans, including celebrities, their careers and reputation.
“Social media is a powerful space to learn, grow and showcase your abilities. Use it to shape opportunities that move you closer to the future you want. Never allow reckless online behaviour to take away doors you could have opened,” she advised.
About 49% of Ugandan women experience online violence, according to the United Nations in Uganda.
Grace Kabayaga, Executive Director at EADWA, emphasized that although digital platforms offer immense opportunities, they have also become spaces of harassment and abuse for women and girls.
“We invite community leaders, partners, youth, educators and activists to join this movement. Let us use our platforms to challenge online abuse, support survivors and promote a culture of respect and dignity in all digital spaces,” she said.
Harriet Nakuya, the Structural Prevention Officer at ROM stressed the importance of supporting referral pathways and ensuring survivors of violence access legal and psychosocial assistance without intimidation.
“During these 16 Days of Activism, we reached 20 schools and conducted sensitization sessions on digital violence in schools and tertiary institutions. We also scaled up case identification, held community barazas, debates, and discussions, and engaged local, religious, and cultural leaders to raise awareness and promote safer online spaces for children and youth,” she said.
Nankya Ruth, Woman Council representative for Bwaise II, reminded participants that awareness of one’s rights is key to empowerment.
“Everyone is born with fundamental rights, but many people do not know they exist. Understanding these rights is the first step to true empowerment,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the Division Mayor, Nakyobe Silvia noted that irresponsible parenting fuels digital violence, as children imitate what adults post online. Adding,
“Do not stay silent about violence. Violence response initiatives should also be aimed at engaging community leaders, because they are often heard by the people they lead.
Voices from Participants
Paul Nakibinge, one of the participants, highlighted relationship dynamics as a trigger for violence.
“Infidelity and polygamous relationships are major drivers of violence. Problems often begin when a man gains more resources and uses them to search for another woman,” he shared.
Willy Wakayamba, a member of the Kawempe Human Rights Committee, urged young people to develop self-confidence and avoid consuming or sharing harmful content online.
“If something would upset you, don’t post it. Also, many cartoons carry inappropriate content and that’s how children learn negative behaviour,” he cautioned.
