Blog

In January, 2024, Napak District in Uganda embarked on a transformative journey towards advancing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda through the localization and drafting of a Local Action Plan (LAP). Spearheaded by key district stakeholders, this initiative aimed to amplify awareness, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful change within the community.

Read More “Napak District Advances Women, Peace, and Security Agenda Through Developing Local Action Plan”

From December 18th to 19th, 2023, key district stakeholders of Moroto district underwent intensive training sessions aimed at enhancing their understanding of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda and the Uganda National Action Plan III.

The training sessions served as a catalyst for increasing awareness and building capacity in the development and implementation of a Local Action Plans (LAP) tailored to the district’s unique context. Through interactive workshops and discussions, participants, including representatives from various sectors such as community development, law enforcement, governance, and civil society, gained valuable insights and skills to spearhead the localization process.

Following the training, a dedicated district task force was established to drive the development and implementation of the Moroto LAP . Comprising esteemed members such as the District Community Development Officer, District Police Commander, Senior Community Development Officer, and Religious and Cultural Leaders, the task force was entrusted with the crucial responsibility of translating aspirations into concrete actions.

From December 20th to 22nd, 2023, the district technical task force underwent a 3-day drafting workshop where they were trained on developing the LAP. Guided by the district’s vision for peace and prosperity, task force members diligently delineated the LAP’s goal, defined strategic objectives, and outlined targeted interventions to address pressing issues affecting women, peace, and security in the region.

The drafting process saw task force members immerse themselves in deep discussions, carefully scrutinizing each section of the LAP to ensure alignment with the district’s priorities and aspirations. Through collaborative efforts and shared expertise, the task force developed a comprehensive LAP that encapsulated the collective vision and aspirations of Moroto District.

As the drafting process concluded, the task force members shared progress on the draft LAP, outlined action plans, and delineated next steps for implementation. Their dedication and commitment underscored Moroto District’s unwavering resolve to promote gender equality, peace, and inclusive development.

The localization and drafting process of the Moroto Local Action Plan signify a significant milestone in the district’s journey towards creating a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous community.

In December 2023, we conducted a transitional justice training in Dokolo District, Uganda. The two-day training session, held at the Dokolo Tourist Hotel, aimed to fortify women’s participation in transitional justice processes, a crucial step towards nurturing a culture of peace and tolerance in the region.

The training sought to equip women and young women with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage meaningfully in transitional justice platforms. With 32 participants in attendance, including community leaders, women councilors, and representatives from various organizations, the event fostered an environment of learning and collaboration.

The training delved into Uganda’s history of conflict, particularly in Northern Uganda, exploring the impact of prolonged strife on communities. Participants examined the importance of transitional justice mechanisms in addressing past abuses and fostering reconciliation.

Other sessions focused on gender justice in development where discussions revolved around the intersection of gender and transitional justice, highlighting the unique challenges faced by women and young women affected by conflict. Participants explored strategies to promote gender-sensitive approaches in peacebuilding and development programs.

Additionally, the training addressed victims’ rights and reparations, emphasizing the importance of upholding victims’ rights and integrating them into reparative processes. Through case studies and group discussions, participants identified practical measures to support victims of war and conflict in accessing justice and rebuilding their lives.

In November 2023, a unique gathering unfolded by the serene backdrop of nature, marking a pivotal moment for a diverse group of individuals. The Care Hub Retreat, a meticulously designed experience, was more than an event; it was a transformational journey that delved deep into the realms of personal growth, emotional intelligence, and holistic well-being.

Read More “Embracing Transformation: The Journey of the Care Hub Retreat”

In a resounding display of unity and determination, over 200 South Sudanese women leaders, alongside representatives from diverse sectors, gathered on October 25-26, 2023  in Juba for the 3rd Annual National Conference on Women, Peace, and Security. Against the backdrop of the conference’s theme, “Building Inclusive Democracy: Women’s Leadership and Political Participation,” the women articulated a powerful vision for a more democratic and inclusive South Sudan.

Read More “National Conference of Women leaders on Women, Peace and Security – South Sudan”

#CeasefireNow: Open Call for an Immediate Ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and Israel to Prevent a Humanitarian Catastrophe and Further Loss of Innocent Lives

We have witnessed unfathomable death and destruction in the Gaza Strip and Israel. Thousands of people have been killed, injured, displaced, and nearly two hundred remain held hostage, including children and elderly.

In Gaza, the UN has said that water, food, fuel, medical supplies, and even body bags, are running out due to the siege. The UN warned that people – particularly young children – will soon start dying of severe dehydration. Neighbourhoods have been destroyed and turned into complete rubble. Palestinians in search of safety have nowhere to go. Many of those who relocated from northern Gaza to the south after the relocation order by the Israeli army were reportedly bombed as they attempted to flee or once they arrived in southern Gaza.

The events of the last week have led us to the precipice of a humanitarian catastrophe and the world can no longer wait to act. It is our collective responsibility.

On Sunday, October 15th, the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator to the Occupied Palestinian Territory appealed to all parties to the conflict, and to Member States with influence, to urgently agree to a humanitarian ceasefire.

Today, we put our voices together and call on all Heads of State, the UN Security Council, and actors on the ground, to prioritize the preservation of human life above all else. During this ceasefire, we call on all parties to unconditionally:

1. Facilitate the delivery of lifesaving assistance, including food, medical supplies, fuel, and the resumption of electricity and internet to Gaza, in addition to safe passage of humanitarian and medical staff
2. Free all civilian hostages, especially children and elderly
3. Allow humanitarian convoys to reach UN facilities, schools, hospitals, and health facilities in northern Gaza and commit to protecting them along with the civilians and staff inside them at all times
4. Rescind orders by the Government of Israel for civilians to depart northern Gaza
5. Allow patients in critical condition to be medically evacuated for urgent care

The UN Security Council, the UN Secretary General and all world leaders with influence must take immediate action to ensure a ceasefire comes into effect. It remains our only option to avert further loss of civilian life and humanitarian catastrophe. Anything less will forever be a stain on our collective conscience.

Civilians are not bargaining chips. Families need a chance to bury and mourn their dead. The cycle of violence against innocent civilians needs to stop.