Domestic Violence Awareness Skit Staged in Western Uganda

In a bid to address the pervasive issue of domestic violence in western Uganda, a local nonprofit group, Ourganda, staged a skit that highlighted the grim realities faced by many women in the region. The performance, which drew mixed reactions from the audience, aimed to raise awareness about the alarming prevalence of domestic abuse, with reports indicating that nearly all women in the area have been affected in some way. One participant recounted her experience of being slapped by her partner after a delay in responding to his call, illustrating the everyday violence many endure. Ourganda, affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, was motivated to take action after witnessing a particularly distressing case involving a woman and her child attacked by an intoxicated partner. A survey conducted by the group revealed that 47 out of 50 women in Bundibugyo had experienced violence in the previous week, underscoring the urgent need for intervention. The organization operates in ten villages, focusing on both deterrence and education to combat domestic violence. To prevent escalation and potential police involvement, Ourganda encourages offenders to sign an agreement, which serves as both a deterrent and a record for future legal action if necessary. The initiative includes the formation of “Mankind Clubs,” groups of men dedicated to swiftly addressing incidents of violence in their communities. As gender-based violence continues to rise, local leaders and organizations are working together to combat this global issue, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in fostering change.