The Ambassador of Sweden to Uganda, Maria Håkansson, has underscored the importance of involving men and boys in initiatives aimed at achieving gender equality in Uganda and worldwide. She made this statement on November 28, 2023, during a press conference organized by the Embassy of Sweden in collaboration with Makerere University’s Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, UN Women, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The event marked the unveiling of the National Orange Pledge campaign and the official launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
At the press conference, attended by over 200 students from Makerere University and other institutions, Ambassador Håkansson emphasized that achieving true gender equality requires the active engagement of men and boys. She highlighted the need to change attitudes and norms contributing to gender-based violence, a pervasive issue in Uganda.
Referring to a 2020 national survey, Ambassador Håkansson expressed concern about the escalating rates of gender-based violence, stating that 95% of women and girls in Uganda have experienced physical or sexual violence since the age of 15. She emphasized the importance of the Global 16 Days of Activism as a crucial movement to raise awareness and advocate for an end to gender-based violence.
The UNiTE by 2030 initiative, led by the United Nations Secretary-General, aligns with the campaign’s goals, focusing on investing to prevent violence against women and girls. This year’s theme, “Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls,” highlights the urgency of global action.
University’s Commitment and Initiatives
Makerere University, in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden, UN Women, and UNFPA, unveiled the Orange Pledge campaign in 2023. Eric Tumwesigye, Senior Gender Specialist at Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, explained that the campaign encourages pledges from various stakeholders, including government, policymakers, activists, academics, and students, to combat gender-based violence.
Paulina Chiwangu, UN Women Country Representative, commended the collective efforts of Makerere University, the Embassy of Sweden, and UNFPA in addressing violence against women and girls. She acknowledged the progress in implementing policies against sexual harassment and urged continued vigilance.
University’s Response and Entertainment as Advocacy
Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, highlighted the university’s measures to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. He commended the use of entertainment and artistry as effective tools for advocacy, emphasizing their transformative power in promoting social change.
Mr. Daniel Alemu, UNFPA Deputy Country Representative, emphasized the role of music and arts in advocating for a world free from violence. Ugandan rapper Navio, a long-time gender-based violence activist, condemned artists who perpetrate such violence and called for government action and clear policies.
Jason Michael Bosak Diakité, known as Timbuktu from Sweden, emphasized the music industry’s role in providing a platform for artists to act as role models and agents of change. He underscored the importance of respecting women and supporting their contributions to community development.
