In a remote region of Uganda, a non-profit organization, Ourganda, is fighting the scourge of domestic violence. This painful, widespread reality is at the heart of the concerns of this organization, which seeks to raise awareness and resolve conflicts within communities.
Alcoholism and poverty are often cited as main causes of violence, amplifying a vicious cycle that deprives people of basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter. Additionally, marital conflicts are sometimes triggered by allegations of infidelity, sometimes leading to tragic consequences, such as cases of murder.
Faced with this alarming situation, Ourganda launched a campaign in 2022 to fight against the trivialization of domestic violence. A significant event was the arrest and conviction of a man who attacked his partner and their child, following the intervention of the organization. This rare example of holding an attacker accountable galvanized the community and was the starting point for a series of concrete actions.
Ourganda actively engages in conflict resolution by providing educational and support tools. The reconciliation forms, signed by the alleged attackers, aim to prevent an escalation of violence and serve as evidence in the event of non-compliance with the agreement. Additionally, programs such as “Mankind” mobilize local men to intervene quickly in times of conflict, while “Soul Sisters” clubs offer support and shelter to victims.
The testimony of Linda Kabugho, member of a “Soul Sister” club, illustrates the positive impact of these actions. After receiving support from the organization, she was able to put an end to the domestic violence she was experiencing and found the strength to help other women in similar situations. Her story symbolizes a palpable hope, a glimmer of hope amid the darkness of domestic violence.
While Urganda’s efforts are laudable, they will not be enough to completely eradicate domestic violence in the region. Most cases are never reported or prosecuted, highlighting the scale of the challenge ahead. However, each step towards awareness, prevention and care for victims is a step in the right direction, offering a surge of hope for lasting change.